Blood Sampling Layout for Fast Optical ESR Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hematology analyzers face challenges in efficiently performing erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) measurements due to the need for complex equipment and interference with complete blood count (CBC) operations, which are not compatible with automated systems and require significant infrastructure and processing time, leading to oversizing and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A device with separate groups for smear preparation and ESR measurement, using an infrared light source and optical sensor to measure light transmission changes independently of CBC operations, allowing for decoupled sedimentation rate determination through a converter that calculates ESR based on optical density ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the Westergren method is used for ESR measurement, then measurement accuracy is improved, but processing time increases to 1 hour and blood volume requirement increases to 1.6 ml
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical sedimentation process (Westergren method requiring 1 hour of actual sedimentation time) with an optical measurement system that uses light absorption and scattering properties to determine ESR values in seconds, thereby substituting a time-consuming physical process with a rapid optical detection method
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct sedimentation distance (mm/hr) to optical properties (light absorption, scattering, turbidity) that correlate with sedimentation rate, allowing indirect but rapid determination of ESR without waiting for actual sedimentation to occur
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single sampling system is used to serve both CBC and ESR measurement, then device integration is improved, but equipment complexity and infrastructure cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement system into separate independent modules: one for CBC analysis and another for ESR measurement, each with its own optimized sampling and detection system. This segmentation allows each module to be designed and operated independently, reducing the complexity of coordinating a single unified system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a sampling system with universal capability to serve multiple measurement functions (CBC and ESR) through independent parallel pathways, where a single blood draw can simultaneously feed both measurement systems without requiring complex distribution mechanisms
3Loss of time
If optical extinction measurements are used to determine sedimentation rate, then processing time is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces multiple intermediary optical measurement parameters (light absorption, light scattering, turbidity) that serve as mediators between the actual sedimentation process and the final ESR value. These intermediaries provide indirect but accurate information about sedimentation rate without requiring direct observation of particle settling
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the optical measurement system continuously monitors changes in light properties as sedimentation occurs, using this feedback information to dynamically adjust and refine the ESR calculation, thereby maintaining measurement precision in the rapid measurement process
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
Enables efficient, rapid, and cost-effective ESR measurement integration into existing hematology analyzers without disrupting CBC operations, reducing equipment and personnel costs, and optimizing throughput.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor comprising an infrared light source and an optical sensor arranged substantially opposite each other around a tube connected to an outlet end of at least one sampling organ such that the light emitted by the infrared light source reaches the optical sensor after passing through said tube
Implementation Method 2
the optical sensor is configured to perform a blank measurement after a rinsing operation. The device also includes a converter configured to receive a blank measurement and one or more light transmission measurements from the optical sensor, and to determine a sedimentation rate from the ratio between the blank measurement and the light transmission measurement(s)
Implementation Method 3
The aggregation of red blood cells is primarily caused by blood proteins... Aggregate formation involves the stacking of red blood cells into 'rolls,' then into three-dimensional structures. The sedimentation rate depends on the size of the aggregates and the viscosity of the plasma.
Implementation Method 4
During the final stages, the aggregates will settle, meaning they will gradually sink to the bottom of the tube
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A device for spreading or staining and for determining a sedimentation rate comprises a first group (4) arranged to collect a blood sample from a tube and to produce a smear of this sample, and a second group (6) arranged to collect a blood sample from a tube and to carry out a sedimentation rate determination. The device comprises at least one sampling member (8) controllable for an operation by the first group (4) and an operation by the second group (6) for taking a blood sample so that a sample taken for the first group (4) is not used by the second group (6), and that a sample taken for the second group (6) is not used by the first group (4), the second group (6) being provided with a sensor (20) comprising an infrared light source (12) and an optical sensor (14) which are arranged substantially opposite each other around a tube (16) connected to an outlet end of the at least one sampling member (8) so that the light emitted by the infrared light source (12) reaches the optical sensor (14) after passing through said tube (16). The device further comprises a converter (10) arranged to receive one or more light-transmission measurements from the optical sensor (14) and to determine a sedimentation rate.