JP6270425B2 - Positioning apparatus, microscope system, and deposit removing method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a positioning device that moves a driven body by an ultrasonic motor to position the driven body at a predetermined position, a microscope system provided with the positioning device, and a deposit removal method executed by the positioning device. .

Conventionally, a stage capable of electrically controlling the position in the XYZ direction and a control unit (stage XY control unit and stage Z drive control unit) for controlling the position of the stage in the XYZ direction A microscope system including a positioning device having an image pickup unit such as a TV camera is known (for example, see Patent Document 1).
In the microscope system described in Patent Document 1, the XY position of a stage on which a sample such as a biological sample is placed is sequentially positioned at a plurality of set positions, and a plurality of measurement points having different XY positions on the sample are obtained. Imaging is performed by the imaging unit. That is, the microscope system enables long-time observation (time-lapse observation) of a plurality of measurement points on the sample.

By the way, it is conceivable to use an ultrasonic motor capable of positioning with high accuracy as the actuator of the stage as described above.
Specifically, such an ultrasonic motor is arranged in parallel in the moving direction of the stage, and a drive signal is applied to a pair of vibrators that are pressed against the side surface of the stage (sliding member made of ceramics) by a spring or the like. A piezoelectric body. When a drive signal is applied to the piezoelectric body, each of the pair of vibrators draws an elliptical orbit and moves so as to alternately approach and separate from the side surface of the stage, thereby moving the stage in a predetermined direction.

Japanese Patent No. 5231610

  However, in the positioning device using the ultrasonic motor as described above, the side surfaces of the pair of vibrators and the stage wear due to long-term use, and the wear powder generated by the wear adheres to the side surface of the stage. . When the wear powder adheres to the side surface of the stage as described above, the contact state between the pair of vibrators and the side surface of the stage is changed by the wear powder when the positioning of the stage is repeatedly performed, for example, in time-lapse observation. However, the drive characteristics of the ultrasonic motor may become unstable.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to provide a positioning device, a microscope system, and a deposit removal method capable of stably maintaining the driving characteristics of an ultrasonic motor.

In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a positioning device according to the present invention includes a base, a moving unit movably attached to the base, and an ultrasonic vibration attached to the base. An ultrasonic motor that moves the moving unit relative to the base by generating the moving unit, and moves the moving unit relative to the base by operating the ultrasonic motor. A movement control unit that repeats a positioning operation for sequentially positioning the moving unit at a position, and the movement control unit includes: a first outer set position having a largest separation distance between the set positions among the plurality of set positions; several times the cleaning operation of the moving part moved relative to said base portion to pass through at least one of the second outer setting position, and executes the Each of the cleanings that is executed a plurality of times at a position where the relative movement of the moving part with respect to the base is once stopped before passing at least one of the first outer set position and the second outer set position. It is characterized by different positions for each operation .

  Further, in the positioning device according to the present invention, in the above invention, the movement control unit performs the first outer set position and the first position after executing one positioning operation and before executing the next positioning operation. The moving unit is moved relative to the base so as to pass through at least one of the two outer set positions.

  In the positioning device according to the present invention, in the above invention, when the movement control unit positions the moving unit from one set position to the next set position among the plurality of set positions, The moving unit is moved relative to the base so as to pass through at least one of a setting position and the second outside setting position.

  In the positioning device according to the present invention, in the above invention, when the movement control unit positions the moving unit from one set position to the next set position among the plurality of set positions, The moving portion is moved relative to the base portion so as to pass through both the set position and the second outside set position.

  Further, in the positioning device according to the present invention, in the above invention, the movement control unit is directed to the adjacent setting position from the first outer setting position to the second outer setting position in one positioning operation. The moving unit is sequentially positioned, and when the moving unit is positioned from the first outer set position to the next set position, the moving unit is moved relative to the base so as to pass through the first outer set position. Relative to the base so as to pass through the second outer set position when the moving unit is positioned from one set position to the second outer set position. It is characterized by making it move.

  In the positioning device according to the present invention, in the above-described invention, the information that prompts the relative movement of the moving part that passes through at least one of the first outer set position and the second outer set position with respect to the base part is provided. An informing unit for informing is provided.

  Further, the positioning device according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the notification unit notifies the information after the one positioning operation is performed and before the next positioning operation is performed. And

  Further, the microscope system according to the present invention includes the positioning device described above, an observation light source that illuminates the observation sample placed on the moving unit, an objective lens that faces the observation sample, and the objective lens. An imaging unit that images the observation sample, and an imaging control unit that causes the imaging unit to image the observation sample each time the moving unit is sequentially positioned at the plurality of setting positions.

Further, the deposit removing method according to the present invention repeats a positioning operation for sequentially positioning the moving unit at a plurality of set positions by moving the moving unit relative to the base by operating an ultrasonic motor. In the deposit removal method performed by the positioning device, the plurality of setting positions pass through at least one of the first outer setting position and the second outer setting position where the separation distance between the setting positions is the largest. A cleaning operation for moving the moving part relative to the base part is executed a plurality of times, and before passing at least one of the first outer set position and the second outer set position, once a relative movement with respect to the base, the position to be stopped, a plurality of times, and different positions in each said cleaning operation to be executed And features.

In the positioning device according to the present invention, “when the positioning operation is repeatedly executed, the wear powder generated by the contact between the ultrasonic motor and the moving unit is the moving unit at the first and second outer set positions. Paying attention to the point that it is easy to adhere to a part that contacts the ultrasonic motor (hereinafter referred to as a part corresponding to the first and second outer set positions) when positioned to the first and second outer set positions. The structure which moves a moving part relatively with respect to a base so that at least any one of these may be passed is employ | adopted.
By adopting such a configuration, with the relative movement of the moving part with respect to the base, the wear powder adhering to at least one of the parts corresponding to the first and second outer set positions is removed by an ultrasonic motor. Can be cleaned. Therefore, when the positioning operation is repeatedly executed, the drive characteristics of the ultrasonic motor are not unstable due to the wear powder.

