JP5570804B2 - microscope - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a microscope that adjusts the position of a stage and an objective lens by driving an electric actuator by operating an operation unit.

  As the microscope, what is called an electric microscope has already been provided. In this microscope, an actuator such as an electric motor is driven by operating an operation handle to adjust the position of the stage and the objective lens. For example, when the XY handle is operated, the XY electric motor is driven according to the operation amount, and the stage is moved in the horizontal direction with respect to the microscope main body, and the facing position between the stage and the objective lens is adjusted. be able to. In addition, when the Z handle is operated, the Z electric motor is driven according to the operation amount, and the stage is moved in the vertical direction with respect to the microscope body. The distance can be adjusted.

  In this type of microscope, an operation handle such as an encoder having a function of outputting an operation signal may be applied, and the operation handle need not be arranged in the microscope body. For this reason, for example, Patent Document 1 describes an XY handle and a Z handle that are detachably disposed on the microscope body. According to this microscope, the position of the stage and the objective lens can be adjusted even when the XY handle and the Z handle are detached from the microscope body. Therefore, for example, even when an image of a specimen is displayed on the monitor, the position of the stage and the objective lens can be adjusted without going back and forth between the monitor and the microscope, and the observation work can be easily performed. It becomes possible.

German patent application DE 102006010104A1

  In the microscope described in Patent Document 1, an XY handle and a Z handle removed from the microscope main body are attached to the dock, and an operation signal is transmitted to the microscope main body via the dock. Therefore, when the operation handle is removed from the microscope main body, the XY handle and the Z handle are attached to the dock. In this state, the XY handle and the Z handle are arranged close to each other, which is convenient when both are operated with one hand.

  However, when the XY handle and the Z handle are operated with both hands, the operability may be adversely affected. If separate docks are prepared for the XY handle and the Z handle, the problem of operability can be solved. However, when an individual dock is prepared, a new problem is caused in terms of cost. Moreover, the dock described above is unnecessary when the operation handle is attached to the microscope main body, and the handling thereof is extremely complicated.

  In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to provide a microscope capable of improving the operability in a state where the operation unit is detached from the microscope main body without incurring an increase in cost or complication of handling. To do.

In order to achieve the above object, a microscope according to the present invention includes a stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface, an objective lens disposed to face the specimen placement surface of the stage, and the objective lens for the stage. A microscope body that supports the stage and the objective lens so that they can be moved relative to each other in a state where the opposing position of the stage and the distance from the stage to the objective lens can be changed, and when the first operation unit is operated, A microscope comprising: a first electric actuator that changes an opposing position of the objective lens; and a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when a second operation unit is operated. the first base member and the connectable to each other in a state where the detachable and detached from the microscope body relative to the body The second base member is provided, the one of the first operating portion provided on the first base member, provided with the second operation unit to the second base member, said first base member and said second base member, connected to each other In such a case, one of the operation units is arranged in the upper part of the other in a state where the operation units can be operated.

In addition, the present invention provides a stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface, an objective lens disposed to face the specimen placement surface of the stage, a position of the objective lens facing the stage, and the stage from the stage A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so as to be relatively movable in a state where the distance to the objective lens can be changed, and a position where the objective lens faces the stage when the first operation unit is operated. A microscope including a first electric actuator and a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated; A first base member and a second base member that are connectable to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided. The operation part is provided on the first base member, while the second operation part is provided on the second base member, and the first base member is installed on the installation surface with the first operation part protruding downward from the stage. While being attached to the lower surface of the stage via the first stage, when the first operation part is detached from the stage, it is installed on the installation surface in a state of protruding upward.

In addition, the present invention provides a stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface, an objective lens disposed to face the specimen placement surface of the stage, a position of the objective lens facing the stage, and the stage from the stage A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so as to be relatively movable in a state where the distance to the objective lens can be changed, and a position where the objective lens faces the stage when the first operation unit is operated. A microscope including a first electric actuator and a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated; A first base member and a second base member that are connectable to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided. An operation portion is provided on the first base member, while the second operation portion is provided on the second base member, and is detachably connected to the first base member in a state of being detached from the microscope main body. It is characterized by comprising a stand for installing the first base member on the installation surface with the portion protruding downward.

In addition, the present invention provides a stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface, an objective lens disposed to face the specimen placement surface of the stage, a position of the objective lens facing the stage, and the stage from the stage A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so as to be relatively movable in a state where the distance to the objective lens can be changed, and a position where the objective lens faces the stage when the first operation unit is operated. A microscope including a first electric actuator and a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated; A first base member and a second base member that are connectable to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided. The operation part is provided on the first base member, while the second operation part is provided on the second base member, and the installation surface of the first base member is such that the operation axis of the first operation part intersects the installation surface. The first base member is installed in a state where the second base member is installed, and the second base member is installed in a state where the operation shaft of the second operation unit is along the installation surface. The first base member and the second base member are connected to each other in a state in which the respective operation axes are orthogonal to each other and the installation surfaces are parallel to each other; It is characterized by comprising a connecting part for connecting the first base member in a state where the first operating part protrudes downward.

