Abstract

We have developed a novel platform-concept, which allows the construction of an automated upright light-microscope- based slide-scanning device. In order to achieve maximal speed at maximal image quality we have paid special attention to a highly rigid, highly stiff construction. By using novel materials we have been able to achieve vibration-damping characteristics many times better than conventional approaches. We have combined these new concepts with a voice-coil based digitally controlled focus drive, which achieves the speed and stability of a piezo-element, yet allows travels of up to 10 mm. Using scan-modes which avoid stop & go but instead keep the slide moving at a constant speed we have been able to cut scan-times to levels approaching that of multi-objective approaches, yet with much higher flexibility and better image quality.

© 2007 SPIE