HK1226145B - Methods and systems for three-dimensional analysis of a specimen - Google Patents

Description

Method and system for three-dimensional analysis of specimens

Cross-references

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/905,036, filed November 15, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The following sections cover materials science and engineering, petrography, geological microscopy, scanning of material structures, including industrial materials, microscopy training, geological education, research, and crystal structure microscopy.

Background of the Invention

A microscope used for studying materials (e.g., petrography) is a type of optical microscope used in materials science, petrography, and optical mineralogy to identify materials, rocks, and minerals in thin sections. This microscope is used in materials science, materials engineering, optical mineralogy, and petrography. The method used is called polarized light microscopy (PLM).

Summary of the Invention

Disclosed herein are methods and apparatus for acquiring and displaying images of whole or partial materials, including, but not limited to, geological samples or specimens, rocks, minerals, metals, finished materials, industrial samples, components and assemblies having both opaque and reflective properties, metals embedded in a medium and polished or ground for viewing and documentation, and/or crystal samples or specimens. In some embodiments, a substrate or slide is placed on an imaging device having a motorized stage and a digital imaging device (e.g., a camera or line scanner), and all portions of the specimen are imaged and reassembled to display the entire substrate or slide as a single image that can be displayed on a monitor and transmitted across local and wide area networks and the Internet. The displayed image is used to facilitate the acquisition of multiple whole slide or substrate images of the slide or substrate under crossed polarizers rotated at different angles, wherein each image is displayed to a viewer at a polarization angle.

In one embodiment, a method for visualizing a specimen is disclosed, the method comprising the steps of: a) placing a specimen on a substrate, the specimen occupying an area of the substrate; b) placing the substrate on a stage and imaging the area of the substrate with the specimen using a high-power magnification objective and crossed polarizers to obtain a single scan of the specimen at high magnification and high resolution, wherein the crossed polarizers are set in a single direction to provide data of a high-resolution image of the specimen; c) repeating the imaging process of step (b) while changing the angle of the crossed polarizers in increments of various angles, further comprising obtaining a continuous sequence of continuous images by gradually advancing the field of view of the high-power objective of a microscope through the specimen and acquiring continuous images of each field of view of the specimen at each polarization angle each time; and d) uploading the high-resolution image data and storing it in a database for remote viewing.

In other embodiments, a microscope device is disclosed, comprising: a device having at least one objective lens, a motorized turret, a digital imaging system and a motorized stage, a polarizer and an analyzer, wherein the polarizer and analyzer form a crossed polarizer that can be rotated about an axis, wherein the microscope device is controllable for obtaining a single scan of a specimen at high magnification and high resolution to provide high-resolution digital image data of the specimen occupying an area of a substrate placed on the motorized stage, including a continuous sequence of continuous images of the entire field of view of the specimen obtained by gradually advancing the field of view of the high-power objective lens in the specimen and continuous scanning at different polarization angles; an image processing device for processing the high-resolution digital image data to obtain a low-resolution copy of the image data; a storage device for storing the high-resolution image data and the low-resolution copy of the image data obtained thereby; a device for transmitting the low-resolution copy of the image data from a data storage to a remote terminal so that the corresponding low-resolution image can be displayed as a navigation map on a monitor of the terminal; and a device for transmitting corresponding high-resolution image data of a selected area of the image of the navigation map from the data storage to the terminal.

In various aspects, provided herein are scanners capable of acquiring one or more images of a specimen. Specimens include samples that are not typically processed for traditional microscopic observation on a slide. The terms "specimen" or "sample" may be used interchangeably in the various embodiments disclosed herein. Examples of such specimens include, but are not limited to, rocks of various sizes, metal-based samples, and samples such as opaque samples that require differential illumination that is different from traditional microscopy in which light cannot be transmitted through the specimen. The specimen may be a complete specimen, a cross-section of a complete specimen, or any portion thereof. In many implementations, the specimen is scanned without destroying the specimen, allowing the user to relocate the specimen to the location from which it originated. The scanner may be portable, wherein the specimen is scanned at the sampling site or at a remote location. In some embodiments, the scanner includes an illuminator having a light source for illuminating the specimen, wherein the light is then reflected by the specimen and onto an imaging device. In one embodiment, an imaging device such as a camera is a component of the scanner.

In one aspect, an illuminator is provided herein that provides coaxial illumination through the illumination light path (the light path from the light source to the specimen) to a half-silvered mirror (50% reflecting beam splitter), the half-silvered mirror being positioned at a 45-degree angle from the main objective path to the illumination path, thereby allowing 50% of the light to be directed through the objective. The objective acts as a condenser lens with the same numerical aperture as the light collecting power of the same objective. In some embodiments, a crossed polarizing filter is placed in the illumination light path to allow for polarized reflected light.

In one aspect, an imaging device is provided herein. In one embodiment, the imaging device collects light reflected by the specimen, such as through an objective lens. Exemplary imaging devices include, but are not limited to, CCDs, CMOSs, line scan cameras or line scanners, and other image sensing devices.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a platform for holding one or more specimens. In one embodiment, the platform is a stage. In various implementations, the stage includes a motorized stage. The motorized stage allows the specimen to be moved relative to an imaging device such as an illuminator (light source) and/or a scanner. In another aspect, the platform is a mat. In some cases, the mat serves as both a platform and a display. For example, a specimen is placed on the mat and a scanner is used to acquire an image of the specimen. The specimen can then be removed from the mat, and the acquired image is then displayed on the mat. In another or additional embodiment, the mat functions as a touchpad. The touchpad is used to annotate the acquired image. The touchpad may also include a control panel, by which subsequent specimen acquisition image details, such as resolution, selection of specimen area for imaging, are controlled. In some embodiments, a macroscopic image of the mat is used to determine the scanning area at a higher magnification of a large sample.

In another aspect, one or more displays for viewing one or more acquired images are provided herein. In one exemplary embodiment, the display allows a user to view image data from a specimen and corresponding information about the specimen. The specimen information includes an analysis of one or more images of the specimen. The specimen information may also include the mineral content of the specimen. In other or additional aspects, the information about the specimen includes coordinates for identifying the location where the specimen was acquired. In an exemplary embodiment, the display is a geographic map. A geographic map is an interactive map that allows a user to view specimen images and corresponding data (e.g., specimen analysis, such as mineral content) as well as specimen coordinates. In various embodiments, the geographic map includes specimen images and corresponding data from data provided by multiple users.

