Vision Engineering Ltd. (New Milford, CT) has unveiled a new, stereoscopic digital microscope product called the Deep Reality Viewer model Z1 (DRV-Z1). A distinguishing aspect of the DRV-Z1 as well as enabling to many of its features is the fact that, to see the image, the user does not have to look into eye pieces on the DRV-Z1 as would be necessary if it were a conventional microscope.
Rather, the user simply needs to position their eyes within a head box to see a “floating” stereoscopic image. The company represents that the DRV-Z1 requires minimal setup and that very little training is required to achieve full user benefits.
A video appended to the end of this article illustrates and discusses the DRV-Z1. The figure below illustrates one configuration of the system.
The DRV-Z1 stereoscopic digital microscope.
Using so-called TriTeQ3 digital 3D display technology, the DRV-Z1 captures an electronic image using a stereo microscope. The 1920 x 1080 resolution video images captured by the microscope are presented on two small displays that are positioned at the top of the device. Projection optics then direct the two optical channels to a concave mirror. The image on the concave mirror can be as large as 400 x 225 mm. When the user properly positions their eyes in the head box located in front of this mirror, a separate visual channel is presented to each eye. The net result is that a full HD stereoscopic imagery is achieved without the need for glasses or a VR head set. Other features of the system include the following:
- Several objective lenses are available each providing a different range of magnifications, working distances and field of views. The widest field of view is achieved with the lowest magnification objective.
- Digital stereo magnification up to 2X.
- 10:1 optical zoom.
- Long working distance (maximum: 182 mm).
Ergonomic benefits of the DRV-Z1 are represented as follows:
- Comfortable working position reduces user fatigue.
- Does not restrict user head movement thus further reducing user neck and back strain.
- Extra-large exit pupils.
- Compatible with user worn prescription glasses and/or eye safety glasses.
- Does not affect the operator’s peripheral vision and, thus, enhances natural hand-to-eye co-ordination.
- Large field of view increases efficiency and ease of working.
Various base options are available for the DRV-Z1. Each configuration optimizes the system for a different set of applications.
- Short base: offers easy inspection of small parts. Allows for long working distance. Subjects can be placed directly on the workbench for maximum clear working area.
- Long base: is standard and enables the inspection of large samples. Has a reversible subject plate for black or white background.
- The long base has the option for rear illumination through a transmissive sub-stage.
Other physical aspects of the system include:
- Maximum system weight: 45kgs.
- The physical dimensions of the DRV-Z1depend on which base is selected as well as details that relate to how the device is used. Representative dimensions are as follows: height – 823 mm, width – 390 mm, depth – 721 mm.
Company literature explains that the DRV-Z1 was developed to address quality control and assurance requirements in applications that include electronics, aerospace, automotive and medical industries. Specific note is made of the fact that the system supports the use of tools for subject manipulation, soldering and reworking.
A final and significant feature is that the DRV-Z1 is that the system allows 3D stereo digital display collaboration through remote viewing, capture and sharing of the image across multiple locations via real time digital connectivity. -Arthur Berman
Vision Engineering, 860-355-3776
