Patent Publication Number: US-2015075264-A1

Title: Microscope objective mechanical testing instrument

Description:
CLAIM OF PRIORITY 
     This patent application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/616,259, entitled “MICROSCOPE OBJECTIVE MECHANICAL TESTING INSTRUMENT,” filed on Mar. 27, 2012 (Attorney Docket No. 3110.015PRV), which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This document pertains generally, but not by way of limitation, to instruments for testing of materials at macro scales or less (e.g., less than 1 millimeter). 
     BACKGROUND 
     Optical instruments, such as optical microscopes, include objective lenses configured to view a subject (e.g., tissue sample, material and the like) for a variety of examination purposes. In some examples, a plurality of objective lenses are housed within an objective turret of the microscope to facilitate the viewing of the subject at various magnifications or with varied viewing techniques. 
     Mechanical based testing instruments configured to provide quantitative measurement (as opposed to qualitative comparisons) include instruments that indent, scratch, bend, compress or apply tensile forces to subjects. Indentation, scratch, bend, tensile and compression testing at scales of microns or less are subject-deformation based methods for quantitative measurement of mechanical properties, such as elastic modulus and hardness of materials. For instance, probes are engaged with the subject and mechanically deform the subject to accurately determine one or more of the mechanical properties. Data measured with the probe are used to accurately determine the mechanical properties of the sample and one or more of the sample elastic or plastic characteristics and the associated material sample phase changes. 
     One example of a system for non-deformation based testing includes an atomic force microscopy system. In one example, an optical microscope is used for pre-inspection of a subject, and an atomic force microscope (AFM) integrated with the optical microscope is passed over the subject and the subject surface is scanned according to the measured deflection of an AFM cantilever. A laser is directed at the cantilever, and the reflected laser light is incident on a photodiode that accordingly detects deflection of the cantilever. The AFM cantilever deflects according to one of mechanical contact forces, van der Waals forces, capillary forces, chemical bonding, electrostatic forces, magnetic forces (see magnetic force microscope, MFM), Casimir forces, solvation forces and the like. 
     One example of hardness tester including a microscope assesses hardness through the indentation of the subject with an indentation instrument followed by examination of an indentation impression with an optical microscope. The second step of examination and measurement of the indentation impression with the optical microscope are used to assess the subject. 
     Overview 
     The present inventors have recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved can include the need to quantitatively (and optionally qualitatively) test and observe a test location of a sample within an optical microscope (e.g., material samples including biological samples viewed with a microscope objective lens). In an example, the present subject matter can provide a solution to this problem, such as by a microscope assembly including an objective turret movably coupled with the microscope body, and an optical instrument and an objective testing module both coupled with the objective turret. The optical instrument is used to identify a test location of interest, and optionally determine material characteristics through observation (e.g., optical measurement). A mechanical testing assembly included in the objective testing module is configured to mechanically test the sample at the desired location at a macro scale or less and quantitatively determine one or more properties of the sample at the test location. 
     In contrast to qualitative testing methods (observation as opposed to accurate measurement), including for instance atomic force microscopy, the microscope assembly (or an objective testing module configured for use with a microscope) provides accurate quantitative measurements and determination of mechanical properties of a sample through sample-deformation based techniques. 
     Further, the present inventors have recognized that a problem to be solved can include the need to quantitatively test a sample and determine the properties of the sample in-situ with a unitary instrument, in contrast to testing with a first instrument and examining the test location (post-situ) with a second instrument, such as a microscope objective, at a second later time. Examination of deformation after a testing procedure allows the sample to relax (e.g., elastically) and accordingly frustrates the accurate determination of properties of the sample. In an example, the present subject matter can provide a solution to this problem with a microscope assembly and method for using the assembly that locates (e.g., identifies) a test location with an optical instrument. The objective testing module (including a mechanical testing assembly) of the microscope assembly is then used to test the sample at the test location and quantitatively determine one or more properties of the sample without requiring further cooperation with the microscope optical instrument. 
     Additionally, this disclosure allows for mechanical testing of samples (at macro scales or less (e.g., one or more of scales of 1 mm or less, scales of microns or less, or scales of nanometers or less) using probes on a microscope thereby allowing for a variety of optical techniques to characterize the sample prior to, during or after the mechanical testing of the sample. An operator is able to analyze samples using various optical techniques at one or more times prior to, during or after mechanical testing using the objective mechanical test module on the optical microscope. This objective mechanical test module is optionally mounted on various optical microscopes capable of varied optical examination techniques including, but not limited to, Differential Interference Contrast, Circular Polarized Imaging, Fluorescence, Bright Field, ConFocal, and Raman. 
     This overview is intended to provide an overview of subject matter of the disclosure. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the invention. The detailed description is included to provide further information about the present disclosure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of one example of a microscope assembly including an objective testing module. 
         FIG. 2A  is a schematic view of the microscope assembly of  FIG. 1  in an observation configuration with an optical instrument aligned with a sample. 
         FIG. 2B  is a schematic view of the microscope assembly of  FIG. 1  in at testing and assessment configuration with a mechanical testing assembly of the objective testing module aligned with the sample. 
         FIG. 3A  is a perspective view of one example of an objective testing module coupled with an objective turret. 
         FIG. 3B  is a perspective view of the objective testing module of  FIG. 3A  showing one example of first and second actuators. 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic view of one example of a mechanical testing assembly of the objective testing module. 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic view of another example of a mechanical testing assembly including transverse translational axes for a probe. 
         FIG. 6  is a cross sectional view of the objective testing module of  FIGS. 3A , B showing one example of a first actuator. 
         FIG. 7  is a schematic view showing of another example of a microscope assembly including an optical instrument in a first orientation and the objective testing module in a second orientation. 
         FIG. 8  is a block diagram showing one example of a method of testing a sample. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1  shows one example of a microscope assembly  100  including an objective testing module  108  coupled within an objective turret  104 , such as a movable objective turret  104 . In the example shown in  FIG. 1  the microscope assembly  100  includes an optical microscope. In another example, the microscope assembly  100  includes, but is not limited to, a scanning tunneling microscope or tunneling spectroscope. The microscope assembly  100  includes a microscope body  102  coupled with the movable objective turret  104 . Rotation of the objective turret  104  accordingly positions one or more optical instruments  106  and the objective testing module  108  relative to a sample, for instance positioned on a sample stage  116 . The optical instruments  106  provide a variety of lenses (in the case of an optical microscope) with accordingly different magnifications and optical capabilities to allow for viewing and optical characterization of the sample on the sample stage  116  with various degrees of magnification. In another example, where the microscope assembly  100  includes any of the previously described microscopes, for instance a non-optical microscope such as a scanning tunneling microscope or tunneling spectroscope, the objective turret  104  includes one or more instruments thereon configured to perform one or more of scanning tunneling microscopy or tunneling spectroscopy accordingly. 
