Locomotion of microspheres for super-resolution imaging

Abstract

Super-resolution virtual imaging by micron sized transparent beads (microspheres) was recently demonstrated by Wang et al. Practical applications in microscopy require control over the positioning of the microspheres. Here we present a method of positioning and controllable movement of a microsphere by using a fine glass micropipette. This allows sub-diffraction imaging at arbitrary points in three dimensions, as well as the ability to track moving objects. The results are relevant to a broad scope of applications, including sample inspection, microfabrication, and bio-imaging.

Fabrication of flexible microlens arrays for parallel super-resolution imaging

“…To achieve large-area imaging at a controllable position, Li et al introduced a swimming micro-robot optical nanoscopy method based on chemically-powered microsphere lenses to realize stable and controllable scanning imaging [17]. Furthermore, microspheres attached to a glass micropipette [18,19] or AFM probe [20][21][22] were moved using a three-dimensional translation stage, so that images could be obtained at the desired position [23]. Although these methods have surpassed the limitation of the imaging field of view and expanded the imaging range, they are inefficient when using a single microsphere for imaging.…”

Unibody microscope objective tipped with a microsphere: design, fabrication, and application in subwavelength imaging

“…In addition, optical trapping method was reported to control the microsphere, however, this method was limited to liquid environment [26]. The most effective way among the previously published research is the manipulation of single microsphere lens by tip-based scanning techniques [27][28][29]. In 2016, F. Wang et al bonded BTG microsphere onto an AFM tip, with the advantage of precise positioning and feedback monitoring, the system has high precision in maintaining distance between microsphere and objects.…”

Microspherical nanoscopy: is it a reliable technique?

“…Since then the resolution of features with sizes below the diffraction limit has been reported routinely. However, achieving of λ/6 − λ/8 resolution requires additional objects been involved, for example, plasmonic particles, wires and gratings [9][10][11]. Instead, labeling of small objects with fluorescent molecules can also greatly enhance resolution [12,13].…”