WO1996018924A1

WO1996018924A1 - Microscope system provided with observation unit and photographing unit

Info

Publication number: WO1996018924A1
Application number: PCT/JP1995/002575
Authority: WO
Inventors: Hitoshi Ueda
Original assignee: Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 1994-12-15
Filing date: 1995-12-15
Publication date: 1996-06-20

Abstract

A microscope system provided with an observation unit (70) and photographing unit (71) comprises a changing section (76) and adjusting section (77). The operator of this system can change the attribute of at least one of the switches provided on a transparent touch panel (72) on the displaying surface of a display device (72A) by operating the changing section (76). The adjusting section (77) adjusts the switches, a registering section (75), and control section (74) so that the attribute of the switch can be changed and the units (70 and 71) can operate in corresponding to the changed attribute.

Description

Description Microscope system with observation unit and imaging unit [Technical field]

The present invention relates to a microscope system, and more particularly, to a microscope system having an observation unit and an imaging unit whose operation is selectively instructed by a switch.

[Prior art]

There is a microscope system that magnifies a fine sample and records various observation images as photographs or video images. In this type of microscope system, the operation of the observation unit and the photographing unit is started by operating each switch. The switch is provided on a switch mounting body such as an operation panel. The functions and positions assigned to each switch were fixed. In other words, the conventional system has a uniform switch layout.

However, few users (operators, users) use all the functions of a microscope system having many functions, and more and more often use only specific functions different from user to user.

For such a variety of users, a uniform switch layout cannot achieve the optimal operation for the purpose of use. In addition, in the case of such a switch layout, it is necessary to impose a burden on the user until the user feels angry with the operation of the new system, such as when moving from a microscope system that has been used for many years to a new microscope system. There was.

In addition, when using a microscope system in research and inspection, multiple identical switch operations may be performed repeatedly, and a uniform switch layout may not be suitable for the user. There was something bothersome.

An object of the present invention is to provide a microscope system having an observation unit and an imaging unit with improved convenience for each user.

[Disclosure of the Invention]

The above object is achieved by the following microscope system. That is, a microscope system having an observation unit and an imaging unit,

A display device;

A transparent touch panel arranged on a display surface of the display device and constituting a plurality of switches on which predetermined attributes for operating the observation unit and the imaging unit are set;

Registration means for registering function data for specifying the attributes of each of the switches;

When at least one of the switches is operated, the function data corresponding to the operated switch is read out from the registration means, and the observation unit is read based on the function data. Control means for controlling the unit and the photographing unit;

Changing means for changing an attribute set in at least one of the switches;

The switch, the registration unit, and the registration unit are configured such that the attribute changed by the change unit is set in the switch, and the observation unit and the imaging unit operate in response to the changed attribute. Adjusting means for adjusting the control means.

A display device;

A transparent shutter panel bonded to a display surface of the display device and constituting a switch for activating a predetermined function of the observation unit and the photographing unit;

A registration means for registering function data corresponding to each of the switches;

When at least one of the switches is operated, the function data corresponding to the operated switch is read out from the registering means, and the observation unit and the photographing unit are read out based on the function data. Control means for controlling the

Position data input means for manually inputting position data indicating a display position of the switch displayed on the display device after the change,

Switch position changing means for changing the display position of the switch displayed on the display device based on the position data input by the position data input means. Further, the above object is achieved by the following microscope system. That is, a microscope system having an observation unit and an imaging unit,

A switch for activating predetermined functions of the observation unit and the imaging unit;

When at least one of the switches is operated, the function data corresponding to the operated switch is read from the registration means, and the observation unit and the photographing unit are read based on the function data. Control means for controlling the unit;

A function data registration unit for registering function data indicating a function of another switch in at least one of the switches, and a switch in which the function data is registered is operated, Switch function executing means for executing the function of the other switch based on the function data registered by the function data registering means.

Further, the above object is achieved by the following microscope system. That is, a microscope system having an observation unit and an imaging unit,

A switch for activating a predetermined function of the observation unit and the photographing unit;

Operating at least one of the switches At this time, control means for reading out the function data corresponding to the operated switch from the registration means, and controlling the observation unit and the imaging unit based on the function data,

A name setting switch identifying means for identifying at least one of the switches for which a name is to be set; and a display on the switch identified by the name setting switch identifying means. Display name input means for inputting a name to be input;

Name display means for displaying the name of the switch input by the display name input means on the switch identified by the name setting switch identification means.

According to the present invention as described above, the position of the switch is changed by the switch position changing means based on the changed position data of the switch displayed on the operation screen input by the position data input means. Since this is changed, it is possible to create an operation screen in which specific switches frequently used by users are collected.

The function data registration means registers function data indicating the function of another switch in a certain switch, and when the switch is operated, the function data registered by the switch function execution means is registered in the function data registration means. Since the functions of other switches can be executed based on these, specific functions that are frequently used can be assigned to easy-to-use switches.

Furthermore, the name of the switch input by the display name input means is displayed on the switch identified by the name setting switch identification means by the name display means, so that the name of the switch displayed on the operation screen is displayed. Can be changed freely. Therefore, according to the present invention, the operator (user) can arbitrarily assign the operation function of the microscope system to the switches on the screen or the switches on the operation panel, and can change the layout of the switches on the screen. Can be changed.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the basic configuration of the present invention.

Figure 2 shows the usage of the microscope system during the day and at night.

Figure 3 is a top view showing the usage status of the microscope system.

FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing an appearance of a microscope system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the microscope system in the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the optical system of the microscope in the microscope system shown in FIG.

Fig. 7 is a functional block diagram common to each control unit in the microscope system shown in Fig. 5.

Fig. 8 is a functional block diagram of the main control section of the microscope system shown in Fig. 5.

Figure 9 shows the configuration of the SW input unit and display unit.

FIG. 10 is a plan view of the SW input unit and the display unit.

Figure 11 shows the main screen of the microscope system.

Figure 12 shows the operation panel of the microscope system.

Fig. 13 shows the general configuration of the switch function assignment procedure. One chart.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a screen for assigning the function and position of the switch.

Figure 15 is a diagram for explaining switch function assignments. Figure 16 is a general flow chart illustrating the switch layout change function.

FIG. 17 to FIG. 21 are diagrams for explaining the layout change function of each switch.

Figure 22 is a general flow chart explaining the new switch creation function.

FIGS. 23 and 24 are diagrams for explaining a new switch creation function.

Fig. 25 is a general flowchart explaining the function to display the switch name.

FIGS. 26 to 28 are diagrams for explaining the function of displaying switch names.

FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 are diagrams showing an operation procedure example in the present embodiment, respectively.

FIGS. 31 and 32 show examples of layout screens according to the present embodiment, respectively.

[Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention]

First, prior to the description of the preferred embodiment, the principle of the present invention will be described.

The microscope system to which the present invention is applied, as shown in Fig. 1, It has an observation unit 70, a photographing unit 71, and a switch mounting body 72. A first example of the switch mounting body 72 is a display device 72A including a transparent touch panel. A second example of the switch attachment 72 is a box 72B on which an operation panel is formed. Further, a third example of the switch mounting body is a frame 72C that supports the observation unit and the photographing unit.

A switch 73 is provided on the switch mounting body 72. An operator (user) operates the switch 73 to make an intention to the observation unit 70 and the photographing unit 71. The communication can be performed, whereby the information based on the sex set in the switch 73 is shown to the operator, and the observation unit 70 and the photographing unit 71 are caused to perform predetermined operations based on the attributes. Can be done.

The attributes referred to here include the mounting position of the switch 73 on the switch mounting body 72, the functions of the observation unit 70 and the photographing unit 71 activated by the switch 73, and There is at least one of the names given to switch 73.

Further, the microscope system to which the present invention is applied includes a control unit 74, a registration unit 75, a change unit 76, and an adjustment unit 75, each of which includes a switch. Register the function data that specifies the attribute of.

When at least one of the switches 73 is operated, the control unit 74 reads out the function data corresponding to the operated switch from the registration unit 75 and stores the read function data in the function data. The observation unit 70 and the imaging unit 71 are controlled based on this. The changing part 76 is provided before the switch mounting body 72 is mounted. The attribute set in at least one of the switches 73 is changed by the operation of the operator.

The adjusting unit 77 sets the attribute changed by the changing unit 76 to the switch 73, and operates the observation unit 70 and the imaging unit 71 in accordance with the changed attribute. The switch mounting body 72, the switch 73, the control unit 74, and the registration unit 75 are adjusted so as to perform the operation.

As a specific first operation example of the changing unit 76 and the adjusting unit 77, the changing unit 76 converts the display position data of at least one of the switches 73 into an operator. And the adjusting unit 77 changes the control unit 74 so as to change the display position of the switch on the display device 72A based on the changed display position data of the switch. adjust.

As a specific second operation example of the changing unit 76 and the adjusting unit 77, the changing unit 76 converts the function data of at least one of the switches 73 by the operation of the operator. The adjusting unit 77 changes the function of the observation unit 70 and the photographing unit 71 activated by the previous switch based on the changed function data of the switch. Adjust the control unit 74 to make the adjustment.

As a third specific operation example of the changing unit 76 and the adjusting unit 77, the changing unit 76 further stores the name data of at least one of the switches 73. The adjusting unit 77 changes the name by the operation of the operator, and the name displayed on the display device 72A when the switch is operated based on the changed name data of the switch. Adjust control unit 74 to change. As a fourth specific example of the operation of the changing unit 76 and the adjusting unit 77, the changing unit 760 transmits the function data of at least one of the switches 73 to the operator. The adjustment unit 77 changes the operation of the observation unit 70 and the photographing unit 71 activated by the switch based on the changed function data of the switch. Adjust the control unit 74 as needed.

The changing unit 76 and the adjusting unit 77 can be included in the control unit 74. Further, the changing unit 76 can be configured by at least one of the switches 73 mounted on the switch mounting body 72.

Further, the microscope system to which the present invention is applied further includes a writing / reading unit 78 in addition to the above-described configuration. The writing / reading unit 78 writes the data indicating the attribute of at least one of the switches 73 changed by the changing unit 76 to the information storage medium 79 according to a predetermined division. Read from storage medium 79. As this information storage medium 79, a card type external storage medium such as an IC card can be used. According to the present invention described above, it is possible to provide a microscope system in which a user can arbitrarily assign the operation functions of the microscope system to the switches and can change the switch layout. .

In addition, since a series of fixed switch operations can be assigned to one switch, the operation of the microscope system can be simplified, and further, function data and position for determining the function and position of the switch. Write data to external storage media for each user By reading and reading, the operating environment of the microscope system for each user can be realized. Furthermore, the names of the switches can be freely changed, and as a result, the operating environment of the microscope system can be improved.