Since the microscope system according to the present invention includes the above-described positioning device, the same effect as the above-described positioning device can be obtained.
Since the deposit removing method according to the present invention is a deposit removing method performed by the positioning device described above, the same effect as the positioning device described above is obtained.

FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a microscope system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing the positioning device shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing the first ultrasonic motor shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a drive signal applied from the control device to the first ultrasonic motor in the positioning device shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view for explaining bending vibration of the first ultrasonic motor shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view for explaining the longitudinal vibration of the first ultrasonic motor shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing a sample to be subjected to time-lapse observation. FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the operation (time-lapse observation) of the microscope system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the time-lapse observation shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modification of the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the operation (time-lapse observation) of the microscope system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the time-lapse observation shown in FIG. FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the operation (time-lapse observation) of the microscope system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the time-lapse observation shown in FIG. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a control device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, modes for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter, embodiments) will be described with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. Furthermore, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same part in description of drawing.

(Embodiment 1)
[Schematic configuration of microscope system]
FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a microscope system 100 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
The microscope system 100 is a microscope system that enables time-lapse observation of a plurality of measurement points in a sample such as a biological sample. As shown in FIG. 1, a microscope 200, a control device 300, an operation device 400, and a display device. 500.
As for the microscope 200, in FIG. 1, an optical system viewed from the side is mainly illustrated, and a support body (exterior housing) that supports each optical system is omitted.

[Configuration of microscope]
As shown in FIG. 1, the microscope 200 includes a light source device 201, a first mirror 202, a stage 203, a center seat 204, a focusing mechanism 205, an objective lens 206, a half mirror 207, and a first connection. An image lens 208, an eyepiece lens 209, a second mirror 210, a second imaging lens 211, and a camera 212 are provided.
And the light radiate | emitted from the light source device 201 is reflected by the 1st mirror 202, and is irradiated below sample Sp. The light transmitted through the sample Sp passes through the objective lens 206 and is branched into two by the half mirror 207. One light passes through the first imaging lens 208 and is used for observing the sample Sp with the naked eye by the eyepiece lens 209. The other light is reflected by the second mirror 210, passes through the second imaging lens 211, and forms an image on the image sensor (not shown) of the camera 212.

The center seat 204 is a portion to which a plurality of samples Sp (see FIG. 7) are fixed by Clemmel (not shown) or the like, and is attached to the upper surface of the stage 203.
Here, as shown in FIG. 1, an opening 204 </ b> A corresponding to the optical axis L (FIG. 1) is formed in the center seat 204.
The stage 203 is a part on which a plurality of samples Sp are placed via the center seat 204, and constitutes a part of the positioning device 1 (see FIG. 2) according to the present invention.
Then, the stage 203 moves under the control of the control device 300 in the XY direction (first direction when viewed from above, second direction orthogonal to the first direction, see FIG. 2). Then, any sample Sp is positioned at a position facing the objective lens 206.
Here, as shown in FIG. 1, the stage 203 has an opening 203A corresponding to the optical axis L (FIG. 1).
The detailed configuration of the stage 203 will be described later.
The focusing mechanism 205 moves the stage 203 in the Z direction (vertical direction) under the control of the control device 300 and adjusts the focal position of the observation optical system including the objective lens 206.

  In FIG. 1, the microscope 200 according to the first embodiment is configured as an upright microscope. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be configured as an inverted microscope, for example.

[Configuration of control device, operation device, and display device]
The control device 300 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and the like, and controls operations of the microscope 200 (the light source device 201, the stage 203, the focusing mechanism 205, the camera 212, and the like) and the display device 500.
Of the functions of the control device 300, the function of controlling the operation of the stage 203 constitutes a part of the positioning device 1 according to the present invention.

The operation device 400 is configured using a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, and the like, and accepts user operations. Then, the operation device 400 outputs an instruction signal corresponding to the user operation to the control device 300.
The display device 500 is configured using a liquid crystal display or the like, and displays a predetermined screen under the control of the control device 300.

[Configuration of positioning device]
FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of the positioning device 1.
FIG. 2 shows the stage 203 as viewed from above.
The positioning device 1 operates the stage 203 to position one of the plurality of samples Sp placed on the stage 203 at a position facing the objective lens 206.
As shown in FIG. 2, the positioning device 1 includes a stage 203 and some functions of a control device 300 that controls the operation of the stage 203.

As shown in FIG. 2, the stage 203 includes a base 2, a moving unit 3, an ultrasonic actuator 4, and an encoder (displacement sensor) 5.
The base 2 and the moving part 3 are formed with the above-described opening 203A (only the opening 203A formed in the moving part 3 is shown in FIG. 2).
The base 2 is fixed to the microscope 200 shown in FIG. 1 and is a part that supports the moving unit 3, the ultrasonic actuator 4, and the encoder 5.
For example, a pair of ball circulation type first guide rails 8x are attached to the upper surface of the base 2 along the X direction.

