Telecentric Modular Zoom System for Microscopy
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional telecentric microscopy systems face limitations in magnification variation due to a short infinite space between the objective and zoom, which hampers light coupling and prevents the use of contrasts like DIC, and are inflexible for adapting to different observational tasks without significant expense.
Innovation Solution
A telecentric modular zoom system with adjustable optical assemblies and a variable aperture, ensuring telecentricity over the zoom range with constant object-image distance, allowing continuous magnification variation through axial adjustment, and accommodating beam splitters and contrasting elements within the optical path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If a short infinite space between objective and zoom is used, then the overall transmission length is shortened, but light coupling is hampered and DIC contrast cannot be used
Solution Approach 1:
The zoom system is divided into multiple lens groups (first lens group with positive refractive power, second lens group with negative refractive power, third lens group with positive refractive power) that can independently move along the optical axis. This segmentation allows each group to be optimized for specific functions while maintaining a compact overall structure, enabling both short transmission length and adequate light coupling space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic lens groups that can move along the optical axis during zooming operations. The first, second, and third lens groups have different movement characteristics, with the second lens group having larger movement amplitude than the first and third groups. This dynamic arrangement maintains proper optical spacing for light coupling while achieving compact overall dimensions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If telecentricity is maintained over the entire zoom range with constant object-image distance, then magnification variation is achieved, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The zoom system is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it maintains telecentricity across the entire zoom range, keeps object-image distance constant, achieves continuous magnification variation (10×0.5 to 5 or 8×0.5 to 3.2), and provides space for DIC contrast elements. The coordinated movement of three lens groups enables all these functions within a single optical system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves magnification variation by changing the axial positions of the lens groups rather than changing the fundamental optical parameters. By moving the first, second, and third lens groups along the optical axis with specific relationships, the system continuously varies magnification while maintaining telecentricity and constant object-image distance.
3Reliability
If commercially available digital microscopes are constructed for specific applications, then they are optimized for certain tasks, but they cannot be refitted for changing applications without high expense
Solution Approach 1:
The modular zoom system with dynamically adjustable lens groups provides inherent flexibility for different applications. The same optical system can be configured for different magnification ranges and contrast methods (including DIC) without requiring complete system replacement, enabling adaptation to changing observational tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent describes a universal zoom system that can handle multiple observational tasks within a single configuration. The system accommodates various objectives, provides continuous magnification variation, and includes space for DIC contrast elements, making it adaptable to different applications without requiring expensive refitting.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible magnification from 10×0.5 to 5 and 8×0.5 to 3.2, supports iris apertures, and integrates beam splitters, allowing for efficient light coupling and adaptation to various observational tasks without the need for expensive reconfiguration.
Implementation Method 1
a second movable assembly having positive refractive power, a movable intermediate image, a third movable assembly having positive refractive power
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a telecentric modular zoom system for mapping an object plane on a sensor, in particular in a digital transmitted light microscope or incident light microscope having interchangeable lenses, comprising a fixed tube lens unit (LG1) and multiple optical assemblies (LG2, LG3, LG4, LG5, LG6), at least two of which are adjustably arranged relative to one another for the purpose of changing the magnification, characterized in that [sic]. According to the invention, a physical aperture (BL) conjugated relative to the rear focal points of the objectives used and having a variable diameter may be arranged in the beam path, wherein the rear focal points of the objective may be mapped in the space between a sensor image (BIE) and the intermediate image (ZB), the images of the rear focal points of the objectives (aperture BL) and the sensor image (BIE) do not lie within or migrate through the optical assemblies (LG2, LG3, LG4, LG5, LG6, LG7).