Optical: systems and elements – Compound lens system – Microscope
Reexamination Certificate
1996-12-31
2001-10-23
Dzierzynski, Paul M. (Department: 2507)
Optical: systems and elements
Compound lens system
Microscope
C359S383000, C359S392000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06307672
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to remotely controlled microscopes and more particularly to prevention of damage of remotely controlled microscopes due to collision of the specimen and the lens while focusing.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
High magnification microscopes are often damaged when a specimen collides into the objective lens while the operator is focusing. Many high magnification lenses are designed to accommodate this by using lenses which non-destructively collapse under light pressure. Typically, the microscope operator will notice the collision and stop the focusing attempt.
A problem arises when a microscope is used in a remote location where the operator is some distance away, as is typically done in nuclear research. The operator has no feel and no direct visual contact with the microscope. Consequently, the operator does not know to stop the focus drive before severe damage occurs.
Over-travel control switches mounted on the stage are not useful if specimen sizes change. A limit switch position for small specimens will not suffice for large specimens. Infrared positioning is also not useful because the high radiation typically encountered in nuclear research will quickly damage the infrared system.
In light of these considerations, a need arises for a remote-control microscope which is protected from collision damage regardless of specimen size or shape.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is a microscope collision protection device for a remote control microscope which protects the objective lenses and all associated components from damage in the event of an uncontrolled specimen collision, regardless of the specimen size or shape. In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a counterbalanced slide used for mounting the microscope's optical components. It replaces the rigid mounts found on all upright microscopes with a precision ball bearing slide.
As the specimen contacts the lens, the contacting force moves the optical package along the slide. This movement protects the objective lenses and all associated components from damage and will trip a limit switch, thereby stopping all motors responsible for the collision. The collision forces are minimized by the use of a counterweight. Owing to the use of this counterweight, the optical package weight is nearly balanced during normal operation, however, this optical package will move easily when contacted by the specimen while focusing.
REFERENCES:
patent: 5453881 (1995-09-01), Suzuki
patent: 0172612 (1984-09-01), None
patent: 0121410 (1985-06-01), None
Dzierzynski Paul M.
Gottlieb Paul A.
Moser William R.
Muenzen Colette C.
Robinson Mark
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