Flow Cytometer Spectral Detector Array for Virtual Channel Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flow cytometers face limitations in detector collection range, requiring complex gain setting processes, leading to loss of valuable data and difficulty in modifying detection parameters, and are hindered by the need for skilled rearrangement of optical systems.
Innovation Solution
A system and user interface that utilizes a semiconductor detector array with low noise amplifiers and noise filters, along with a virtual detector channel system that simplifies data collection by grouping detectors, enabling comprehensive data capture without physical rearrangement of optical components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If photomultiplier tubes are used for detection, then sensitivity and bandwidth are improved, but cost increases and temperature drift occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from photomultiplier tube detection to semiconductor detector array detection, fundamentally changing the detection parameter/technology. Semiconductor detectors operate at room temperature without the temperature drift issues of PMTs, while maintaining high sensitivity through advanced semiconductor material science and detector design.
2Measurement precision
If gain level is increased to collect signals from small or faint objects, then detection sensitivity for small objects is improved, but signals from large or bright objects become too intense to be collected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection system into multiple semiconductor detectors, each with different gain levels or detection ranges. This segmentation allows simultaneous collection of signals from both small/faint objects and large/bright objects without information loss, as each detector can be optimized for different signal intensities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the detection capability into a new dimension by using a detector array that can simultaneously measure across multiple dynamic ranges or wavelength channels, transforming the single-gain-level limitation into a multi-dimensional detection capability that captures the full spectrum of signal intensities.
3Measurement precision
If conventional optical systems with beam splitters and filters are used, then wavelength-specific detection is achieved, but system complexity increases and requires skilled rearrangement for different configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical system of beam splitters and filters with an electronic/digital system using semiconductor detectors. This substitution eliminates the need for physical rearrangement of optical components, as wavelength detection is achieved through electronic signal processing and digital filtering rather than mechanical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The semiconductor detector array provides universal detection capability across multiple wavelengths simultaneously, eliminating the need for wavelength-specific optical path configurations. A single detector array can detect multiple fluorochromes and wavelengths without requiring skilled rearrangement, making the system universally applicable to different experimental configurations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If beam splitters and filters are rearranged for different wavelength detection configurations, then detection versatility is improved, but alignment precision requirements increase and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical alignment of beam splitters and filters with an electronically reconfigurable semiconductor detector array. This substitution eliminates alignment precision requirements entirely, as the detectors are fixed in position and wavelength selection is achieved through electronic control rather than mechanical alignment.
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 efficient, comprehensive data collection across a wide dynamic range with simplified setup and configuration, reducing the need for skilled intervention and enhancing the reliability and usability of flow cytometers.
Implementation Method 1
a detector array that collectively detects a full spectral range of input signals from the flow cytometer, in which each detector detects a subset spectral range of the full spectral range
Implementation Method 2
a low noise amplifier circuit that amplifies the signal and is characterized by a high gain-bandwidth product
Data Source
AI summary
Systems in a flow cytometer having an interrogation zone and illumination impinging the interrogation zone include: a lens subsystem including a collimating element that collimates light from the interrogation zone, a light dispersion element that disperses collimated light into a light spectrum, and a focusing lens that focuses the light spectrum onto an array of adjacent detection points; a detector array, including semiconductor detector devices, that collectively detects a full spectral range of input light signals, in which each detector device detects a subset spectral range of the full spectral range of light signals; and a user interface that enables a user to create a set of virtual detector channels by grouping detectors in the detector array, such that each virtual detector channel corresponds to a detector group and has a virtual detector channel range including the sum of subset spectral ranges of the detectors in the corresponding detector group.