As shown in FIG. 2, the moving unit 3 includes an X-direction moving unit 3x and a Y-direction moving unit 3y.
The X-direction moving part 3x is mounted on the base 2 so as to be capable of reciprocating in the X direction (first direction) along the first guide rail 8x.
In this X direction moving part 3x, on one side surface parallel to the X direction, as shown in FIG. 2, for example, a first sliding member 6x made of a hard material such as ceramics is provided.
Here, as a material of the first sliding member 6x, for example, alumina, zirconia, stabilized zirconia, and the like are suitable.
Further, in the X-direction moving unit 3x, as shown in FIG. 2, the first scale 7x is provided on the other side surface parallel to the X direction (the side surface facing the side surface on which the first sliding member 6x is provided). It has been.
In addition, the 1st sliding member 6x and the 1st scale 7x are not restricted to the structure each provided in each side surface which mutually opposes in the X direction moving part 3x, It is good also as a structure provided in the same side surface.
Further, in the X-direction moving unit 3x, for example, a pair of ball circulation type second guide rails 8y are attached to the upper surface along the Y direction.

The Y-direction moving portion 3y is a portion to which the center seat 204 is attached on the upper surface thereof, and is attached on the X-direction moving portion 3x so as to be capable of reciprocating in the Y direction (second direction) along the second guide rail 8y. ing.
In the Y-direction moving part 3y, a second sliding member 6y made of a hard material such as ceramics is provided on one side surface parallel to the Y direction, as shown in FIG.
Here, as the material of the second sliding member 6y, for example, alumina, zirconia, stabilized zirconia, and the like are suitable.
Further, in the Y-direction moving portion 3y, as shown in FIG. 2, the second scale 7y is provided on the other side surface parallel to the Y direction (the side surface facing the side surface on which the second sliding member 6y is provided). It has been.
In addition, the 2nd sliding member 6y and the 2nd scale 7y are not restricted to the structure each provided in each side surface which mutually opposes in the Y direction moving part 3y, It is good also as a structure provided in the same side surface.

As shown in FIG. 2, the encoder 5 includes a first encoder 5x and a second encoder 5y.
The first encoder 5x detects a displacement amount of the X-direction moving unit 3x by detecting a pattern such as a scale provided on the first scale 7x, and represents a relative position of the X-direction moving unit 3x with respect to the base 2. The position information is supplied to the control device 300.
The second encoder 5y detects a displacement amount of the Y-direction moving unit 3y by detecting a pattern such as a scale provided on the second scale 7y, and relative to the X-direction moving unit 3x of the Y-direction moving unit 3y. Position information representing the target position is supplied to the control device 300.

As shown in FIG. 2, the ultrasonic actuator 4 includes a first ultrasonic actuator 4x and a second ultrasonic actuator 4y.
The first ultrasonic actuator 4x is fixed on the base 2 so as to contact and press the first sliding member 6x, is driven by a drive signal supplied from the control device 300, and moves the X-direction moving unit 3x. Move relative to the base 2.
The second ultrasonic actuator 4y is fixed on the X-direction moving unit 3x so as to contact and press the second sliding member 6y, and is driven by a drive signal supplied from the control device 300 to move in the Y-direction. The part 3y is moved relative to the X-direction moving part 3x.

Hereinafter, the detailed configuration of the first and second ultrasonic actuators 4x and 4y will be described. However, since the first and second ultrasonic actuators 4x and 4y have the same configuration, the first ultrasonic actuator The actuator 4x will be described.
As shown in FIG. 2, the first ultrasonic actuator 4x includes a first ultrasonic motor 41x and a first holding mechanism 42x.
The first holding mechanism 42x is a portion fixed on the base 2, and the first ultrasonic motor 41x is brought into contact with and pressed against the first sliding member 6x by a spring (not shown) provided therein. The first ultrasonic motor 41x is held.

FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing the first ultrasonic motor 41x.
As shown in FIG. 2 or 3, the first ultrasonic motor 41 x includes a pair of first vibrators 411 x and 412 x and a rectangular parallelepiped first laminated piezoelectric body 413 x.
The pair of first vibrators 411x and 412x is provided on a side surface of the first laminated piezoelectric body 413x facing the first sliding member 6x. For example, a resin having a relatively small friction coefficient including reinforcing fibers is used as a base material. It is formed with the material.

As shown in FIG. 3, the first laminated piezoelectric body 413x is provided with four bending vibration electrodes 414x to 417x and one longitudinal vibration electrode 418x.
The four bending vibration electrodes 414x to 417x are electrodes to which a bending vibration signal (drive signal) is applied from the control device 300, and are arranged in two rows along the X direction with the vertical vibration electrode 418x interposed therebetween. Be placed.
The longitudinal vibration electrode 418x is an electrode to which a longitudinal vibration signal (drive signal) is applied from the control device 300, and is disposed at the center position of the first stacked piezoelectric body 413x.

Here, in FIG. 3, the vicinity of the electrodes of the bending vibration electrode 414x (electrode far from the first sliding member 6x) and 416x (electrode close to the first sliding member 6x) disposed on the left side of the longitudinal vibration electrode 418x. Piezoelectric materials near the electrodes of the piezoelectric body and the electrodes 415x (electrodes far from the first sliding member 6x) and 417x (electrodes close to the first sliding member 6x) disposed on the right side of the longitudinal vibration electrode 418x. The polarization direction is set opposite to that of the body.
More specifically, when a positive voltage and a negative voltage are respectively applied to the bending vibration electrodes 414x and 416x disposed on the left side of the longitudinal vibration electrode 418x, the bending vibration disposed on the right side of the longitudinal vibration electrode 418x. A negative voltage and a positive voltage are applied to the working electrodes 415x and 417x, respectively.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a drive signal applied from the control device 300 to the first ultrasonic motor 41x.
The longitudinal vibration signal (first signal) and the bending vibration signal (second signal) are, for example, high-frequency sine wave signals as shown in FIG. 4, and the longitudinal vibration signal and the bending vibration signal are 90 ° out of phase. .

FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view for explaining the bending vibration of the first ultrasonic motor 41x. FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view for explaining the longitudinal vibration of the first ultrasonic motor 41x.
While a positive voltage is applied to the flexural vibration electrodes 414x to 417x and the vertical vibration electrode 418x, the piezoelectric body of the electrode portions (+) sign (electrodes 414x, 417x, 418x) is deformed so as to expand. The piezoelectric body of the electrode portions (electrodes 415x, 416x) indicated by "" deforms so as to shrink.
On the other hand, while a negative voltage is applied to the bending vibration electrodes 414x to 417x and the longitudinal vibration electrode 418x, the piezoelectric body of the electrode portions (electrodes 414x, 417x, 418x) with a “+” sign is deformed so as to shrink. The piezoelectric body of the electrode part (-electrodes 415x, 416x) indicated by “−” is deformed so as to expand.
Since the longitudinal vibration signal and the bending vibration signal according to the first embodiment are both high-frequency sine wave signals, these operations are repeated.

Therefore, when the bending vibration signal shown in FIG. 4 is applied to the bending vibration electrodes 414x to 417x, the bending vibration is excited as schematically shown in FIG. Specifically, when the first vibrator 411x moves in a direction away from the first sliding member 6x, the first vibrator 412x moves in a direction pressed against the first sliding member 6x, and then the first vibrator 412x. Moves in a direction away from the first sliding member 6x, the operation of moving the first vibrator 411x in a direction pressed against the first sliding member 6x is repeated.
On the other hand, when the longitudinal vibration signal shown in FIG. 4 is applied to the longitudinal vibration electrode 418x, as shown in FIG. 6, the first ultrasonic motor 41x expands and contracts in the long side direction (movement direction of the X-direction moving unit 3x). Longitudinal vibration is excited.

As described above, when the two types of vibrations are shifted by 90 ° and excited simultaneously, the bending vibration shown in FIG. 5 and the longitudinal vibration shown in FIG. 6 are combined, and the pair of first vibrators of the first ultrasonic motor 41x. 411x and 412x vibrate so as to draw a locus indicated by a dashed ellipse in FIG. That is, the pair of first vibrators 411x and 412x draws the same elliptical trajectory, and the displacement at the same time is shifted by half a circle so that the first sliding member 6x alternately approaches and separates repeatedly. .
In FIG. 5, the positions of the ellipse arrows schematically indicate that the displacement of the pair of first vibrators 411x and 412x at the same time is shifted by half a circle on the same elliptical orbit.

  In addition, the pair of first vibrators 411x and 412x perform bending vibration shown in FIG. 5, thereby reducing the frictional force generated when contacting the first sliding member 6x. Further, by applying the longitudinal vibration signal shown in FIG. 4 to the longitudinal vibration electrode 418x, as shown in FIG. 6, the first ultrasonic motor 41x causes expansion and contraction along the long side direction. This expansion and contraction motion and bending motion are combined to move the X-direction moving unit 3x. In this way, the first ultrasonic motor 41x transmits the frictional force to the first sliding member 6x to move the X-direction moving unit 3x.

  Here, after the positioning to the target position is completed, the application of voltage (drive signal) to the first ultrasonic motor 41x is stopped in order to place the X-direction moving unit 3x in the stopped (stationary) state. By stopping the voltage application, the pair of first vibrators 411x and 412x of the first ultrasonic motor 41x presses the first sliding member 6x with a constant pressure, and the X-direction moving unit 3x is stopped (stationary).

  Since the second ultrasonic actuator 4y has the same configuration as the first ultrasonic actuator 4x, a specific description is omitted, but the control device 300 uses the same method as the first ultrasonic actuator 4x. It is driven by. In FIG. 2, the configuration of the second ultrasonic actuator 4y is the same as that of the first ultrasonic motor 41x (including the pair of first vibrators 411x and 412x) and the first holding mechanism 42x constituting the first ultrasonic actuator 4x. Only the second ultrasonic motor 41y (including the pair of second vibrators 411y and 412y) and the second holding mechanism 42y are illustrated.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the control device 300 includes a drive unit 301, a detection unit 302, a movement control unit 303, an imaging control unit 304, and a memory 305.
The drive unit 301, the detection unit 302, the movement control unit 303, and the memory 305 constitute the positioning device 1.
The drive unit 301 supplies drive signals (flexural vibration signals and longitudinal vibration signals) to the first and second ultrasonic actuators 4x and 4y under the control of the movement control unit 303.
The detection unit 302 reads the positional information from the first and second encoders 5x and 5y, the relative positional relationship between the base unit 2 and the X direction moving unit 3x, and the relative position between the X direction moving unit 3x and the Y direction moving unit 3y. The relationship is detected, and the position coordinates of the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y are detected. Information on the detected position coordinates is sent to the movement control unit 303. The detection unit 302 can also detect the moving speed, acceleration, and the like of the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y.

The movement control unit 303 recognizes the position coordinates of the X-direction moving unit 3x and the Y-direction moving unit 3y detected by the detecting unit 302 in response to a user operation on the operation device 400, and performs the first and second operations. The operation of the ultrasonic actuators 4x and 4y (the operation of the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y) is controlled.
Specifically, the movement control unit 303 performs the user operation on the first and second ultrasonic actuators 4x and 4y in response to a user operation instructing the movement start of the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y. The drive unit 301 is controlled so as to supply a corresponding drive signal (bending vibration signal, longitudinal vibration signal).
In addition, the movement control unit 303 stops the supply of drive signals (flexural vibration signals and longitudinal vibration signals) in response to a user operation instructing to stop moving the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y. To control.
Furthermore, the movement control unit 303 controls the driving unit 301 as described above according to a program recorded in the memory 305 in response to a user operation instructing execution of time lapse observation, and a plurality of targets recorded in the memory 305. The moving unit 3 is sequentially positioned at a position (XY setting position described later).

