Biological Sample Testing System with In-Situ Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing biological samples are limited in their ability to simulate real-world conditions and perform sophisticated imaging and testing routines.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a frame with apertures and covers, combined with an electromagnetic imaging device, allows for the testing of biological samples in a more realistic environment, enabling the evaluation of biofilms through imaging and fluid treatment cycles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If samples are extracted from a larger quantity of fluid at periodic intervals, then imaging can be performed, but the ability to simulate real-world conditions and perform sophisticated testing is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the testing environment into multiple independent chambers (first chamber, second chamber, third chamber) that can be individually controlled and imaged. Each chamber can be selectively accessed for imaging while others remain undisturbed, enabling sophisticated multi-parameter testing without extracting samples from a single large fluid volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary imaging apparatus that can penetrate through the chamber walls to image biological samples in situ. This intermediary imaging capability allows sophisticated testing parameters to be measured without extracting samples, thereby maintaining real-world simulation conditions while enabling precise measurement.
2Measurement precision
If the container containing the fluid under test is imaged directly, then imaging is possible, but the ability to simulate real-world conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamically controllable chamber conditions where fluids can be introduced, removed, or exchanged in each chamber independently. The imaging apparatus can dynamically adjust its positioning and imaging parameters to capture biological samples at different stages of development while maintaining realistic environmental conditions such as temperature, pressure, and fluid composition.
Solution Approach 2:
Each chamber in the system can be independently configured with specific local conditions (fluid composition, temperature, pressure) tailored to simulate particular real-world environments. The imaging apparatus can selectively image specific chambers with their unique local conditions preserved, enabling sophisticated testing that accurately reflects real-world scenarios.
3Measurement precision
If multiple apertures and covers are used to simulate real-world conditions, then testing accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging apparatus is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as an imaging device and as a control mechanism for the chamber environment. The same apparatus that images the biological samples also controls the introduction and removal of fluids, maintains temperature and pressure conditions, and manages the aperture and cover mechanisms, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the sophisticated testing capabilities.
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
This system enables more accurate and effective testing of biological samples by simulating real-world conditions, allowing for the evaluation of biofilm growth rates, volume, roughness, and other parameters before and after treatment cycles.
Implementation Method 1
An electromagnetic imaging device is configured to image the one or more biological samples through the first cover
Data Source
AI summary
A system for testing biological samples includes a frame having first and second sides and an aperture extending through the frame from the first side to the second side. First and second covers are attached to the first and second sides of the frame to form a well bounded by the frame, the first cover, and the second cover. An electromagnetic imaging device is used to image the biological sample through the first cover. A method is also conceived, wherein a first fluid is supplied to the well, the first fluid including live cells. A biofilm is grown from the live cells. A second fluid is supplied to the well and the biofilm is imaged using the electromagnetic imaging device.