We’re pleased to share that our DSX1000 digital microscope won an iF Design Award 2022—a global symbol of design excellence. The microscope was recognized for its easy-to-use controls that can be used for a wide range of inspection workflows.
Since its release in 2019, the DSX1000 digital microscope has been introduced to many analysis operations in research and development (R&D) and quality assurance (QA) departments. Our customers like its easy operations (particularly the tilt function), macro-to-micro imaging (eliminating the need for multiple microscopes), and versatility for wide range of sample types.
We chatted with Shodai Hosono, a product leader who worked on the DSX1000 system, to learn more about the microscope design and how it increases inspection efficiency.
Q: Tell us about the design concept for the DSX1000 digital microscope.
Shodai: We listened carefully to our customers, analyzed what they were having trouble with, and thoroughly investigated solutions that matched our customer's needs. For their analysis work, our customers had to purchase several microscopes depending on the application. As a result, they needed to spend hours to learn how to use them and find enough space for the equipment. Further, the analysis time and results changed depending on the experience level of the user. We incorporated solutions to these challenges into the product design.
Q: How did you design the microscope to address these challenges?
Shodai: The main goal was to achieve easy operation so anyone can use the system for analysis work— regardless of their experience level. We focused on three areas in particular:
1. Tilt function
In analysis work, it is necessary to observe samples from all directions to discover defects. Intuitive operation was a top priority so that anyone can easily perform tilt observation to view samples from different angles. We designed the handle so you can immediately recognize that the handle is for tilting the frame and easily control the tilt with one hand.
Tilt the frame to view samples from multiple angles
2. Sliding nosepiece
The system is designed for analysis applications that require magnification changes to observe a wide variety of samples. You can quickly change the magnification in one motion—simply slide an objective lens into the sliding nosepiece. Using a click mechanism for positioning, the system automatically updates the magnification and visual field information when you insert and remove the lens. This design enables you to switch magnification without losing your view of the target object.
Slide the lens to quickly change magnification
3. Compact zoom head with 6 observation methods
Equipped with six observation methods, the DSX1000 digital microscope is designed for analysis applications that may require multiple observation methods to view different sample details or defects. All observation methods are electrically controlled, so you can easily switch between them by pressing a button on the console.
Easily switch observation methods by pressing a button on the console
Normally electric control requires mounting many parts, such as motors and control boards. Adding more parts increases the size and weight of the equipment. As the weight increases, the frame becomes heavier during tilting. This presented a challenge when designing an ergonomic tilting function. By innovating the layout of the zoom head, we created a compact design and reduced the amount of force needed to tilt the frame.
Compact zoom head includes six observation methods
About the iF Design Award
Established in Germany during 1953, the iF Design Award is one of the world’s most prestigious design awards. The iF logo marks good design and is a badge of quality for consumers and the design community alike. An independent jury of international design experts meets to determine award-winning designs, based on a set of objective screening standards.
Learn More About Our Award-Winning Digital Microscope
Learn more about the award-winning design of the DSX1000 digital microscope online. Plus, discover the ways the system can help you get faster, more accurate failure analysis in our post, 5 Advantages of the DSX1000 Digital Microscope.
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