In one embodiment, image data from the scanned specimen is stored along with specimen coordinate data identifying the location of the retrieved specimen. The scanner may be a 2D or 3D scanner configured to obtain a low-resolution image, a high-resolution image, or both of the specimen. In an exemplary embodiment, the scanner includes a polarization filter.

In another aspect, provided herein are systems and methods for acquiring low-resolution images, high-resolution images, or both low-resolution and high-resolution images using one or more scanners. In some embodiments, one scanner includes a polarization device. Each scanner acquires one or more images of a sample and stores the images on a server or computer for display. In an exemplary embodiment, a user of the scanner inputs Global Positioning System coordinates for inclusion in the image data.

In various embodiments, methods for scanning specimens are also provided herein. The methods may include using a scanner as described herein or other commercially available scanners. The scanner can capture one or more images of the specimen in two or three dimensions.

In one embodiment, a method for scanning a specimen includes placing the specimen on a platform, such as a stage or mat. The stage or mat can be moved manually or electronically. A scanner acquires one or more images of the entire specimen or a region of interest of the specimen. If more than one image is acquired, the images are reassembled for display as a single image. Data from the acquired images and the reassembled images can be transmitted across a local area network, a wide area network, and/or the Internet for display at any location. In some embodiments, the viewed image is annotated. In other or additional embodiments, the viewed image is used as a guide to control the subsequent acquisition of additional images (e.g., high-resolution images) of the specimen. In other or additional embodiments, a user interacts with a display using software to acquire additional images of the specimen and/or to annotate and/or analyze the specimen. The display can facilitate the acquisition of multiple images of the specimen under crossed polarizers rotated at different angles, wherein each image is displayed at a polarization angle. In certain embodiments, multiple z-planes are acquired and reassembled to provide an extended depth of field image. In one embodiment, one or more images of a specimen are acquired using a two-dimensional scanner without a polarization device. In this embodiment, the images are viewed on a display and used as a template for a user to subsequently scan the specimen using a polarization scanner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG1 depicts a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a geological scanner in which two polarizers (a polarizer and an analyzer) are crossed relative to each other. In this embodiment, the polarizers rotate synchronously in 45-degree increments. Further in this embodiment, images are captured at each of five rotation increments. FIG1 does not depict the stage and sample, which are typically positioned between the two polarizers.

FIG2 depicts an exemplary scanner including a polarizing beam splitter cube.

FIG3 depicts an embodiment of a dark field mirror block in a reflected light system.

FIG4 depicts an embodiment in which light travels through a dark field mirror block.

Figure 5 depicts an embodiment of a mirror block for use in light reflection microscopy: A. Bright field mirror; B. Dark field mirror.

FIG6 depicts an embodiment of an imaging apparatus including Köhler illumination for reflected light microscopy.

Figure 7 depicts an embodiment of a contrast mechanism for reflected light microscopy: A. Reflected brightfield configuration; B. Reflected darkfield configuration; C. Reflected polarized light configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Digital pathology, or the digitization of entire slides of biological tissue, is already in use and has proven to be a useful method for storing and sharing microscope slides over long distances or for cataloging libraries of tissues, diseases, and the like. Due to technical barriers, such as the need to rotate the slide and the inability to tile rectangular images in tilted images, this technology has not yet been extended to include industrial, petrographic, geological, metal, or crystal microscopy samples. In various aspects, provided herein are methods and systems for acquiring, storing, sharing, and/or analyzing such industrial, petrographic, geological, metal, and crystal samples using polarization scanners. Polarization scanning devices can be used to view samples containing anisotropic materials, where color is an important property useful for mineral identification. Thus, the methods and systems provided herein allow for the use of scanners with polarization devices to acquire images of geological samples, where the images can be digitally stored, viewed, and/or analyzed for grain size and shape, crystallinity, and/or morphology, which aids in sample identification and analysis. In another embodiment, sample properties examined using polarization scanners include, but are not limited to, pleochroism, refractive index, mineral content, birefringence, twin formation, inclusions, and cleavage properties. In addition to industrial samples, geological samples, petrographic samples, crystal samples, and metallic samples, additional materials can be scanned using the systems and methods provided herein, including but not limited to natural and industrial minerals, cement composites, ceramics, metals, minerals, mineral fibers, rocks, polymers, starch, wood, biological samples with anisotropic materials, finished materials, industrial parts and assemblies with opaque and reflective properties, metals embedded in media and polished or ground for viewing and documentation, crystal samples, and other samples with anisotropic materials.

Microscopic observation of crystalline structures, such as rocks and crystals, as well as many forms of acid, requires the microscope to be equipped with two polarizing filters, called a polarizer and an analyzer. The specimen must be rotated in small increments to observe the effects of polarized light on the crystalline material, allowing for proper identification and labeling. In one aspect, the methods, systems, and apparatus described herein provide two polarizing filters, a polarizer and an analyzer, as components of a microscope used in digital microscopy. The microscope may include, for example, a scanner or be operably connected to an imaging device for acquiring specimen images. The polarizer is located below the specimen stage and has an initial polarizer vibration azimuth that originates in a left-to-right or east-to-west direction, though these elements can rotate 360 degrees and are motorized. The analyzer is initially aligned with a north-south vibration direction but can also be rotated, for example, using a corresponding motor positioned above the microscope's objective lens, with the analyzer and polarizer vibration azimuths positioned at right angles to each other. In this configuration, the polarizer and analyzer are said to be crossed, meaning no light passes through the system, and a dark field is presented to the imaging device. When a specimen is placed into the system, the specimen is scanned by taking a digitized image of each field containing the substrate holding the specimen (such substrate includes a microscope slide) and recombining the images into a single image. The images can be uploaded and recombined through a web-based program, such as a program similar to Qumulus, optionally with the modifications described.

The system then simultaneously rotates the polarizer and analyzer 45 degrees so that the polarization filters are still crossed, and acquires another scan. This can happen a total of 5 times, covering each stop along the 180-degree arc of crossed polarizations.

Each combined image is labeled with the image name plus a degree mark (eg, ABC0, ABC45, ABC90, ABC135, ABC180), and the collected images are saved and uploaded to a server.

In the additional methods and systems described herein, two polarizing filters are positioned on the same side of a platform holding a specimen. The polarizing filters—a polarizer and an analyzer—are crossed in a beam splitter cube positioned along both the path between the light source and the specimen (illumination path) and the path between the specimen and the imaging device (reflection path). In many implementations, the light source and the imaging device are components of a digital scanner. In an exemplary method, the specimen is placed on the platform and scanned. The scanner simultaneously rotates the polarizer and analyzer 45 degrees, maintaining a crossed configuration, and uses the imaging device to acquire an image each time the polarizer is rotated. The acquired images are then reassembled into a single image using software or a web-based program such as Qumulus. As previously described, each combined image is labeled with an image name and a degree mark. The image is saved and optionally uploaded to a server.

