Patent ID: 7961384
Filing Date: 2011-06-14
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
1. A device for examining chemical or biological samples, comprising: a sample carrier for receiving the samples, an objective for observing the samples through a sample carrier wall, wherein a gap is defined between an outer surface of the sample carrier wall and an exit lens of the objective, a film of an immersion medium to be provided in the gap such that the film is in contact with both the outer surface of the sample carrier wall and the exit lens of the objective, and a protection means surrounding the exit lens for preventing the objective from becoming fouled by the immersion medium, wherein the protection means is connected with a suction means for discharging the immersion medium, wherein the protection means comprises a plurality of capillary channels which are connected with the suction means for discharging the immersion medium, and which aid the discharge of the immersion medium with at least the aid of capillary forces, the plurality of capillary channels each having an inlet opening that is arranged annularly around the exit lens.