Magnetic Field Apparatus for Imaging System Sample Immobilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging systems face challenges in immobilizing biological and chemical samples on sample carriers during scanning and analysis, leading to sample movement and difficulty in precise optical examination or removal, without using permanent fixing agents.
Innovation Solution
A device with a magnetic field apparatus is integrated into the imaging system, creating a magnetic field region that temporarily and reversibly immobilizes samples on the carrier using magnetic particles, ensuring they remain in place during scanning and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixing agent is used to immobilize cells or cell colonies on the sample carrier, then the cells or cell colonies are held firmly in place during fast movements and scanning, but permanent immobilization occurs preventing removal of the cells
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical state of the magnetic field from present to absent. During imaging, the magnetic field is activated to immobilize the sample; after imaging, the magnetic field is deactivated to allow sample removal. This parameter change enables both stable immobilization during analysis and easy removal afterward, resolving the contradiction between stability and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field is applied periodically - activated during the imaging process to hold the sample in place, then deactivated when imaging is complete to allow sample removal. This periodic application of the magnetic field enables the system to switch between immobilization and release states, solving the contradiction between firm holding and easy removal
2Adaptability or versatility
If no immobilization method is used, then the sample can be easily removed from the slide, but the cells or cell colonies change position during fast stage movements or when the picking tool is immersed in the sample
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field parameter is changed from off to on during imaging to prevent sample movement. The field strength and presence are adjusted based on the imaging phase, ensuring cells remain at their recorded coordinates during scanning while allowing easy removal when the field is deactivated
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces mechanical immobilization methods (such as physical fixation or adhesive coatings) with a magnetic field-based system. Magnetic particles in the sample respond to the magnetic field without requiring mechanical contact or permanent chemical bonding, enabling precise position holding during imaging while maintaining ease of removal afterward
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 magnetic field effectively holds biological and chemical samples in place, preventing movement and allowing for precise examination and removal without permanent attachment, ensuring consistent sample positioning before and after imaging.
Implementation Method 1
A device for insertion into an imaging system (100) is provided, comprising a receptacle (104) for a sample carrier (101) and an apparatus (108) for producing a magnetic field in a region of the receptacle (104)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for inserting into an imaging system. The device has a receptacle for a specimen carrier for a specimen. The device also includes an arrangement for producing a magnetic field in a region of the receptacle for the specimen carrier.