Background Illumination Calibration for Sample Imaging Consistency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging apparatuses for sample tubes and containers face variations in performance and consistency across different systems, leading to inconsistent background illumination and reduced accuracy in detecting interferents like HIL.
Innovation Solution
A calibration method that involves identifying the imaging area on each light panel, determining the center position, and adjusting the drive current to achieve consistent background illumination across multiple spectrums and machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated pre-analytical sample processing is implemented to improve efficiency and consistency, then productivity increases, but variations in performance and illumination consistency across different systems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adjusts illumination parameters (intensity, duration, spectral composition) to achieve consistent imaging conditions across multiple spectrums and different imaging systems. By calibrating these parameters systematically, the system maintains reliable performance despite variations in hardware configurations.
2Measurement precision
If multiple spectrums are used for comprehensive sample analysis, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is divided into multiple independent light panels, each responsible for a specific spectrum. This segmentation allows each panel to be optimized and calibrated independently, simplifying the overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive multi-spectrum coverage for accurate interferent detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions using a unified calibration approach. The same calibration methodology applies across all light panels and spectrums, making the system multi-functional without proportionally increasing complexity. This universal calibration strategy enables consistent performance across diverse imaging conditions.
3Ease of operation
If calibration procedures are simplified to ease of operation, then ease of operation improves, but manufacturing precision and illumination consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system incorporates self-diagnostic and self-adjustment capabilities that automatically identify and correct illumination inconsistencies. This self-service approach maintains high manufacturing precision without requiring complex manual calibration procedures, thus preserving ease of operation while ensuring illumination consistency.
Data Source
AI summary
A calibration method is provided including identifying the imaging area on each light panel with respect to each imaging device. A center position of the imaging area of each light panel for each imaging device is determined. An optimal optical center of the imaging apparatus using the center position of the imaging area of each imaging device is determined. A tube calibration tool is installed in a carrier on a track, and the carrier is moved on the track so that a center of the tube calibration tool is located at a closest location to the optimal optical center of the imaging apparatus. The center of the tube calibration tool is used to determine a center of a region of interest (ROI) for backlight calibration. Methods for health checking the calibration and apparatus used to carry out the calibration are provided as well as other aspects.