Flow Cytometer Auto-Alignment for Accurate Cell Sorting Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow cytometers require substantial user input for setup and manual adjustment, particularly in aligning the flow stream and collection vessels, which can lead to inefficiencies and inaccuracies in cell sorting.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an imaging sensor system and processor configuration that captures images of the flow stream, determines key parameters, and automatically adjusts the flow cytometer settings, such as stream position, nozzle diameter, and electrical charge, to optimize the sorting process without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If manual alignment of flow stream and collection vessels is used, then setup flexibility is maintained, but time consumption and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses imaging sensors to automatically detect flow stream position and collection vessel locations, then autonomously calculates and executes alignment adjustments without user intervention. The processor independently processes image data and controls stage movements, enabling the system to self-align components.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical alignment operations are replaced by an automated vision-based system. Imaging sensors capture positions, and a processor-driven control system replaces manual stage adjustments with automated motorized positioning, eliminating the need for user-performed mechanical alignment.
2Measurement precision
If automated parameter adjustment is implemented, then sorting accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system captures images of the flow stream and collection vessels, processes this visual information to determine actual positions and parameters, then uses this feedback to automatically adjust settings. The imaging system provides continuous feedback that enables real-time optimization of sorting parameters based on detected conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging sensor system serves multiple functions: detecting flow stream position, measuring collection vessel locations, determining nozzle parameters, and providing data for automated alignment. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate measurement and adjustment systems.
3Ease of operation
If imaging sensor system is added for automatic detection, then operational ease improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging sensor system enables the flow cytometer to automatically perform setup tasks that traditionally required user input. The system self-detects positions, self-calibrates parameters, and self-adjusts alignment, freeing users from manual setup procedures entirely.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging sensor acts as an intermediary between the physical components (flow stream, collection vessels) and the control system. It captures visual information and translates it into data that the processor can use for automated decision-making and adjustment, bridging the gap between physical state and control actions.
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 automation significantly reduces the need for manual adjustments, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of cell sorting by optimizing the alignment and parameters of the flow cytometer, leading to improved particle collection and sorting accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging sensor configured to capture one or more images of a detection field of a flow stream
Implementation Method 2
the flow cell is rapidly vibrated by an acoustic device, such as a piezoelectric element
Implementation Method 3
rapidly vibrated by an acoustic device
Implementation Method 4
a charging element whose electrical potential can be rapidly changed
Implementation Method 5
droplets, whether they are charged or are uncharged must be collected in a sample collection vessel that is appropriately directed to collect the one or more flow streams generated by the deflection plates
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods are described for automatically performing set-up steps for flow cytometry operations. The invention provides for the spatial determination of a flow stream and the subsequent automatic alignment of analysis devices and/or collection vessels. The automatic determination of flow stream properties provides for the automatic configuration flow cytometer parameters.