Note that the movement control unit 303 controls the operation of the focusing mechanism 205 (the Z direction of the stage 203) according to the user operation on the operation device 400, similarly to the operation control of the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y described above. (Movement control).
As for the operation control of the focusing mechanism 205, the position of the stage 203 in the Z direction detected by the encoder using the ultrasonic motor as a drive source, similarly to the operation control of the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y described above. Based on the information, the stage 203 may be moved in the Z direction, or other structures may be employed.

The imaging control unit 304 causes the camera 212 to perform imaging in response to a user operation on the operation device 400 and records image data obtained by the imaging in the memory 305.
For example, the imaging control unit 304 causes the camera 212 to be set each time the moving unit 3 is sequentially positioned at a plurality of setting positions in accordance with a program recorded in the memory 305 in accordance with a user operation instructing execution of time-lapse observation. Make an image.

[Operation of microscope system]
Next, the operation of the microscope system 100 described above will be described.
Hereinafter, as an operation of the microscope system 100, an operation at the time of execution of the time lapse observation (adherent removal method according to the present invention) will be mainly described.
First, before describing the time lapse observation performed by the microscope system 100, the sample Sp that is the object of the time lapse observation will be described.

FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating a sample Sp that is an object of time-lapse observation.
Specifically, FIG. 7 is a view of three samples Sp (Sp1 to Sp3) fixed to the center seat 204 as viewed from above.
As shown in FIG. 7, the sample Sp that is the object of time-lapse observation in the first embodiment is the first to third samples Sp made of three preparations.
In these first to third samples Sp, for example, first and third observation objects O1 to O3 such as cells are enclosed using water and a cover glass.
And the time-lapse observation in this Embodiment 1 observes the time change of the 1st-3rd observation object O1-O3.

In addition, before performing time-lapse observation, the user operates target device (XY setting position, Z setting position), time-lapse observation for observing the first to third observation objects O1 to O3 by operating the operation device 400, respectively. The time interval and the number of times of time-lapse observation are registered in the memory 305.
For example, the user performs the following work in order to register the target position described above in the memory 305.
That is, the user operates the operation device 400 to move the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y in the XY direction, and a position where the first observation target O1 faces the objective lens 206 (first observation target). The X and Y direction moving parts 3x and 3y are positioned at a position where O1 can be observed. In addition, the user operates the operating device 400 to move the stage 203 in the Z direction (actuate the focusing mechanism 205) and position the stage 203 at a position where the first observation target O1 is in focus. . Then, the user operates the operation device 400 so that the XY positions of the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y (XY positions of the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y detected by the encoder 5) and the stage The Z position 203 (the Z position of the stage 203 detected by the encoder) is registered in the memory 305 as the first XY setting position and the first Z setting position, respectively.
The user performs the same operation on the second and third observation objects O2 and O3, respectively, so that the second XY setting position at which the second observation object O2 can be observed and the second observation object O2 is in the focused state. The second Z setting position, the third XY setting position where the third observation object O3 can be observed, and the third Z setting position where the third observation object O3 is in focus are registered in the memory 305.

Here, the first to third XY setting positions described above correspond to the setting positions according to the present invention. The first and third XY setting positions correspond to the first outer setting position and the second outer setting position according to the present invention because the distance between the setting positions is the largest.
Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the first and third XY setting positions are referred to as the first and second outer XY setting positions, respectively, and the second XY setting position is referred to as the inner XY setting position.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the operation (time-lapse observation) of the microscope system 100. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the time-lapse observation shown in FIG.
Specifically, in FIG. 9, the horizontal axis represents time, the vertical axis represents the positions of the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y, and the behavior of the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y is indicated by a solid line. FIG. 9 illustrates only the n-th (1 ≦ n <N) observation and the (n + 1) -th observation in the time-lapse observation in which the observation is performed a plurality of times (N times).
The movement control unit 303 reads the first outer XY setting position recorded in the memory 305 and moves the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y in the XY direction in response to a user operation instructing execution of time lapse observation. Then, the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y are positioned at the first outer XY setting position (step S101). FIG. 9 shows a state in which the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y are positioned at the first outer XY setting position at time T11A.

Subsequently, the movement control unit 303 reads the first Z setting position recorded in the memory 305, moves the stage 203 in the Z direction, and positions the stage 203 at the first Z setting position (step S102).
Subsequently, the imaging control unit 304 causes the camera 212 to photograph the first observation target O1 during the time To (FIG. 9), and records the image data generated by the photographing in the memory 305 (step S103).

Subsequently, the control device 300 positions the X and Y-direction moving units 3x and 3y and the stage 203 at all the setting positions recorded in the memory 305, and captures all of the first to third observation objects O1 to O3. It is determined whether or not it has been performed (step S104).
When the control device 300 determines that all of the first to third observation objects O1 to O3 are not photographed (step S104: No), the control device 300 proceeds to step S101. Then, the control device 300 sequentially positions the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y and the stage 203 at the remaining set positions, and sequentially performs imaging of the second and third observation objects O2 and O3. Note that FIG. 9 shows a state where imaging of the third observation target O3 is completed at time T13B. That is, in the time-lapse observation in which the observation is performed a plurality of times, the n-th observation is performed between the times T11A and T13B.

