Blood Sample Microscopy for Optical Measurement Error Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical measurement systems for biological samples, such as blood samples, suffer from errors due to sample degradation, environmental factors, and equipment malfunctions, leading to inaccurate results.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method to identify and account for errors by analyzing microscopic images of blood samples within a sample chamber, including determining cell settling dynamics, identifying specific cell types, and calibrating measurements based on image analysis to ensure accurate optical density and concentration calculations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical measurements are performed on blood samples in sample carriers, then diagnostic information can be obtained, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to sample degradation, environmental factors, and equipment malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary error identification by analyzing microscopic images of the sample before final optical density measurements are taken. This allows detection of settling artifacts, bubbles, and other sample issues that would compromise measurement accuracy, enabling corrective actions to be taken beforehand
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where microscopic image analysis results are used to determine whether optical density measurements should be performed or invalidated. The computer processor uses the image analysis feedback to make intelligent decisions about measurement validity and triggers appropriate actions such as repeating the measurement or invalidating results
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple measurement methods (microscopic imaging and optical density) are used on blood samples, then comprehensive analysis is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines microscopic imaging capabilities and optical density measurement capabilities into a single integrated sample carrier system. Both measurement modes can be performed on the same sample using the same physical carrier, eliminating the need for separate sample preparation and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The sample carrier is designed as a multi-functional device that can accommodate both microscopic imaging and optical density measurements. The carrier structure and sample chamber are configured to support both measurement modalities, allowing a single carrier to serve multiple diagnostic purposes
3Measurement precision
If error identification and calibration procedures are implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but analysis time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs partial error checking by analyzing only key features in microscopic images (such as presence of bubbles, settling patterns, and sample quality indicators) rather than conducting exhaustive analysis. This selective approach provides sufficient error detection without requiring excessive processing time
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
Enhances the accuracy of optical measurements by identifying and correcting errors, ensuring reliable results by invalidating or calibrating measurements based on image analysis, thereby improving the precision of blood sample analysis.
Implementation Method 1
the concentration and/or density of a component may be measured by performing optical absorption, transmittance, fluorescence, and/or luminescence measurements upon the sample
Implementation Method 2
the concentration and/or density of a component may be measured by performing optical absorption, transmittance, fluorescence, and/or luminescence measurements upon the sample
Implementation Method 3
the concentration and/or density of a component may be measured by performing optical absorption, transmittance, fluorescence, and/or luminescence measurements upon the sample
Implementation Method 4
a microscope system is used that is generally similar to the microscope system described in US 2014/0347459 to Greenfield
Implementation Method 5
the optical measurement unit includes a microscope system configured to perform microscopic imaging of a portion of the sample
Implementation Method 6
each of which is configured to emit light at a respective wavelength or at a respective band of wavelengths
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods are described including preparing a blood sample for analysis by depositing the blood sample within a sample chamber (52), and placing the sample chamber, with the blood sample deposited therein, within a microscopy unit (24). One or more microscopic images of the sample chamber (52) with the blood sample deposited therein are acquired, using a microscope of the microscopy unit. Based upon the one or more images, an amount of one or more cell types within the sample chamber that had already settled within the sample chamber, prior to acquisition of the one or more microscopic images is determined. A characteristic of the sample is determined, at least partially in response thereto. Other applications are also described.