In addition, the present invention provides a stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface, an objective lens disposed to face the specimen placement surface of the stage, a position of the objective lens facing the stage, and the stage from the stage A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so as to be relatively movable in a state where the distance to the objective lens can be changed, and a position where the objective lens faces the stage when the first operation unit is operated. A microscope including a first electric actuator and a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated; A first base member and a second base member that are connectable to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided. The operation part is provided on the first base member, while the second operation part is provided on the second base member, and the installation surface of the first base member is such that the operation axis of the first operation part intersects the installation surface. The first base member is installed in a state where the second base member is installed, and the second base member is installed in a state where the operation shaft of the second operation unit is along the installation surface. The first base member and the second base member are connected to each other in a state in which the respective operation axes are orthogonal to each other and the installation surfaces are parallel to each other; It is characterized by having a connection part which connects the 1st base member in the state where the 1st operation part protrudes upwards.

In addition, the present invention provides a stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface, an objective lens disposed to face the specimen placement surface of the stage, a position of the objective lens facing the stage, and the stage from the stage A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so as to be relatively movable in a state where the distance to the objective lens can be changed, and a position where the objective lens faces the stage when the first operation unit is operated. A microscope including a first electric actuator and a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated; A first base member and a second base member that are connectable to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided. The operation part is provided on the first base member, while the second operation part is provided on the second base member, and the microscope main body has a lower base extending in the front-rear direction and an upper side from the rear end of the lower base. And a front column that supports the stage and an upper arm that extends forward from the upper end of the column and holds the objective lens at the front end. And a holding portion for detachably holding the second base member is provided at a front end portion of the lower base portion.

In addition, the present invention provides a stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface, an objective lens disposed to face the specimen placement surface of the stage, a position of the objective lens facing the stage, and the stage from the stage A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so as to be relatively movable in a state where the distance to the objective lens can be changed, and a position where the objective lens faces the stage when the first operation unit is operated. A microscope including a first electric actuator and a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated; A first base member and a second base member that are connectable to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided. The operation part is provided on the first base member, while the second operation part is provided on the second base member, and the second base member has a pair of operation part mounting surfaces parallel to each other, and The second operation part is provided in a state where the operation axes of the operation part attachment surfaces coincide with each other, and the second base member has a reference front surface between the pair of operation part attachment surfaces, A holding portion provided on a lower base portion that is a lower base portion of the microscope main body and extends in the front-rear direction holds the second base member with the reference front surface exposed forward. To do.

In the present invention, the first operation unit and the second operation unit each operate a corresponding electric actuator by rotating around an individual operation axis, and the first base The member and the second base member have an installation surface for installation on an arbitrary installation surface in a posture in which each operation unit can be operated when detached from the microscope main body.

Further, the present invention is the above invention, wherein the first base member is installed on the installation surface of the first base member while the operation shaft of the first operation section intersects the installation surface. The installation surface of the base member is characterized in that the second base member is installed in a state where the operation axis of the second operation unit is along the installation surface.

Further, the present invention is the above invention, wherein the first base member is detachably connected to the first base member in a state detached from the microscope main body, and the first operation member protrudes downward. It is characterized by having a stand to be installed on the surface.

In the present invention, the first base member includes the first operation portion at one end thereof, and the first base member and the second base member are based on the reference front surface. As described above, the first operation unit can be switched between two connection postures: a first connection posture close to one second operation portion and a second connection posture close to the second operation portion. It is characterized by being.

Moreover, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned invention, the second operation portion is detachably arranged with respect to the second base member.

In the invention described above, the second base member includes a function switch that outputs a function signal corresponding to a predetermined function on the reference front surface.

  According to the present invention, the first base member and the second base member that can be individually attached to and detached from the microscope main body and can be connected to each other in a state of being detached from the microscope main body are provided, and the first operating portion is the first base. The second operating portion is provided on the second base member while being provided on the member. Therefore, the operation unit can be operated in a state where it is detached from the microscope main body without requiring additional parts such as a dock. Moreover, since the first base member and the second base member can be connected to each other, both operability with one hand and operability with both hands are ensured without incurring an increase in cost and complication of handling. Can do.

FIG. 1 is a partially broken side view showing a configuration of a microscope according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a side view showing a state where the first base member and the second base member are removed from the microscope main body in the microscope shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of a first base member and a first operation unit applied to the microscope shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is an external perspective view of a second base member and a second operation unit applied to the microscope shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a plan view showing a state in which the first base member and the second base member removed from the microscope main body of the microscope shown in FIG. 1 are connected to each other in the first connection posture. FIG. 6A is a front view illustrating a state in which the first base member and the second base member removed from the microscope main body of the microscope illustrated in FIG. 1 are connected to each other in the first connection posture. 6-2 is a front view showing a state in which the first base member and the second base member removed from the microscope main body of the microscope shown in FIG. 1 are connected to each other in the second connection posture. FIG. 7 is a plan view showing a state in which one second operation portion is removed from the first base member and the second base member connected in the first connection posture. FIG. 8 is a front view showing a state in which the first base member and the second base member removed from the microscope main body of the microscope shown in FIG. 1 are connected to each other in the third connection posture. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the first base member removed from the microscope main body of the microscope illustrated in FIG. 1 is connected to the stand. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a control system of the microscope shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a plan view conceptually showing a first usage example of the microscope shown in FIG. FIG. 12 is a plan view conceptually showing a second usage example of the microscope shown in FIG. FIG. 13 is a plan view conceptually showing a third usage example of the microscope shown in FIG. FIG. 14 is a plan view conceptually showing a fourth usage example of the microscope shown in FIG.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a microscope according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following, for the sake of convenience, the left-right direction of the microscope may be described as the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction of the front-rear direction of the microscope, and the up-down direction of the microscope may be described as the Z-axis direction.