On the other hand, when it is determined that all of the first to third observation objects O1 to O3 have been photographed (step S104: Yes), the movement control unit 303 performs the next n + 1th observation (the time shown in FIG. 9). Before performing (between T21A and T23B) (before the time T21A (the time when the observation interval Tp recorded in the memory 305 is added to the time T11A)), the cleaning operation is executed (step S105: adhering matter removing step). .
Specifically, the movement control unit 303 sets the first cleaning operation position (see FIG. 5) as an arbitrary position that is separated from the second outer XY setting position (both X and Y coordinates are separated) with reference to the first outer XY setting position. 9) is recorded in the memory 305. Further, the movement control unit 303 sets the second cleaning operation position (FIG. 9) as an arbitrary position separated from the first outer XY setting position (both X and Y coordinates are separated) with reference to the second outer XY setting position. Is recorded in the memory 305. Before the time lapse observation is performed, when the target position (set position) is registered in the memory 305, the first and second cleaning operation positions are recorded in the memory 305 based on the set position. It doesn't matter.
Then, after the end of the n-th observation (time T13B shown in FIG. 9), the movement control unit 303 moves the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y in the XY direction, and moves the X and Y directions to the second cleaning operation position. Position the Y-direction moving units 3x and 3y. Thereafter, the movement control unit 303 moves the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y in the XY direction, and positions the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y at the first cleaning operation position. That is, in step S105, the movement control unit 303 performs a cleaning operation for moving the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y so as to pass through both the first and second outer XY setting positions.

Subsequently, the control device 300 determines whether or not the above-described observation has been repeatedly executed for the predetermined number of observations recorded in the memory 305 (step S106).
If the controller 300 determines that the predetermined number of observations has not been repeatedly performed (step S106: No), the controller 300 proceeds to step S101.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the control device 300 has repeatedly executed the predetermined number of observations (step S106: Yes), the time lapse observation is terminated.

In the positioning device 1 according to the first embodiment described above, “when positioning to each XY setting position (step S101) is repeatedly performed, the first and second vibrators 411x, 412x, 411y, 412y and The abrasion powder generated by the contact between the X and Y direction moving parts 3x and 3y (first and second sliding members 6x and 6y) becomes X and Y direction moving parts 3x and 3y (first and second sliding members 6x). , 6y), when the X and Y direction moving parts 3x, 3y are positioned at the first and second outer XY setting positions, the parts (hereinafter referred to as the first and second vibrators 411x, 412x, 411y, 412y) , The X and Y direction moving unit 3x so as to pass through both the first and second outer XY setting positions. , 3y moving cleanin Performing operation (step S105).
By performing this cleaning operation (step S105), the wear powder adhering to both of the portions corresponding to the first and second outer XY setting positions as the X and Y direction moving portions 3x and 3y move is changed to the first. It can be cleaned by the first and second vibrators 411x, 412x, 411y, 412y. Therefore, when the positioning to each XY setting position (step S101) is repeatedly performed, the drive characteristics of the first and second ultrasonic motors 41x and 41y do not become unstable due to wear powder. In addition, since the driving characteristics of the first and second ultrasonic motors 41x and 41y can be stably maintained, the time lapse observation can be favorably performed by applying the positioning device 1 to the microscope system 100.

In the positioning device 1 according to the first embodiment, after performing the n-th observation (corresponding to one positioning operation according to the present invention), the next n + 1-th observation (the next positioning operation according to the present invention). Before performing the cleaning operation (step S105).
Therefore, it is not necessary to start the microscope system 100 in order to execute the cleaning operation, and the cleaning operation (step S105) can be executed during time-lapse observation, that is, at the time of starting the microscope system 100. Further, since the period from the execution of the n-th observation to the execution of the next n + 1-th observation is a relatively long period during the execution of the time-lapse observation, the cleaning operation (step S105) is sufficiently performed. Can be implemented.

(Modification of Embodiment 1)
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modification of the first embodiment according to the present invention.
Specifically, FIG. 10 is a diagram corresponding to FIG.
In the first embodiment described above, the cleaning operation is executed only once in step S105, but the present invention is not limited to this.
For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the cleaning operation may be executed a plurality of times. At this time, as shown in FIG. 10, the movements of the X and Y direction moving parts 3x and 3y are temporarily stopped before passing both the first and second cleaning operation positions (first and second outer XY setting positions). It is preferable to set different positions for the cleaning operations to be performed a plurality of times.

As described above, by performing the cleaning operation a plurality of times, it is possible to effectively clean the wear powder adhering to the part corresponding to the first and second outer XY setting positions.
In addition, the following effects can be obtained by setting the first and second cleaning operation positions to different positions for each cleaning operation to be performed a plurality of times.
That is, when the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y are positioned at the first and second cleaning operation positions, the portions that come into contact with the first and second vibrators 411x, 412x, 411y, and 412y are sequentially changed. Therefore, even if the wear powder adheres to the part, it is possible to prevent the wear powder from accumulating at the same position. For this reason, even during the cleaning operation, the drive characteristics of the first and second ultrasonic motors 41x and 41y do not become unstable.
In the next cleaning operation after the (n + 1) th observation, the first and second cleaning operation positions are different from the first and second cleaning operation positions after the previous nth observation. It is possible to further prevent the wear powder from accumulating, which is more suitable for long-term time-lapse observation.

(Embodiment 2)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations and steps as those in the above-described first embodiment, and the detailed description thereof is omitted or simplified.
The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment described above only in that the period (timing) for performing the cleaning operation is changed.
That is, the configuration of the microscope system according to the second embodiment is the same as that of the microscope system 100 described in the first embodiment.
Hereinafter, only the operation (time-lapse observation) of the microscope system 100 according to the second embodiment will be described.

[Operation of microscope system]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the operation (time-lapse observation) of the microscope system 100 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the time-lapse observation shown in FIG.
Specifically, FIG. 12 corresponds to FIG.
In the second embodiment, the sample Sp that is the object of time-lapse observation is the same as the sample Sp (Sp1 to Sp3) described in the first embodiment (FIG. 7).
In the operation of the microscope system 100 according to the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, after positioning to one XY setting position (step S101), positioning to the next XY setting position (step S101). Is performed (step S105A: deposit removal process).