In many implementations, the server hosts a web viewer that displays a primary image (e.g., ABC0) for viewing. Because the image is composed of multiple tiles or scans, the image can be magnified and/or panned around to display a magnified view of the entire specimen and/or microscope slide, processing only the images being viewed simultaneously.

To optimize time and speed, the image can be displayed in a "tiled pyramid file" format, allowing you to view the complete high-resolution image containing all folders, however, when you step back and obtain a lower magnification view, a new lower-resolution image will be loaded in its place.

The viewer allows the person or user viewing the image to "rotate" the image in 45 degree increments. When "rotated," the corresponding image is loaded with the viewed field in place at an angle corresponding to the degree the polarizer was rotated when the image was captured, at the same zoom factor as when the current image was viewed.

For example, a user uses the system described herein to acquire five images of a specimen and upload them. The user zooms in on one image so that the object or area of interest takes up most of the viewer's screen. The user then "rotates 45 degrees," and a new image is loaded with the same object, but at a 45-degree angle to the original image. In this way, the user feels as if they are rotating the specimen, which is what they would do on a petrographic microscope.

In various embodiments, a system for acquiring and displaying one or more images of a specimen is provided herein. Specimens include, but are not limited to, industrial samples, petrographic samples, geological samples, metal samples, and crystal samples. In an exemplary embodiment, the system comprises: (a) a scanner, (b) a user-controlled image acquisition system, (c) a server workflow and viewing system for displaying the images post-acquisition, and (d) a display for an end user to view the acquired images. In one embodiment, the scanner comprises a G2 scanner. In one embodiment, the acquisition system is a computer containing software or a web-based program to control the scanner for image acquisition. In one embodiment, the server is located at the specimen collection site. In another embodiment, the server is located remotely from the specimen collection site. In additional or other embodiments, the server is a cloud-based server that can be located at the collection site or at a remote data center. In one embodiment, the display is a device such as a computer, tablet computer, television (e.g., a smart TV), smartphone, or any other web-enabled device capable of viewing images.

In some embodiments, the imaging system/device does not include rotation of the polarizer or analyzer in a beam splitter cube positioned above a reflected specimen. In some embodiments, specimen rotation is not required or desired in reflected light.

Referring to Figure 1 , in a particular embodiment, one polarizing filter is positioned above the stage and sample, while another polarizing filter is positioned below the stage and sample. In this embodiment, the two polarizing filters—the polarizer and the analyzer—are crossed relative to each other and rotated synchronously in five 45-degree increments. Further in this embodiment, an image is captured at each of the five rotation increments (A-E). The images are optionally reassembled at a later point in time to simulate sample rotation.

In another aspect, a system is provided herein that includes two polarization filters, both of which are located above or below a platform holding a specimen. The two polarization filters are components of a scanner that can be used to acquire an image of the specimen. An exemplary scanner 200 is shown in FIG2 . The scanner includes a light source 204 for illuminating a specimen 210. In this figure, the illumination light travels through an optical path (illumination path) that includes a beam splitter cube 201 , wherein the beam splitter cube includes two polarization filters: a crossed polarizer 202 and an analyzer 203. In this example, the optical path also includes an aperture (aperture 206 and field of view 207). The scanner of FIG2 is operably connected to and/or includes an imaging device 208 for receiving and capturing light reflected by the specimen. The reflected light travels from the specimen along a reflection path to the imaging device. In this figure, the reflection path includes an objective lens 205. The specimen in FIG2 is held by a platform (X/Y stage) 211.

Scanner

On the one hand, the present invention provides a scanner comprising a light source for illuminating a specimen. In some embodiments, the intensity of the light directed from the light source to the specimen is adjustable. The light source includes, but is not limited to, a light emitting diode (LED). LEDs include white light, red light, green light, and blue light LEDs. In some cases, the system includes a reflector that reflects light from an external source to the specimen to be scanned. In other embodiments, the light source is a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL). In many implementations, the light source is guided to the specimen via an optical assembly arranged along the light path (illumination path) between the light source and the specimen. The optical assembly includes a reflector, a filter, and a lens. In other embodiments or additional embodiments, the scanner includes or is operably connected to an imaging device. The imaging device may include a CCD (charge coupled device) imager, a CMOS, a line scanner, or other imaging devices.

In some embodiments, the optical path between the scanner light source and the specimen or sample includes a stop. In one embodiment, the stop is an aperture stop. The aperture stop can be used to suppress the passage of light other than that which can pass through the stop aperture, wherein the size of the aperture controls the amount of light that can pass through the stop. In one embodiment, the stop is a field stop.

In some embodiments, the light path between the scanner light source and the specimen includes two polarizing filters - a polarizer and an analyzer. The polarizing filters can be located on one side of the specimen, for example, as shown in Figure 2. In other embodiments, the specimen is located between the polarizing filters, for example, as shown in Figure 1. In many implementations, the polarizing filters are crossed in a polarizing cube beam splitter, with the polarizing filters located on the same side of the specimen. An exemplary beam splitter cube with a polarizer and an analyzer is shown in Figure 2. A polarizer is an optical filter that allows light with a specific polarization to pass through while blocking light with other polarizations. In many implementations, a polarizer can be used to convert a light beam with an ambiguous or mixed polarization into light with a well-defined polarization. The polarizer can be a linear polarizer or a circular polarizer. Linear polarizers include absorbing polarizers and beam-splitting polarizers. The second polarizing filter of the system can generally be referred to as an analyzer.

In some embodiments, the optical path (e.g., a reflection or transmission path) between the specimen and the imaging device includes an objective lens. In many implementations, the objective lens captures light reflected and/or transmitted from the specimen and projects the light to the imaging device. In some implementations, the system includes a plurality of objective lenses, wherein at least two of the plurality of objective lenses have different optical powers. For example, the system includes a 4x, 10x, 40x, or 100x objective lens or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the view of the specimen is focused by moving the objective lens relative to the specimen. In additional embodiments, the scanner includes a lens changing device, wherein the lens changing device can be motorized. In some cases, the lens changing device is controlled manually or automatically by using a software program.