The usefulness of the microscope system of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. That is, as shown in Fig. 2, the usage pattern in this example is classified into daytime usage and nighttime usage. Such a mode of use can be easily understood by assuming that the microscope system of the present invention is used in a medical research institution such as a medical university hospital.

A typical example of daytime use in this type of medical research institution is a routine work involving screening of a large number of specimens, and a typical example of nighttime use is a specific specimen used for research purposes. Observation research, image adjustment and pathological research.

In the case of a routine work, the operator operates the zoom switch, the camera switch, the AF (autofocus) switch, the objective switch, and the EXPOSE switch. When these switches are operated, the observation unit 70 and the photographing unit 71 are operated by a zoom operation, a camera switching operation, an AF operation, an objective switching operation, and an EXPOSE operation.

In the case of the observation research work, the operator operates the microscopy switch, the AF switch, the objective switch, the optical path switch, and the intensity switch. When these switches are operated, the observation unit 70 and the photographing unit 71 are switched to the microscopic method switching operation, the AF operation, the objective switching operation, the optical path switching operation, and the in-plane switching operation. Operated by the city.

In the case of the image adjustment work, the operator must use the AE switch, camera switch, exposure compensation switch, AS switch, zoom switch, objective switch, EXPOSE switch Operate the AF switch. When these switches are operated, the II observation unit 70 and the shooting unit 71 will operate the AE operation, camera switching operation, exposure compensation operation, AS operation, zoom operation, objective switching operation, EXPOSE Operation, AF operation.

In the case of a pathology research work, the operator operates the intensity (ND) switch, objective switch, zoom switch, camera switch, AF switch, and EXPOSE switch. You. When these switches are operated, the observation unit 70 and the imaging unit 71 are switched to the intent (ND) operation, objective switching operation, zoom operation, camera switching operation, AF operation, and EXPOSE operation. Be operated.

Further, referring to FIG. 3, the usage of the microscope system of the present invention will be described. That is, the operator (observer such as a doctor or scholar) 80 is sitting on the chair 81. The main part (observation unit 70 and imaging unit 71) 83 of the microscope system of the present invention is placed at the center of the desk 82. On the right side of the desk 82, a display device 72A including a transparent touch panel or a switch mounting member 72 including a box 72B including an operation panel is placed. Further, to the left of the desk 82 is a specimen case 84 in which a plurality of specimens are taken. The operator 80 operates the switch 73 of the switch mounting body 72 with the main operator, for example, the right hand 85. You. The operator 80 is a sub-operator, for example, performs a focusing operation, a stage handle operation, and a sample moving operation with the left hand 86. Of course, the eye is pointed at the eyepiece of the main part 83 of the microscope system.

Under the situation shown in FIG. 3, according to the microscope system of the present invention, a switch layout for routine work, a switch layout for observation and research, a switch layout for image adjustment, and a switch layout for image adjustment are used. In addition to the ability to set the switch individually, it is possible to perform observation and photographing with high efficiency and high accuracy for each use mode and for each user. In particular, in a microscope system having an observation unit and an imaging unit that can perform a predetermined observation operation and an imaging operation by selectively operating a switch, as in the present invention, the practicality is reduced. Very advantageous. In addition, for example, a switch for routine work including a zoom switch, a camera switch, an AF (auto focus) switch, an objective switch, an EXPOSE switch, etc., is used. When the microscope system of the invention is set, the operator 80 can operate the switch 73 set in the switch layout for the routine work by the main operator 85 while keeping the eye toward the eyepiece. Focusing operation, stage handle operation, and sample moving operation can be performed with the sub-operator by using 86.

That is, since the switch 73 for the routine work is set in advance on the switch 73, the operator 80 is confused by the existence of unnecessary switches other than the switch for the routine work. Routine without eye pointing at eyepiece Only the switches necessary for the work can be properly operated by the main operator 85. In this case, the main operator 85 becomes closer to a typical movement. In addition, the operations performed by the sub-operator 86 are a pointing operation, a stage handle operation, a sample moving operation, and the like.

Therefore, during the one-time work, only the two hands 85, 86 need to be moved in a regular manner, so that the efficiency of observation and photography has been improved, and hand-free operation has been achieved. Thus, high-precision visual observation is achieved. Such a feature is achieved in a microscope system having an observation unit and a photographing unit that can perform a predetermined observation operation and a photographing operation by selectively operating a switch as in the present invention. Of particular importance.

Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention according to the above-described principle of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the microscope main body 60 includes a frame control section 34 and the revolver 10, a cube unit 11, and an epi-illumination shutter 17 that are controlled by the frame control section 34. Transmission filter control unit 35, transmission filter unit 3 to be controlled and transmission field stop control unit 36, transmission field stop 4 to be controlled, and epi-illumination stop It comprises a control section 38, an epi-aperture aperture stop 19 to be controlled by the control section, an epi-illumination field stop 18 and an epi-fluorinator control section 39, and an epi-filtration filter unit 16 thereof.

Of the main components of the microscope main body 60, the filter filter for transmission Port 35, Transmission filter unit 3, Transmission field stop control unit 36, Transmission field stop 4, Epi-illumination field stop control unit 38, Epi-illumination aperture stop 19, Epi-illumination field stop 1 8 The epi-illumination filter control unit 39 and the epi-illumination filter unit 16 are freely detachable units.

The imaging unit 61 is a beam splitter 12, 13, 20, 23, 24, a zoom lens 22, a photo receiver 25, a photo shooting shutter 26, a camera output port 27, It consists of a photography control unit 32.