     As further shown in  FIG. 1 , the objective testing module  108  is coupled with the objective turret  104 . The objective testing module  108  includes a module base  110  sized and shaped to fit within a corresponding socket of the objective turret  104 . That is to say, in one example, the module base  110  includes a proximal end sized and shaped to engage with the corresponding mechanical interfitting features of the socket of an objective turret  104 . In another example, an intervening adaptor is provided to the module base  110  that accordingly facilitates the coupling of the objective testing module  108  with one or more objective turrets  104  according to the configuration of the adaptor. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 1 , the objective testing module  108  includes a mechanical testing assembly  112  coupled with the module base  110 . In the example shown the mechanical testing assembly  112  includes a probe  114  sized and shaped to engage with a sample positioned on the sample stage  116 . The mechanical testing assembly  112  tests the sample thereon. The mechanical testing assembly  112  is configured to conduct one or more testing procedures, including but not limited to, indentation testing, scratch testing, compression testing, dynamic mechanical testing, electrical characteristic testing, scanning probe microscopy (SPM mapping), surface force characterization, adhesive force testing or the like. The mechanical testing assembly  112  is further configured to conduct mechanical deformation based testing at one or more scales, for instance a macro scale or less (e.g., having indentation or scratch depths of 1 mm or less). In another example, the mechanical testing assembly  112  is configured to conduct mechanical deformation based testing at a micron scale (e.g., 0.5 millimeters or less) or at a nano scale (e.g., 500 nanometers or less). As described herein, the mechanical testing assembly consolidates the testing procedure with quantitative assessment and determination of the mechanical properties of the sample under consideration (in contrast to providing qualitative results or requiring subsequent observation with the optical instrument to determine a characteristic). 
     Optionally, one or both of the probe  114  and the sample stage  116  are heated (or cooled) and are accordingly able to test a sample at elevated (or decreased) temperatures. For instance, either or both of the probe  114  and the sample stage  116  include heating elements (such as resistive heating elements) adjacent to a probe tip or potted within the sample stage. The heating elements correspondingly heat the probe  114 , the stage  116  and a sample on the stage. In another example, either or both of the probe  114  and the sample stage  116  are cooled, for instance with fluid based cooling systems. Accordingly, each of the probe  114 , the stage  116  and a sample on the stage are used in one example, for testing at decreased temperatures. In still another example, the heating (or cooling) systems associated with the probe  114  and the stage  116  are operated by a controller, such as the controller  202  described herein. The controller ensures that the probe  114  and the stage  116  (as well as a sample thereon) are maintained at desired temperatures for a testing procedure. In yet another example, a sample is immersed in a heated or cool aqueous fluid that accordingly heats or cools the sample. Optionally, the probe  114  is suspended within the solution prior to testing to accordingly heat or cool the probe  114  to a substantially same temperature. 
     In one example, and as will be described herein the optical instruments  106  also coupled with the objective turret  104  are used to ascertain a test location on the sample (and optionally one or more optically determined properties) and the objective turret  104  is thereafter rotated to align the probe  114  of the mechanical testing assembly  112  substantially with the sample at the test location. In another example, one or more actuators provided with the objective testing module  108  are used to further align the probe  114  with the desired test location determined with the optical instrument  106 . The mechanical testing assembly  112  is thereafter operated to accordingly engage the probe  114  with the sample and mechanically test (e.g., indent, scratch, SPM or the like) the sample. In still another example the mechanical testing assembly  112  is indexed relative to the optical instruments  106  (one or more of the optical instruments  106 ). Stated another way after determination of an appropriate test location with the optical instruments  106  as the objective turret  104  turns and accordingly moves the objective testing module  108  over the sample the mechanical testing assembly for instance the probe  114  is automatically aligned by virtue of the indexing between the optical instrument  106  and the probe  114  with the sample lying thereunder. Accordingly the probe  114  is aligned with the test location determined by the optical instrument  106  and is configured to accordingly immediately begin mechanical testing of the sample at the test location directly under the probe  114 . 
     In one example, the mechanical testing assembly  112  including the probe  114  is a deformation based mechanical testing assembly configured to engage the sample with the probe  114 , deform the sample, and measure one or more of force or displacement of the probe within the sample. The measured force, displacement, and corresponding area of the mechanical testing procedure is used with the mechanical testing assembly  112  to assess and determine various properties of the sample including, but not limited to, elastic modulus, hardness and the like. The microscope assembly  100  including the objective testing module  108  provides a system that facilitates the ready determination of a test location on a sample with one or more of the optical instruments  106  (or other instrument of another type of microscope or spectroscope). The mechanical testing assembly  112  incorporated with the objective testing module  108  thereafter provides a consolidated assembly configured to test the test location found with the optical instrument  106  and accordingly determine one or more properties of the sample. That is to say, the mechanical testing assembly  112  consolidates both of mechanical testing as well as assessment of the sample according to the testing procedure. The mechanical testing assembly  112  (e.g., a controller associated with the mechanical testing assembly) accordingly includes one or more of algorithms, mathematical equations and the like that correspondingly interpret the measurements taken with the mechanical testing assembly  112  into one or more mechanical characteristics or properties of the sample under consideration. Subsequent viewing of the sample with the optical instruments  106 , while optional, is not required to determine the one or more mechanical properties of the sample. Instead, the mechanical testing assembly  112  provides both functions of testing as well as the determination of properties according to the measurements taken during the testing procedure with the mechanical testing assembly  112 . In addition, by optically viewing the deformation, one or more quantitative or qualitative optically determined characteristics may be ascertained. 
       FIGS. 2A and 2B  show two separate views of the microscope assembly  100  previously shown in  FIG. 1 . As further shown in the Figures a controller  202  is coupled with the objective testing module  108 . The controller  202 , in one example, includes a property assessment module therein. The property assessment module of the controller  202  is configured to interpret measurement data obtained through the mechanical testing assembly  112  as the testing assembly conducts one or more testing procedures on a sample. The controller  202  interprets the measurement data through the application of one or more stored equations, algorithms, measurement interpretation schemes or the like. Accordingly, the controller  202  incorporated with the objective testing module  108  assesses the measurement data and generates one or more properties of the sample  200  (e.g., mechanical characteristics). 
