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Case Study: 25X Objective Lens in Mass Spectrometry
Case Study: 25X Objective Lens in Mass Spectrometry
Five OnlineAerospace and Defense, AR/MR/VR, Automotive, Case Study, Consumer, Image Processing, Industrial, Life Science, Medical, Microscope Objective Lens, Optical Design, Security & SurveillanceComments are off for this post

Key Takeaways The 25X objective lens in mass spectrometers ensures high resolution and excellent imaging quality in both high and low temperature conditions, significantly benefiting materials science research. Its enhanced magnification allows precise observation and analysis, crucial for fields like earth science, environmental science, and metallurgy. The lens’s advanced design reduces production costs while maintaining superior performance, making it highly competitive in the market. Optimized for extreme environments, the lens meets stringent adhesion and sealing standards, ensuring long-term stability and reliability in various scientific applications. Versatile Applications and Impact of the 25X Objective Lens The 25X objective lens is used in Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer (IRMS) systems and significantly impact diverse fields such as earth science, environmental science, metallurgy, semiconductors, and materials science. Its enhanced magnification enables more precise observation and analysis of microscopic samples, offering researchers extensive opportunities for detailed exploration. This 25x objective lens is used in a lot of domains, underscoring its importance in refining resolution, in accurate detection, and in the advancement of the comprehension of material properties. This lens proves to be indispensable in contributing to both scientific research and technological progress. Project Overview This custom designed 25X objective lens, used for the mass spectrometer system, is well-suited for instruments dedicated to the research of the separation and detection of various isotopes. Operating on the principle of charged particles being deflected in an electromagnetic field, the lens facilitates the separation and detection of substances based on differences in the mass of material atoms, molecules, or molecular fragments. This capability enables a detailed analysis of the composition of substances, which contribute to advancements in understanding the mass spectrometer of different isotopes. Polychromatic Diffraction MTF Ensuring high resolution in both high and low temperature environments Ensuring high resolution in both high and low temperature environments is crucial for this project, especially with special requirements for adhesion and for the bonding process, directly impacting the sealing and dust-free within the objective lens. This imposes stringent requirements on our equipment. In high temperature environments, materials must resist heat expansion and maintain structural integrity. Advanced cooling systems and thermal insulation are typically employed to stabilize the equipment. In low temperature environments, the prevention of freezing of instrument components and the ensuring of consistent performance are paramount. Material insulation and effective temperature control mechanisms are utilized to prevent temperature induced deformations. The entire adhesion and sealing process adheres to high standards to ensure stable equipment operation in extreme temperature conditions. Adhesive Selection: Selecting suitable adhesives is critical for high and low temperature environments. In high temperatures, adhesives need excellent heat resistance, resistance to expansion, and minimal decomposition. In low temperatures, adhesives should possess good flexibility and resistance to becoming brittle, ensuring adhesion is maintained even in extremely cold conditions. Bonding Process: The bonding process requires precise control to ensure uniform adhesive application and reliable sealing. In high temperature environments, attention must be given to adhesive flow characteristics and curing time to prevent uneven application or loss during the process. In low temperature environments, it’s essential to ensure that adhesive coating and adhesion properties are not affected by temperature variations. Sealing Integrity: Sealing integrity during the bonding process is crucial, especially in high and low temperature conditions. Sealing not only affects equipment performance but also prevents external particles and dust from entering the system, ensuring long-term stability. Dust-Free Requirements: The bonding process needs to be conducted in a dust-free environment to prevent dust and particles from entering the adhesive coating, affecting the sealing effectiveness. This may require work to be conducted in a clean or similar environment, so there is the need to  implement appropriate measures to ensure workplace cleanliness. Lens Performance Through our meticulously optimized design, our product exhibits significant advantages over objective lenses from word leading companies. Firstly, we have successfully reduced production costs, enhancing the competitiveness of our lenses in the market. By employing intelligent design processes and efficient manufacturing technologies, we have streamlined production costs, providing customers with a more cost-effective choice. Secondly, we focus on elevating imaging quality by optimizing optical configurations and by utilizing high-quality lens materials. Our lenses deliver clearer and more authentic image reproduction, which enhancs users’ observational experiences and practicality in the fields of materials science and molecular research. High Resolution: Avantier employs advanced technological approaches, utilizing precise manufacturing processes and optimized optical components to achieve higher resolution levels. This ensures our lenses can accurately depict microscopic structures and details, offering a reliable tool for materials science and molecular research. Manufacturing Processes: Avantier has further optimized product assembly processes, particularly in specialized sealing, adhesive application, and meeting high dust-free requirements. This results in our company’s products boasting higher resolution, a larger field of view, and an extended working distance in both high and low temperature environments, thus catering to the demanding needs of materials science and molecular research. Conclusion The 25X objective lens significantly enhances mass spectrometer applications in earth science, environmental science, metallurgy, semiconductors, and materials science. With an optimized design, it ensures high resolution in diverse temperatures while meeting stringent adhesion and sealing standards. Outperforming competitors, our lens not only reduces costs but also elevates imaging quality, so it excels in materials science and molecular research. Its indispensable role makes it a valuable asset for scientific advancements. Additionally, the incorporation of features like a large NA(numerical aperture), a long working distance, a high resolution, and a wider FOV(field of view) enhances the lens’s overall performance in meeting the demands of modern research and technology. Related Content

