Fine Particle Fluorescence Calibration Across PMT Sensitivity Differences
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Solution Overview
Problem
Photodetectors such as PMTs exhibit sensitivity differences among and within apparatuses over time, leading to inconsistent output levels in fine particle measurements.
Innovation Solution
The technology corrects output level differences by specifying a relationship between an applied voltage coefficient and a detector's control signal, using a method that involves calculating an applied voltage coefficient based on the height or area of output pulses from fluorescent reference particles to standardize sensitivity across multiple PMTs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple photodetectors are used to measure fluorescence from fine particles, then the measurement capability and analysis precision are improved, but sensitivity differences among the photodetectors cause output level inconsistencies that worsen measurement reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting the high voltage applied to each photodetector based on its sensitivity characteristics. By measuring the output signal from reference particles with known fluorescence properties and calculating the required voltage adjustment, the system standardizes the output levels across all photodetectors. This involves changing the operating voltage parameter to compensate for sensitivity differences, thereby maintaining measurement reliability while using multiple photodetectors for enhanced measurement precision
2Reliability
If photodetector sensitivity is adjusted to correct output differences, then output level consistency is improved, but the complexity of the calibration process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by performing sensitivity calibration of all photodetectors before actual fine particle measurements. The system uses reference particles with known fluorescence properties to establish the sensitivity characteristics of each photodetector in advance. The calculated voltage adjustments are stored and automatically applied during subsequent measurements, eliminating the need for repeated calibration and reducing the perceived complexity for the user
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by automatically calculating the required voltage adjustments based on measured output signals from reference particles. The calibration process is performed autonomously without requiring manual intervention or complex user operations. The system self-determines the sensitivity differences and self-adjusts the voltage parameters, thereby improving output consistency while minimizing the increase in operational complexity
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 achieves high-accuracy correction of output level differences, ensuring data compatibility and user convenience by standardizing sensitivities among and within apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
detects light from fluorescent reference particles that emit fluorescence having a predetermined wavelength bandwidth
Data Source
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AI summary
To provide a technology that an output level difference is corrected with high accuracy in fine particle measurement that optically measures properties of fine particles. The present technology provides a fine particle measurement apparatus including a detector that detects light from fluorescent reference particles that emit fluorescence having a predetermined wavelength bandwidth, and an information processor that specifies a relationship between an applied voltage coefficient corresponding to a feature amount of a predetermined output pulse and a control signal of the detector on the basis of a feature amount of an output pulse detected by the detector and the control signal of the detector at the time of detecting the feature amount of the output pulse, the feature amount of the output pulse being dependent on the control signal of the detector, or the like.