Fluorometer Channel Normalization Using Long-Life Correction Factors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-channel fluorometers suffer from systematic errors due to inconsistent calibration across channels, necessitating time-consuming individual calibration of each channel, which consumes resources and complicates sample comparisons.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for normalizing fluorescence measurements in multi-channel fluorometers by using a calibrant to generate correction factors for each channel, which are then applied to subsequent measurements, ensuring consistent results across channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If individual calibration is performed for each channel, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
A master correction factor is determined in advance using a reference channel measured with high precision. This pre-determined correction factor is then applied to all other channels, eliminating the need for time-consuming individual calibration of each channel while maintaining measurement accuracy through subsequent normalization.
Solution Approach 2:
A reference channel serves as an intermediary to transfer calibration information to other channels. The reference channel is measured individually with high precision, and its correction factor acts as a mediator that normalizes measurements across all channels, reducing total calibration time while preserving measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If individual calibration is performed for each channel, then measurement precision is improved, but resource consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The correction factor is determined once in advance using a reference channel, and this single calibration action is sufficient for all channels. This preliminary calibration reduces resource consumption by eliminating redundant calibration materials and processes for each channel while maintaining measurement precision through the applied correction factors.
3Productivity
If correction factors are applied to all channels, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter state by introducing correction factors that normalize measurements across channels. This parameter transformation approach improves productivity by enabling simultaneous use of multiple channels without requiring complex hardware modifications or additional calibration equipment for each channel.
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 method reduces resource consumption and time by providing long-lasting correction factors, allowing for efficient and accurate comparisons of fluorescence levels across multiple channels.
Implementation Method 1
Fluorescence is the emission of light, often in the visible range, by a compound in response to its excitation by higher energy electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
This fluorescing emission light is received at a photodetector
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and system are described for normalizing and creating correction factors for measurements in a fluorometer. To ensure that measurements across multiple channels can be properly compared, some kind of calibration must be done. The same calibrant can be run across all the channels and fluorescence measured. The fluorescence of one channel can be chosen as a reference. A correction factor can be calculated for each channel and used for an extended period of time, possibly even the lifetime of the instrument.