Automated Blood Cell Imaging System for Morphology Preservation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flow cytometry-based systems for Complete Blood Count (CBC) require extensive calibration, skilled operators, and are costly, with a significant proportion of blood specimens needing further manual testing for morphologic components, leading to increased time and costs due to mechanical distortions and cell overlapping issues during smear preparation.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for imaging cells on a slide, allowing for improved visualization and counting of blood components, including RBCs, WBCs, and platelets, using automated imaging systems to reduce the need for manual microscopic review, preserve cell morphology, and decrease costs and operator time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If flow cytometry-based systems are used for CBC, then automated cell counting is achieved, but extensive calibration, skilled operators, and high costs are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses digital imaging to create visual copies of blood cells on a slide, allowing automated analysis of cell morphology without requiring complex flow cytometry instrumentation. The imaging system captures photographs of cells that can be analyzed by software, replacing the need for sophisticated optical flow analysis systems while maintaining automated counting capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical flow cytometry system with a static imaging system. Instead of using flow chambers and optical sensors to analyze moving cells, the system uses digital cameras to photograph cells arranged on a slide, substituting mechanical measurement with optical imaging and digital image processing
2Measurement precision
If manual smear preparation is performed, then morphologic components can be examined, but mechanical distortions and cell overlapping occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-arranging cells in a monolayer on the slide before imaging, preventing cell overlap and distortion before the examination process begins. This is achieved through automated cell deposition or careful sample preparation that spreads cells evenly, ensuring they are properly positioned for accurate imaging and analysis
3Measurement precision
If manual microscopic review is required, then accurate cell visualization is achieved, but increased time and operator costs result
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates digital copies of cell images that can be analyzed automatically by computer software. These digital images serve as substitutes for manual microscopic examination, allowing automated algorithms to identify and count cells without requiring a technologist to physically examine each slide, thereby reducing turnaround time while maintaining diagnostic accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by implementing automated image analysis software that independently examines the captured cell images. The software automatically identifies cell types, counts cells, and flags abnormal findings without requiring manual intervention, allowing the system to perform its own analysis function that previously required skilled operators
4Reliability
If a significant proportion of specimens require further manual testing, then complete assessment is achieved, but increased costs and processing time result
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using the automated imaging and analysis system to provide immediate results that indicate whether further manual testing is needed. The system analyzes cell morphology and counts automatically, providing feedback on specimen quality and completeness, allowing laboratories to reduce unnecessary manual reviews while maintaining reliable assessment of specimens that do require further examination
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods analyzing body fluids such as blood and bone marrow are disclosed. The systems and methods may utilize an improved technique for applying a monolayer of cells to a slide to generate a substantially uniform distribution of cells on the slide. Additionally aspects of the invention also relate to systems and methods for utilizing multi color microscopy for improving the quality of images captured by a light receiving device.