Chromatic Aberration Multiplanar Imaging for Cytometry Speed
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated scanning cytometry systems face limitations in speed and efficiency due to the need for sequential acquisition of test object planes, which results in prolonged scanning times and reduced performance in high-resolution imaging, especially when dealing with large cell populations and rare cell detection.
Innovation Solution
The use of chromatic aberration within the optical path of a microscope system to simultaneously acquire multiple focal planes, allowing for parallel autofocus and image acquisition across different object planes, thereby enhancing scanning speed and image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sequential acquisition of test object planes is used, then image quality can be maintained, but scanning speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single imaging task into multiple simultaneous imaging planes by utilizing chromatic aberration. Different wavelengths of light are focused at different depths, allowing the system to capture multiple object planes at once instead of sequentially, thereby improving scanning speed while maintaining image quality through parallel acquisition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional image acquisition to three-dimensional multiplanar acquisition by exploiting the depth dimension through chromatic aberration. By using the natural focal separation of different wavelengths, the system captures images at multiple depths simultaneously, converting a sequential 2D process into a parallel 3D process
2Measurement precision
If high numerical aperture objectives are used for high-resolution scans, then image resolution improves, but depth of field decreases requiring refocusing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs chromatic aberration as a self-service mechanism where the optical system's natural property of focusing different wavelengths at different depths is utilized beneficially. The chromatic aberration automatically creates the multiplanar separation needed for simultaneous imaging, eliminating the need for mechanical refocusing mechanisms and simplifying the overall system while maintaining high resolution
3Measurement precision
If sequential scanning is used to maintain focus accuracy, then measurement precision is preserved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-separating the focal planes using chromatic aberration before the actual imaging process. By having multiple focal planes already separated and ready for simultaneous capture, the system eliminates the need for sequential refocusing operations, thereby maintaining focus accuracy across all planes while dramatically increasing scanning throughput
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
This approach enables faster and more efficient scanning cytometry by allowing simultaneous acquisition of multiple object planes, improving scanning speed and maintaining high-resolution image quality, which is crucial for detecting rare cells and analyzing large cell populations.
Implementation Method 1
the lens focuses light of different wavelengths at different focal points along an optical axis
Data Source
AI summary
In an automated scanning cytometry system, chromatic aberration is used for multiplanar image acquisition.