  1 and 2 show a microscope according to an embodiment of the present invention, and particularly illustrate a microscope that can be switched between transmission observation and fluorescence observation. The microscope main body 10 of the microscope extends downward from the lower base 11 extending in the front-rear direction, a column 12 extending upward from the rear end of the lower base 11, and extending from the upper end of the column 12 toward the front. It has an upper arm portion 13 and a stage 15 supported via a stage holder 14 between the lower base portion 11 and the upper arm portion 13 on the front surface of the support column portion 12, and is provided on the lower surface of the lower base portion 11. It can be placed on a placement surface M such as a placement table via a plurality of rubber feet 16. The lower base 11 of the microscope main body 10 is provided with a holding portion 17 at the front end thereof. The holding | maintenance part 17 is a rectangular-shaped recessed part opened to the front surface of the lower base part 11, an upper surface, and both side surfaces, and is formed in the site | part which becomes further ahead rather than the rubber foot 16 provided in the foremost end. The holding portion 17 has a fitting protrusion 17a on its upper surface. The fitting protrusion 17 a is a convex portion having a rectangular cross section provided at a portion extending between both side surfaces of the lower base portion 11, and is provided at a substantially central portion in the front-rear direction of the holding portion 17. The stage 15 is configured by arranging a plate-like specimen mounting portion 18 on the upper surface of the stage holder 14. The specimen mounting unit 18 can move in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction with respect to the stage holder 14, and can move in the Z-axis direction with respect to the column unit 12 together with the stage holder 14. Although not clearly shown in the figure, the stage 15 and the stage holder 14 are provided with an observation opening extending in the vertical direction in a portion serving as a sample placement area.

  In the microscope main body 10 described above, the objective lens 20 and the observation unit 30 are supported on the front end portion of the upper arm portion 13. The objective lens 20 is an optical element that is disposed to face the specimen P placed on the upper surface (specimen placement surface) 18a of the specimen placement section 18. In the present embodiment, a plurality of objective lenses 20 </ b> A and 20 </ b> B having different magnifications are disposed on the lower surface of the upper arm portion 13 via the revolver 21. The revolver 21 is disposed so as to be rotatable around a predetermined axis, and the plurality of objective lenses 20A and 20B can be arranged to selectively face the sample P by appropriately rotating.

  The observation unit 30 includes an imaging lens 31, a prism 32, and an eyepiece lens 33, and is disposed on the upper surface of the front end portion of the upper arm portion 13. Further, the observation unit 30 is provided with a CCD 35 on which a sample image transmitted through the prism 32 by the imaging lens 31 is formed via the television lens 34.

  This microscope is provided with a transmission illumination optical system 40 and an epi-illumination optical system 50. The transmission illumination optical system 40 is an optical element for performing transmission observation, and is a collector lens between the transmission illumination light source 41 and the lower surface of the specimen P placed on the specimen placement section 18 of the stage 15. 42, the field stop 43, the mirror 44, the window lens 45, and the condenser 400 are sequentially arranged to form the transmitted illumination light path L1. Illumination light for transmission observation emitted from the transmission illumination light source 41 sequentially passes through the collector lens 42, the field stop 43, the mirror 44, the window lens 45, and the condenser 400, and irradiates and transmits the sample P. . The light that has passed through the specimen P passes through the objective lens 20 and a dichroic mirror 503 described later, and further passes through an imaging lens 31 and a prism 32 of the observation unit 30 to form an image. Through the external monitor D or the like.

  Among these optical elements, the transmission illumination light source 41, the collector lens 42, the field stop 43, the mirror 44, and the window lens 45 are disposed on the lower base 11 of the microscope body 10. The capacitor 400 is supported by the stage holder 14 via the capacitor holder 401 and can move in the Z-axis direction with respect to the stage holder 14. In the present embodiment, the condenser 400 is configured by including the differential interference prism 402, the condenser lens front lens 403, the first group lens 404, and the polarizer 405. A plurality of differential interference prisms 402 corresponding to the magnification of the objective lens 20 are prepared in the condenser turret 406, and an optimum one is selectively transmitted by rotating the condenser turret 406 around a predetermined axis. It can be inserted into the illumination optical path L1. The condenser lens front lens 403 constitutes a condenser lens together with the first lens group 404, and can be inserted into and retracted from the transmitted illumination light path L1. A plurality of polarizers 405 corresponding to the differential interference prism 402 are prepared in the polarizer turret 407, and an optimal one is selectively transmitted by rotating the polarizer turret 407 around a predetermined axis. Can be inserted.