In some embodiments, the objective of the system is a high power objective suitable for obtaining a single scan of the entire specimen at high magnification and high resolution. In other or additional embodiments, the objective of the system is a low power objective suitable for obtaining multiple images of the entire specimen at low resolution, wherein the multiple images can then be combined into a single low resolution image. In some embodiments, the imaging device obtains a continuous sequence of continuous images by gradually advancing the field of view of the high power objective across the sample. In some cases, the obtained high resolution image data is processed to generate data of a relatively low resolution image copy. In some embodiments, the high resolution image data and the low resolution image copy data are stored in a metadata file. In other embodiments, the imaging device optically captures low resolution data from a low magnification image of the sample.

On the one hand, there is provided herein a scanner comprising an imaging device, wherein light emitted from a light source and light reflected from and/or transmitted through the specimen are guided to the imaging device according to the scanner type (e.g., polarized or non-polarized) and/or specimen (e.g., microscope specimen or geological specimen). The imaging device converts the optical signal into a corresponding electrical signal to become a digital signal recognizable by a computer. The digital signal can be transmitted to a computer via the following interface, including but not limited to the Internet, an enhanced parallel port (EPP), Bluetooth, a universal serial bus (USB), and a small computer system interface (SCSI). On the one hand, the imaging device includes a surface photoelectric device manufactured to perform photoelectric conversion, such as a charge coupled device (CCD). In an alternative embodiment, the imaging device includes a CMOS, a line scan camera, or other image sensing devices.

On the one hand, the present invention provides a system comprising a platform for holding a specimen for scanning. In some embodiments, the platform is a stage. In one embodiment, the specimen is prepared on a substrate (such as a slide) for being placed on the stage. In one embodiment, the stage is movable, wherein the position of the stage and thereby the position of the specimen is controlled manually or automatically by using a software program. In other embodiments or additional embodiments, the platform is a mat. The mat is configured to hold specimens that are not traditionally prepared on slides, for example, geological specimens.

In some embodiments, the apparatus disclosed herein includes a reflected light system or its use; see FIG3 . The reflected light system disclosed herein allows the user to select an area to advance and/or scan an entire area. In additional embodiments, the reflected light system is capable of reconstructing the image and uploading it to a web-based viewer hosted on a local server or a remote cloud-based server.

In some embodiments, a reflected light system is used that acquires the images and combines them into a single image. In some applications, the reflected light system acquires and combines the images manually; the system operator moves the stage and adds each image as he/she moves the stage, and then saves the one or more images in a single image format (e.g., a single bitmap, rather than a pyramid tile file that can be viewed via a web browser).

In some embodiments, the systems and devices disclosed herein include darkfield illumination or its use. In some implementations, a reflected darkfield illumination polarization microscope includes an opaque shielding disk placed in the path of light traveling through the vertical illuminator, preventing only peripheral light from reaching the deflecting mirror. In certain applications, these light rays are reflected by the mirror and pass through a hollow collar surrounding the objective, thereby illuminating the specimen at oblique angles, including highly oblique angles. Light entering the mirror block is reflected by a special mirror located within the barrel of the block. This mirror is oriented at a 45-degree angle to the incident light beam and has an elliptical opening surrounded by a fully silvered front surface mirror. In some embodiments, the peripheral light rays reflected from the elliptical mirror are deflected downward, exiting at the bottom of the vertical illuminator. The light column then travels through the nosepiece before passing into a custom darkfield objective. These objectives are typically designed with the optical corrections necessary for use on specimens lacking a coverslip.

In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 4, light from a darkfield mirror block travels along a 360-degree hollow cavity surrounding a centrally located lens element in a specially constructed BD reflected light objective. This light is directed at the specimen from each azimuth angle in the oblique rays to form a hollow cone of illumination with the aid of a circular mirror or prism located at the bottom of the objective's hollow cavity. In this way, the objective acts as two separate optical systems, coaxially coupled so that the outer system functions as a darkfield "condenser" and the inner system functions as a typical objective. The image then passes through the objective and tube lens and is collected on a CCD, CMOS, line scanner, or other imaging device.

Figure 5 presents an embodiment in which a mirror block is used for reflected light microscopy. In the embodiment containing a brightfield mirror block, a half mirror is used and one side of the cube is open. In other embodiments containing a darkfield mirror, an elliptical mirror is used and one side of the cube is mounted as a darkfield stop.

Referring to FIG6 , in some embodiments, an imaging apparatus includes a Köhler illumination system for reflected light microscopy. The Köhler illumination system includes a filament that generates light that passes through a condenser lens, an aperture, and a field lens. A beam splitter deflects the light onto a specimen. Light reflected by the specimen further passes through the beam splitter and is projected onto an image plane.

7 , in some implementations, the imaging device includes a contrast mechanism for reflected light microscopy. In some embodiments of a reflected brightfield configuration, light from an illumination source impinges on a beam splitter, which directs the light onto the specimen. In some embodiments of a reflected darkfield configuration, light from the illumination source is transferred to the specimen by a series of mirrors (e.g., elliptical mirrors, concave mirrors); light reflected from the specimen ultimately reaches a tube lens and forms an image. In some embodiments of a reflected polarized light configuration, light from the illumination source travels through a polarizer and is deflected by a beam splitter onto the specimen; light reflected from the specimen then travels back through the objective, beam splitter, analyzer, and tube lens.

Image acquisition system and server

Also provided herein are image acquisition systems or digital processing devices for controlling the acquisition of specimen images using a scanner. The image acquisition system can include a computer including software or a web-based program for remotely viewing the images. Also provided herein are servers and viewing systems for displaying the acquired images.

Digital processing device

In some embodiments, the devices, platforms, apparatuses, systems, methods, media, and software described herein comprise a digital processing device or use thereof. In further embodiments, the digital processing device comprises one or more hardware central processing units (CPUs) that perform the functions of the device. In further embodiments, the digital processing device further comprises an operating system configured to execute executable instructions. In some embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to a computer network. In further embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to the Internet to enable access to the World Wide Web. In further embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to a cloud computing infrastructure. In other embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to an intranet. In other embodiments, the digital processing device is optionally connected to a data storage device.

According to the description disclosed herein, for non-limiting examples, suitable digital processing devices include server computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, notebook computers, subnotebook computers, netbook computers, online tablet computers, set-top box computers, handheld computers, Internet appliances, mobile smart phones, tablet computers, personal digital assistants, video game consoles and vehicles. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many smart phones are suitable for use in the system described herein. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that selected televisions, video players and digital music players with optional computer network connectivity are suitable for use in the system described herein. Suitable tablet computers include those with brochures, tablets and convertible configurations known to those skilled in the art.