The focus detection light sensor 21 and the AF control unit 33 are configured to be detachable from the microscope main body 60, and can be attached to the photography unit 61 when equipped with an autofocus function. The units are connected by a dedicated serial bus 31 and a unit connection cable 62 having a built-in power cable. The transmitted illumination light source 1 and the epi-illumination illumination light source 15 are housed in lamp houses 63 and 64, respectively.

The main control section 30 having a SW input section 51, a display section 52, and a card driver 30A, which are transparent panel switches, is connected to the microscope main body 60 by a cable 62 and has a switch 66. The operation panel 65 is connected to the microscope main body 60 by a cable 62. The card driver 30A performs data writing and reading with a card type external storage medium 30B such as an IC card.

The optical system of the microscope system of this embodiment is, for example, a halogen lamp. The light from the transmission illumination light source 1 composed of a filter is condensed by the contact lens 2 and is incident on the transmission filter unit 3. The transmission filter unit 3 includes a plurality of ND filters for dimming brightness without changing the color temperature of the transmitted illumination light source 1 and a plurality of correction filters for performing color correction. It consists of a filter, and any filter can be selectively inserted into and removed from the optical path of the illumination optical system. The illumination light passing through the transmission filter unit 3 is transmitted from below the sample stage 8 through the transmission field stop 4, the transmission aperture stop 5, the capacitor optical unit 6, and the capacitor top lens unit 7. The observation sample S on the stage is illuminated.

Note that the condenser optical unit 6 is composed of a plurality of condenser lenses 6a to 6c selectively inserted in the optical path, and the condenser top lens unit 7 is selectively inserted in the optical path. It comprises a plurality of capacitor lenses 7a and 7b to be inserted. These units 5, 6, and 7 constitute a capacitor unit 28. In addition, the sample stage 8 can move the observation sample S two-dimensionally in a plane orthogonal to the light path, and can move in the light direction for focusing. Above the sample stage 8, a plurality of objective lenses 9 a to 9 c are held by a revolver 10. The revolver 10 is configured so that the objective lens to be inserted on the optical fiber in the observation optical path can be exchanged by its rotation.

The revolver 10 is, for example, rotatably attached to the tip of the arm of the microscope, and a cube unit 11 is arranged on the observation optical path at the tip. Cube unit 11 consists of multiple cubes selectively inserted by various microscopy methods. Consists of 11a to l1c. The light transmitted through the cube unit 11 is split in two directions by a beam splitter 12, and one of the lights is guided to an eyepiece 14 via a beam splitter 13. The beam splitters 12 and 13 can be inserted into and removed from the optical path.

In addition, light from an epi-illumination light source 15 such as a mercury lamp is transmitted through an epi-illumination filter unit 16, an epi-illumination shutter 17, an epi-illumination field stop 18 and an epi-illumination aperture stop 19. Then, the light enters the cube inserted in the optical path of the cube unit 11, and is reflected to the observation sample S side for epi-illumination.

The epi-illumination filter unit 16 includes a plurality of ND filters for dimming brightness without changing the color temperature of the epi-illumination light source 15 and a plurality of correction filters for color correction. Consists of filters.

On the other hand, the other light branched by the beam splitter 12 inserted on the observation optical path is guided to the optical path for photography. A beam splitter 20 is provided to be detachable from the optical path for photography, and one of the lights split by the beam splitter 20 inserted in the optical path is formed into an imaging lens. The light enters the focus and the light-receiving element 21 for detection via the. The bin detection light receiving wire 21 is for measuring the light amount for the bin detection.

Further, the other light branched by the beam splitter 20 in the optical path for photographing is transmitted to the beam splitter inserted in the optical path via a zoom lens 22 for arbitrarily adjusting the photographing magnification. Insert it in the evening 23. This beam splicer 23 Detachable beam splitter inserted in the optical path

The light reflected by 23 is incident on another beam splitter 24 and is split into two directions. The beam splitter 24 can also be inserted into and removed from the optical path.

The light reflected by the beam splitter 24 inserted in the optical path is incident on the photodetector cable 25. The photodetector cord 25 is a cord for measuring the exposure time of photographing. Then, with the beam splitter 24 removed from the optical path, the light reflected by the beam splitter 23 is passed through the photographing shutter 26, and a camera 2 housing a film for photographing is used. Incident on 7

Next, a configuration of a control system in the microscope system of the present embodiment will be described.

Main control section that manages the operation of the entire system

For 30, the camera control section 32, AF control section 33, frame control section 34, and transmission filter control section via dedicated serial bus 31 35, transmission field stop control section 36, capacitor control section 37, epi-illumination stop control section 38, epi-illumination filter control section 39 ing.

The photographing control section 32 includes a drive and control for moving the beam splitters 12, 20 and 24 into and out of the optical path, a drive and control for the zoom lens 22, and Arithmetic processing for calculating the photographing time from the photometric value of the light receiving probe 25, open / close drive control of the photographing shutter 26, and the film winding of the camera 27 9

Perform hoisting and rewinding control.

The AF control section 3 3 performs a predetermined focusing calculation using the data from the light receiving cable 21 for bin detection, and drives the sample stage 8 according to the calculation result to automatically detect the focus. Is performed. The frame control unit 34 controls the driving of the light source 1 for transmitted illumination, the light source 15 for epi-illumination, the revolver 10, the cube unit 11, and the epi-illumination filter 17.

