Low F-Number Optical System for Multi-Channel Flow Cytometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical systems for multi-channel flow cytometry fail to effectively collect and analyze light from multiple microfluidic channels due to high f-number, short working distance, insufficient resolution, and excessive aberrations, limiting their ability to detect particles simultaneously across multiple channels.
Innovation Solution
A large area, low f-number optical system with a combination of optical elements, including non-aspheric lenses and a mounting system, designed to collect and collimate light from multiple micro channels with specific configurations for optimal light collection and minimal distortion, suitable for use in multi-channel microfluidic systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a conventional optical system is used for multi-channel flow cytometry, then the system structure is simple, but the light collection efficiency is poor due to high f-number and short working distance
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into multiple discrete optical elements (lenses, mirrors, filters) arranged in sequence along the optical path. Each element performs a specific function (collimation, focusing, wavelength filtering), allowing the complex light collection task to be broken down into manageable stages while achieving low f-number performance
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple optical elements are nested within a compact housing structure that integrates the light source, sample chamber, and detection components. The optical elements themselves are arranged in a nested configuration where lenses and mirrors are positioned within limited space to achieve the required optical path length and low f-number ratio
2Area of stationary object
If the working distance is increased to improve light collection, then the light collection area is improved, but the resolution and depth of field deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system employs asymmetric lens configurations where the object-side lens has different focal length and aperture characteristics than the image-side lens. This asymmetric design allows the front lens to capture light from a wide area while the rear lens maintains high resolution imaging, breaking the symmetric constraint that would normally couple working distance and resolution
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a multi-element optical train that extends the optical path length in the axial dimension while maintaining a compact lateral footprint. By folding the optical path using mirrors and positioning multiple lenses at different axial positions, the system achieves both large collection area and high resolution without increasing the working distance
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple optical elements are added to reduce distortion and improve resolution, then the image quality is improved, but the system complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical elements are designed with specific parameter ranges (focal lengths, aperture diameters, spacing distances) that are optimized to work together as a system. By controlling parameters such as the f-number ratio, working distance, and element spacing within specified ranges, the system achieves low distortion and high resolution while using commercially available lens specifications that simplify manufacturing
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 optical system achieves efficient light collection and analysis across a wide area with low distortion and high resolution, enabling simultaneous detection of particles in multiple micro channels, addressing the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
an optical system for collecting and collimating light from a plurality of micro channels associated with a plurality of flow cytometers
Data Source
AI summary
Large area, low f-number optical systems, and microfluidic systems incorporating such optical systems, are disclosed. Large area, low f-number optical systems may be used to collect light from plurality of micro channels associated with a plurality of flow cytometers. The optical systems may be configured to collect light from a source area having an object lateral length or width within a range of 25 mm and 75 mm, configured to have an f-number within a range of 0.9 to 1.2, and configured to have a working distance within a range of 10 mm to 30 mm.