Automated Laser Microdissection via Image Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing laser microdissection methods are complex, time-consuming, and error-prone, especially when dealing with a large number of microdissected pieces, leading to fatigue and inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
An automated laser microdissection method that uses image analysis to capture and process electronic images of specimens, automatically define cutting lines, and control the relative motion between the laser beam and the specimen, enabling fully automated processing without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual marking of objects to be cut out is performed by user, then flexibility in selecting objects is maintained, but the process becomes complex, time-consuming, and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical marking process with an automated image analysis system. The computer captures images of the specimen, processes them through image analysis algorithms, and automatically determines cutting lines without manual intervention. This substitution eliminates human fatigue and errors while significantly reducing the time required for marking numerous objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automation where the computer autonomously performs object identification and cutting line determination. The image analysis software automatically detects objects, calculates their positions and shapes, and generates cutting paths without requiring continuous user input, allowing the system to serve itself in the marking process.
2Quantity of substance
If manual marking is performed for a large number of microdissected pieces, then sufficient material for analysis is obtained, but user fatigue and errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual marking with automated image analysis and computer-controlled laser guidance. The system captures images, processes them through algorithms that identify objects and determine cutting lines, and controls the laser automatically. This eliminates human fatigue and errors even when processing large numbers of specimens, maintaining high reliability while increasing quantity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the specimen through image capture and processing. Instead of manually marking physical specimens, the computer works with digital image data, identifies objects, and generates cutting paths. This copying approach allows unlimited analysis of specimen data without additional manual effort or increased error rates.
3Productivity
If automated image analysis and meander function are implemented, then specimen throughput and automation level are significantly increased, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single automated system. The computer performs image capture, image processing, object identification, cutting line determination, and laser control. The meander function adds automated stage movement capabilities. This multi-functionality increases productivity while consolidating complexity into an integrated system rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-defining the meander path and automatically moving the stage through the specimen in a systematic pattern before cutting begins. This preliminary staging and systematic scanning approach maximizes throughput by preparing the specimen traversal path in advance, reducing real-time decision-making complexity.
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 approach significantly increases sample throughput, enhances reliability, and ensures reproducibility, allowing for precise and efficient cutting of multiple object types within a specimen, with the ability to synchronize multiple systems for large-scale processing.
Implementation Method 1
a laser beam produced by a laser is coupled via an optical system having integrated beam deflection into the beam path of the microscope and is deflected by the microscope objective onto different locations of the fixed specimen in order to cut the same
Data Source
AI summary
A laser microdissection method includes capturing an electronic image of an image detail of a specimen. The image detail is processed using, image analysis so as to automatically ascertain an object to be cut out. A nominal cutting line around the object to be cut out is automatically defined. Subsequently, the object is cut out in response to a relative motion between a laser beam and the specimen.