  The epi-illumination optical system 50 is an optical element for performing epi-illumination observation, and is used for illumination from the fluorescent illumination light source 51 to the upper surface of the specimen P placed on the specimen placement part 18 of the stage 15. The epi-illumination light path L2 is configured by sequentially arranging the lens 52, the epi-illumination shutter 53, the illumination lens 54, and the filter unit 500. Among these optical elements, the fluorescent light source 51, the illumination lens 52, the epi-illumination shutter 53, and the illumination lens 54 are disposed on the upper arm portion 13 of the microscope body 10, and the filter unit 500 is It is supported on the upper arm portion 13 through the observation side turret 501. The filter unit 500 includes an excitation filter 502, a dichroic mirror 503, and a barrier filter 504, and a plurality of units corresponding to fluorescent dyes stained on the specimen P are prepared on the observation side turret 501. By rotating the turret 501 around a predetermined axis, it is possible to selectively insert an optimum one into the epi-illumination light path L2.

  The illumination light emitted from the fluorescent illumination light source 51 passes through the illumination lens 52, the epi-illumination shutter 53, and the illumination lens 54, and transmits only the excitation wavelength necessary for the fluorescent dye stained on the specimen P by the excitation filter 502. The The transmitted illumination light is reflected toward the objective lens 20 by the dichroic mirror 503, passes through the objective lens 20, and is irradiated on the specimen P. From the specimen P irradiated with the illumination light, the fluorescent dye stained in the specimen P is excited and emits fluorescence. This fluorescence is transmitted through the objective lens 20 and the dichroic mirror 503, and only the fluorescence wavelength necessary for observation is transmitted through the barrier filter 504, and is further imaged through the imaging lens 31 and the prism 32 of the observation unit 30. It can be observed with the eyepiece 33 or on the screen of the external monitor D or the like via the CCD 35.

  On the other hand, the microscope includes an XY base member (first base member) 60 and a Z base member (second base member) 70. As shown in FIG. 3, the XY base member 60 has a narrow flat plate shape and is configured to have the same cross-sectional shape as the fitting protrusion 17 a provided on the lower base portion 11 of the microscope body 10. is there. The XY base member 60 is provided with an XY handle (first operation unit) 600 on the upper surface of one end thereof. The XY handle 600 is a column-shaped operation unit for moving the sample placement unit 18 along the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction with respect to the stage holder 14. The XY handle 600 is attached to the tip of the XY operation shaft member 601. They are arranged side by side along the direction. The X handle 600a disposed on the proximal end side of the XY operation shaft member 601 is formed to have a larger diameter than the Y handle 600b disposed on the distal end side. The X handle 600a and the Y handle 600b can be individually rotated around the axis of the XY operation shaft member 601. When the X handle 600a and the Y handle 600b are rotated with respect to the XY operation shaft member 601, an operation corresponding to each rotation direction and rotation amount is performed. The signal is output to the control unit 100 described later through the communication cable 61.

  Further, the XY base member 60 is provided with a pair of function switches 62 on the outer periphery of the end portion where the XY handle 600 is provided. The function switch 62 is a push button for realizing a function related to the operation of the XY handle 600. When the function switch 62 is pressed against the XY base member 60, a function signal is sent to the control unit 100 described later via the communication cable 61. Is output. In the present embodiment, when the XY handle 600 is operated while one of the function switches 62 is pressed, a process for increasing the rotation amount of the XY handle 600 in the control unit 100 described later, for example, the rotation amount is doubled. Is set to execute the process.

  2 and 3, when the XY base member 60 is installed on a mounting surface M such as a mounting table via a lower surface 60a serving as an installation surface, the XY operation shaft member 601 is directed vertically upward. It is possible to stand on its own. Therefore, in this state, the XY handle 600 disposed at the upper end of the XY operation shaft member 601 can be operated, and the function switch 62 provided on the XY base member 60 can be operated. In addition, when the stand 610 as shown in FIG. 9 is applied, the XY operation shaft member 601 can be self-supported in a posture directed vertically downward, and the XY handle 600 and the function switch 62 can be operated in this state. The applied stand 610 includes a flat-shaped stand base 611 and a columnar support column 612 protruding upward from the front of one end of the stand base 611, and the tip surface 612a of the support column 612 is formed on the XY base. It is connected to the upper surface of the member 60. The dimension along the axial direction of the support column portion 612 is configured to be larger than the protruding length of the XY handle 600 from the XY base member 60, so that the stand base 611 can support the XY base member 60 without falling down. And has a sufficient bottom area.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 1, when an attachment means such as a screw (not shown) is fastened between the XY base member 60 and the lower surface 60a of the XY base member 60 in contact with the lower surface of the stage holder 14, The base member 60 can be maintained in a state connected to the stage holder 14. In this state, one end portion of the XY base member 60 protrudes from one side surface of the stage holder 14, and the XY operation shaft member 601 has a posture in which the XY operation shaft member 601 faces vertically downward from the protruding end portion. Even in this state, the state shown in FIG. 3 is upside down, but the XY handle 600 disposed at the lower end portion of the XY operation shaft member 601 can be operated, and the functions provided in the XY base member 60 The switch 62 can be operated. If the attaching means is relaxed, the XY base member 60 can be removed from the stage holder 14 again.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the Z base member 70 is a rectangular parallelepiped block-like member, and is configured in the same cross-sectional shape as the holding portion 17 provided on the lower base portion 11 of the microscope body 10. The distance between a pair of left and right side surfaces (operation unit mounting surfaces) 71 that are parallel to each other in the Z base member 70 is the same as the left and right width of the lower base 11 in the microscope main body 10, and from the total length of the XY base member 60. Is also short. The Z base member 70 is provided with a Z handle (second operation portion) 700 on each of a pair of left and right side surfaces 71. The Z handle 700 is a column-shaped operation unit for moving the stage holder 14 along the Z-axis direction with respect to the microscope body 10, and is attached to the side surface of the Z base member 70 in a state where the axes are aligned with each other. It is arranged. In the present embodiment, the Z handle 700 is configured by juxtaposing a large diameter coarse movement handle 700a and a small diameter fine movement handle 700b on a common axis. The coarse movement handle 700a and the fine movement handle 700b can be individually rotated around a common axis, and when rotated with respect to the Z base member 70, an operation signal corresponding to each rotation direction and rotation amount is communicated. It outputs to the control part 100 mentioned later through the cable 72. FIG. However, when the coarse movement handle 700a is rotated and when the fine movement handle 700b is rotated, even if the rotation amounts corresponding to the respective operation signals are the same, the control unit 100 described later determines the actual rotation amount. A process for increasing the rotation amount of the coarse movement handle 700a while decreasing the rotation amount of the fine movement handle 700b is set. For example, in the present embodiment, when the coarse movement handle 700a is rotated, the rotation amount is doubled, while the rotation amount of the fine movement handle 700b is doubled, and the rotation amount is halved. I am doing so. Although not explicitly shown in the drawing, these Z handles 700 are detachably attached to the Z base member 70 by fastening attachment means such as screws. If the attachment means is loosened, the Z base member It is possible to remove from 70 individually.

