Microscopes have always been indispensable tools for exploring the microscopic world in scientific research, industrial inspection and education. The autofocus microscope not only retains all the functions of a traditional microscope, but also dramatically improves the user experience and work efficiency through automation technology and intelligent design.

1. Core technological breakthroughs of autofocus microscope

① Compared with traditional microscopes, the biggest innovation is the built-in motorized zoom lens system, which supports a wide range of magnification from 0.7X to 4.5X automatically adjusted. This means that the user does not need to manually change the objective lens as in the past, but only needs to “switch with a key” through the electronic control to realize the smooth transition of the magnification, and the whole process is free of lag and no loss of focus.

② The microscope adopts advanced sensors and intelligent algorithms, which can quickly detect the height information of the sample and automatically adjust the position of the objective lens accurately. Traditional microscopes require the operator to manually turn the focus knob and carefully adjust the distance between the objective lens and the sample, a process that is both time-consuming and a test of operating experience. The autofocus microscope can complete focusing in a flash, presenting clear microscopic images, greatly improving work efficiency.

③ Focusing technology mainly adopts two systems: active focusing system and passive focusing system. The active system irradiates light onto the sample through a dedicated autofocus light source and focuses according to the returned light signal, which is particularly suitable for the detection of samples lacking contrast. Among them, the pupil-detachment system technology is particularly advanced, which detects the direction of focus without moving the sample and realizes fast tracking of focus. Image contrast-based focusing technology, on the other hand, determines the optimal focus distance by analyzing the contrast of the sample image in real time, uses a specific algorithm to calculate the brightness difference between different parts of the image, and automatically adjusts the position of the lens to obtain the clearest image.

2. Revolution in humanized design and operation experience

① Autofocus microscope not only innovates in technology, but also realizes a qualitative leap in the experience of using it. Its simple human-machine interface makes the operation extremely simple, so even beginners can get started quickly. The most commendable is its “mouse click focus” function - users only need to click on the area of interest on the screen, the microscope can be automatically and quickly adjusted to the optimal focus, without the need for tedious manual focusing.

② As for the illumination system, these microscopes are usually equipped with a ring-shaped shadowless light source on the top and an adjustable light and dark base plate on the bottom, providing various light source matching modes. The ring light source can effectively reduce shadows and make the surface details of the sample more uniform and clear; while the lower light and dark plates can be switched according to the characteristics of the sample, the bright field is suitable for observing stained samples, while the dark field is conducive to the observation of transparent or reflective samples. This flexible combination of light sources meets the observation needs of different samples.

③ Modern autofocus microscopes have also revolutionized the way of observation. Traditional microscopes must be observed through an eyepiece, which can lead to eye fatigue after prolonged use. The new equipment does not require an eyepiece, and the image is directly displayed on a large screen. Some high-end models also have HDR function and edge enhancement mode, which make the image clearer and show more details. This kind of display is not only comfortable, but also convenient for multiple people to observe and discuss at the same time, which greatly improves the efficiency of collaboration.

3. Digital functions and data management

① The autofocus microscope has been completely digitized, and the built-in microscope program supports screen recording and photo-taking functions, enabling complete recording of the observation process or capturing of key images. A USB port is provided at the rear of the main body of the device, making it convenient to connect with a computer for data transfer and control. More conveniently, many models also support TF card direct storage, shooting pictures and videos can be instantly saved in the memory card, convenient for subsequent research and analysis and product defects to find the cause.

② High-end models even have more powerful full automation functions, adopting centralized control technology and modular embedded structure to achieve precise control of the XYZ three-axis of the carrier stage and automatic adjustment of the brightness of the light source. Through special software, these microscopes are able to perform complex operations such as panoramic auto-scanning, auto-puzzling, auto-returning and synchronized browsing. Some of the professional-grade equipment also has a remote control function, through modern communication technology to realize off-site operation, providing the possibility of cross-regional collaboration.

③ In terms of hardware configuration, these autofocus microscopes are usually equipped with 30-degree hinged binocular observation heads (55mm-75mm) with 360-degree rotation; WF10X/WF23 eyepieces; and infinity flat-field achromatic objective lenses such as 4X, 10X, 40X(S), and 100X(S)Oil. The double-layer mechanical platform and precise transmission system ensure the stability and accuracy of observation, which makes these equipments become the real "photoelectricity and arithmetic integration" high-tech products.

4. Widely used fields and technical advantages

①Autofocus microscope has been widely used in many fields due to its excellent performance and convenient operation. In the electronics manufacturing industry, it has become a powerful tool for detecting microscopic defects in semiconductor chips. The motorized zoom function can seamlessly adapt to the needs of different magnification, which significantly improves the inspection accuracy and efficiency. In the biomedical field, this microscope greatly simplifies the process of rapid screening of biological slices, and the stable auto-focus function is especially suitable for observing the dynamics of living cells, avoiding the sample interference that may be brought about by manual focusing.

② Material science is another important application field. The auto-focus microscope can quickly and clearly present the surface structure and microscopic defects of materials, providing a reliable tool for material analysis and quality inspection. In the field of education, its intuitive operation and real-time display function make the teaching of the microscopic world more vivid and interesting, and stimulate students' learning interest.

③ Compared with traditional microscopes, auto-focus microscopes have six significant advantages: First, it saves the time of frequently changing objective lenses and improves the working efficiency by up to 50% or more; second, it eliminates the technical threshold of manual focusing and makes the observation results more stable and reliable; third, the digitizing function facilitates the preservation and analysis of the images, and realizes the traceability of the data; and fourth, the feature of simultaneous observation by multiple people promotes teamwork; Fifth, it reduces eye fatigue and protects users' visual health; sixth, the remote operation function breaks the space limitation and provides the possibility of microscopic observation under special environment.