Specifically, the movement control unit 303 performs a cleaning operation (step S105A) during the following periods (1) and (2).
(1) After the photographing of the first observation target O1 is finished in step S103 (time T11B shown in FIG. 12), X and Y are set at the inner XY setting positions where the next second observation target O2 can be observed in step S101. A period until the direction moving parts 3x and 3y are positioned (time T12A shown in FIG. 12).
(2) After the photographing of the second observation target O2 is finished in step S103 (time T12B shown in FIG. 12), in step S101, X is set to the second outer XY setting position where the next third observation target O3 can be observed. , A period until the Y-direction moving units 3x and 3y are positioned (time T13A shown in FIG. 12).

  In the period (1) and (2) described above, the movement control unit 303 moves the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y in the XY direction as shown in FIG. The X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y are placed at one of the two cleaning operation positions (the one closer to the current X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y (the first cleaning operation position in FIG. 12)). Position. Thereafter, the movement control unit 303 moves the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y in the XY direction, and the other cleaning operation position (the second cleaning operation position in FIG. 12) of the first and second cleaning operation positions. ), The X and Y direction moving parts 3x and 3y are positioned. That is, also in the second embodiment, the movement control unit 303 moves the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y so as to pass through both the first and second outer XY setting positions in step S105A. Execute.

  Even when the cleaning operation is performed during the periods (1) and (2) as in the second embodiment described above, the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be obtained. In the cleaning operation, the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y are placed at one of the first and second cleaning operation positions (the one closer to the current X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y). After moving the X- and Y-direction moving units 3x and 3y to the other cleaning operation position, the time until the positioning of the next observation target is completed after the imaging of the one observation target is completed. Even if there is little, cleaning operation can be performed effectively.

(Embodiment 3)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.
In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations and steps as those in the first and second embodiments, and the detailed description thereof will be omitted or simplified.
The third embodiment is different from the first embodiment described above only in that the period (timing) for performing the cleaning operation is changed.
That is, the configuration of the microscope system according to the third embodiment is the same as that of the microscope system 100 described in the first and second embodiments.
Hereinafter, only the operation (time-lapse observation) of the microscope system 100 according to the third embodiment will be described.

[Operation of microscope system]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the operation (time-lapse observation) of the microscope system 100 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the time-lapse observation shown in FIG.
Specifically, FIG. 14 corresponds to FIG.
In the third embodiment, the sample Sp that is the object of time-lapse observation is the same as the sample Sp (Sp1 to Sp3) described in the first embodiment (FIG. 7).
In the operation of the microscope system 100 according to the third embodiment, after the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y are positioned at one XY setting position, a cleaning operation is performed when positioning at the next XY setting position. (Step S101B: deposit removal process).
That is, the period for performing the cleaning operation is the same as the period (1) and (2) described in the second embodiment.

Specifically, during the period (1) described in the second embodiment, the movement control unit 303 moves the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y from the first outer XY setting position as shown in FIG. After moving in the XY direction and positioning the X and Y direction moving parts 3x and 3y at the first cleaning operation position, the X and Y direction moving parts 3x and 3y are positioned at the next inner XY setting position.
In the period (2) described in the second embodiment, the movement control unit 303 moves the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y from the inner XY setting position to the XY direction as shown in FIG. And move the X and Y direction moving parts 3x and 3y to the second cleaning operation position, and then position the X and Y direction moving parts 3x and 3y at the next second outer XY setting position.
That is, in the third embodiment, the movement control unit 303 moves the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y in step S101B so as to pass only the first outer XY setting position or only the second outer XY setting position. Execute the cleaning operation to be moved.

  As in the third embodiment described above, the cleaning operation for moving the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y so as to pass only the first outer XY setting position or only the second outer XY setting position was performed. Even if it is a case, there exists an effect similar to Embodiment 2 mentioned above. In addition, in order to move the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y so as to pass only the first outer XY setting position or only the second outer XY setting position, after the imaging of one observation target is completed, the next Even when the time until the positioning of the observation target is completed is short, the cleaning operation can be executed effectively.

(Embodiment 4)
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations and steps as those in the above-described first embodiment, and the detailed description thereof is omitted or simplified.
The stage according to the fourth embodiment enables the X and Y direction moving units to be moved manually. Then, the control device according to the fourth embodiment displays predetermined information on the display device 500 and manually moves at least one of the first and second outer XY setting positions. A function that prompts the user to move is added.

[Configuration of control device]
In the control device 300C according to the fourth embodiment, a display control unit 306 having the above-described functions is added to the control device 300 described in the first embodiment.
The display control unit 306 and the display device 500 correspond to a notification unit according to the present invention.
The display control unit 306 determines whether or not the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined threshold based on the elapsed time since the previous cleaning operation (step S105), the observation interval Tp, or the like, or when the nth observation ends. When it is determined that the time until the first observation is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, predetermined information is displayed on the display device 500 during execution of time-lapse observation.
More specifically, the display control unit 306 sends predetermined information to the display device 500 after the n-th observation is performed and before the next n + 1-th observation is performed during the time-lapse observation. Display.
As the predetermined information described above, for example, a message “Please move the X and Y direction moving part manually”, the distance from the current X and Y direction moving part to the first and second cleaning operation positions. And the number of times of reciprocating between the first and second cleaning operation positions.

According to the fourth embodiment described above, there are the following effects in addition to the effects similar to those of the first embodiment.
In the microscope system 100 according to the fourth embodiment, by displaying the predetermined information described above, the first and first operations are performed manually by the user without performing control for executing the cleaning operation (step S105). The abrasion powder adhering to the site | part corresponding to 2 outer XY setting position can be cleaned.