The transmission filter control unit 35 drives and controls the transmission filter unit 3, and the transmission field stop control unit 36 drives and controls the transmission field stop 4. . The capacitor control section 37 drives and controls the capacitor optical cable unit 6, the capacitor-to-blend unit 7, and the transmission ffl opening / closing aperture 5. The epi-illumination stop control section 38 drives and controls the epi-illumination field stop 18 and the epi-illumination aperture stop 19. The epi-illumination filter control unit 39 drives and controls the epi-illumination filter unit 16.

Each of the control units 32 to 39 has a circuit shown in FIG.

That is, each control unit includes a CPU circuit 41, a drive circuit 42 that drives the optical unit to be controlled by a command from the CPU circuit 41, and a probe in the optical unit to be controlled. A position detection circuit 43 that detects the position of the (revolver, filter, aperture) and informs the CPU circuit 41 of it, and a dedicated serial IZF circuit 44 that connects the CPU circuit 41 to the dedicated serial bus 31 And built-in. In the CPU circuit 41, the CPU 45 is connected to the ROM 46 and the RAM 47 via the CPU bus 48, and a program describing each control content is stored in the ROM 46. Contains data for control calculation. Then, control instructions are sent from the main control unit 30 to the respective control units 32 to 39 via the dedicated serial bus 31, and the CPU 45 operates according to the program of R0M46 to thereby control the respective units. The control of the optical unit and the like in charge of each is performed.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of the main control section 30. The _{t main control} section 30 has the same CPU circuit 41 and various setting states of the microscope as the above control sections. A non-volatile memory 50 for storing data, a switch input unit 51 provided with various operation switches, a display unit 52 for displaying various information, and a dedicated serial bus 31. A dedicated serial bus drive circuit 53 for control is provided.

The display section 52 is composed of a display member such as a plasma display or LCD, and displays the display content sent from the CPU 45. Various screens displayed on the display unit 52 are stored in the ROM 46 in advance. The switch input unit 51 is formed of a touch panel based on a transparent sheet, and is attached to the upper surface of the display unit 52 as shown in FIG. When the user presses an arbitrary position on the switch input unit 51, the position is recognized by the CPU 45.

In this embodiment, for example, a screen as shown in FIG. 10 is displayed. In the same figure, 201 to 203 are partitioned switches This is a display showing the rear. For example, if the switch area 203 is pressed with a finger or the like, the CPU 45 recognizes which switch has been pressed from the pressed position data and the display data of the pressed position, and gives the switch a signal. Control is performed based on the registered function data. For example, it is assumed that a predetermined function is assigned to each of the switch 201 and the switch 202, and no function is assigned to the switch 203.

Here, the function of the switch 201 and the function of the switch 202 are assigned to the switch 203. When switch 203 is depressed after this function is assigned, control according to the function of switch 201 is performed, and then the function of switch 202 is performed. Control is performed.

Next, the operation of the microscope system of the present embodiment configured as described above will be described. First, it is assumed that the units are connected in the state shown in FIG. When a power switch (not shown) is turned on in this state, the main control unit 30 checks the units currently installed in the system, and checks the connected units. For the unit, data is sent to the display unit 52 to display an operation menu for operation, and a main screen as shown in FIG. 11 is displayed.

At the top of the screen shown in FIG. 11, a tag type screen selection switch area 400 for selecting each operation menu screen positioned equivalently to the main screen is provided. In the upper layer selection switch area 400, the main screen selection switch SW401, photo shooting setting selection SW402, motorized part operation selection SW403, Auto focus setting operation selection SW 004, initial setting selection SW 405> Other selection SW 406, switch function / position assignment operation selection SW 409 is provided. These selection switches are displayed on any screen, and can be selected from any level screen.

In addition to the above, this main screen is provided with the following switches, for example. In other words, A F SW 407 for focusing on the sample in auto focus operation, and a sample set SW that moves the stage up and down when replacing the sample.

It is 4 08 mag.

Now, when the switch displayed on the screen is selected, the CPU 45 determines which switch has been selected from the pressing position data of the display unit 52 and the switch input unit 51. to decide. Next, in accordance with the function data and position data for determining the function and position of the switch, an instruction is issued to each of the control units 32 to 39 via the dedicated serial bus 31 to depress the switch. Implement the processing corresponding to. Next, the function assignment of the switch will be described. Here, an example will be described in which the function of the switch 407 on the main screen shown in FIG. 11 is assigned to the switch 451 on the operation panel shown in FIG.

Figure 13 is a general flowchart showing the procedure for assigning functions to switches. First, a switch 409 on the main screen shown in FIG. 11 is selected to open a screen for assigning switch functions and positions as shown to the user. Next, switch

50 Select 1 to enter the function assignment mode (step l). Machine Two

In the function assignment mode, as shown in FIG. 15, the switch 501 lights up, and the message area 511 indicates that the mode is the function assignment mode.

Next, in this state, the switch 451 on the operation panel to which the function is to be registered is selected (step 2). The function of the switch selected thereafter is registered in the nonvolatile memory 50 as an information storage medium as function data for determining the function of the switch 451. Next, open the main screen shown in Fig. 11 and select switch 407 to determine the function of switch 451. The function of switch 407 is added to the data. (Step3). When a series of switch operations is completed, the screen returns to the screen shown in FIG. 15, and the lit switch 501 is selected (step 4). Then, the switch 501 is turned off and the function assignment mode ends. At this time, the display of the message display area 5 11 is also erased, and the state returns to the state shown in FIG.