     Referring to  FIG. 2A , one of the optical instruments  106  is shown in substantial alignment with the sample  200  positioned on the sample stage  116 . In this orientation, the optical instrument  106  observes the sample  200  and optionally locates a test location on the sample  200 . Additionally, the optical instrument optionally determines one or more characteristics capable of determination by way of observation with the instrument  106 . In cooperation with the controller  202  the optical instrument optionally indexes the test location. In another option, an image of the test location (as well as any other optically determinable properties) is taken and stored through the optical instrument for eventual comparison to a post testing image of the test location. In another example and as previously described herein, the optical instrument  106  is indexed relative to the objective testing module  108 . Accordingly, as the objective turret  104  is rotated to align the objective testing module  108  with the sample  200  (including a test location on the sample) the objective testing module  108  is accordingly automatically aligned with the test location found with the optical instrument  106 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2B , the microscope assembly  100  of  FIG. 2A  is shown in a second orientation with the objective turret  104  rotated. As shown in this rotated position the objective testing module  108  is aligned with the sample  200 . That is to say, the probe  114  is positioned above a test location such as the test location determined with the optical instrument  106 . In this configuration the objective testing module  108  including the mechanical testing assembly  112  is ready to conduct a mechanical testing procedure (or procedures) on the sample at the test location. The controller  202 , in one example, provides the instructions to the mechanical testing assembly  112  that accordingly operate one or more transducers coupled with the probe  114 . The probe  114  is advanced and engaged with the sample  200 , for instance at the test location, and accordingly deforms the sample at the test location to determine one or more of force applied, displacement, area of contact or the like with the sample  200 . 
     As previously described, the controller  202  as part of the objective testing module  108  (e.g., in communication with the mechanical testing assembly  112 ) is configured to interpret measurement data generated by the mechanical testing assembly  112  and accordingly determine one or more mechanical properties or characteristics of the sample  200 . For instance, as previously described the mechanical testing assembly  112  including the probe  114  is, in one example, a deformation based instrument. Engagement of the probe  114  with the sample correspondingly provides an indentation, scratch or the like (e.g., a deformation) in the sample  200 . The mechanical testing assembly  112  measures the force of engagement against the sample  200  as well as the displacement of the probe  114  while engaged with the sample  200  (and optionally through one or more models or equations the area of contact between the probe and the sample). The controller  202  including for instance a property assessment module is in communication with the mechanical testing assembly  112  and forms a portion of the objective testing module  108 . Accordingly the controller  202  is configured to interpret the measurements taken by the mechanical testing assembly  112  and determine one or more mechanical properties or characteristics of the sample  200  under consideration (e.g., properties of the test location of the sample under consideration). 
     Accordingly, with the system shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B  between each of the two configurations the microscope assembly  100  is able to determine a test location (e.g., as shown in  FIG. 2A ), optionally optically characterize it, and thereafter in the second orientation ( FIG. 2B ) measure and determine one or more mechanical properties of the sample with the objective testing module  108  aligned with the sample  200 . Stated another way, the mechanical testing assembly  112  is configured to measure and determine one or more mechanical properties of the sample  200  without further observation of the optical instruments  106 . In another example, the objective turret  104  is rotated again to align one or more of the optical instruments  106  with the sample  200  for instance at the test location previously determined with the optical instrument  106  as shown in  FIG. 2A . In this third configuration the optical instrument  106  is used to observe the test location including any deformation at the test location. Accordingly the technician is able to observe the test location (before and) after the testing procedure and assess any qualitative data about the test location while the controller  202  is configured to determine one or more quantitative characteristics of the sample  200  for instance hardness, elastic modulus and the like. 
     As previously described herein the objective testing module  108  includes a mechanical testing assembly  112 . The mechanical testing assembly  112  of the objective testing module  108  is configured to conduct quantitative testing and analysis of one or more characteristics of the sample  200  under consideration. For instance, with the probe  114  engaging and deforming the sample  200  according to a testing procedure the objective testing module  108  including the mechanical testing assembly  112  is determines one or more quantitative (as opposed to qualitative) properties of the sample under consideration. Stated another way, the microscope assembly  100  including the objective testing module  108  is able to quantitatively determine one or more characteristics of a sample (e.g., mechanical properties) in a consolidated assembly of the objective testing module  108  including the mechanical testing assembly  112  tests and determines properties of the sample  200 . 
       FIGS. 3A and 3B  show two perspective views of another example of an objective testing module  301 . In the example shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B  the objective testing module  301  includes one or more actuators configured to move the mechanical testing assembly  112 , for instance into alignment with a portion of the sample on a sample stage such as the stage  116  shown in  FIG. 1 . In another example the one or more actuators provided with the objective testing module  301  are configured to move the probe  114  to approach a test location on a sample. That is to say, the actuators provide one or more of gross or fine movement to position the probe  114  in close proximity to the sample prior to testing. Optionally, the actuators provide actuation in the form of displacement (e.g., engagement and deformation based contact) of the probe  114  relative to the sample for a testing procedure such as indenting, scratching, compressing, applying tensile forces or the like to the sample. 
