Cell Imaging System Using Modular Segmentation and Optical Filtering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cell capture and imaging systems are limited in their ability to perform multiple analyses on the same cell, allow for arbitrary cell subpopulation sorting, and prevent cell damage during removal, hindering further analysis and imaging of isolated cells.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an illumination module, a platform for positioning cells, a filter module, an optical sensor, and a focusing and optics module, along with a control system, thermal control module, image stabilization module, and processor, to facilitate manipulation and high-fidelity imaging of captured cells.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If flow cytometry is used to identify and sort cells, then cell identification and sorting are achieved, but multiple analyses of the same cell are limited and arbitrary cell subpopulation sorting is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the cell analysis process into distinct functional modules: cell capture device, illumination module, optical sensor, and control system. This modular segmentation allows independent optimization of each component and enables flexible reconfiguration for different analysis types, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system is designed with multi-functional capabilities to perform various cell analyses including identification, sorting, and multiple sequential observations. The system can handle different cell types and analysis protocols through a unified platform, achieving adaptability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If conventional microfluidic devices are used to isolate cells, then cell isolation is achieved, but cell damage occurs during removal which hinders further analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary imaging and characterization stage between cell isolation and cell removal. The optical sensor and illumination module serve as intermediaries that allow non-contact observation and analysis, enabling verification of cell integrity before removal operations, thus preventing damage while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary imaging and characterization of isolated cells before removal operations. This preliminary action allows assessment of cell condition and optimization of removal parameters, ensuring cell integrity is maintained while facilitating easy removal for further analysis.
3Productivity
If cellular filters are used to separate sample components, then size-based separation is achieved, but clogging occurs and specific cell identification is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical filtration with optical detection methods. Instead of using physical filters that cause clogging and lack identification capability, the system uses illumination modules and optical sensors to identify and characterize cells based on their optical properties, maintaining separation efficiency while enabling precise identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes optical property variations including color, fluorescence, and light scattering characteristics to identify and differentiate cell types. This optical-based identification method provides measurement precision without the clogging problems of mechanical filtration, maintaining productivity while enabling specific cell identification.
4Loss of time
If flow cytometry requires simultaneous identification and sorting, then sorting is achieved, but cell observation and imaging are limited to a single instance
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic operation modes that allow flexible switching between simultaneous sorting and sequential imaging. The control system dynamically adjusts operational parameters to enable either rapid sorting when time is critical or multiple imaging instances when comprehensive analysis is needed, resolving the contradiction between time efficiency and imaging versatility.
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 unbroken, focused imaging of cells within microfluidic capture devices, couples image data with cell identification and system parameters, and supports light-based diagnostic assays, improving the capability for cell-specific testing and analysis.
Implementation Method 1
an illumination module configured to transmit light toward one or more target objects of the biological sample
Implementation Method 2
an optical sensor configured to receive light from the target object and to generate image data
Implementation Method 3
a focusing and optics module configured to manipulate light transmitted to the optical sensor
Implementation Method 4
a filter module configured to filter light transmitted to the target object and/or to filter light received from the target object
Data Source
AI summary
A system for imaging captured cells comprising: an illumination module configured to illuminate a target object; a platform configured to position the target object in relation to the illumination module; a filter module configured to filter light transmitted to the target object and/or to filter light received from the target object, an optical sensor configured to receive light from the target object and to generate image data; and a focusing and optics module configured to manipulate light transmitted to the optical sensor. The system can further comprise one or more of: a control system configured to control at least one of the illumination module, the platform, the focusing and optics module, the filter module, and the optical sensor; a tag identifying system configured to identify and communicate tag information from system elements; a thermal control module configured to adjust temperature parameters of the system; and an image stabilization module.