Intelligent Image Sensor with Real-Time Adaptive Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biotechnology instrumentation lacks the capability for real-time adaptive control, leading to non-optimal performance, limited operating range, and decreased reliability, especially in high-throughput applications with micron-scale dimensions, and is not suited for miniaturized formats or distributed networking.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent image sensor device with real-time closed-loop control using low-cost DSP hardware and RISC micro-controllers for decentralized processing, enabling automatic calibration, high-speed alignment, and adaptive optimization of detection parameters, such as pixel binning and integration time, to achieve high dynamic range and sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If current image sensor devices are used with fixed pre-defined operating settings, then manufacturing cost is reduced and device complexity is lowered, but measurement precision and adaptability deteriorate due to inability to perform real-time adaptive control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of image sensor parameters including integration time, pixel binning, and readout rates through real-time adaptive algorithms. The system transitions from fixed pre-defined settings to dynamically adjustable parameters that optimize measurement precision based on actual sample characteristics and experimental conditions, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces feedback mechanisms where measurement data is continuously analyzed and used to adjust image sensor operating parameters. Real-time feedback loops enable the system to automatically optimize detection settings based on observed signal characteristics, maintaining high measurement precision while keeping the device relatively simple to manufacture.
2Reliability
If real-time adaptive control and closed-loop optimization are implemented, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image sensor array into multiple regions with independent control capabilities, allowing different areas to be processed and controlled separately. This segmentation enables real-time adaptive control without requiring complete system reconfiguration, thereby improving reliability while managing device complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes reliability by dynamically changing key parameters such as integration time, gain, and pixel binning settings based on real-time measurement conditions. These parameter adjustments are implemented through efficient algorithms that modify sensor operation without requiring complex hardware reconfiguration, balancing improved reliability with acceptable device complexity.
3Productivity
If high-throughput applications with miniaturized samples are used, then productivity is improved, but alignment precision and manufacturing tolerances deteriorate due to reduced dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment and focusing systems with electronic and optical methods. Digital image processing algorithms and adaptive optics compensate for misalignment and focus variations, enabling high-throughput miniaturized sample analysis without requiring precision mechanical adjustments, thus improving productivity while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary calibration and characterization of miniaturized samples before high-throughput measurement. By pre-characterizing sample properties and pre-adjusting optical parameters, the system establishes optimal detection settings in advance, enabling rapid accurate measurement of numerous miniaturized samples without repeated alignment procedures, thereby improving both productivity and alignment precision.
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 solution enables high-throughput, cost-effective, and reliable optical measurements in miniaturized formats, maintaining sensitivity and robustness across variations, and facilitates remote networking and 'Point-Of-Care' diagnostics by processing data directly at the sensor and communicating results via the Internet.
Implementation Method 1
Image sensor devices for biotechnology applications... detection by optical measurement, primarily using fluorescence spectroscopy or chemiluminescence
Implementation Method 2
Scientific devices allow 'on-chip pixel binning', which enables virtually noiseless summation
Implementation Method 3
low readout noise and low dark current when cooled (enabling long exposure times)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an apparatus and processes for optical measurement and detection with real-time closed-loop controls, which enable higher levels of performance. The invention is especially suitable for applications such as spectroscopy; microscopy; biochemical assays; processes and reactions on miniaturized formats (such as those involving micro-/nano-plates, micro-formats & micro-arrays, chemistry-on-chip, lab-on-chip, micro-channels and micro-fluidics, where dimensions are on micron scale and columns are in the sub-nanoliter range). Such “intelligent sensing” allows higher data quality and reliability, higher measurement and analysis throughput and lower cost. The invention uses fast real-time adaptive digital signal processing and controls directly at the point where data is sensed. Through real-time adaptive control of sensors, chemical/opto-mechanical/opto-electronic processes and other components during the measurement process, consistently higher quality results and higher reliability are achieved. This invention furthermore includes an improved image sensor architecture that enables very intra-array dynamic range at fast frame rates and low noise performance.