Automated Raman Probe Mapping Across Non-Uniform Tissue Surfaces

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional Raman signal measurement on ex vivo tissue samples is challenging due to the short sample lifetime, non-uniform sample surfaces, and contamination from ambient light, limiting the number of measurements and accuracy of clinical assessment.

Innovation Solution

An automated system using a cartesian robot, high-resolution 3D imaging, and spectroscopic imaging device to systematically map and acquire Raman spectra on tissue samples, with features like pressure sensing, marking, and automated cleaning to ensure precise and consistent measurements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual measurement locations are used on non-uniform tissue surfaces, then measurement precision is difficult to maintain, but the system complexity increases when trying to cover complete tissue surface

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement location precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated robot system that uses image processing and computer vision to precisely locate and navigate to measurement points on the tissue surface, eliminating human error in manual positioning while maintaining system manageability through software-based control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a digital copy of the tissue surface through high-resolution imaging, allowing the system to analyze and map the complete surface geometry in advance, then use this digital model to automatically position measurement points without physically traversing the entire surface manually

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Quantity of substance

If multiple measurements are performed on ex vivo tissue samples, then comprehensive data is collected, but the short sample lifetime limits the number of measurements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of measurementsVSAvoidsample lifetime

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs all necessary measurements on the tissue sample while it is still fresh and viable, using automated rapid scanning to collect comprehensive data before the sample degrades. The system plans and executes multiple measurements in sequence, maximizing data collection within the limited time window before the sample becomes unsuitable for analysis

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent maintains continuous measurement capability by keeping the tissue sample in a controlled environment where it remains viable throughout the measurement process. The automated system continuously scans at different locations without interruption, ensuring that measurements are performed continuously until the sample lifetime is exhausted, maximizing the quantity of data collected

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Measurement precision

If Raman spectra measurements are performed in dark to avoid ambient light contamination, then measurement purity improves, but operational complexity increases due to light control requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveRaman signal purityVSAvoidoperational simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a light-tight chamber or enclosure as an intermediary structure between the tissue sample and the ambient environment. This physical barrier blocks ambient light from reaching the sample and detector, ensuring measurement purity without requiring complex active light control systems. The chamber acts as a passive mediator that automatically isolates the measurement process from environmental interference

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 system enables rapid and accurate Raman spectroscopy on non-uniform tissue surfaces, providing comprehensive data for histopathological assessment while minimizing contamination and ensuring optimal coverage and precision.

Implementation Method 1

measuring Raman Signal on an ex vivo tissue sample

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRaman scattering: Scattering

Implementation Method 2

The stage can comprise a pressure sensor configured to detect contact of the tip of the spectroscopic imaging device with the tissue sample

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure detection: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS12399127B2Automated Raman signal collection device

Publication Date: 2025.08.26 14336186 CANADA CORP (EXCLARO)

AI summary

A system for automated collection of Raman spectra from ex-vivo tissue samples is provided. The system may comprise a cartesian robot that moves a detachable Raman probe to points on the ex-vivo tissue sample that have been predetermined through a 3D image of the sample. Accordingly, methods of rapid acquisition of multiple Raman spectra from a heterogeneous tissue sample are provided. The inventive methods consider variable contours of the sample to provide Raman spectra from multiple points while generating optimal coverage of the sample. The inventive methods include cleaning the Raman probe between acquisitions of Raman spectra from the multiple points.