Inverted microscope with integrated ray paths

Abstract

The invention is an inverted microscope with a housing having multiple integrated ray paths leading from the specimen being examined to (a) the viewer/operator and (b) one or more auxiliary ports used for image recording and/or measurement by accessories such as cameras and video recorders. The microscope lens is positioned below the specimen stage; and, positioned below the lens is a simple reflector which deflects the combined rays from the lens diagonally upward toward the viewer at exactly the same angle at which the viewer looks into the microscope's binocular eyepieces. The position of this simple reflector is the lowest point in the unit's paths of rays, thereby significantly lowering the lens turret and, therefore, the specimen stage to a relatively low, ergonomically-appropriate position. The optical arrangement is simple and compact, minimizing the number of deflections in the path of the viewing rays. Further, light from the microscope lens is deflected along the second path to the auxiliary port and the recording camera by an optical element which is positioned above the reflector in the diagonally-upward path of rays, thereby providing ample room at the auxiliary port to permit use of a recording camera having an automatic-rewind housing. The invention also includes removable and interchangeable tubes which include viewing binoculars and/or an additional auxiliary image port positioned along a vertical path of rays and/or a further additional auxiliary image port positioned along a horizontal path of rays.