     Referring first to  FIG. 3A , the objective testing module  301  is shown to the objective turret  104  with a module base  300  sized and shaped for reception within an objective socket of the objective turret  104 . As further shown in  FIG. 3A  the mechanical testing assembly  112  is optionally retained within an instrument housing  312  sized and shaped to retain one or more transducers and the probe  114  therein. The transducers as will be described herein are coupled with the probe  114  and configured to conduct one or more testing procedures through moving and measuring movement of the probe  114  and force applied by the probe  114  to the sample. Optionally, the instrument housing  312  is sized and shaped to retain multiple transducers coupled directly or indirectly with the probe  114 . For instance, in one example, a first transducer is operable to provide one or more of translation or lateral movement to the probe  114  while a second transducer is configured to measure the corresponding movement of the probe  114  (and force applied) for instance during engagement with the sample. In another example, a plurality of transducers are supplied and each of the transducers is configured to provide movement to the probe  114  in one or more directions for instance along a z axis, x axis, y axis or the like. In yet another example, the transducers associated with the probe  114  are configured to provide both translation and measurements of one or more of movement and force applied by the probe  114  to a sample provided on the sample stage (see the sample stage  116  shown in  FIG. 1 ). 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3B  a plurality of actuators are provided in the example objective testing module  301 . For instance, in  FIG. 3B  a first actuator  302  is coupled between the instrument housing  312  and the module base  300 . The first actuator  302  is coupled between the instrument housing  312  of the mechanical testing assembly  112  and an optional second actuator  304 . In one example, the first actuator  302  provides a single axis of movement, for instance elevation of the instrument housing  312  (and the probe  114 ) relative to the objective turret  104  and the module base  300 . The first actuator includes, but is not limited to, one or more piezo actuators providing a range of movement along a z axis less than or equal to about 100 microns. In another example, the first actuator  302  includes a plurality of actuators (e.g., the first actuator  302  is an assembly of actuators). The plurality of actuators are nested as tubes or stacked one on top of the other. Optionally, a second actuator of the first actuator  302  is a lateral actuator, for instance a supplemental piezo actuator, configured to provide movement (along one or more of x or y axes) to the instrument housing  312  and accordingly the probe  114 . The optional lateral actuator provides a range of motion, for instance less than or equal to about 80 microns. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3A  a first actuator interface  306  is shown extending through an enclosure  310 . In one example, the enclosure  310  is associated with the module base  300 . In another example, the enclosure  310  is associated with and coupled with a carriage of the second actuator  304 . The enclosure  310  includes a first actuator interface  306  and the first actuator interface  306  provides wiring access to the first actuator  302  coupled between the module base  300  and the instrument housing  312 . For instance, as shown in  FIG. 3A  the first actuator interface  306  provides a plug shaped interface configured to couple with a corresponding cable and the cable is coupled with a control assembly such as the controller  202  shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B . In another example, the first actuator interface  306  provides communication with the mechanical testing assembly  112 . That is to say the first actuator interface  306  provides control and communication between a controller and the mechanical testing assembly  112 . In still another example, the mechanical testing assembly  112  is separately connected with the controller  202 , for instance with a dedicated wiring bundle extending from one or more of the transducers associated with the probe  114 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3A  the second actuator  304  is shown coupled between the module base  300  and the mechanical testing assembly  112 . As further shown in  FIG. 3B , the second actuator  304  is coupled between the module base  300  and an actuator flange  316  of the first actuator  302 . That is to say, the second actuator  304  is optionally coupled between the module base  300  of the objective testing module  301  and the actuator  302 . Accordingly a linkage or chain of actuators is optionally provided between the module base  300  and the mechanical testing assembly  112  to accordingly provide a range of varied translation, for instance one or more of single axis or multiple axis movement or gross and fine movement (with the differing resolutions provided between by the respective actuators). 
     As further shown in  FIG. 3A  the second actuator  304  includes an actuator carriage  314  movably coupled with the module base  300 . The actuator carriage  314  is movable along a z axis, for instance an axis aligned with the probe  114 . That is to say, the actuator carriage  314  is movable by way of an interposing actuator element, such as a piezo element, voice coil element or the like provided between the module base  300  and the actuator carriage  314 . In one example, the second actuator  304  is configured to have a gross range of movement, for instance a range of movement less than or equal to one millimeter. That is to say, the second actuator  304  in one example, provides a larger range of movement relative to the first actuator  302  (optionally having a range of movement on the order of 100 microns or less). The transducers associated with the mechanical testing assembly  112  of the objective testing module  301  have a range of motion, for instance, of less than or equal to 100 microns in one or more axes such as the z axis parallel to the probe  114  or one or more x or y lateral axes. In still another example, the second actuator  304  is configured to provide one or more axes of translation, for instance the second actuator  304  moves along the z axis as well as one or more x or y lateral axes. 
     In another example, the module base  300  is part of the second actuator  304 . For instance, the module base  300  is a base portion of the second actuator  304  and the actuator carriage  314  is movably coupled with the module base by way of an intervening actuating mechanism, such as a piezo actuator therebetween. Accordingly, the objective testing module  301  as shown in  FIGS. 3A , B includes a chain of actuators (e.g., the first and second actuators  302 ,  304 ) connected in series as described herein. The first and second actuators  302 ,  304  are cooperatively used, in one example, to provide movement for the mechanical testing assembly  112 , for instance to position the probe  114  as desired with regard to a test location. In another example, one or more of the actuators  302 ,  304  is used to provide the actuation movement (e.g., indentation, scratching or other force) for the probe  114  to facilitate engagement and corresponding testing with the sample. In still another example, a combination of one or more of the actuators  302 ,  304  and the transducers associated with the mechanical testing assembly  112  are used to provide the actuation force for the probe  114  during testing. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a cross-sectional view of the objective testing module  108  previously shown in  FIG. 1  is provided. In this example the second actuator  304  is removed and the first actuator  302  is coupled between a module base  110  and the mechanical testing assembly  112 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , the first actuator  302  in this example includes first and second component actuators  406 ,  408  (e.g., one or more piezo actuators). In the exemplary arrangement shown the first component actuator  406  is coupled with the instrument housing  312  and the second component actuator  408  is coupled with the first component actuator  406  and the first actuator flange  316 . Optionally, the first and second component actuators are reversed from this configuration or provided in another configuration, for instance with the first component actuator  406  nested within the second component actuator  408 . 
     In the example shown in  FIG. 4 , the first component actuator  406  provides movement for the objective testing module (e.g., the mechanical testing assembly  112 ) along a z axis. As previously described, in one example, movement of the first actuator, (e.g., the first component actuator  406 ) facilitates the approach of the probe  114  toward a test location of the sample  200  (e.g.,  FIGS. 2A , B). In another example, the first component actuator  406  provides actuation for the probe  114  during a testing procedure to provide engagement and deformation of a sample with the probe  114 . Accordingly one or more transducers associated with the instrument housing  312  measure one or more of the resulting force or displacement corresponding to the movement of the probe  114  relative to one or more of the transducers provided within the instrument housing  312 . 
     In another example, the first actuator  302  includes the second component actuator  408 . The second component actuator  408  optionally provides lateral movement to the mechanical testing assembly  112 , for instance in a direction transverse to the direction of movement provided by the first component actuator  406 . In one example, the second component actuator  408  provides one or more of movement of the mechanical testing assembly  112  along an x or y axis. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 4 , in one example, an adaptor  402  is provided within an objective socket  400 . The objective socket  400  is the orifice of the objective turret  104  sized and shaped to receive an optical instrument such as an optical objective therein (and the objective testing modules described herein). In one example, the objective testing module  108  is sized and shaped for use within a variety of objective sockets including the objective socket  400 . In such an example an adaptor  402  is optionally provided. The adaptor  402  (or a plurality of adaptors) is configured to facilitate the coupling of the objective testing module  108  between a plurality of objective sockets including for instance the objective socket  400 . In one example, the module base  110  includes a fitting or other mechanical feature sized and shaped to engage with one portion of the adaptor  402  while the opposed portion of the adaptor is sized and shaped for reception within the objective socket  400  and fixation therein. For instance, in one example, the module base  110  includes a clamp mechanism having a beveled face and one or more positioning features such as a set screw sized and shaped to tightly engage a tongue and groove surface of the module base  110  (e.g., a bevel) within corresponding bevels of the adaptor  402 . 