(Other embodiments)
In the first to fourth embodiments described above, an example in which the positioning device according to the present invention is applied to a microscope system has been mainly described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention is also applied to other electronic devices such as cameras and watches. be able to. That is, the present invention can be applied to any electronic device as long as the electronic device uses a positioning device that sequentially positions a driven body at a plurality of set positions using an ultrasonic motor.

  In the first to fourth embodiments described above, the cleaning of the abrasion powder adhering to the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y (first and second sliding members 6x and 6y) has been described. You may apply this invention to the cleaning of the abrasion powder accompanying the movement of 203. FIG.

  In the first to fourth embodiments described above, the configuration in which the X and Y direction moving units 3x and 3y are moved with respect to the base 2 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the X and Y direction moving unit 3x with respect to the base 2 is described. , 3y is relatively moved, the base 2 is moved relative to the X, Y direction moving parts 3x, 3y, and both the base 2 and the X, Y direction moving parts 3x, 3y are moved. It does not matter as a configuration.

  In the first to fourth embodiments described above, the cleaning operation (steps S105, S105A, and S101B) is not necessarily performed during the period described in each of the first to third embodiments, but since the previous cleaning operation was performed. Based on the elapsed time, the number of samples Sp, the observation interval Tp, the number of observations, etc., the configuration executed in the period described in each of the first to third embodiments and the period described in the first to third embodiments as appropriate. You may employ | adopt the structure etc. which are combined and performed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Positioning device 2 Base part 3 Moving part 3x X direction moving part 3y Y direction moving part 4 Ultrasonic actuator 4x 1st ultrasonic actuator 4y 2nd ultrasonic actuator 5 Encoder 5x 1st encoder 5y 2nd encoder 6x 1st sliding member 6y second sliding member 7x first scale 7y second scale 8x first guide rail 8y second guide rail 41x first ultrasonic motor 41y second ultrasonic motor 42x first holding mechanism 42y second holding mechanism 411x, 412x first 1 vibrator 411y, 412y 2nd vibrator 413x first laminated piezoelectric material 414x to 417x bending vibration electrode 418x longitudinal vibration electrode 100 microscope system 200 microscope 201 light source device 202 first mirror 203 stage 203A opening 204 center 204A opening 205 Mechanism 206 Objective lens 207 Half mirror 208 First imaging lens 209 Eyepiece lens 210 Second mirror 211 Second imaging lens 212 Camera 300 Control device 301 Driving unit 302 Detection unit 303 Movement control unit 304 Imaging control unit 305 Memory 306 Display control Part 400 Operating device 500 Display device L Optical axis Sp, Sp1 to Sp3 Sample O1 to O3 First to third observation objects T11A, T11B, T12A, T12B, T13A, T13B, T21A, T23B Time

Claims (9)

The base,
A moving part movably attached to the base part;
An ultrasonic motor attached to the base and moving the moving part relative to the base by generating ultrasonic vibration;
A movement control unit that repeats a positioning operation of moving the moving unit relative to the base by operating the ultrasonic motor and sequentially positioning the moving unit at a plurality of setting positions;
The movement control unit
Relative to the base so as to pass through at least one of the first outer setting position and the second outer setting position where the distance between the setting positions is the largest among the plurality of setting positions. The cleaning operation to be moved is performed a plurality of times, and the relative movement of the moving part with respect to the base is temporarily stopped before passing at least one of the first outer set position and the second outer set position. The positioning apparatus is characterized in that the position to be set is different for each of the cleaning operations to be performed a plurality of times . The movement control unit
After executing one positioning operation, before executing the next positioning operation, the base portion is configured to pass the moving unit so as to pass at least one of the first outer setting position and the second outer setting position. The positioning device according to claim 1, wherein the positioning device is moved relative to the positioning device. The movement control unit
When positioning the moving unit from one setting position to the next setting position among the plurality of setting positions, the at least one of the first outer setting position and the second outer setting position is passed. The positioning device according to claim 1, wherein the moving unit is moved relative to the base. The movement control unit
When the moving unit is positioned from one setting position to the next setting position among the plurality of setting positions, the moving unit is configured to pass both the first outer setting position and the second outer setting position. The positioning device according to claim 3, wherein the positioning device is moved relative to the base portion. The movement control unit
In one positioning operation, from the first outer setting position to the second outer setting position, the moving unit is sequentially positioned toward the adjacent setting position,
When positioning the moving unit from the first outer set position to the next set position, the moving unit is moved relative to the base so as to pass through the first outer set position;
When the moving unit is positioned from one set position to the second outside set position, the move unit is moved relative to the base so as to pass through the second outside set position. The positioning device according to claim 3. 2. A notifying unit for notifying information for urging relative movement of the moving unit with respect to the base to pass through at least one of the first outside setting position and the second outside setting position. The positioning device according to any one of 5 to 5 . The notification unit
The positioning device according to claim 6 , wherein the information is notified after one positioning operation is performed and before the next positioning operation is performed. A positioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 ,
An observation light source for illuminating an observation sample placed on the moving unit;
An objective lens facing the observation sample;
An imaging unit that images the observation sample via the objective lens;
A microscope system comprising: an imaging control unit that causes the imaging unit to image the observation sample each time the moving unit is sequentially positioned at the plurality of setting positions. In the deposit removal method executed by the positioning device that repeats the positioning operation of sequentially positioning the moving unit at a plurality of setting positions by moving the moving unit relative to the base by operating the ultrasonic motor,
Relative to the base so as to pass through at least one of the first outer setting position and the second outer setting position where the distance between the setting positions is the largest among the plurality of setting positions. The cleaning operation to be moved is performed a plurality of times, and the relative movement of the moving part with respect to the base is temporarily stopped before passing at least one of the first outer set position and the second outer set position. The deposit removing method is characterized in that the position to be set is a different position for each of the cleaning operations to be performed a plurality of times .

Images