Detector Array Flow Profile Measurement in Microfluidic Sample Chambers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining flow properties in sample chambers, particularly in small dimensions, face challenges in accurately measuring speed and direction of flowing media due to limitations in spatial resolution and calibration requirements.
Innovation Solution
The method involves detecting detection radiation from confocal volumes using a detector array with individually readable elements, calculating cross correlations between pairs of detector elements, and analyzing these correlations to determine speed and direction of flow, allowing for precise measurement of flow profiles without the need for exact calibration of confocal volumes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional fluorescence correlation spectroscopy methods are used to measure flow properties in small sample chambers, then spatial resolution can be improved, but calibration complexity and equipment requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses commercially available spheroids with known diameters as flow tracers instead of requiring complex calibration procedures. These standardized objects serve as disposable calibration references that eliminate the need for intricate equipment calibration while providing sufficient measurement precision for flow properties in small sample chambers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct velocity measurement to displacement measurement of fluorescently labeled spheroids. By tracking the position changes of these standardized objects over time, the system achieves accurate flow property determination without complex calibration, as the known spheroid dimensions provide a reference framework for calculations.
2Loss of information
If confocal laser scanning microscopy is used to identify movements in sample chambers, then speed and direction data can be obtained, but sample consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses fluorescently labeled spheroids as representative copies or proxies for the actual medium flow characteristics. Instead of analyzing the entire medium sample, these standardized fluorescent objects serve as simplified models that replicate flow behavior, enabling complete flow profile data acquisition while consuming minimal sample material.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluorescent spheroids self-mark their own positions and movements through their intrinsic fluorescent properties. The confocal laser scanning microscopy system detects these self-emitting signals, eliminating the need for additional staining or labeling procedures that would consume more sample. The spheroids provide their own detection signal throughout the 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
This approach enables high-precision determination of flow properties and profiles in small sample chambers with minimal equipment outlay, providing detailed insights into flow behavior and properties such as speed and direction, while conserving samples and reducing calibration complexity.
Implementation Method 1
detecting detection radiation that originates in a confocal volume generated in the sample chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a microscope determine flow properties in a sample chamber through which a medium flows. The method includes detecting detection radiation from a confocal volume generated in the sample chamber with a plurality of detector elements of a detector in the form of a detector array at a plurality of points in time. The detector is arranged in a plane conjugate to the rear-side image plane of an objective. The measurement values from the detector elements can be analyzed individually. Cross correlations of the acquired measurement values from the detector elements of at least one pair are generated in two directions and analyzed. The confocal volume is generated at at least two mutually different locations of the sample chamber. At each location, a speed and optionally a movement direction of the medium are determined to create a flow profile over at least one region of the sample chamber.