In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes an operating system configured to execute executable instructions. An operating system is, for example, software including programs and data that manages the hardware of the device and provides services for the execution of applications. Those skilled in the art will recognize that, by way of non-limiting example, suitable server operating systems include FreeBSD, OpenBSD, Linux, Mac OS X, Windows, and . Those skilled in the art will recognize that, by way of non-limiting example, suitable personal computer operating systems include Mac OS and UNIX-like operating systems such as GNU/Linux. In some embodiments, the operating system is provided by cloud computing. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that, by way of non-limiting example, suitable mobile smartphone operating systems include OS, Research In BlackBerry, Windows OS, Windows OS, and .

In some embodiments, the device includes a storage and/or memory device. A storage and/or memory device is one or more physical devices used to temporarily or permanently store data or programs. In some embodiments, the device is a volatile memory and requires power to maintain the stored information. In some embodiments, the device is a non-volatile memory and retains the stored information when the digital processing device is not powered. In further embodiments, the non-volatile memory includes flash memory. In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory includes dynamic random access memory (DRAM). In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory includes ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM). In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory includes phase change random access memory (PRAM). In other embodiments, the device is a storage device including, by way of non-limiting example, a CD-ROM, a DVD, a flash memory device, a disk drive, a tape drive, an optical drive, and cloud computing-based storage. In further embodiments, the storage and/or memory device is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes a display to provide visual information to a user. In some embodiments, the display is a cathode ray tube (CRT). In some embodiments, the display is a liquid crystal display (LCD). In further embodiments, the display is a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD). In some embodiments, the display is an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. In various further embodiments, the OLED display is a passive matrix OLED (PMOLED) or active matrix OLED (AMOLED) display. In some embodiments, the display is a plasma display. In other embodiments, the display is a video projector. In further embodiments, the display is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, the digital processing device includes an input device to receive information from a user. In some embodiments, the input device is a keyboard. In some embodiments, the input device is a pointing device, including, by way of non-limiting example, a mouse, trackball, trackpad, joystick, game controller, or stylus. In some embodiments, the input device is a touch screen or multi-touch screen. In other embodiments, the input device is a microphone to capture voice or other sound input. In other embodiments, the input device is a video camera to capture motion or visual input. In further embodiments, the input device is a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

Non-transitory computer-readable storage medium

In some embodiments, the devices, platforms, apparatuses, systems, methods, media, and software disclosed herein include one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media that are programmed with a program comprising instructions executable by an operating system of an optionally networked digital processing device. In further embodiments, the computer-readable storage medium is a tangible component of the digital processing device. In further embodiments, the computer-readable storage medium is optionally removable from the digital processing device. In some embodiments, by way of non-limiting example, the computer-readable storage medium includes a CD-ROM, a DVD, a flash memory device, a solid-state memory, a magnetic disk drive, a tape drive, an optical disk drive, a cloud computing system and service, or the like. In some cases, the program and instructions are permanently, substantially permanently, semi-permanently, or non-transitory encoded on the medium.

computer program

In some embodiments, the devices, platforms, apparatuses, systems, methods, media, and software disclosed herein include at least one computer program or its use. A computer program comprises a sequence of instructions that can be executed in a CPU of a digital processing device and is written to perform a specified task. Computer-readable instructions can be implemented as program modules that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types, such as functions, objects, application programming interfaces (APIs), data structures, and the like. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one skilled in the art will recognize that computer programs can be written in various versions of various languages.

In various environments, the functionality of the computer-readable instructions can be combined or distributed as needed. In some embodiments, the computer program comprises a single sequence of instructions. In some embodiments, the computer program comprises multiple sequences of instructions. In some embodiments, the computer program is provided from a single location. In other embodiments, the computer program is provided from multiple locations. In various embodiments, the computer program comprises one or more software modules. In various embodiments, the computer program comprises, in part or in whole, one or more web applications, one or more mobile applications, one or more stand-alone applications, one or more web browser plug-ins, extensions, add-ons, or additional items, or a combination thereof.

Web Programs

In some embodiments, the computer program comprises a web application. Based on the disclosure provided herein, those skilled in the art will recognize that, in various embodiments, the web application utilizes one or more software frameworks and one or more database systems. In some embodiments, the web application is created on a software framework such as .NET or Ruby on Rails (RoR). In some embodiments, the web application utilizes one or more database systems, including, by way of non-limiting example, relational database systems, non-relational database systems, object-oriented database systems, associative database systems, and XML database systems. In further embodiments, by way of non-limiting example, suitable relational database systems include SQL Server, mySQL ^™ , and SQL Server. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that, in various embodiments, the web application is written in one or more versions of one or more languages. The web application can be written in one or more markup languages, presentation definition languages, client-side scripting languages, server-side coding languages, database query languages, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the web application is written, to a certain extent, in a markup language such as Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Extensible Hypertext Markup Language (XHTML), or Extensible Markup Language (XML). In some embodiments, the web application is written, to a certain extent, in a presentation definition language such as Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). In some embodiments, the web application is written in part in a client-side scripting language such as Asynchronous JavaScript and XML (AJAX), ActionScript, JavaScript, or the like. In some embodiments, the web application is written in part in a server-side coding language such as Active Server Pages (ASP), Perl, Java ^™ , JavaServer Pages (JSP), Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP), Python ^™ , Ruby, Tcl, Smalltalk, or Groovy. In some embodiments, the web application is written in part in a database query language such as Structured Query Language (SQL). In some embodiments, the web application is integrated with an enterprise server product such as Lotus. In some embodiments, the web application includes a media player element. In various further embodiments, the media player element utilizes one or more of a number of suitable multimedia technologies including, by way of non-limiting example, HTML5, Java ^™ , and

Mobile App

In some embodiments, the computer program comprises a mobile application provided to the mobile digital processing device. In some embodiments, the mobile application is provided to the mobile digital processing device when the mobile digital processing device is manufactured. In other embodiments, the mobile application is provided to the mobile digital processing device via a computer network as described herein.

Based on the disclosure provided herein, mobile applications are created using hardware, languages, and development environments known in the art using techniques known to those skilled in the art. Those skilled in the art will recognize that mobile applications are written in a number of languages. Suitable programming languages include, by way of non-limiting example, C, C++, C#, Objective-C, Java ^™ , Javascript, Pascal, Object Pascal, Python ^™ , Ruby, VB.NET, WML, and XHTML/HTML with or without CSS, or a combination thereof.