     As further shown in  FIG. 4 , in one example, the instrument housing  312  of the mechanical testing assembly  112  includes a plurality of transducers therein. For instance in the example shown in  FIG. 4 , a first transducer  412  is provided adjacent to a second transducer  414 . As previously described, in one example, the first and second transducers  412 ,  414  are used cooperatively. That is to say one, of the first or second transducers  412 ,  414  provides actuation used to move the probe  114  into engagement and conduct one or more mechanical tests on a sample such as the sample  200 . The other of the first and second transducers  412 ,  414  is used to measure one or more of the corresponding displacement of the probe  114  as well as the force applied by the probe  114  during its engagement with the sample. In still another example, one or both of the first and second transducers  412 ,  414  provide an actuation force as well as the sensing function to measure the corresponding displacement and force of the probe  114  when engaged with the sample. As shown in  FIG. 4  the probe  114  includes a coupling shaft  410  sized and shaped for coupling with the first and second transducers  412 ,  414 . For instance the coupling shaft  410  extends through orifices of each of the center plates of the first and second transducers  412 ,  414  and is coupled with the center plates with one or more interference fittings, mechanical bonds or the like. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5 , one schematic example of the transducer assembly  500  is provided (e.g. for use as one of the transducers  412 ,  414  described herein). The transducer assembly  500  shown in  FIG. 5  includes a capacitor assembly  502  having opposed plates  504  positioned around a center plate  506 . In one example, the capacitor assembly  402  operates in an electrostatic manner to move a center plate  506  relative to opposed plates  504 . For instance, the opposed plates  504  provide an electrostatic force to the center plate  506  that provides one or more of indentation or scratching movement of the probe  114  (and in other examples compressive or tensile forces) relative to a sample, such as the sample  200  shown in  FIGS. 2A , B. 
     As shown in the diagram the center plate  506  is movable relative to the opposed plates  504 . For instance, the center plate  506  is coupled with the remainder of the capacitor assembly  502  with one or more spring supports  508 . The application of a voltage across the opposed plates  504  actuates the center plate  506  to move the probe  114  for indentation (e.g., along the z-axis) or translation (e.g., along the x- and y-axes). Similarly, movement of the center plate  506  relative to the opposed plates  504  is measurable according to changes in capacitance, changes in the voltage across the opposed plates  504  or the like. Measurement of the change in capacitance and change in voltage is readily associated with one or more of the change in position of the probe  114  or force applied by the probe. From these measurements forces applied by the probe  114  as well as movement of the probe  114  are readily determined with precision. 
     Optionally, where the mechanical testing assembly  112  includes a plurality of transducers, for instance first and second transducers  412 ,  414 , the probe  114  is coupled with each center plate of the transducers. For instance, the coupling shaft  410  (shown in  FIG. 4 ) has a tapering diameter or staggered diameter, and portions of the coupling shaft  410  are fixed within the orifices of the center plates having corresponding diameters. 
     As previously described in some examples, the actuator, such as one or both of the first and second actuators  302 ,  304  provides actuation including scratching movement, indentation movement or the like with the probe  114  relative to the sample. The transducer  500  is used in this passive or substantially passive manner to measure the movement of the probe  114  (e.g., by movement of the center plate  506 ) relative to the opposed plates  504 . For example, in a passive mode the center plate  506  is held between the opposed plates  504  with the spring supports  508 . As the actuator  302  or  304  moves the probe  114 , for instance indents the probe  702  or scratches the probe  702  across or into a sample, the deflection of the center plate  506  relative to the opposed plates  504  is measured to thereby determine the force incident on (e.g., applied by) the probe  114  as well as its movement. 
     In yet another example, the center plate  506  is held at a substantially static position relative to the opposed plates  504  with an electrostatic force. In this example, one or more of the actuators  302 ,  304  are operated to move the probe  114 , for instance indenting or scratching the probe  114  into or along the sample  200 , and the voltage required to maintain the center plate  506  in position relative to the opposed plates  504  is measured to determine the force incident on the probe  114  corresponding to the force applied to the sample. The movement of the actuator  302 ,  304  is used to correspondingly measure the actuator based movement of the probe  114 . 
     Optionally, the transducer  500  (e.g., corresponding to one or more of the transducers  412 ,  414 ) is configured to conduct dynamic mechanical testing. For instance, the probe  114  applies a dual component force to a sample, such as the sample  200  shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B . One component of the force is a quasi-static force corresponding to, for instance, a constant voltage applied across opposed plates  504 . Another component of the actuation force corresponds to an oscillatory force provided by an oscillating voltage applied across the opposing plates  504  in combination with the quasi-static force. The oscillatory force oscillates the probe  114 , and the resulting force and displacement are measured. Dynamic mechanical testing is used, in one example, with materials having low moduli of elasticity (e.g., that readily deform when a static force or displacement is applied). The resulting electrical signal provided by the center plate  506  is interpreted to measure the corresponding displacement and force applied by the probe  114  (and with the controller  202  of the objecting testing module) determine one or more characteristics of the sample. 
       FIG. 6  shows one example of a multi-axis transducer assembly  600  for use with either of the mechanical testing assemblies  112  of the objective testing modules  108 ,  301  described herein. As previously described, in one example, the mechanical testing assembly  112  includes a plurality of transducers. In the example shown in  FIG. 6 , the multi-axis transducer assembly  600  uses a plurality of transducers  602 ,  604 ,  606  to provide actuation and sensing of movement of the probe  114  in one or more directions for instance along the component x, y and z axes. The component z transducer  602  is shown coupled with the probe  114 . In one example, the component z transducer  602  has a configuration substantially similar to the transducer assembly  500  previously shown in  FIG. 5  and shown in the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 4 . That is to say, in one example, the component z transducer  602  has a capacitor assembly  502  including a center plate  506  sized and shaped to move the probe  114  in a vertical fashion (e.g., along a z axis). 
     As further shown in  FIG. 6 , optional component transducers  604 ,  606  corresponding to the x and y axes are provided. For instance, where the multi-axis transducer assembly  600  includes a component x transducer  604  coupled with a housing of the component z transducer  602 , the probe  114  is correspondingly moved to the left or right relative to the orientation of the page by operation of the component transducer. Similarly, lateral movement of the probe  114  for instance from the left to the right is optionally measured with the component x transducer  604 . In another example, a component y transducer  606  is provided with the multi-axis transducer assembly  600 . The component y transducer  606  is configured to provide actuation of the instrument probe  114 , for instance in directions in and out of the page as oriented in  FIG. 6 . That is to say, the component y transducer  606  in one example, provides lateral movement to the probe  114  in a direction substantially transverse to that provided by the component x transducer  604 . In a similar manner the component x transducer  604  and the component y transducer  606  are configured to measure lateral movement of the probe  114 , for instance with center plates that are moved relative to opposed plates of a capacitor assembly in the manner of the capacitor assembly  502  (described above). 