  The Z base member 70 is provided with a number of function switches 74 on the front surface (hereinafter referred to as “reference front surface 73”) located between a pair of side surfaces 71 to which the Z handle 700 is attached. An accommodating portion (connecting portion) 75 is provided on the lower surface 70a constituting the surface. The function switch 74 is a push button for performing a plurality of functions provided in the microscope. When the Z switch is pressed against the Z base member 70, a separate function signal corresponding to each is sent through the communication cable 72. It outputs to the control part 100 mentioned later. In the present embodiment, when the function switch 74 is pressed, the function of rotating the revolver 21 with respect to the microscope body 10, the function of rotating the observation side turret 501, and the transmission illumination optical system via the control unit 100 described later. 40, a function for switching the epi-illumination optical system 50, a function for rotating the polarizer turret 407, a function for switching insertion / retraction of the condenser lens front lens 403, a function for opening / closing the field stop 43, a function for rotating the condenser turret 406, a condenser 400 Are set so as to execute various functions such as a function of moving in the Z-axis direction.

  The accommodating portion 75 is a groove-shaped recess formed in a portion extending between the pair of side surfaces 71 on the lower surface 70a of the Z base member 70, and is formed to a size that allows a part of the XY base member 60 to be fitted. It is.

  When the Z base member 70 is installed on a mounting surface M such as a mounting table via a lower surface 70a serving as an installation surface, the Z base member 70 is self-supporting in a posture in which the rotation axis of the Z handle 700 is parallel to the mounting surface M. Is possible. Therefore, in this state, the Z handle 700 disposed on the pair of side surfaces 71 can be operated, and the function switch 74 provided on the Z base member 70 can be operated.

  Further, when the XY base member 60 is fitted in the accommodating portion 75 of the Z base member 70 and an attaching means such as a screw (not shown) is fastened between the two in this state, FIGS. As shown in -2, it is possible to constitute a connection body in which the Z base member 70 and the XY base member 60 are connected to each other. In this state, the XY operation shaft member 601 provided on the XY base member 60 is disposed in a posture facing vertically upward at a position slightly separated from one Z handle 700. The rotation axis of the XY handle 600 and the rotation axis of the Z handle 700 are orthogonal to each other. Even in this state, not only can each of the Z handles 700 disposed on the pair of side surfaces 71 be operated, but also the XY handle 600 proximate to one of the Z handles 700 can be immediately operated. Moreover, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, when the reference front surface 73 is used as a reference, the Z handle 700 adjacent to the XY handle 600 can be arbitrarily set depending on the mounting direction of the XY base member 60 with respect to the Z base member 70. Can be set. Further, if one Z handle 700 is removed from the Z base member 70 from this state, as shown in FIG. 7, the XY base member 60 and the Z base member 70 having the XY handle 600 and the Z handle 700 close to each other are connected. The body can be configured.

  Furthermore, if the upper surface of the XY base member 60 provided with the XY handle 600 is in contact with the upper surface (connecting portion) of the Z base member 70, an attaching means such as a screw (not shown) is fastened between them. As shown in FIG. 8, the XY operation shaft member 601 is arranged in a posture facing vertically downward at a position slightly separated from one Z handle 700. The rotation axis of the XY handle 600 and the rotation axis of the Z handle 700 are orthogonal to each other. Even in this state, not only can each of the Z handles 700 disposed on the pair of side surfaces 71 be operated, but also the XY handle 600 proximate to one of the Z handles 700 can be immediately operated. Although not clearly shown in the drawing, when the reference front surface 73 is used as a reference, the Z handle 700 adjacent to the XY handle 600 can be arbitrarily set depending on the mounting direction of the XY base member 60 with respect to the Z base member 70 even in the state shown in FIG. Can be set.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 1, the Z base member 70 is disposed on the holding portion 17 in a state where the fitting protrusion 17a is fitted in the accommodating portion 75, and a screw or the like (not shown) is interposed between the two in this state. If the attachment means is fastened, the Z base member 70 can be maintained in a state of being connected to the front end portion of the lower base portion 11. In this state, both side surfaces 71, the reference front surface 73, and the upper surface of the Z base member 70 are aligned with both side surfaces, the front surface, and the upper surface of the lower base portion 11, respectively, and the Z handles 700 project from the both side surfaces of the lower base portion 11, respectively. The function switch 74 protrudes from the front surface of the lower base 11. Therefore, even in this state, the Z handle 700 disposed on the pair of side surfaces can be operated, and the function switch 74 provided on the Z base member 70 can be operated. If the attachment means is relaxed, it is possible to remove the Z base member 70 from the lower base 11 again.

  FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the control system of the microscope described above. When an operation signal or a function signal is given from the XY handle 600, the Z handle 700, and the various function switches 62 and 74, the control unit 100 performs an X-axis direction electric motor (first electric actuator) according to a preset program and data. ) 101, Y axis direction electric motor (first electric actuator) 102, Z axis direction electric motor (second electric actuator) 103, epi-illumination optical system 50, transmission illumination optical system 40, and revolver electric motor 104 are controlled. To do. The X-axis direction electric motor 101 moves the sample mounting portion 18 in the X-axis direction with respect to the stage holder 14 when driven, and the Y-axis direction electric motor 102 moves to the stage holder 14 when driven. On the other hand, the sample mounting part 18 is moved in the Y-axis direction. The Z-axis direction electric motor 103 moves the stage holder 14 in the Z-axis direction relative to the support column 12 of the microscope body 10 when driven. What the control unit 100 controls in the epi-illumination optical system 50 is, for example, turning on / off the fluorescent illumination light source 51 and driving the electric motor 105 that rotates the observation-side turret 501. In the transmitted illumination optical system 40, the control unit 100 controls the ON / OFF of the transmitted illumination light source 41, the drive of the electric motor 106 that moves the condenser 400 in the Z-axis direction, and the electric that rotates the condenser turret 406, for example. The driving of the motor 107, the driving of the electric actuator 108 for inserting and retracting the condenser lens front lens 403, and the driving of the electric motor 109 for rotating the polarizer turret 407.

  When an operation signal is input from the XY handle 600, the control unit 100 drives the X-axis direction electric motor 101 and the Y-axis direction electric motor 102 in accordance with the respective rotation directions and rotation amounts, and loads the specimen on the stage holder 14. The position of the placement unit 18 is changed. When an operation signal is input from the XY handle 600 in a state where the function signal is input from the function switch 62 of the XY base member 60, the control unit 100 doubles each rotation amount and sets the rotation amount to the double rotation amount. Based on this, the X-axis direction electric motor 101 and the Y-axis direction electric motor 102 are driven to change the position of the sample mounting portion 18 with respect to the stage holder 14. In the present embodiment, the objective lens 20 inserted in the epi-illumination light path L2 is not configured to be movable in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction with respect to the upper arm portion 13 of the microscope body 10. Thereby, when the position of the sample mounting portion 18 is changed with respect to the stage holder 14, the position of the objective lens 20 facing the stage 15 is changed.

  When an operation signal is input from the Z handle 700, the control unit 100 drives the Z-axis direction electric motor 103 according to the rotation direction and the rotation amount, and changes the position of the stage holder 14 with respect to the support column 12. However, when an operation signal is input from the coarse handle 700a, the amount of rotation of the coarse handle 700a is doubled and the Z-axis electric motor 103 is driven based on the doubled amount of rotation, When an operation signal is input from the handle 700b, the rotation amount of the fine movement handle 700b is halved, and the Z-axis direction electric motor 103 is driven based on the halved rotation amount. . In the present embodiment, the objective lens 20 inserted in the epi-illumination light path L2 is not configured to be movable in the Z-axis direction with respect to the upper arm portion 13 of the microscope body 10. Thereby, when the position of the stage holder 14 is changed with respect to the support column 12, the distance from the stage 15 to the objective lens 20 is changed.

  When a function signal is input from the function switch 74 of the Z base member 70, the control unit 100 appropriately controls driving of the epi-illumination optical system 50, the transmission illumination optical system 40, and the revolver electric motor 104. The function set in the switch 74 is executed. The functions executed by the control unit 100 include, for example, a function of rotating the revolver 21 with respect to the microscope body 10, a function of rotating the observation side turret 501, a function of switching between the transmitted illumination optical system 40 and the incident illumination optical system 50, and a polarizer turret 407. , A function for switching insertion / retraction of the condenser lens front lens 403, a function for opening / closing the field stop 43, a function for rotating the condenser turret 406, and a function for moving the condenser 400 in the Z-axis direction.

