System and method for focusing optics
US8619264B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 12, 2011 |
| Grant date | Dec 31, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 12, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC40B60/12
- WIPO fieldOrganic fine chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
In an apparatus and system for focusing optics an objective lens is configured to collect light from a region of an object to be imaged, said region having a feature with a known geometric characteristic, wherein the geometric characteristic is known before the feature is imaged by the optical device. A focusing sensor is configured to observe a shape of the feature and a splitter is configured to split the collected light into a first portion and a second portion, and directing said first portion through a weak cylindrical lens to the focusing sensor. A processor is configured to analyze the observed shape and determine whether the observed shape of the feature has a predetermined relationship to the known geometric characteristic and a mechanism is configured to autofocus the optical device by moving at least one of the objective lens and the object to be imaged in response to the analysis and determination of the processor. In some embodiments, the feature can be a fluorescent bead. In some embodiments, the splitting step can be accomplished with a dichroic mirror. In other embodiments, the splitting step can be accomplished with a partial mirror. In some embodiments, the known …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.