After such an operation, when the switch 451 of the operation panel 65 shown in FIG. 12 is selected, the CPU 405 performs the operation based on the function data in which the function of the switch 407 is registered. Perform the corresponding processing.

Here, the switches to which the functions are assigned are the switches on the operation panel as an example, but the switches on the operation screen provided in the main controller unit 30 are also assigned the functions. It is possible.

One switch can be assigned not only a single function, but also multiple switch functions. The assignment operation is siep l, After performing the operation of slep2, select the function switches to be assigned in order, and then perform the operation of step4. For example, in observational studies, it is possible to take photographs of a single region of interest on a sample with various changes in magnification and microscopy. Figure 29 shows an example of the procedure for taking a picture of a region of interest on a sample by changing the magnification and the microscopic method.

Hereinafter, an example will be described in which a function for batch-processing such a series of operations is assigned to the switch 410 of the screen shown in FIG. The general flow of the switch function assignment procedure is almost the same as in Figure 13.

First, a switch 409 on the main screen shown in FIG. 11 is selected to open a screen for allocating switch functions and positions shown in FIG. Next, switch 501 is selected to enter the function assignment mode (step 1). In the case of the function assignment mode, the switch 501 is lit as shown in FIG. 15 and the message area 5111 indicates that the mode is the function assignment mode.

Next, in this state, the switch 401 is selected to open the screen shown in FIG. 11, and the switch 410 whose function is to be registered is selected (step 2). Thereafter, the user operates the switch according to the order (1) to (12) shown in FIG. When a series of switch operations is completed, switch 409 is selected to return to the screen of FIG. 15, and the lit switch 501 is selected (stfp4). Then, the switch 501 turns off and the function assignment mode ends. At this time, the display of the message area 5 11 is also erased.

After such an operation, select switch 4110 in Fig. 11. Then, the CPU 45 performs the processing of the switch 4 11 registered in the switch 4 10, and then performs the processing corresponding to the function of each switch similarly registered in order. .

In the examples so far, when a switch is selected, a series of operations assigned to the switch are executed collectively, but the process can proceed in synchronization with the user's switch selection. For example, during a series of work for observation and photographing, there is a case where the work of the user is required. In such a case, it is necessary to wait until the operation of the user ends. That is, it is assumed that the user performs the work shown in FIG. 30 in a routine work in order to take a photograph of one sample. The work enclosed by the ellipse (such as sample exchange by the user) is a user work that does not involve switch operation. In the work of Fig. 30, it is not possible to process everything all at once. This is because it is necessary to wait for the end of the sample exchange by the user. Here, the function assignment in the case of performing processing in synchronization with such user operation will be described. When the switch 408 (SAMP LESET) used here is selected once, the stage automatically moves to the lowest position, and when this switch is selected again in this state, the stage returns to the original position. It automatically returns to the position.

In order to assign the switch operation of FIG. 30 to the switch 410, the operation shown in (1) of FIG. 30 (selection of the switch 408) is performed after the operations of step1 and step2 described above. Then, switch 409 is selected to open the screen shown in FIG. 14, and switch 5 12 is selected. Switch 5 1 2 allows the user to assign functions This is a special switch that puts the standby switch (switch 410 in the example) into a standby state until it is selected again at the time of execution. Then, after performing the switch operations from (2) to (4) in FIG. 30 in order, the switch 5 12 is selected again to wait for the user operation. Then, the same operation is repeated to register the functions up to (7) in FIG.

After that, by performing the operation of step 4 already described, it is possible to assign multiple functions including waiting for user operation to one switch.

Here, as for the switch to which multiple functions are assigned, the functions are executed in the order of operation in step 3 every time the switch is pressed, as shown in the right and left diagrams of Fig. 30. You. That is, when the switch 410 is selected for the first time, the stage lowering function of the switch 408 is executed. Next, when the switch 410 is selected, the selection of the switch 408 is released, the stage is raised (operation (2)), and the switch between (3) and (7) is performed. Processing is performed, and the system enters the wait state again. If such operations are repeated and the function of the assigned switch is executed to the end, it will be in the initial state.

Next, the function to change the layout of the switch will be described. Here, the change of the layout of the switch 408 on the main screen shown in FIG. 11 will be described as an example. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a general change of the switch layout. First, a switch 409 is selected to open a screen for assigning a switch function ♦ position as shown in FIG. 1

2 7

The screen shown in FIG. 17 shows a state in which the switch 503 has already been copied to the layout area and the switch 502 has been selected to enter the layout mode (step l1). In the case of the layout mode, as shown in FIG. 17, the switch 502 is turned on, and the message area 511 indicates that the layout mode is set. In this state, the position where the switch of the layout area 5110 is to be copied is selected (step l2).

Here, the right side of switch 503 is specified. The position data of the designated position is registered as position data in the nonvolatile memory 50 as an information storage medium. Next, switch 401 is selected to change to the main screen of FIG. 11, and switch 408 to be copied to the layout area is selected (step l3). After selecting the switch to be copied to the layout area, the screen returns to the screen shown in FIG. 17, and the lit switch 502 is selected (step l4). This turns off switch 502, clears the message area 511 display, and places the selected switch 408 in the layout area 5110, as shown in Figure 18. Copied. Thereafter, when switch 409 is selected to open the customize screen, the screen shown in FIG. 18 in which the copied switch is arranged at the designated position is displayed. In this state, when the switches 503 and 504 are selected, the same operation as that when the switches 407 and 408 in the screen shown in FIG. 11 are respectively selected is performed.