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Applications of Raman Spectroscopy
Five OnlineAerospace and Defense, Application Note, AR/MR/VR, Automotive, Consumer, Industrial, Life Science, Medical, Security & SurveillanceComments are off for this post

Key Takeaways: Raman spectroscopy analyzes molecular compositions and structures through photon energy shifts. Its applications span material science, pharmaceuticals, forensics, and environmental monitoring. Avantier’s advanced optical components optimize Raman signal collection, enhancing molecular analysis and driving innovation across scientific fields. Applications of Raman Spectroscopy Raman spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique that provides insights into the molecular composition and structure of materials. Raman spectroscopy relies on the interaction between photons and molecular vibrations. When a sample is exposed to monochromatic light, most photons undergo elastic scattering, where their energy remains unchanged. However, a small fraction of photons interacts with the sample’s molecules and undergoes inelastic scattering, known as Raman scattering. This process involves energy exchange between the photons and the molecular vibrations, resulting in energy shifts that correspond to specific vibrational modes. Schematic diagram of Raman spectroscopy To perform Raman spectroscopy, a laser beam is directed onto a sample, and the scattered light is collected and analyzed. The Raman scattering spectrum is obtained by measuring the energy shifts of the scattered photons relative to the incident photons. This spectrum provides valuable information about the vibrational modes of the sample molecules, which is highly characteristic of its chemical composition and molecular structure. Raman spectroscopy is a highly potent tool as it offers a non-destructive, highly informative approach for analyzing the molecular compositions and structures of a wide range of materials. Its versatility and applicability across various scientific disciplines make it a valuable tool for researchers, scientists, and industrial professionals alike. Examples of Raman spectroscopy’s applications include: Material Science: Raman spectroscopy is utilized for material characterization, identification of polymorphs, detection of impurities, and analysis of crystal structures. Pharmaceutical Analysis: Raman spectroscopy plays a vital role in pharmaceutical research and quality control. It enables the identification of active ingredients, detection of counterfeit drugs, and analysis of drug delivery systems. Forensic Science: Raman spectroscopy assists forensic scientists in identifying and characterizing trace evidence, such as fibers, paints, and drugs. Environmental Monitoring: Raman spectroscopy is employed for environmental analysis, including the identification and quantification of pollutants, monitoring of water quality, and analysis of atmospheric particulates. As this technology advances, Raman spectroscopy continues to contribute significantly to our understanding of the microscopic world and drive innovation in multiple fields. Avantier emerges as a trailblazer in the realm of Raman Spectroscopy, unleashing a plethora of capabilities through their cutting-edge microscope objective lenses. The foundation of Raman Spectroscopy rests on the Raman effect, where laser light interacts with a sample, leading to scattered light and generating unique Raman spectra that unveil valuable molecular information. Avantier’s microscope objective lenses play a pivotal role in this process, optimizing Raman signal collection with high magnification objectives and superior numerical aperture. These lenses enable researchers to obtain real images with exceptional clarity, opening new frontiers for detailed analysis and investigation. Raman instruments equipped with Avantier’s lenses offer enhanced field of view and spatial resolution, empowering scientists in various fields like materials science and life sciences. Sample preparation becomes more efficient and accurate, as Avantier’s lenses aid in deciphering intricate molecular structures. Furthermore, Avantier’s contribution extends to the realm of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), where they continue to drive innovation and foster advancements in Raman systems. The legacy of the Nobel Prize-winning Raman pioneers lives on through Avantier’s commitment to excellence, revolutionizing Raman Spectroscopy and charting a path towards groundbreaking discoveries and applications. At Avantier Inc., our team of engineers (with over two decades of experience in North America) uses Raman spectroscopy, along with a wide variety of other technologies, to provide reliable image analysis, processing, and enhancement services. Please contact us if you’d like to schedule a free consultation or request for a quote on your next project.

