3D Temporal Analysis of 3D-Cultivated Cells Without Laser Damage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for observing 3D-cultivated cells, such as scan-type microscope systems and image processing, are inadequate for high-speed observation over time and may damage cells due to laser irradiation, limiting the ability to monitor temporal changes without inhibiting physiological states.
Innovation Solution
An analysis system and method that calculates feature amounts and reference positions from moving images captured at different focal positions, allowing for phase alignment and quantitative evaluation of movements without laser irradiation, enabling the analysis of 3-dimensional temporal changes in observation objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a scan-type microscope system is used for 3D recognition, then 3-dimensional recognition of the observation object is achieved, but high-speed observation is difficult and laser irradiation may damage cells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the observation process by capturing multiple still images at different focal positions along the optical axis, then processing these segmented images through image processing to reconstruct 3D information. This avoids the need for continuous laser scanning while achieving 3D recognition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates optical copies of the observation object at different focal planes by capturing multiple still images. These image copies are then processed to generate 3D information, eliminating the need for physical laser scanning of the actual specimen.
2Measurement precision
If a scan-type microscope system is used for 3D recognition, then 3-dimensional recognition of the observation object is achieved, but laser irradiation may damage cells and inhibit physiological states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical copying by capturing still images at different focal positions and processing these images computationally. This eliminates direct laser irradiation of the living cells while preserving 3D recognition capability through image-based reconstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical laser scanning system with an image processing-based approach. Instead of physically scanning laser beams through the specimen, the system captures multiple images and uses computational methods to extract 3D information, thereby eliminating laser-induced cell damage.
3Measurement precision
If image processing is used to generate 3D images from still images, then 3D visualization is achieved, but temporal changes over time cannot be observed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by capturing multiple still images at different focal positions at specific time points, then processes these images to generate 3D information. This preliminary image capture and processing enables subsequent temporal observation by repeating the process at different time points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous observation of temporal changes by repeatedly performing the image capture and processing sequence at different time points. The useful action of 3D image generation is made continuous through time-series observation, allowing tracking of temporal changes while maintaining 3D visualization capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
[Object] To provide an analysis system, an analysis program, and an analysis method suited for analyzing a 3-dimensional temporal state of an observation object. [Solving Means] An analysis system according to the present technique includes a feature amount calculation section and a reference position calculation section. The feature amount calculation section calculates a feature amount in each of a plurality of moving images of a sample including an observation object, that have been captured at different focal positions, the plurality of moving images having the same phase of movements. The reference position calculation section calculates a reference position of the observation object in a focus direction based on the feature amount.