2a03 Three-dimensional microscope system by using a liquid crystal lens and an LED-ring illumination

Abstract

The microscope system in combination with a digital image processing is developed for determining all-focused images and depth mapping properties of microscopic objects by using a liquid crystal (LC) lens with an electrically variable focal length. The objects can be selectively illuminated by using a light emitting diode (LED) ring illumination. The irradiation angle of the ring illumination can be controlled by switching each LED device. Three-dimensional distributions of the microscopic objects are determined by applying voltages to the electrodes of the LC lens and tuning a focal plane in a depth direction.