     Accordingly, with the multi-axis transducer assembly  600  positioned within the instrument housing  312  of the mechanical testing assembly  112  the objective testing module  108  (or  301 ) is configured to provide movement of the probe  114  along one or more axes and sense movement of the probe  114  (and the force applied by the probe) along one or more axes according to sensing provided by one or more of the component transducers  602 ,  604 ,  606 . The multi-axis transducer assembly  600  is in one example, configured to provide one or more of indentation actuation, scratching actuation, compression and tensile actuation and the like. 
       FIG. 7  is a schematic view of another microscope assembly  700 . The configuration shown in  FIG. 7  allows for in-situ observation of a sample  704  while observation is conducted for instance with an optical instrument  710 . A sample  704  is positioned on a sample stage  702  that facilitates viewing with the optical instrument  710 . An objective testing module  706  including a probe  708  is positioned above the sample  704  and aligned to facilitate engagement of the probe  708  with a test location. As shown in  FIG. 7  each of the objective testing module  706  and the optical instrument  710  have differing orientations facing the sample  704 . The differing orientations facilitate the contemporaneous viewing and testing of the sample  704 . For instance, in one example, the sample  704  is suspended by the sample stage  702  on a transparent surface, cantilevered beam or the like. In another example the sample  704  is immersed in a bath for instance a bath of water, nutrient fluid, gels, liquids, liquid-gas combinations, semisolids, colloids, emulsions, biological material or the like (e.g., for a biological sample). By providing the optical instrument  710  in a first orientation (e.g., directed upwardly) and the objective testing module  706  in a second orientation (e.g., directed downwardly) both of the optical instrument  710  and the objective testing module  706  are able to access or view the sample  704  during a testing procedure. For instance, as the sample  704  is tested with the objective testing module  706  with one or more testing procedures (e.g., indentation, scratching, compression, tensile testing or the like) the optical instrument  710  views the sample  704  and accordingly observes the sample during the testing  704  procedure. 
     Accordingly, with the optical instrument  710  in a first orientation and the objective testing module  706  in a second orientation both directed toward the sample  704  in-situ observation of a sample  704  during a mechanical testing procedure is realized. That is to say, with the sample  704  observed from a first angle provided by the optical instrument  710  and testing at a second angle with the objective testing module  706  the sample  704  is mechanically tested and observed to see the instantaneous deformation of the sample  704 . 
     In still another example, the objective testing module  706  and the optical instrument  710  are coupled with an objective turret in a similar manner to the objective turret  104  previously described herein (for the modules  108 ,  301 ). For instance, the objective testing module  706  is installed at an angle in the objective turret  104  and an axis of the probe  708  is coincident with a viewing axis of the optical instrument  710 . Accordingly, with both the objective testing module  706  and the optical instrument  710  provided on an objective turret each of the module  706  and the instrument  710  are able to test and observe a sample. 
       FIG. 8  shows one example of a method  800  for testing a sample for instance with an objective testing module ( 108 ,  301 ) coupled within a microscope assembly, such as the microscope assembly  100  shown in  FIG. 1 . In describing the method  800 , reference is made to one or more components, features or the like described herein. Where convenient reference is made with reference numerals. The reference numerals provided are exemplary and are not exclusive, for instance the features, components or the like described in the method  800  include but are not limited to the corresponding numbered elements, other corresponding features described herein (both numbered and unnumbered) as well as their equivalents. 
     At  802 , the method  800  includes locating a test location on a sample such as the sample  200  with an optical instrument  106  configured for optical microscope observations. In another example locating a test location includes locating a test location with one or more scanning tunneling microscope instruments, tunneling spectroscope instruments or the like. Optionally, locating a test location on the sample  200  includes aligning the optical instrument with a desired test location on the sample  200 . For instance, in one example, a sample stage such as the sample stage  116  shown in  FIG. 1  is movable relative to the objective turret  104  including an optical instrument  106  therein. Accordingly with movement of the sample stage  116  and the sample  200  positioned thereon the optical instrument  106  is used to align a test location with the optical instrument to facilitate alignment with the objective testing module  108  as described herein. 
     In another example, the optical instrument  106  is used to find a test location on a sample and the test location is thereafter indexed. The objective turret  104  is rotated and as described herein, the objective testing module  108  through one or more actuators (e.g., the actuators  302 ,  304  described herein) is moved to align the objective testing module  108  (for instance, the mechanical testing assembly  112  including the probe  114 ) with the indexed test location. Optionally, the optical instrument  106  and the objective testing module  108  (or  301 ) are statically positioned relative to each other. Accordingly, rotation of the objective turret  104  automatically aligns the mechanical testing assembly  112  with the observed test location. 
     At  804 , the method  800  includes testing at the test location with an objective testing module, such as the objective testing module  108  shown in  FIG. 1  or the module  301  shown in  FIGS. 3A , B. In one example, the mechanical testing assembly  112  is configured to mechanically test the sample  200  at a macro scale or less (e.g., an indentation or deformation depth of about one millimeter or less). In another example the objective testing module  108  is configured to provide an indentation depth or deformation depth of about 0.5 millimeters or less corresponding to a micron scale testing procedure. In still another example the objective testing module  108  is configured to test with an indentation depth of deformation depth of 500 nanometers or less corresponding to a nano scale testing procedure. Accordingly, the objective testing module  108  is configured to provide mechanical tests of a sample, such as the sample  200  at macro scales or less. That is to say, the transducers associated with the mechanical testing assembly  112  and optionally one or more of the actuators such as the actuators  302 ,  304  are configured to cooperate and accordingly provide actuation displacements corresponding to the macro, micro and nano scales previously described herein. Similarly the transducers such as the transducers provided within the instrument housing  312  of the mechanical testing assembly  112  are correspondingly configured to measure the indentation or deformation depths from a macro scale down to a nano scale. 
     At  806 , one or more properties of the sample  200  are quantitatively determined with the mechanical testing assembly  112 . As previously described herein, in one example, the mechanical testing assembly  112  includes a controller  202  including therein a property assessment module. The controller  202  is in communication with the instruments of the mechanical testing assembly  112  such as the transducers and the probe  114  to accordingly interpret measurement data obtained with the probe  114  and the transducers therein and determine one or more characteristics of the sample  200  under consideration including but not limited to hardness, modulus of elasticity or the like. 
