Optical Detector Voltage Coefficient Correction for Particle Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Optical detectors such as PMTs exhibit variations in sensitivity due to individual differences and changes over time, leading to differences in output levels even when set to the same voltage, which affects the accuracy of particle detection and analysis.

Innovation Solution

A particle detection apparatus comprising a plurality of optical detectors with different applied voltage coefficients, and a processor that corrects optical data based on the differentiation between these coefficients and a predetermined coefficient, ensuring consistent output levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple optical detectors are used to detect fluorescence from particles, then the ability to detect multiple fluorochromes simultaneously is improved, but differences in sensitivity and output levels among detectors cause measurement precision to deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection capabilityVSAvoidoutput level consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by introducing an applied voltage coefficient specific to each optical detector. This coefficient is determined based on the relationship between applied voltage and output level for each detector, and is used to normalize optical data across detectors with different sensitivities, thereby resolving the output level inconsistency while maintaining multi-detector functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by using the determined applied voltage coefficients to correct optical data from each detector. The system continuously references these coefficients during data processing to compensate for sensitivity differences, ensuring consistent measurement precision across all detectors in the array

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If manual voltage control is implemented to standardize detector output levels, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput level consistencyVSAvoidvoltage control mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical/manual voltage control system with an automated computational approach. Instead of physically adjusting voltages to match output levels, the system uses applied voltage coefficients in data processing to achieve normalization, eliminating complex voltage control mechanisms while maintaining measurement precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces applied voltage coefficients as an intermediary parameter between the detectors and the data analysis system. These coefficients serve as correction factors that mediate the differences in detector sensitivity, allowing standardized measurements without direct manual intervention in voltage control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If manual voltage adjustment is required for each detector, then output level consistency is improved, but ease of operation and productivity are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput level consistencyVSAvoiddetector setup process
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables self-service by allowing the system to automatically determine applied voltage coefficients for each detector based on their inherent characteristics. The system performs self-calibration by establishing the relationship between applied voltage and output level for each detector, eliminating the need for manual adjustment while achieving consistent output levels

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-determining the applied voltage coefficients for each detector before actual particle analysis. This preliminary calibration step establishes the correction factors that will be used throughout the analysis process, simplifying subsequent operations while ensuring measurement consistency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 precisely corrects differences in output levels from detection units with varying applied voltage coefficients, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of particle detection and analysis without the need for re-preparation of samples or manual voltage control.

Implementation Method 1

irradiating the particles with a laser beam or the like to detect fluorescence or scattered light that has been emitted from each of the particles

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluorescence: Fluorescence

Implementation Method 2

irradiating the particles with a laser beam or the like to detect fluorescence or scattered light that has been emitted from each of the particles

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight scattering: Scattering

Data Source

PatentUS12298218B2Particle detection apparatus, information processing apparatus, information processing method, and particle detection method
Publication Date: 2025.05.13 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US12298218B2 patent drawing
  • US12298218B2 patent drawing
  • US12298218B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A particle detection apparatus is provided that includes: a plurality of optical detectors configured to detect light from a particle, wherein at least one of optical detectors has an applied voltage coefficient different from other optical detectors; and a processor including a processing device and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processing device, cause the processor to: correct optical data obtained from the particle in accordance with differentiation between applied voltage coefficients of the plurality of optical detectors and a predetermined applied voltage coefficient.