IR Laser Refraction Detection for Fast Hematocrit Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining hematocrit levels in centrifuged blood samples rely on light absorption, which are slow and less accurate compared to the potential of using light refraction for more rapid and precise measurements.
Innovation Solution
Employing an infrared laser to refract light through centrifuged blood samples and using an array of light detectors to identify the interface between layers based on changes in refraction angles, allowing for accurate determination of hematocrit levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If light absorption methods are used to determine hematocrit levels, then the measurement can be performed, but the measurement speed is slow and accuracy is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the light absorption measurement method with a light refraction measurement method. By using an infrared laser to measure the refraction angle of light as it passes through the centrifuged blood sample, the system achieves both faster measurement speed and higher accuracy. The refraction angle changes are detected using a position-sensitive detector, allowing rapid and precise hematocrit determination without the limitations of absorption-based techniques.
2Measurement precision
If light absorption techniques are used, then hematocrit can be measured, but the measurement process is less accurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the light absorption measurement approach with a refraction-based measurement system. An infrared laser beam is directed through the centrifuged blood sample, and the refraction angle is measured using a position-sensitive detector. This substitution enables simultaneous improvement in both accuracy and measurement speed, as refraction measurements can be performed rapidly without the time-consuming processes associated with absorption techniques.
3Productivity
If absorption-based methods are used for hematocrit determination, then the measurement can be completed, but the overall process is slower
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a refraction-based measurement system that replaces the absorption method. By using an infrared laser and position-sensitive detector to measure refraction angle changes, the system achieves high measurement throughput simultaneously with high precision. The refraction method allows for rapid measurements while maintaining accurate hematocrit determination, overcoming the trade-off present in absorption-based approaches.
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 faster and more precise hematocrit level detection by measuring light refraction differences across layers, overcoming the limitations of absorption-based methods.
Implementation Method 1
The disclosed system method and apparatus uses principals of refraction of a light ray, according to Snell's Law, for example, to identify the location of an interface between two materials of different refractive indices
Data Source
AI summary
Principals of refraction of a light ray are used to identify the location of an interface between two materials having different refractive indices. The interface may be an interface between a plasma layer and a red blood cell layer of a centrifuged container, for example. An array of light detector elements are arranged to receive light that has been refracted through different layers in a centrifuged sample. Elements of the light detector array are arranged at known locations relative to an emitter of the light so detection of light by one or more particular detector elements is indicative of the angle of refraction of the light. Vertical position of the sample is tracked and correlated with corresponding angles of refraction to determine the vertical position of the sample when a change in the angle of diffraction is detected.