Flow Cytometry Imaging Optics for Random Particle Focus Shift
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Solution Overview
Problem
The random passage of microparticles through the channel leads to deviations from the focal position of the objective lens, resulting in unfocused and unclear images in existing flow cytometry systems.
Innovation Solution
A biological sample analysis system with a detection optical system having a focal point set at a predetermined position and an optical path length adjustment element between the detection optical system and the imaging unit, allowing for image quality suppression due to focal position deviations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If microparticles flow randomly through the channel, then particle throughput increases, but image quality deteriorates due to focal position deviation
Solution Approach 1:
The detection region is divided into multiple segments along the optical axis, each with its own imaging unit focused at a different position. This segmentation allows simultaneous clear imaging of particles at various depths as they flow through the channel, resolving the contradiction between high throughput and image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a single-plane detection approach to a multi-depth detection approach by arranging imaging units at different positions along the optical axis. This dimensional expansion enables focused imaging of particles regardless of their random positional deviations, maintaining image quality while allowing high particle throughput.
2Device complexity
If focal point is fixed at a predetermined position, then optical system simplicity is maintained, but particles passing at other positions produce unfocused images
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single complex adjustable optical system, the solution segments the detection function across multiple fixed imaging units, each optimized for a specific depth position. This eliminates the need for complex real-time focus adjustment mechanisms while ensuring sharp images for particles at all positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of focal position from a single fixed value to multiple fixed values, with each imaging unit dedicated to a specific focal depth. This parameter multiplication allows the system to maintain optical simplicity while achieving accurate focus for particles varying in position.
3Manufacturing precision
If individual focus adjustment is performed for each microparticle, then image quality is maintained, but system complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary focusing by pre-positioning multiple imaging units at different focal depths before particle detection begins. This eliminates the need for real-time individual focus adjustment during particle flow, maintaining image quality while simplifying the system and enabling high-speed throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of adjusting one imaging unit for each particle, the system creates multiple copies of the imaging capability at different focal positions. These parallel imaging copies simultaneously capture particles at various depths without requiring sequential adjustment, dramatically reducing system complexity and processing time.
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 configuration enables focused imaging without the need for individual focus adjustments on each microparticle, maintaining image quality even with increased particle throughput and shortened imaging intervals.
Implementation Method 1
an optical path length adjustment element disposed on an optical path between the detection optical system and the imaging unit and in a part within an angle of view of the imaging unit
Data Source
AI summary
A biological sample analysis system (100) according to an embodiment includes a detection optical system (121), a focal point of which is set at a predetermined position in a container (C), an imaging unit (122), a light receiving surface of which is located at an image forming position of an image of light transmitted through the detection optical system (121), and an optical path length adjustment element (13) disposed on an optical path between the detection optical system (121) and the imaging unit (122) and in a part within an angle of view of the imaging unit (121).