Automatic Analysis Apparatus Polarization Switching Latex Aggregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic analysis apparatuses using latex aggregation reactions face challenges in achieving high sensitivity due to complex configurations and difficulties in measuring polarization changes caused by particle shape and concentration variations in the reaction liquid, particularly in handling different conditions such as particle size and concentration of latex particles and aggregation states.
Innovation Solution
An automatic analysis apparatus and method that selectively measures specific polarization components of light emitted from a reaction liquid containing a measuring object and latex particles, using a processor to determine the optimal polarization component based on the reaction liquid conditions, allowing for high sensitivity measurements by switching between depolarization and straight light measurements depending on concentration, and utilizing a limited angular range to enhance sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the scattering angle of the detector is changed or multiple detectors are disposed to handle different scattering angles, then the sensitivity for measuring aggregate change under different reaction liquid conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from scattering angle to polarization state. Instead of adjusting the detector angle or using multiple detectors for different scattering angles, the invention measures the polarization state of scattered light, which varies with aggregation state. This parameter transformation maintains measurement sensitivity across different reaction liquid conditions while avoiding the complexity of angle adjustment mechanisms or multiple detectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces polarization state as an intermediary parameter to indirectly measure aggregate change. Rather than directly detecting aggregate size or concentration variations through angle-dependent scattering, the invention uses polarization state changes as a mediator that reflects aggregation state without requiring complex angular measurements. The polarization analyzer acts as an intermediary device that simplifies the measurement system while maintaining sensitivity.
2Measurement precision
If polarization measurement is used to selectively measure scattered light with changed polarization state, then noise components are eliminated and measurement sensitivity is improved, but the ability to measure single scatterer polarization change is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by measuring only the polarization state changes that are relevant to aggregate formation, rather than attempting to measure all polarization changes including those from single scatterers. By focusing on the polarization anisotropy that develops during aggregation, the system achieves high sensitivity for its intended purpose while accepting that single scatterer measurements remain difficult. This selective measurement approach optimizes the system for aggregate detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the measurement from direct polarization angle measurement to polarization state analysis. By using polarization analyzers to detect changes in polarization state rather than attempting to measure subtle polarization changes from individual particles, the system overcomes the difficulty of detecting single scatterer effects while maintaining high sensitivity for aggregate measurement through parameter transformation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus achieves high sensitivity in measuring latex aggregation reactions across a wide range of concentrations by selectively measuring depolarization or straight light components, improving sensitivity and signal quality while maintaining a simple configuration, and effectively quantifying aggregation reactions from low to high concentrations.
Implementation Method 1
irradiating the reaction vessel with irradiation light as predetermined incident light polarization
Implementation Method 2
measuring light emitted from the reaction vessel
Implementation Method 3
a reaction liquid in which a measuring object and a reagent are mixed with each other
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic analysis apparatus includes a reaction vessel configured to contain a reaction liquid in which a measuring object and a reagent are mixed with each other, an irradiation unit configured to irradiate the reaction vessel with irradiation light as predetermined incident light polarization, a measurement unit configured to measure light emitted from the reaction vessel, and a processor configured to process a signal having a specific polarization component obtained from the measurement unit and to analyze the measuring object. The specific polarization component is determined based on the condition of the reaction liquid.