Flow Cytometer Detector Arrangement for Compact Multi-Channel Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow cytometers become complex and less compact when additional measurement channels are introduced, leading to reduced signal-to-noise ratios.
Innovation Solution
A flow cytometer design featuring a plurality of light detectors arranged around the light path, including scattered light and fluorescence detectors, with optimized angular coverage and placement to enhance signal detection while maintaining compactness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional measurement channels are introduced to the optical configuration, then measurement capability and analysis capability are improved, but device complexity increases and signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions detectors in three-dimensional space around the flow cell, utilizing spatial arrangement in multiple dimensions to accommodate multiple detection channels without increasing planar footprint. Detectors are placed at various angles and positions (e.g., 90-degree scattered light detector, 180-degree forward scatter detector, and fluorescence detectors at different heights) to capture different optical signals simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical detection system is divided into multiple independent detection channels, each with its own detector and optical path. This segmentation allows simultaneous measurement of different parameters (scattered light, fluorescence, forward scatter) without interference, while each channel can be optimized independently for its specific detection function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional measurement channels are introduced to the optical configuration, then measurement capability is improved, but compactness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple detectors and optical components are arranged concentrically around the flow cell, with detectors positioned at different radial distances and angles. This nested arrangement allows multiple detection channels to be packed into a compact cylindrical or circular footprint, maximizing space utilization while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical dimension (height) in addition to horizontal plane for detector placement. Fluorescence detectors are positioned at different heights above and below the flow cell, allowing multiple detection channels to be stacked vertically, thereby reducing the horizontal footprint and improving overall compactness.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional measurement channels are introduced to the optical configuration, then measurement capability is improved, but signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the light source from the detection path for each channel, placing it outside the flow cell. This eliminates stray light and scattered light from the source that would otherwise contaminate the detection path, improving signal-to-noise ratio by detecting only the light emitted or scattered by the particles themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical filters and dichroic mirrors as intermediary elements between the flow cell and detectors. These intermediaries selectively transmit or block specific wavelengths, isolating the detection path from unwanted light sources and improving signal-to-noise ratio by allowing only the desired optical signals to reach the detectors.
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 design allows for multiple optical detection channels in a compact configuration, achieving improved signal-to-noise ratios and enabling advanced cytometry applications.
Implementation Method 1
Light originating from the interrogation point is analysed to measure properties of the particles in the sample. Such light from the sample may include forward-scattered light and right-angle scattered light.
Implementation Method 2
the plurality of light detectors comprises a fluorescence detector having a light-receiving surface arranged to detect fluorescent light from the particle
Data Source
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AI summary
A flow cytometer comprises a flow cell defining a flow channel for flowing a liquid containing a particle through the flow cell, a light source arranged to emit light to the particle flowing through the channel, the light being incident to the particle at an incidence angle inclined to a normal direction with respect to a flow direction of the particle through the channel, and a plurality of light detectors arranged around the flow cell and arranged for receiving light diverging from the particle.