  In the microscope configured as described above, when the XY base member 60 is connected to the stage holder 14 and the Z base member 70 is connected to the holding portion 17 of the lower base portion 11, as shown in FIG. Both the Z handle 700 and the Z handle 700 are disposed in the microscope body 10. Therefore, in the microscope in this state, when the XY handle 600 and the Z handle 700 are operated, the specimen P placed on the specimen placement unit 18 is visually observed by the eyepiece 33 of the observation unit 30 as in the conventional microscope. Can be observed.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 12, if the XY base member 60 and the Z base member 70 are removed from the microscope main body 10, respectively, the eyepiece 33 is placed in the optimum operation position on the placement surface M. Visual observation can be performed. Specifically, the usage mode in which the XY base member 60 is placed on the left side of the microscope main body 10 on the left side and the Z base member 70 is placed on the right side of the front of the microscope main body 10, Since the usage mode in which the Z base member 70 is placed on the left side and the XY base member 60 is placed on the right side in the front direction can be arbitrarily changed, even if the observer is right-handed, left-handed Even so, the operability of the XY handle 600 and the Z handle 700 can be improved. Further, regardless of the position of the eyepiece 33, the XY handle 600 and the Z handle 700 can be placed on the front side or the rear side with respect to the microscope body 10, and whether the observer's physique is large or small. Regardless, good operability can be ensured for the XY handle 600 and the Z handle 700.

  In the state shown in FIG. 12, it is possible to place the Z base member 70 closer to the microscope body 10 by removing one of the Z handles 700 from the Z base member 70.

  Further, when the XY base member 60 and the Z base member 70 removed from the microscope main body 10 are connected to each other, the footprint with respect to the placement surface M becomes small as shown in FIGS. For this reason, for example, when observation is performed on the external monitor D, the specimen P can be observed on the external monitor D in a state in which a placement area for the keyboard KB and the mouse MS of the personal computer is sufficiently secured. In this case, an XY handle based on the Z base member 70 is used as shown in FIGS. 5, 6-1, 6-2, and 8 according to the connection mode between the XY base member 60 and the Z base member 70. Since the position and orientation of 600 can be arbitrarily set, operability can be ensured regardless of the dominant hand or physique of the operator. Further, in a state where the XY base member 60 and the Z base member 70 are connected to each other, the XY handle 600 and the Z handle 700 can be operated with one hand, and as shown in FIG. 13, the mouse is used with the other hand. The MS and keyboard KB can be operated simultaneously.

  As described above, the microscope described above is provided with the XY base member 60 and the Z base member 70 that can be individually attached to and detached from the microscope main body 10 and can be connected to each other when detached from the microscope main body 10. While the handle 600 is provided on the XY base member 60, the Z handle 700 is provided on the Z base member 70. Accordingly, it is possible to operate the XY handle 600 and the Z handle 700 in a state of being detached from the microscope body 10 without requiring additional parts such as a dock. In addition, since the XY base member 60 and the Z base member 70 can be connected to each other, both operability with one hand and operability with both hands can be ensured without incurring an increase in cost or complication of handling. Can do.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the position of the objective lens 20 facing the stage 15 and the distance from the stage 15 to the objective lens 20 are changed by moving the stage 15 relative to the microscope body 10 is illustrated. However, the present invention can of course be applied to a configuration in which the objective lens 20 is movably disposed with respect to the microscope body 10 and the objective lens 20 is moved.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Microscope main body 11 Lower base part 12 Support | pillar part 13 Upper arm part 15 Stage 17 Holding part 18 Specimen mounting part 18a Specimen mounting surface 20 Objective lens 60 Z base member 60a Lower surface 62, 74 Various function switches 70 XY base member 70a Lower surface 71 Side surface 73 Reference front surface 75 Housing portion 101 X-axis direction electric motor 102 Y-axis direction electric motor 103 Z-axis direction electric motor 600 Z handle 610 Stand 700 XY handle M Mounted surface P Sample

Claims (13)

A stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface; an objective lens disposed opposite to the specimen placement surface of the stage; a position of the objective lens facing the stage; and a distance from the stage to the objective lens A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so that they can be moved relative to each other in a changeable state; a first electric actuator that changes a position of the objective lens facing the stage when the first operation unit is operated; In a microscope including a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated,
A first base member and a second base member that are attachable to and detachable from the microscope main body and can be connected to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided, and the first operation unit is provided on the first base member. , Providing the second operating portion on the second base member,
The microscope, wherein one of the first base member and the second base member is disposed on an upper portion of the other in a state where each operation unit can be operated when connected to each other. A stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface; an objective lens disposed opposite to the specimen placement surface of the stage; a position of the objective lens facing the stage; and a distance from the stage to the objective lens A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so that they can be moved relative to each other in a changeable state; a first electric actuator that changes a position of the objective lens facing the stage when the first operation unit is operated; In a microscope including a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated,
A first base member and a second base member that are attachable to and detachable from the microscope main body and can be connected to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided, and the first operation unit is provided on the first base member. , Providing the second operating portion on the second base member,
The first base member is attached to the lower surface of the stage through an installation surface in a state where the first operation unit protrudes downward from the stage. On the other hand, when the first base member is detached from the stage, the first operation unit A microscope characterized in that the microscope is installed on the installation surface in a state of protruding upward. A stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface; an objective lens disposed opposite to the specimen placement surface of the stage; a position of the objective lens facing the stage; and a distance from the stage to the objective lens A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so that they can be moved relative to each other in a changeable state; a first electric actuator that changes a position of the objective lens facing the stage when the first operation unit is operated; In a microscope including a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated,
A first base member and a second base member that are attachable to and detachable from the microscope main body and can be connected to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided, and the first operation unit is provided on the first base member. , Providing the second operating portion on the second base member,
A stand for detachably connecting to the first base member in a state of being detached from the microscope main body, and for setting the first base member on an installation surface in a state where the first operation portion protrudes downward; A featured microscope. A stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface; an objective lens disposed opposite to the specimen placement surface of the stage; a position of the objective lens facing the stage; and a distance from the stage to the objective lens A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so that they can be moved relative to each other in a changeable state; a first electric actuator that changes a position of the objective lens facing the stage when the first operation unit is operated; In a microscope including a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated,
A first base member and a second base member that are attachable to and detachable from the microscope main body and can be connected to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided, and the first operation unit is provided on the first base member. , Providing the second operating portion on the second base member,
The installation surface of the first base member allows the first base member to be installed in a state where the operation axis of the first operation unit intersects the installation surface, while the installation surface of the second base member is the second The second base member is installed in a state where the operation shaft of the operation unit is along the installation surface,
The first base member and the second base member are connected to each other in a state where the respective operation axes are orthogonal to each other and the installation surfaces are parallel to each other,
The microscope according to claim 1, wherein the second base member includes a connecting portion that connects the first base member in a state where the first operation portion protrudes downward. A stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface; an objective lens disposed opposite to the specimen placement surface of the stage; a position of the objective lens facing the stage; and a distance from the stage to the objective lens A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so that they can be moved relative to each other in a changeable state; a first electric actuator that changes a position of the objective lens facing the stage when the first operation unit is operated; In a microscope including a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated,
A first base member and a second base member that are attachable to and detachable from the microscope main body and can be connected to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided, and the first operation unit is provided on the first base member. , Providing the second operating portion on the second base member,
The installation surface of the first base member allows the first base member to be installed in a state where the operation axis of the first operation unit intersects the installation surface, while the installation surface of the second base member is the second The second base member is installed in a state where the operation shaft of the operation unit is along the installation surface,
The first base member and the second base member are connected to each other in a state where the respective operation axes are orthogonal to each other and the installation surfaces are parallel to each other,
The microscope, wherein the second base member includes a connecting portion at a lower portion thereof for connecting the first base member with the first operation portion protruding upward. A stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface; an objective lens disposed opposite to the specimen placement surface of the stage; a position of the objective lens facing the stage; and a distance from the stage to the objective lens A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so that they can be moved relative to each other in a changeable state; a first electric actuator that changes a position of the objective lens facing the stage when the first operation unit is operated; In a microscope including a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated,
A first base member and a second base member that are attachable to and detachable from the microscope main body and can be connected to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided, and the first operation unit is provided on the first base member. , Providing the second operating portion on the second base member,
The microscope body is
A lower base extending in the front-rear direction;
A column portion extending upward from a rear end portion of the lower base portion and supporting the stage on the front surface thereof,
It extends from the upper end portion of the column portion toward the front, and has an upper arm portion that holds the objective lens at the front end portion thereof,
2. A microscope according to claim 1, wherein a holding portion for detachably holding the second base member is provided at a front end portion of the lower base portion. A stage on which a specimen is placed on a specimen placement surface; an objective lens disposed opposite to the specimen placement surface of the stage; a position of the objective lens facing the stage; and a distance from the stage to the objective lens A microscope main body that supports the stage and the objective lens so that they can be moved relative to each other in a changeable state; a first electric actuator that changes a position of the objective lens facing the stage when the first operation unit is operated; In a microscope including a second electric actuator that changes a distance between the stage and the objective lens when the second operation unit is operated,
A first base member and a second base member that are attachable to and detachable from the microscope main body and can be connected to each other when detached from the microscope main body are provided, and the first operation unit is provided on the first base member. , Providing the second operating portion on the second base member,
The second base member has a pair of operation unit mounting surfaces that are parallel to each other, and the second operation unit is provided in a state in which the operation axes of the respective operation unit mounting surfaces coincide with each other.
It said second base member, which has a reference front between said pair of operation portions mounting surface,
A holding portion provided in a lower base portion of the microscope main body and extending in the front-rear direction holds the second base member with the reference front surface exposed forward. A microscope. The first operation unit and the second operation unit operate corresponding electric actuators by rotating around individual operation axes, respectively.
The first base member and the second base member have an installation surface for installation on an arbitrary installation surface in a posture in which each operation unit can be operated when removed from the microscope body. The microscope according to any one of claims 1 to 7.   The installation surface of the first base member allows the first base member to be installed in a state where the operation axis of the first operation unit intersects the installation surface, while the installation surface of the second base member is the second The microscope according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 or 7, wherein the second base member is installed in a state in which an operation axis of the operation unit is along the installation surface.   A stand for detachably connecting to the first base member in a state of being detached from the microscope main body, and for setting the first base member on an installation surface in a state where the first operation portion protrudes downward; The microscope according to claim 2, wherein the microscope is characterized. The first base member includes the first operation unit at one end thereof.
The first base member and the second base member have a first connection posture in which the first operation portion is close to one second operation portion with the reference front surface as a reference, and the first operation portion is the other second operation. The microscope according to claim 7, wherein the microscope can be switched between two connection postures, a second connection posture close to the unit.   The microscope according to claim 7, wherein the second operation unit is detachably disposed on the second base member.   The microscope according to claim 7 or 11, wherein the second base member includes a function switch that outputs a function signal corresponding to a predetermined function on the reference front surface.

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