Microscope balance compensator

摘要

An apparatus for providing counteracting force to overcome the off-center weight of a microscope assembly without counterweights. The apparatus is a microscope balance compensator which uses springs or gas pistons to compensate for a change in a moment developed in a microscope assembly when attachments are added or removed or when the tilt angle of the microscope is changed. The microscope balance compensator includes one device for applying counteracting force about a tilt axis and another device for applying counteracting force about a tip axis oriented perpendicular to the tilt axis. Each counteracting force is applied at discrete angles relative to the pivot centers and is adjustable. The apparatus provides balance compensation over a wide range without adding counterweight, thereby minimizing the total weight of the microscope.