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Infrared Lenses: Features and Applications
Five OnlineAerospace and Defense, Application Note, AR/MR/VR, Automotive, Consumer, Custom Optics, Industrial, Life Science, Medical, Security & SurveillanceComments are off for this post

Key Takeaways Infrared lenses (IR lenses), through opto-mechanical design, align components for high-performance optics and IR applications. IR lenses capture and focus radiation in various spectra. Used in medical, scientific, surveillance, and defense fields, they enable thermal imaging and spectroscopy, driving technological progress.  Opto-Mechanical Design for High-Performance Optics In order to ensure the seamless functioning of a high-performance optical system, it is essential to establish a foundation comprising suitable mechanical components that are well-maintained and accurately aligned. At Avantier, we have over 20 years of experience in opto-mechanical design. Our mechanical engineers play a key role in your projects by offering optimized and cost-effective designs. Except for optical software – Zemax, which we have talked about a little bit in other articles, our mechanical engineers will use software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks to work on the mechanical parts. The opto-mechanical design plays a crucial role in the overall process as it provides crucial support to the optics and maintains their performance. During this stage, we carefully integrate all interfaces and consider environmental factors such as vacuum conditions, extreme temperatures, vibrations, and more. By adhering to the specified requirements, we guarantee the system’s technical performance is upheld. Exploring the Applications and Features of Infrared Lenses Infrared lenses (IR lenses) are crucial components used in various industries for capturing and focusing infrared radiation. They play a vital role in enabling the detection and analysis of thermal energy emitted by objects. In this article, we will explore the features of IR lenses and their applications in medical instrumentation, life sciences, surveillance, and security and defense. IR lenses are designed to operate in different regions of the infrared spectrum, including short-wave infrared (SWIR), mid-wave infrared (MWIR), and long-wave infrared (LWIR). They are typically made from specialized materials such as germanium, zinc selenide, and chalcogenide glasses that are transparent to infrared radiation. Infrared Lenses Medical Instrumentation: In the field of medical instrumentation, infrared lenses find extensive use in thermal imaging and non-invasive diagnostics. They enable the detection of abnormal temperature patterns, aiding in the identification of diseases and injuries. Infrared thermal cameras equipped with MWIR or LWIR lenses can detect temperature variations on the skin’s surface, helping diagnose conditions such as inflammation, circulatory problems, and cancerous growth. Additionally, infrared lenses are utilized in endoscopic devices for minimally invasive procedures, enabling visualization and precise targeting of internal body parts. Life Sciences: IR lenses play a significant role in life sciences, particularly in infrared NIR spectroscopy and imaging applications. Infrared spectroscopy involves analyzing the interaction between infrared light and molecules, providing valuable information about their composition and structure. NIR spectroscopy, which operates in the near-infrared (NIR) region, is widely used for chemical analysis, pharmaceutical research, and food quality control. Infrared lenses enable the accurate focusing of NIR light onto samples and detectors, facilitating precise measurements and analysis. Surveillance: In the field of surveillance, IR lenses are utilized for night vision and thermal imaging. SWIR lenses enable enhanced visibility in low-light conditions by detecting light in the 0.9-1.7μm range. This allows for surveillance in complete darkness, making them ideal for military operations, law enforcement, and security applications. LWIR lenses, on the other hand, are employed in thermal cameras, which capture and analyze the heat emitted by objects. This capability is invaluable for perimeter security, detecting intruders, and monitoring critical infrastructure. Security and Defense: IR lenses have extensive applications in security and defense systems. MWIR and LWIR lenses are crucial components in infrared cameras used for long-range surveillance, target acquisition, and tracking. These lenses enable high-performance thermal imaging, allowing military personnel to detect and identify potential threats, even in challenging environments such as smoke, fog, and darkness. Additionally, SWIR imaging with infrared lenses aids in target recognition and identification by exploiting the reflected SWIR light from objects. InGaAs sensors are commonly used in conjunction with infrared lenses for imaging and detection in the SWIR region. They offer high quantum efficiency and sensitivity, making them suitable for low-light conditions. Infrared lenses facilitate the precise focusing of SWIR light onto InGaAs detectors, enabling clear and detailed imaging. Infrared Lenses in Diverse Applications In summary, IR lenses are essential components in various industries. They enable the capture, focusing, and analysis of infrared radiation in the SWIR, MWIR, and LWIR regions. Their applications span medical instrumentation, life sciences, surveillance, and security and defense. Infrared lenses play a crucial role in thermal imaging, night vision, spectroscopy, target recognition, and other critical functions, contributing to advancements in research, diagnostics, and security technologies. Please contact us if you’d like to schedule a free consultation or request for quote on your next project. RELATED CONTENT:

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Image Recovery or Image Reconstruction of an Imaging System
Johnny LeeCase Study, Consumer, Image Processing, Industrial, Optical EngineeringComments are off for this post