In the case of the layout mode in which the switch 502 is lit, after specifying the layout area position and selecting a switch to be moved in the layout area, the previously specified position is selected. The switch can be moved to a different location. In this case, the above-described position data is rewritten with the moved position data.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a state in which the lower part of the switch 503 is designated as the movement destination, and FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a case where the operation shown in FIG. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a result of a movement of the switch 504 to a position below the switch 503 by selecting 04.

In this way, the user can arrange frequently used switches on the reputation screen according to the work contents desired by the user so that the switches can be easily used. For example, the main switches used for routine work in the daytime are the objective switch, the zoom switch, the AF switch, the camera switch, and the EXPOSE switch. If the objective lens used is limited to 10X and 50X, focus the frequently used objective selection switch and zoom switch on the upper left of the screen so that it can be easily operated with the right index finger. The layout shown in FIG. 18 is shown in FIG.

In S study, the most frequently used switches are the speculum switch, the AF switch, the objective switch, the optical path switch, and the intensity switch. In observational research, the number of switches is larger than that in routine work because observations are performed by changing the microscopic method in various ways. FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of a screen on which switches are laid out for routine work, and FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of a screen on which switches are laid out for observational research. In FIG. 31, reference numeral 910 denotes an objective lens switching switch, reference numeral 911 denotes a zoom magnification setting switch, Reference numeral 912 indicates a camera switch for photographing (35 L left 35 mm camera, L: large format camera, 35 R: right 35 mm camera). In FIG. 32, reference numeral 913 denotes an objective lens switching switch, reference numeral 914 denotes an AF switch, reference numeral 915 denotes a selection switch of each microscopy method, and reference numeral 916 denotes a transmission. Reference numeral 917 indicates a bright-field microscopy switch, reference numeral 917 indicates a transmission dark-field inspection microscopy switch, reference numeral 91 S indicates a transmission differential interference spectroscopy switch, and reference numeral 9-1 9 indicates transmission polarization. The speculum switch is shown. The selection switches 915 for the microscopic method are arranged in a separate screen that is displayed by selecting the “OBSE R.” switch in the screen of FIG. 11. ing.

There are a plurality of screens that can be laid out, and the user can freely switch the desired layout screen according to the work target. These screens can be switched to the previous screen by the switch 508 and to the next screen by the switch 509. For example, a layout screen for routine work used in the daytime is created as the first page screen, and a layout screen for observation research used in the daytime is used as the second page screen. create. According to the present embodiment, such screen switching can be performed.

The function data and position data for determining the function and position of the switch set as described above can be stored in the nonvolatile memory 50 which is an information storage medium. In this case, the switch 507 on the screen shown in FIG. 20 is selected, and the screen shown in FIG. 21 is displayed. In this state, if the switch 602 is selected, the setting contents of the switch are set in the selection item 604 of the nonvolatile memory 50. Stored in location. When the switch 600 is selected, the function data and position data for determining the function and position of the switch stored in the selection item 604 of the information language medium are read and stored in the information storage medium. You can use the settings that have been set. The storage and reproduction in the information storage medium can be performed for each user. The selection item 604 in the scroll area 603 can be moved up and down with a jog dial not shown.

Next, the function of creating a new switch will be described with reference to the general flow of FIG. First, a switch 409 on the main screen shown in FIG. 11 is selected to display the screen shown in FIG. 14 (step 21). Next, switch 505 is selected to enter the switch creation mode. In the switch creation mode, as shown in Fig. 23, the switch 505 lights up, and the message area 511 indicates that the switch is in the switch creation mode. 0

Next, in this state, a position for registering the switch in the layout area 5110 is selected (step 22). Here, as shown in FIG. 23, the right side of the switch 503 is designated. Then, when the designation of the switch position is completed, a new switch is created in the designated area as shown in FIG. At this time, the switch creation mode ends, the switch 505 goes out, and the display in the message area is erased.

Next, the function of assigning names to newly created switches will be described with reference to the general flow in Fig. 25. First, figure In the state shown in FIG. 24, the switch 506 is selected, and the mode is assigned to the switch name assignment mode (step 31). In the switch name assignment mode, as shown in FIG. 26, the switch 506 is turned on, and the message area 511 indicates that the switch name assignment mode is set. In this state, for example, when the switch 507 in the layout area 5100 to which a name is assigned is selected.

(st ep 32), a keyboard as shown in Fig. 27 is displayed. Next, the name assigned to the switch 507 is entered by selecting each alphabet key on the keyboard shown in Fig. 27 (step

3 3). When the alpha key is selected, the selected character is displayed in display area 550.

In this example, the alphabet keys are sequentially selected as “N” — “E” — “W” → “J—“ S ”—“ W ”. When you have finished entering the name, select switch 5 51. When the switch 55 1 is selected, the screen shown in FIG. 28 is displayed, and the characters input on the keyboard screen are displayed on the switch 507. When the name assignment mode ends in this state, the switch 506 turns off and the display of the message area disappears. Although an example in which names are assigned to newly created switches has been described here, it goes without saying that names can be assigned to existing switches. In addition, switches created here can be assigned functions and layouts can be changed in the same way as other switches. Here, the functions of the other switches can be assigned to the newly created switch in the same manner as the switch 4110 in FIG. 11 and the switch 451 in FIG. Can be.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the function allocation of the switch can be changed by the user, so that a specific function that is frequently used can be allocated to an easy-to-use switch. In addition, since the switch layout can be changed, it is possible to create an operation screen in which specific switches that are frequently used by users are collected, and the procedure is determined. In routine work, multiple switch operations can be assigned to one switch, so that the number of switch operations and user errors can be reduced.

