Patent ID: 6507433
Filing Date: 2003-01-14
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A sensor system for a retractable tip microscope objective, the microscope objective comprising a substantially-hollow barrel having first and second ends and a retractable tip slidably mounted in the barrel adjacent the first end, the retractable tip being extendable outward through the first end of the barrel, movement thereof into and out of the first end of said barrel being constrained by a stop, the sensor system comprising:a proximity sensor mountable adjacent the second end of the barrel; an elongated member extending into the barrel and having a distal end for detection by the proximity sensor upon retraction of the retractable tip into the barrel by a predetermined amount; and a controller connected to the proximity sensor for generating an alert in response to detection of the distal end of the elongated member upon retraction of the retractable tip into the barrel by the proximity sensor.