Abstract: A method for performing microscopy-based imaging of samples includes: loading a sample holder onto a support configured to receive the sample holder; moving the sample holder in a first direction, from a starting position on a first strip of the sample holder, to move the sample holder relative to an imaging line of a line camera, to capture an image of the first strip of the sample holder; monitoring a focal plane using an autofocus system as the sample holder is moved in the first direction; in response to a determination by the autofocus system, moving an objective lens along an optical axis to adjust the focal plane; and moving the sample holder in a second direction, to align the imaging line of the line camera with a position on a second strip of the sample holder.

Abstract: A method for performing microscopy-based imaging of samples comprises: loading a sample holder (100) onto a support (50) configured to receive the sample holder (100); moving the sample holder (100) in a first direction, from a starting position on a first strip of the sample holder (100), to move the sample holder (100) relative to an imaging line of a line camera (10), to capture an image of the first strip of the sample holder (100); monitoring a focal plane using an autofocus system (15) as the sample holder (100) is moved in the first direction; in response to a signal from the autofocus system (15), moving an objective lens (25) along the optical axis to adjust the focal plane; and moving the sample holder (100) in a second direction, to align the imaging line of the line camera (10) with a position on a second strip of the sample holder (100).

Abstract: An automatic focusing device, in which a focus lens is driven for tracking an object-in-motion to obtain an in-focus state, based upon a focus prediction that is executed from repeated distance measurements. Tracking is continued even if the position of the focus lens falls into the predetermined focus allowance, so as to make it possible to take a well-focused photograph at any time.