Furthermore, since the function data and position data for determining the function and position of the switch can be stored in the information storage medium for each user, an operating environment for each user can be provided. it can. Furthermore, the optimal switch name can be freely displayed on an existing switch and / or a newly created switch, thereby improving the operating environment of the microscope system. And can be.

As described in detail above, according to the present invention, the user can arbitrarily assign the operation functions of the microscope system to the switches of the operation screen or each switch of the operation panel, and A microscope system capable of changing the switch rate can be provided.

In addition, a series of fixed switch operations can be assigned to one switch, which simplifies the operation of the microscope system, and further determines the functions and positions of the switches. Do By storing and reproducing the function data and the position data in the information storage medium for each user, the operating environment of the microscope system for each user can be realized.

Further, the name of the switch input by the display name input unit is displayed on the switch identified by the name setting switch identification unit by the name display unit, so that the name is displayed on the operation screen. The name of the switch can be changed freely, and as a result, the operating environment of the microscope system can be improved.

Claims

The scope of the claims

(1) A microscope system having an observation unit and an imaging unit,

A display device;

A transparent touch panel disposed on a display surface of the display device and forming a plurality of switches having predetermined attributes for operating the observation unit and the photographing unit, 3:

Registering means for registering function data for specifying attributes of each of the switches;

When at least one of the switches is operated, the function data corresponding to the operated switch is read from the registering means, and the observation unit and the imaging unit are read based on the function data. Control means for controlling

Changing means for changing the attributes assigned to at least one of the switches;

The switch, the registration unit, and the registration unit are set so that the attribute changed by the change unit is set in the switch, and the practice unit and the imaging unit operate in response to the changed attribute. A microscope system comprising an adjustment unit for adjusting the control unit.

(2) A write-in / read-out means further comprising a write-in / read-out means for writing data indicating the attribute of the switch changed by the change means in an information storage medium according to a predetermined division and reading out the data from the Z-information storage medium. The microscope system according to claim 1, wherein Five

(3) The attribute is at least one of a display position of the switch, a function of an observation unit and a photographing unit activated by the switch, and a name given to the switch. The microscope system according to claim 1, wherein:

(4) the changing means includes means for changing the display position data of the switch by an operation of an operator,

The adjusting means includes means for adjusting the control means for changing the display position of the switch based on the display position data of the switch changed by the means! A microscope system according to item 1 of the claim.

(5) The change means includes means for changing the function data of the switch by an operation of an operator,

The adjusting means adjusts the control means to change the function of the observation unit and the photographing unit activated by the switch based on the function data of the switch changed by the means. The microscope system according to claim 1, comprising means.

(6) The changing means includes means for changing the name data of the switch by an operation of an operator,

The adjusting means includes means for adjusting the control means to change a name displayed on the display device when the switch is operated based on the name data of the switch changed by the means. The microscope system according to claim 1.

(7) The microscope system according to claim 1, wherein the changing unit and the adjusting unit are included in the control unit.

(8) The changing means,

The microscope system according to claim 1, wherein the switch is a switch displayed on the transparent touch panel.

(9) The microscope system according to claim 1, wherein the switch includes a switch group operated during a routine work and a switch group operated during a non-routine work.

(10) The switches operated during the routine work include at least a zoom switch, a camera switch, an autofocus switch, an objective switch, and an EXPOSE switch. 10. The microscope system according to claim 9, comprising a switch.

(11) A microscope system having an observation unit and an imaging unit,

A display device;

A transparent touch panel bonded to a display surface of the display device and constituting a switch for activating a predetermined function of the observation unit and the photographing unit;

When at least one of the switches is operated, the function data corresponding to the operated switch is read out from the registering means, and the observation unit and the observation unit are read out based on the function data. Control means for controlling the photographing unit;

Position data input means for inputting position data indicating a display position of the switch displayed on the display device after the change, Based on the position data input by the position data input means, sweep rate Tsu microscope system ₀ comprising a switch position change means for changing the display position of Sui Tutsi being displayed on the display device

(12) A microscope system having an observation unit and an imaging unit,

A switch for activating a predetermined function of the observation unit and the imaging unit;

Means for registering function data corresponding to each of the switches;

When at least one of the switches is operated, the function data corresponding to the operated switch is read out from the registration means, and the observation unit is read based on the function data. Control means for controlling the unit and the shooting unit;

A function data registration unit for registering function data indicating a function of another switch in at least one of the switches; and when a switch on which the function data is registered is operated, A switch function executing means for executing the function of the other switch based on the function data registered by the function data registering means.

(13) A microscope system having an observation unit and an imaging unit,

A person who registers the function data corresponding to each of the switches Steps and

When at least one of the switches is operated, the function data corresponding to the operated switch is read out from the registering means, and the observation unit and the photographing unit are read based on the function data. Control means for controlling the

Previous name setting switch identifying means for identifying at least one switch of which name is to be set among the self switches, and a switch identified by the name setting switch identifying means. Display name input means for inputting a name displayed above,

A microscope system comprising: a name display unit for displaying a switch name input by the display name input unit on the switch separated by the name setting switch identification unit.