Blurring is a significant source of image degradation in an imperfect imaging system. The optical system’s point spread function (PSF) describes the measure of blur in a given imaging system and is often used in image reconstruction or image recovery algorithms. Below in example of using inverse PSF to eliminate the barcode image degradation. Barcodes are found on many everyday consumer products. A typical 1-D (one-dimensional) barcode is a series of varying width vertical lines (called bars) and spaces. The example of the popular GS1-128 Symbology barcode is shown here: The signal amplitude of code image only has changes in horizontal direction (i.e. X-direction).  For the imaging system used to capture and decode the barcode it is sufficient to look at one-dimensional intensity profile along the X-direction. In good conditions the profile may look like this: Using such a good scan, it is trivial to recover initial binary (only Black and only White) barcode. One can set threshold in the middle between maxima and minima of the received signal, and assign whatever is above the threshold to White, and below the threshold to Black. However, in situations when the Point Spread Function (PSF) of the imaging system is poor, it may be difficult or impossible to set the proper threshold.  See example below: PSF is the impulse response of an imaging system, it contains information of the image formation, systematic aberrations and imperfections. To correctly decode barcode in such situations one may try to use inverse PSF information to improve the received signal. The idea is to deduce inverse PSF from the multiple signals obtained from the many scans of different barcodes of the same symbology. All barcodes of the same Symbology, such as GS1-128, have the same common features defined by the Symbology standards. This permits us to calculate inverse PSF coefficients by minimizing deviation of the received signals from the ideal barcode profile signals. A small number, such as 15, of the inverse PSF coefficients may be used to correct the received signals to make them as close to barcode signals as possible in the Least Squares sense. The inverse PSF coefficients were found and used to convert poor received signal shown previously into better signal shown on the next picture by red: While the recovered red signal is not ideal, it does permit to set threshold and correctly recover the scanned barcode.

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Reverse Optical Engineering Case Studies from Avantier
Johnny LeeAerospace and Defense, Case Study, Consumer, Industrial, Life Science, Medical, Reverse Engineering, Reverse Optical EngineeringComments are off for this post

At Avantier, we are our proud of our track history in assisting customers to solve problems using reverse optical engineering. Here are three case studies. Case Study 1: Reverse Engineering an OFS 20x APO Objective Lens for Bioresearch Genetic engineering requires using precision optics to view and edit the genomes of plants or animals. One world renowned bio research lab has pioneered a new method to speed plant domestication by means of genome editing. While ordinary plant domestication typically requires decades of hard work to produce bigger and better fruit, their methods speed up the process through careful editing of the plants’ genome.  To accomplish this editing, the bio research lab used a high end OFS 20x Mitutoyo APO SL infinity corrected objective lens. The objective lens performed as desired, but there was just one problem. The high energy continuous wave (CW) laser waves involved in the project would damage the sensitive optical lens, causing the objective lens to fail. This became a recurrent problem, and the lab found itself constantly replacing the very expensive objective. It wasn’t long before the cost became untenable. We were approached with the details of this problem and asked if we could design a microscope objective lens with the same long working distance and high numerical aperture performance of the OFS 20x Mitutoyo but with better resistance to laser damage.  The problem was a complex one, but after years of intensive study and focused effort we succeeded in reverse engineering the objective lens and improving the design with a protective coating.  The new objective lens was produced and integrated into the bio research lab’s system. More than three years later, it continues to be used in close proximity to laser beams without any hint of failure or compromised imaging. Case Study 2: Reverse Engineering an OTS 10x Objective Lens for Biomedical Research Fluoresce microscopy is used by a biomedical research company to study embryo cells in a hot, humid incubator.  This company used an OTS Olympic microscope objective lens to view the incubator environment up close and determine the presence, health, and signals of labeled cells, but the objective was failing over time. Constant exposure to temperatures above 37 C and humidity of 70% was causing fungal spores to grow in the research environment and on the microscope objective. These fungal spores, after settling on the cover glass, developed into living organisms that digested the oils and lens coatings. Hydrofluoric acid, produced by the fungi as a waste product, slowly destroyed the lens coating and etched the glass.  The Olympus OTS 10x lens cost several thousand dollars, and this research company soon realized that regular replacement due to fungal growth would cost them far more than they were willing to pay. They approached us to ask if we would reverse engineer an objective that performed in a manner equivalent to the objective they were using, but with a resistance to fungal growth that the original objective did not have.  Our optical and coating engineers worked hard on this problem, and succeeded in producing an equivalent microscope objective with a special protective coating. This microscope lens can be used in humid, warm environments for a long period of time without the damage the Olympus objective sustained.  Case Study 3: Reverse Engineering a High Precision Projection Lens A producer of consumer electronics was designing a home planetarium projector, and found themselves in need of a high precision projection lens that could project an enhanced image. Nothing on the market seemed to suit, and they approached us to ask if we would reverse engineer a high quality lens that exactly fit their needs but is now obsolete.  We were able to study the lens and create our own design for a projector lens with outstanding performance. Not only did this lens exceed our customer’s expectations, it was also affordable to produce and suitable for high volume production.

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