Automated Embryo Imaging System for Viability Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating human embryo viability in IVF processes are inadequate, as they lack automated imaging and evaluation capabilities, failing to accurately predict developmental potential and often disrupt embryo integrity, and do not account for molecular programs or chromosomal composition.
Innovation Solution
An automated system and apparatus for imaging and evaluating human embryos, oocytes, or pluripotent cells using time-lapse microscopy within an incubator, featuring a housing with a microscope, light source, imaging camera, and computer analysis for predicting developmental potential by monitoring cell divisions and cytokinesis intervals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional morphologic observation methods are used to assess embryo viability, then the assessment process is simple and quick, but the prediction accuracy of developmental potential is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary automated imaging and morphologic assessment of embryos at early stages (day 3, day 5, day 7) before transfer, establishing baseline data and predicting developmental potential in advance. This allows clinicians to select the most viable embryos for transfer without disrupting embryo integrity during the assessment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual morphologic observation with an automated imaging system that captures time-lapse sequences and uses computer algorithms to objectively assess embryo viability. This substitution of mechanical/manual assessment with automated optical and computational systems improves measurement precision while managing device complexity through integration.
2Measurement precision
If extended culture of embryos to blastocyst stage is used to assess embryo quality, then the assessment accuracy is improved, but the culture period is prolonged and embryo integrity may be disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous, non-invasive monitoring of embryo development through automated time-lapse imaging without removing embryos from the culture environment. This continuous observation allows accurate assessment of embryo quality and prediction of developmental potential while maintaining embryo integrity and avoiding disruptions that would occur with manual handling or extended culture protocols.
3Extent of automation
If manual morphologic observation is used for embryo evaluation, then the method is simple to operate, but the evaluation is subjective and lacks automated analysis capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The automated imaging system performs self-service by automatically capturing images, processing morphologic data, and generating viability assessments without requiring continuous manual intervention. The system autonomously analyzes embryo development patterns and provides objective evaluations, reducing the operational burden on clinicians while maintaining ease of use through automated workflows.
4Loss of information
If time-lapse imaging is used to monitor embryo development, then the observation capability is enhanced, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated imaging system is designed to perform multiple functions: capturing time-lapse sequences, assessing morphologic parameters, predicting developmental potential, and guiding clinical decisions. This multi-functionality maximizes the information captured about embryo development while consolidating capabilities into an integrated system that manages complexity through unified design rather than separate specialized devices.
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 precise, non-invasive evaluation of embryo viability, improving the prediction of developmental potential and reducing the risk of disrupting embryo integrity, while providing a comprehensive assessment of molecular and chromosomal parameters.
Implementation Method 1
at least one time-lapse microscope placed inside the housing and having at least one light source
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatuses, methods, and systems for the automated imaging and evaluation of human embryos, oocytes, or pluripotent cells are described. An apparatus and method for automated dish detection and well occupancy determination are described. In addition, a multi-well culture dish and an illumination assembly for bimodal imaging are described. These inventions find use at least in identifying or in facilitating identification of embryos and oocytes in vitro that are most useful in treating infertility in humans.