Capillary Calibration via Multi-Angle Optical Triangulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the spatial orientation of capillaries, particularly those made of glass or transparent materials, face challenges due to manufacturing tolerances, environmental changes, and physical influences, leading to difficulties in precise positioning and increased susceptibility to errors, especially in automated systems.
Innovation Solution
A calibration device utilizing a spatially resolving detector and dual illumination sources at different angles, combined through beam-combining optical elements, allows for precise determination of capillary position and orientation via triangulation, enabling accurate positioning and integrity inspection of capillaries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical observation methods are used to determine capillary position, then positioning precision can be achieved in the sub-micrometer range, but the method fails when using transparent capillaries and cannot detect tilt or defects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies lighting effects that create visible contrast patterns on transparent capillary surfaces. By using specifically oriented light sources, the transparent capillary material displays detectable optical patterns (reflections, refractions, shadows) that enable position and tilt detection, effectively making the transparent object visible to the detection system without altering the capillary itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary between the transparent capillary and the detector. The lighting system creates optical intermediaries (reflected light patterns, shadow edges) that carry information about the capillary's position and orientation, allowing indirect detection of transparent objects that would otherwise be invisible
2Extent of automation
If tactile measuring devices are used to determine capillary position automatically, then automation can be achieved, but the risk of capillary breakage increases and mechanical design is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces tactile/mechanical measurement methods with optical measurement methods. Instead of using physical probes that touch the capillary (which cause breakage), the system uses light-based detection that contacts the capillary only optically, eliminating mechanical stress and breakage risk while maintaining automation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses light as a non-contact intermediary to transfer information about capillary position from the capillary to the detector without mechanical contact. This intermediary approach enables automated measurement while completely avoiding the harmful mechanical forces that cause breakage
3Measurement precision
If manual calibration of capillary position is performed, then positioning accuracy can be achieved, but time is consumed and automation is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-calibration through automated optical detection. The system automatically detects capillary position, determines tilt, and calculates correction values without human intervention. The capillary essentially calibrates itself by presenting its optical characteristics to the automated detection system, eliminating manual calibration time while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback loops where the optical detection system continuously monitors capillary position, compares it to target positions, and provides real-time correction data. This automated feedback mechanism replaces manual calibration iterations, achieving the same precision goals without the time loss associated with manual adjustment cycles
4Device complexity
If single-angle illumination is used for capillary detection, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and ability to determine spatial orientation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-angle (2D projection) illumination to multi-angle (3D spatial) illumination. By adding illumination from multiple angles, the system creates multiple optical perspectives that enable determination of three-dimensional capillary orientation including tilt, transforming a planar detection problem into a volumetric one that captures full spatial information
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 solution provides reliable and reproducible spatial positioning of capillary tips with high accuracy, reducing the risk of errors and contamination, and allows for documentation of capillary conditions and fill levels, enhancing automation and precision in biological and medical applications.
Implementation Method 1
A calibration device (100) is designed to optically determine the spatial orientation of a capillary (1) held on a holder (9)
Implementation Method 2
two detection beam paths (a, b) with an illumination source (2.1, 2.2) each
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a calibration apparatus and a method for ascertaining the spatial alignment of a capillary (1) held in a holder (9). The apparatus comprises at least one spatially resolving detector (5.1, 5.2, 5c), at least one illumination source (2.1, 2.2) and the holder (9) for holding the capillary (1) in the form of a cannula, a needle or a pipette tip, wherein the holder (9) by means of the at east one illumination source (2.1, 2.2) is illuminated by illumination light from preferably at least two illumination angles and at least two detection beam paths (a, b) are assigned to the at least one detector (5.1, 5.2, 5c), image data of the holder (9) being in each case detected from different recording angles along said detection beam paths by the detector (5.1, 5.2, 5c). The apparatus furthermore comprises an evaluation unit (7) that is configured in such a way that the presence and the spatial alignment of a capillary (1) held in the holder (7) can be ascertained by way of a comparison of the detected image data and the different imaging regions thereof on the basis of the image data detected at different recording angles.