     Several options for the method  800  follow. In one example, the method  800  includes moving the objective turret  104 , and the optical instrument  106  and the objective testing module  108  coupled with the objective turret are moved as the object turret is moved for instance by rotation or translation. Optionally, the objective testing module  108  is aligned with the test location determined through the optical instrument by way of movement of the objective turret. For instance the objective turret is configured to accurately move the objective testing module  108  into alignment or near alignment with the test location determined by the optical instrument  106  (see  FIGS. 2A and 2B ). 
     In another example, testing at the test location for instance with the objective testing module  108  having the mechanical testing assembly  112  therein includes moving a probe  114  into the sample  200  at the test location with a transducer, for instance one or more of the transducers  412 ,  414  shown in  FIG. 4 . Additionally, testing at the test location includes measuring one or more of force applied at the test location with the probe  114  or displacement of the probe at the test location. That is to say, the transducers such as the transducers  412 ,  414  are configured to measure one or more of the displacement or force of the probe during deformation of the sample. Optionally, moving the probe  114  into the sample  200  includes moving the probe from an elevated position to at least a partially submerged position within a medium to engage the sample  200  submerged within the medium. In one example, the medium includes but is not limited to fluids such as liquids, gels, colloids, biological matter and other substances interposed between the probe  114  and the sample prior to engagement of the sample by the probe. Because the probe  114  is advanced with one or more of the actuators  302 ,  304  or optionally the transducers associated with the mechanical testing assembly  112  the probe is closely positioned and engaged with the sample. Accordingly, the probe  114  is not repeatedly passed through intervening substances (between the test location and the probe) and any effect provided by a medium surrounding the sample is substantially minimized. Accordingly, the transducers such as the transducers  412 ,  414  are able to readily transmit displacement from the probe  114  to the sample and accurately measure the corresponding displacement and force applied by the probe  114  through deformation of the sample. 
     In one example, the method  800  includes approaching the test location with a first actuator such as the first actuator  302  shown in  FIG. 3B . In one example, the first actuator  302  is coupled between a module base  300  of the objective testing module  301  and the mechanical testing assembly  112 . The first actuator  302  moves the mechanical testing assembly  112  along one or more axes for instance one or more of z, x or y axes. Referring now to the example shown in  FIG. 4 , the first actuator  302  is shown coupled between a module base  110  and the mechanical testing assembly  112 . As shown the first actuator  302  includes a first component actuator  406  providing translation of the mechanical testing assembly  112  along with a z axis and an optional second component actuator  408  providing lateral movement of the mechanical testing assembly  112  (e.g., along one or more of x and y axes). As shown in the example of  FIG. 4 , the first component actuator  406  is coupled with the mechanical testing assembly  112 . In another example, the second component actuator  408  is instead coupled with the mechanical testing assembly  112  and the first component actuator  406  is coupled with the module base  110  (e.g., with the first actuator flange  316 ). In still another example, the first component actuator  406  is nested within the second component actuator  408 . Optionally, the first component actuator  406  is sized and shaped to provide a range of motion for the mechanical testing assembly  112  of approximately 100 microns or less. 
     In another example, approaching the test location includes approaching the test location with a second actuator  304  shown in  FIGS. 3A , B. The second actuator  304  is, in one example, coupled between the module base  300  of the objective testing module  301  shown in  FIGS. 3A , B and the first actuator  302 . Accordingly, the first and second actuators  302 ,  304 , in one example, form a linkage of actuators configured to provide movement to the mechanical testing assembly  312  (optionally with different resolutions or ranges of motion). The second actuator  304  moves the mechanical testing assembly  312  along one or more axes including a z axis and optionally along an x or y axis. In one example, the second actuator  304  contrasts from the first actuator by providing a greater range of motion, for instance a range of motion of around one millimeter or less. Accordingly, the second actuator, in one example, is optionally configured to provide gross movement of the mechanical testing assembly  112  relative to more fine movement provided by the first actuator  302 . 
     In another example, the method  800  includes in-situ observation of the test location during testing with the objective testing module. As shown for instance in  FIG. 7 , in one example, an objective testing module  706  is oriented at a first orientation relative to a sample  704  positioned on a sample stage  702  (e.g., directed downward toward the sample). An optical instrument  710  is also directed at the sample  704  and is provided in a second orientation to view the sample  704  from below. With each of the objective testing module  706  and the optical instrument  710  directed at the sample  704  the optical instrument  710  views the sample  704  during the mechanical testing procedure performed by the objective testing module  706  (e.g., with the probe  708 ). In still another example testing at the test location includes electrical characteristic testing. For instance, each of the objective testing module  108  and the sample stage  116  shown for instance in  FIG. 1  include corresponding electrical contacts. A potential is applied across the probe  114  and the sample stage  116  while the probe is engaged with a sample provided on the stage. Electrical characteristics of the sample are accordingly measured by way of measuring the potential or other electrical property. In still another example testing at the test location includes a mechanical deformation based testing of biological or transparent materials. 
     In another example, testing at the test location includes dynamic mechanical testing. For instance, the probe  114  applies a dual component force to a sample, such as the sample  200  shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B . One component of the force is a quasi-static force corresponding to for instance a constant voltage applied across opposed plates  504  of the transducer such as the transducer assembly  500  shown in  FIG. 5 . Another component of the actuation force corresponds to an oscillatory force provided by an oscillating voltage applied across the opposing plates  504  in combination with the quasi-static force. The oscillatory force oscillates the center plate  506  and accordingly oscillates the probe  114 . The probe  114  is dynamically engaged with the sample  200  and resulting force and displacement are measured. Dynamic mechanical testing is used in one example, with materials having low moduli of elasticity (e.g., that readily deform when a static force or displacement is applied). In a similar manner to the testing methods described herein, the oscillatory movement of the probe  114  and the corresponding mechanical response (e.g., displacement and force) of the sample  200  are measured with the transducers (e.g., the transducer  500  shown in  FIG. 5 ). That is to say, the resulting electrical signal provided by the center plate  506  is interpreted to measure the corresponding displacement and force applied by the probe  114  (and with the controller  202  of the objecting testing module) determine one or more characteristics of the sample. 
     VARIOUS NOTES &amp; EXAMPLES 
     Example 1 can include a microscope assembly comprising: a microscope body; an objective turret movably coupled with the microscope body; an optical instrument configured for optical microscope observations, the optical instrument is coupled with the objective turret; and an objective testing module coupled with the objective turret, the objective testing module includes: a module base coupled with an objective socket of the objective turret, and a mechanical testing assembly coupled with the module base, the mechanical testing assembly is configured to mechanically test a sample at a macro scale or less and quantitatively determine one or more properties of the sample. 