Suitable mobile application development environments are available from several sources. By way of non-limiting example, commercially available development environments include Airplay SDK, alcheMo, Celsius, Bedrock, Flash Lite, .NET Compact Framework, Rhomobile, and WorkLight Mobile Platform. Other development environments are available free of charge and include, by way of non-limiting example, Lazarus, MobiFlex, MoSync, and Phonegap. Furthermore, mobile device manufacturers distribute software development kits and include, by way of non-limiting example, the iPhone and iPad (iOS) SDK, Android ^™ SDK, SDK, BREW SDK, OS SDK, Symbian SDK, webOS SDK, and Mobile SDK.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that several commercial forums are available for the distribution of mobile applications including, by way of non-limiting example, App Store, Android ^™ Market, AppWorld, App Store for Palm devices, App Catalog for webOS, Marketplace for Mobile, Ovi Store for devices, Apps, and DSi Shop.

Standalone application

In some embodiments, a computer program comprises a standalone application, which is a program that runs as an independent computer process, rather than an add-on to an existing process, e.g., not a plug-in. Those skilled in the art will recognize that standalone applications are typically compiled. A compiler is one or more computer programs that converts source code written in a programming language into binary target code such as assembly language or machine code. By way of non-limiting example, suitable compiled programming languages include C, C++, Objective-C, COBOL, Delphi, Eiffel, Java ^™ , Lisp, Python ^™ , Visual Basic, and VB.NET, or a combination thereof. Compilation is typically performed at least in part to create an executable program. In some embodiments, a computer program comprises one or more executable compiled applications.

web browser plug-in

In some embodiments, a computer program includes a web browser plug-in. In computing, a plug-in is one or more software components that add specific functionality to a larger software application. Manufacturers of software applications support plug-ins to enable third-party developers to create capabilities that extend applications, facilitate the addition of new features, and reduce the size of applications. When supported, plug-ins can customize the functionality of software applications. For example, plug-ins are often used in web browsers to play videos, generate interactivity, scan for viruses, and display specific file types. Those skilled in the art will be familiar with several web browser plug-ins, including Player, and in some embodiments, toolbars include one or more web browser extensions, add-ons, or add-ons. In some embodiments, toolbars include one or more browser bars, toolbars, or desktop toolbars.

Based on the disclosure provided herein, those skilled in the art will recognize that several plug-in frameworks are available that support development of plug-ins in different programming languages, including, by way of non-limiting example, C++, Delphi, Java ^™ , PHP, Python ^™ , and VB.NET, or combinations thereof.

A web browser (also referred to as an Internet browser) is a software application designed for use with a networked digital processing device for retrieving, presenting, and traversing information resources on the World Wide Web. By way of non-limiting example, suitable web browsers include Internet Chrome, Opera, and KDE Konqueror. In some embodiments, the web browser is a mobile web browser. Mobile web browsers (also referred to as microbrowsers, minibrowsers, and wireless browsers) are designed for use on mobile digital processing devices, which, by way of non-limiting example, include handheld computers, tablet computers, netbook computers, subnotebook computers, smartphones, music players, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and handheld video game systems. By way of non-limiting example, suitable mobile web browsers include Browser, RIMBrowser, Blazer, Browser, for mobile, InternetMobile, Basic Web, Browser, OperaMobile, and PSP ^™ Browser.

Software Module

In some embodiments, the devices, platforms, apparatuses, systems, methods, media, and software disclosed herein include software, server, and/or database modules or uses thereof. Software modules are created based on the disclosure provided herein using machines, software, and languages known in the art using techniques known to those skilled in the art. Software modules disclosed herein can be implemented in a variety of ways. In various embodiments, a software module comprises a file, a code segment, a programming object, a programming structure, or a combination thereof. In further various embodiments, a software module comprises multiple files, multiple code segments, multiple programming objects, multiple programming structures, or a combination thereof. In various embodiments, by way of non-limiting example, the one or more software modules comprise a web application, a mobile application, and a standalone application. In some embodiments, a software module is within a single computer program or application. In other embodiments, a software module is within more than one computer program or application. In some embodiments, a software module is hosted on a single machine. In other embodiments, a software module is hosted on more than one machine. In further embodiments, a software module is hosted on a cloud computing platform. In some embodiments, a software module is hosted on one or more machines in a single location. In other embodiments, a software module is hosted on one or more machines in more than one location.

database

In some embodiments, the devices, platforms, apparatuses, systems, methods, media, and software disclosed herein include one or more databases or their use. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one skilled in the art will recognize that many databases are suitable for storing and retrieving mineralogy, petrography, and lithology images/information. In various embodiments, suitable databases include, by way of non-limiting example, relational databases, non-relational databases, object-oriented databases, object databases, entity-relationship model databases, associative databases, and XML databases. In some embodiments, the database is Internet-based. In further embodiments, the database is web-based. In further embodiments, the database is cloud-based. In other embodiments, the database is based on one or more local computer storage devices.

Networking module

In some embodiments, the devices, platforms, apparatuses, systems, methods, media, and software described herein include one or more networking modules or their use. In some embodiments, the network module is part of the device/platform/system/apparatus or is coupled to the device/platform/system/apparatus. The network module is wired or wireless, or a combination of wired and wireless. The wired module includes one or more of the following: twisted pair wiring, telephone line, printed wire/electronic wire, coaxial cable, and optical fiber. The wireless module includes a cellular interface or a non-cellular interface or a combination of a cellular interface and a non-cellular interface. In certain embodiments, the networking module acts on satellite communications and/or a global positioning system (GPS). Those skilled in the art can easily identify the various protocols running on the network; non-limiting examples include: Internet Protocol, TCP protocol, FTP, UDP, XML, and data binding schemes such as XSD.

In some embodiments, the networking module is electronic logic specifically designed for transmitting data (e.g., material, structural, mineralogical, petrographic, and/or lithological images/information). In some embodiments, the networking module is a portable digital processing device (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, portable computer, laptop, desktop computer, all-in-one computer, palmtop computer, etc.) coupled to an imaging device/platform/system/apparatus for data transmission.

End-user displays

Also provided herein is an end-user display for displaying the acquired image. In many embodiments, the end-user display provides information about the displayed acquired image. The information includes specimen coordinates and image annotations and/or analysis. The image analysis includes specimen mineral content and a description of the acquired image. The specimen coordinates can be used to generate a geographic map. In various embodiments, the end-user display is a geographic map that includes the specimen image and corresponding specimen information linked to the coordinates of the specimen source. The end-user display can be viewed by multiple users. The display is any network-enabled device capable of viewing images, including but not limited to computers, tablet computers, smartphones, and televisions.