     Example 2 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Example 1, to optionally include wherein the mechanical testing assembly includes a probe and one or more transducers coupled with the probe, the probe is movable relative to the module base, and the transducer measures one or more of force applied to a sample by the probe or displacement of the probe within the sample. 
     Example 3 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 or 2 to optionally include wherein at least the probe is movable between two or more positions including: an elevated position, and an at least partially submerged position, wherein the probe is partially submerged within a medium to engage a sample submerged in the medium. 
     Example 4 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 through 3 to optionally include a controller having a property assessment module, the controller is in communication with the mechanical testing assembly, and the property assessment module assesses the one or more properties of the sample according to mechanical testing by the mechanical testing assembly. 
     Example 5 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-4 to optionally include a motor coupled between the microscope body and the objective turret, the motor is configured to move the objective turret, the objective testing module and the optical instrument. 
     Example 6 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-5 to optionally include a first actuator coupled between the module base and the mechanical testing assembly, and the first actuator is configured to move the mechanical testing assembly relative to the module base. 
     Example 7 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-6 to optionally include a second actuator coupled between the module base and the first actuator, and the second actuator is configured to move the mechanical testing assembly and the first actuator relative to the objective turret. 
     Example 8 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-7 to optionally include wherein the optical instrument includes at least one objective lens. 
     Example 9 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-8 to optionally include an objective testing module configured for installation within an objective turret of an instrument, the objective testing module comprising: a module base configured for coupling with an objective socket of an objective turret of an instrument, and a mechanical testing assembly coupled with the module base, the mechanical testing assembly is configured to: 
     mechanically test a sample at a macro scale or less, and quantitatively determine one or more properties of the sample. 
     Example 10 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-9 to optionally include wherein the mechanical testing assembly includes a probe and one or more transducers coupled with the probe, the probe is movable relative to the module base, and the transducer measures one or more of force applied to a sample by the probe and displacement of the probe within the sample. 
     Example 11 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-10 to optionally include wherein the transducer includes one or more capacitive transducers, and each of the one or more capacitive transducers includes two or more plates. 
     Example 12 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-11 to optionally include wherein the transducer includes at least first and second capacitive transducers, and the first capacitive transducer provides translation for the probe along a z-axis, and the second capacitive transducer provides movement for the probe along a second axis transverse to the z-axis. 
     Example 13 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-12 to optionally include wherein at least the probe is movable between two or more positions including: an elevated position, and an at least partially submerged position, wherein the probe is partially submerged within a medium to engage a sample submerged in the medium. 
     Example 14 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-13 to optionally include a controller having a property assessment module, the controller is in communication with the mechanical testing assembly, and the property assessment module assesses the one or more properties of the sample according to mechanical testing by the mechanical testing assembly. 
     Example 15 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-14 to optionally include a first actuator coupled between the module base and the mechanical testing assembly, and the first actuator is configured to move the mechanical testing assembly relative to the module base. 
     Example 16 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-15 to optionally include wherein the first actuator moves the mechanical testing assembly in one or more axes, the range of motion provided by the first actuator along the one or more axes is 100 microns or less. 
     Example 17 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-16 to optionally include a second actuator coupled between the module base and the first actuator, and the second actuator is configured to move the mechanical testing assembly and the first actuator. 
     Example 18 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-17 to optionally include wherein the second actuator moves the mechanical testing assembly along one or more axes, the range of motion provided by the second actuator along the one or more axes is 1 millimeter or less. 
     Example 19 can include, or can optionally be combined with a method of testing a sample comprising: locating a test location on a sample with an optical instrument configured for optical microscope observations; testing at the test location with an objective testing module, the objective testing module includes a mechanical testing assembly configured to mechanically test at a macro scale or less; and quantitatively determining one or more properties of the sample with the mechanical testing assembly. 
     Example 20 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-19 to optionally include moving the objective turret, the optical instrument and the objective testing module coupled with the objective turret, the objective testing module is aligned with the test location through movement of the objective turret. 
     Example 21 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-20 to optionally include wherein moving the objective turret includes rotating the objective turret and the objective testing module and the optical instrument relative to a microscope body. 
     Example 22 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-21 to optionally include wherein testing at the test location includes: moving a probe into the sample at the test location with a transducer, and measuring one or more of force applied at the test location with the probe or displacement of the probe at the test location. 
     Example 23 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-22 to optionally include wherein moving the probe into the sample includes moving the probe from an elevated position to an at least partially submerged position within a medium to engage the sample submerged in the medium. 
     Example 24 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-23 to optionally include approaching the test location with a first actuator coupled between a module base of the objective testing module and the mechanical testing assembly, and the first actuator moves the mechanical testing assembly along one or more axes. 
     Example 25 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-24 to optionally include wherein approaching the test location includes movement along a z axis and one or more of movement along an x or y axis of a probe of the mechanical testing assembly. 
     Example 26 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-25 to optionally include wherein approaching the test location with the first actuator includes the first actuator moving the mechanical testing assembly through a range of motion of 100 microns or less. 
     Example 27 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-26 to optionally include wherein approaching the test location includes approaching the test location with a second actuator coupled between the module base and the first actuator, and the second actuator moves the mechanical testing assembly along one or more axes. 
     Example 28 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-27 to optionally include wherein approaching the test location with the second actuator includes the second actuator moving the mechanical testing assembly through a range of motion of 1 millimeter or less. 
     Example 29 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-28 to optionally include wherein quantitatively determining the one or more properties of the sample includes assessing the one or more properties of the sample with a property assessment module according to the testing at the test location. 
     Example 30 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-29 to optionally include installing the objective testing module within an objective socket of an objective turret. 
     Example 31 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-30 to optionally include in-situ observation of the test location during testing at the test location with the objective testing module. 
     Example 32 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-31 to optionally include wherein testing at the test location includes testing at the test location with the objective testing module in a first orientation, and in-situ observation of the test location includes observing the test location in a second orientation, different from the first orientation. 
     Example 33 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-32 to optionally include wherein testing at the test location includes electrical characteristic testing. 
     Example 34 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-33 to optionally include wherein testing at the test location includes mechanical deformation based testing of biological or transparent materials. 
     Example 35 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-34 to optionally include wherein testing at the test location includes dynamic mechanical testing. 
     Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or can be combined in any permutation or combination with any one or more of the other examples. 
     The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein. 
     In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls. 
     In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. 
     Method examples described herein can be machine or computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include a computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of such methods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code can include computer readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form portions of computer program products. Further, in an example, the code can be tangibly stored on one or more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the like. 
     The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.