Geographical map

In some embodiments, the apparatus, platforms, devices, systems, methods, media, and software described herein include one or more geographic maps or uses thereof. The geographic maps are stored on a local and/or remote computing device (e.g., a server). In additional embodiments, the geographic map encompasses one or more of the following: a building, a street, a town, a region, a location, a city, a state, a country, and the world. The map is associated with mineralogical, petrographic, and/or lithological imagery/information.

In some embodiments, the geographic map may include an interface with a user, wherein the user is a local user and/or a remote user. The user may click on a location to obtain mineralogy, petrography, and/or lithology images/information associated with the location.

method

In one aspect, a method for acquiring an image of a specimen for further analysis and/or geotagging is provided, comprising: (a) acquiring the specimen from a given location, (b) optionally recording the coordinates of the location, wherein the coordinates are determined using a global positioning system, (c) positioning the specimen on a platform, wherein the platform is a stage or a mat, (d) imaging an area of the specimen using an objective lens and crossed polarizers to obtain a single scan of the specimen, (e) repeating the imaging process of step (d) one or more times at varying increments of the angle of the crossed polarizers to obtain successive images of each field of view of the specimen at each polarization angle, and (e) storing the image data and optional coordinate data in a database. In one embodiment, the specimen is imaged using a high-magnification objective lens to obtain a scan of the specimen at high resolution and high magnification. The high-resolution image data is optionally processed to obtain a relatively low-resolution copy of a composite image of the specimen. In additional or other embodiments, the method further comprises optically capturing a low-resolution and/or low-magnification image of the specimen and storing the image data.

In another aspect, a method for acquiring images of a specimen using two or more scanners, one of which is a polarization scanner, is also provided. For example, a conventional scanner is used to scan one or more images of a specimen provided to a system on a mat, wherein the images are two-dimensional or three-dimensional. A second scanner with a polarization filter is additionally utilized to acquire images of the specimen for metallographic analysis. The image data from both scans is uploaded to a server for review and further analysis. In one embodiment, a non-polarization scan is performed, and the resulting image is used as a template to guide a user in acquiring additional images using a polarization scanner.

In another aspect, a method for annotating acquired specimen images using the system's platform is also provided. As previously described, a specimen can be placed on a mat and scanned. In some embodiments, the scanned specimen is removed from the mat, and the mat serves as a display for viewing the scanned image. In one embodiment, the image of the specimen on the map is an interactive image that can be rotated and zoomed using the map as a control panel. The image can be analyzed for mineral content or metal content and annotated. The image can be annotated using specimen coordinate information.

In another aspect, a method is provided herein for controlling the acquisition of one or more images of a sample using one or more previously acquired images as templates. In an exemplary embodiment, the acquired images are stored to a network and viewed on a display. In one embodiment, a real-time display of the specimen is simultaneously viewed on the display. One or more images of the real-time specimen are acquired using the stored images as a guide. The real-time images can be high-resolution or low-resolution and can be acquired using any of the scanners described herein.

Specimens and samples

Imaging devices disclosed herein include specimens and/or samples or uses thereof. Non-limiting examples of any type of imaging device suitable for use include industrial samples, petrographic samples, geological samples, metal samples, or crystal microscopy samples, including geological rocks, stones, sand, solid objects, minerals, natural composites, and/or compounds. In some embodiments, non-limiting examples include non-geological metals, components, assemblies, composites, etc. that are opaque and have reflective properties but are not necessarily geological in nature. In various embodiments, non-limiting examples include industrial objects, any man-made objects, such as industrial devices, semiconductors, conductors, insulators, plastics, non-plastics, aerospace, and/or manufacturing.

Example

Example 1: Geological Scanner and Method of Use

An area of geological interest is identified for petrographic analysis. The area contains a variety of specimens for mineralogical analysis. Specimens are obtained from the area of interest, and macroscopic images of the specimens are captured using a mobile device. The coordinates of the specimens are saved along with the macroscopic image and uploaded to a server, or manually placed on the specimen using a label. The coordinates are marked on any surface of the specimen, where they can be viewed later on an acquired sample image, or digitally recorded in a database. If the specimen is marked without taking a macroscopic image, the specimen is placed on a platform or mat of a macroscopic scanning system. A macroscopic image of the sample is then captured, and the user selects the specimen area to be scanned from the macroscopic image, which then serves as a "map" for the image. The high-magnification scanning system includes a digital polarization scanner having at least the following optical components: a polarization beamsplitting cube including crossed polarizers and an analyzer, an LED light source, a CCD camera, and an objective lens. The LED light is directed along an illumination path with a beamsplitter cube to the platform containing the specimen. Light is reflected from the specimen to the camera via a reflective optical path including an objective lens. The camera acquires an image of the specimen and moves the specimen in the x-, y-, and z-axes, continuing to capture images until the entire selected area has been captured at high magnification. The acquired images are uploaded to a server where they are remotely viewed for analysis. A remote user manipulates the various views of the image and identifies areas of interest for further analysis. The areas of interest of the specimen are collected for further analysis or subsequently imaged using a scanning system. Subsequent images are high-resolution images of the areas of interest of the specimen. These high-resolution images provide important information about the mineral content of the specimen. The specimen can be collected or returned to the environment. The analysis of the mineral content and the coordinate information are uploaded to a database with the corresponding image data. The data is stored using geographic coordinate information so that it can be retrieved and displayed by any user using a geographic map.

Example 2: Image Analysis: Metallurgy (Mineral Analysis)

Metallurgical testing laboratories want to provide their clients with high-magnification views of entire specimens for reporting on failure analysis, metal fatigue, ferrite composition, coating analysis, grain size and grain flow, post-heat treatment conditions, material defects, spray coverage, porosity, and/or other indicators of metallurgical sample properties. To this end, they are only able to provide their clients with a single field of view, which may not contain important contextual data about the specimen or multiple failure points. By embedding their samples in epoxy resin and polishing them on an industrial polishing table, they are able to acquire multiple fields of view and reassemble them into a single continuous image that can then be remotely zoomed in and out via a network interface, allowing their clients to analyze their samples in a detailed and comprehensive manner.

Example 3: Grand Canyon Field Study

A research team at the University of California, Los Angeles, conducted a project to study the geological structure of the Grand Canyon. This research was based on on-site rock surveys at the Grand Canyon. However, the entire research team involved over 10 people, and not all of them could travel to the site together. The research team utilized the imaging equipment disclosed in this application. Graduate students were dispatched to the Grand Canyon for field research, while professors remained at the university to conduct their regular teaching duties.

Graduate students travel to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Imaging equipment is connected to a wireless network connected to the Internet in the RV. After identifying rocks of interest, they use the imaging system to scan them. Students can also scan rocks, including rocks they are unfamiliar with, using low-resolution imaging settings. The low-resolution images are then sent to a server via the networked system, optionally with annotations made by the graduate students. In addition, students take photos using their portable devices, which are coupled to a GPS system, allowing the rock's geographic location to be recorded along with a photo of the specimen and also sent to the server. By accessing the above data stored on the server, the professor can view information about the rocks (e.g., texture, color, grain size, etc.). While reviewing the images, the professor can identify some rocks as worthless and others as valuable. The professor also guides students in taking detailed, high-resolution images of the valuable rocks. Students again use the imaging equipment to scan the high-resolution images sent to the server. The professor can evaluate the rocks based on the high-resolution images.

The above research steps were repeated at various locations throughout the Grand Canyon (e.g., the West Rim and the North Rim). The imaging equipment automatically recorded the locations where they conducted rock research and further constructed a map of the rocks found in the Grand Canyon. The map enabled the professor to monitor/review the research findings in real time. The scanner-assisted virtual fieldwork significantly improved the efficiency and effectiveness of the research.

Some definitions

Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Any reference to "or" herein is intended to include "and/or" unless otherwise specified.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous modifications, variations, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the present invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the present invention described herein may be employed in practicing the present invention.

Claims (23)

1. A method for visualizing and analyzing a specimen in three dimensions, the method comprising the following steps: (a) Placing a specimen on a substrate, the specimen occupying a region of the substrate; (b) The substrate is placed on a stage and the region of the substrate containing the specimen is imaged using a high-power objective lens and a cross-polarizing lens of a microscope, thereby obtaining a single scan of the specimen with high magnification and high resolution, wherein the cross-polarizing lens is set in a single direction to provide high-resolution image data of the specimen. (c) The imaging process of step (b) is repeated by synchronously rotating the polarizer and analyzer of the cross-polarizing filter, while changing the angle of the cross-polarizing filter in increments of various angles. This also includes obtaining a continuous sequence of images by progressively advancing the field of view of the high-power objective lens of the microscope within the specimen and acquiring continuous images of each field of view of the specimen at each polarization angle. (d) Upload the high-resolution image data and store it in a database for remote viewing. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising obtaining a low-resolution image of the specimen. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the specimen is an industrial specimen, a geological specimen, or a metallic specimen. 4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the geological specimen is a crystal specimen or a lithofacies specimen. 5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the geological specimen is a rock or mineral. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the specimen is a complete specimen. 7. A microscope apparatus for visualizing and analyzing specimens in a three-dimensional manner, the microscope apparatus comprising: (a) A device having at least one objective lens, a digital imaging system and a motorized stage, (b) A polarizing mirror and an analyzer, the polarizing mirror and the analyzer forming a cross polarizing mirror, wherein the cross polarizing mirror is motorized and capable of rotating synchronously about an axis, wherein the microscope is controllable to obtain a single scan of a specimen at high magnification and high resolution to provide high-resolution image data of the specimen occupying a region of a substrate placed on the motorized stage, including continuous images of the entire field of view of the specimen obtained by progressively advancing the field of view of the objective lens in the specimen and a continuous sequence of continuous images obtained by continuous scanning at different polarization angles, wherein the objective lens is a high-magnification objective lens; (c) An image processing apparatus for processing the high-resolution image data; (d) A storage device for storing the acquired high-resolution image data; (e) A means for transmitting the high-resolution image data from a data storage device to a terminal. 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the digital imaging system is a CCD camera, CMOS, or a line scanner. 9. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising means for moving the objective lens of the microscope apparatus to provide autofocus. 10. The apparatus of claim 7 further includes means for recording image data required for evaluating user performance. 11. The device of claim 10, wherein the means for recording is a portable data storage device. 12. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the specimen is a complete specimen. 13. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the specimen is an industrial specimen, a geological specimen, or a metallic specimen. 14. The device according to claim 13, wherein the geological specimen is a rock or mineral structure. 15. The device according to claim 7 further includes a motorized turntable. 16. A method for acquiring image data for use in microscopy, the method comprising the steps of: (a) A substrate containing a prepared geological specimen is placed on the stage of a microscope equipped with a high-power objective lens, a digital imaging system and a motorized stage, as well as a polarizer and an analyzer, wherein the polarizer and analyzer form a cross polarizer that can rotate synchronously about an axis, wherein the cross polarizer is motorized. (b) Image a region of the specimen using the high-power objective lens to obtain a single scan of the specimen with high magnification and high resolution, thereby providing high-resolution image data of the specimen; (c) Digitally process the high-resolution image data to obtain a relatively low-resolution copy of the high-resolution image data, wherein the imaging step includes obtaining a continuous sequence of continuous images by progressively advancing the field of view of the high-power objective of the microscope in the specimen and acquiring continuous images of each field of view of the specimen and performing multiple imaging at multiple polarization angles. (d) Transmitting a low-resolution copy of the high-resolution image data from the data storage to a remote terminal so as to display the corresponding low-resolution image as a navigation map on the monitor of the terminal; and (e) Transmitting from the data storage to the end user the corresponding high-resolution image data of the region of the navigation map for a selected region of the image. 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: storing the high-resolution image data and the low-resolution copy of the high-resolution image data in a data storage. 18. The method of claim 16, wherein during the imaging process, the method further comprises periodically refocusing the microscope by moving the objective lens relative to the substrate. 19. The method of claim 17, further comprising processing image data acquired for each image in each field of view, and storing the processed data in a data storage. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the processing includes one or more of digital image compression and processes for removing peripheral shadows around each image in each field of view. 21. A method for transmitting digital image data, comprising the following steps: (a) Using the method of claim 16 to acquire high-resolution image data of the specimen; (b) Allows access to data storage from remote terminals; (c) Transmitting a low-resolution copy of the high-resolution image data to the remote terminal; (d) Displaying the corresponding low-resolution image at the remote terminal; and (e) Transmitting from the data storage to the terminal the corresponding high-resolution image data for a region of the low-resolution image. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein transmitting the corresponding high-resolution image data of a region of the low-resolution image is achieved by selecting a region of the low-resolution image displayed on a monitor of the terminal. 23. The method of claim 21, further comprising the step of recording a region of the selected low-resolution image in order to evaluate the performance of a person performing the method.