Micro-lens Multi-well Plate for Rapid Refractive Index Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for detecting the refractive index of solutions are unable to perform non-disturbance, rapid detection of instantaneous variations, and cannot determine the individual refractive indices of multiple samples in a single measurement, limiting their effectiveness in monitoring antigen-antibody or ligand-receptor reactions.
Innovation Solution
A micro-lens imaging multi-well test plate with trapezoidal wells and micro-lenses made of transparent materials, allowing for accurate, non-invasive, and simultaneous measurement of refractive indices without labeling or expensive enzymes, capable of detecting changes in very low sample volumes with high precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional refractometer methods are used, then refractive index can be measured, but non-disturbance in situ rapid detection of instantaneous variation cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical refractometer systems with an optical imaging system consisting of a micro-lens array and digital camera. This substitution enables non-contact, in situ measurement of refractive index variations, achieving both high precision and rapid detection capability simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical imaging to create a visual copy of the refractive index distribution through micro-lens imaging. The digital camera captures the optical pattern formed by the micro-lens array, which corresponds to the refractive index variations in the sample, enabling rapid non-contact measurement
2Measurement precision
If conventional detection methods are used, then single sample measurement is possible, but determination of individual refractive indices of several different samples in one measurement cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection system into multiple independent micro-lens elements arranged in an array, with each micro-lens corresponding to a specific well position. This segmentation enables simultaneous measurement of refractive indices in multiple samples across different wells, maintaining individual measurement precision while increasing throughput
Solution Approach 2:
The micro-lens array structure provides universal functionality across multiple detection positions. Each micro-lens in the array performs the same refractive index measurement function for its corresponding well, enabling the system to handle multiple samples simultaneously with a single integrated device
3Reliability
If conventional methods are used, then detection can be performed, but labeling, expensive enzymes, pre-immobilization/modification, and post-washing are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs label-free detection where the micro-lens array directly measures refractive index changes caused by antigen-antibody or ligand-receptor interactions in the solution. The system uses the inherent optical properties of the samples themselves without requiring external labels, enzymes, or complex preparation steps, thereby simplifying the procedure while maintaining detection reliability
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 rapid, accurate, and reliable detection of refractive index changes with a low detection limit, allowing for qualitative and quantitative analysis of antigen-antibody or ligand-receptor interactions in multiple samples simultaneously, using a small sample volume and completing measurements in 2 minutes.
Implementation Method 1
micro-lens imaging multi-well test plate for the detection of fluid refractive index
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a micro-lens imaging multi-well test plate which comprises: a transparent plate of 3-5 mm in thickness with one or more trapezoidal wells locating in the middle of the plate, each of the wells is of an underside of 2-4 mm in diameter, 0.2-0.5 mm in thickness, a trapezoidal dip angle of 60-75°, and has a micro-lens which upper half is hemispherical, lower half is a cylinder, with radius of 0.1˜1.0 mm, height of 0.2˜2.5 mm, molded on the bottom of the well. The micro-lens imaging multi-well test plate is made of homogeneous optical transparent materials. When the trapezoidal concave wells of the test plate are filled with fluid to immerse the micro-lens, under parallel light illumination, due to the refraction effect of light, the image of micro-lens is a round one with an outer edge that is a black ring. The outer radius R of the black ring is the radius of the micro-lens, the inner radius r of the black ring is a function of the refractive index n1 of the immersion liquid, the refractive index n2 of the micro-lens and the height h of the micro-lens, so the refractive index of the sample fluid can be determined by monitoring the value of the inner radius r of the black ring with known values of R, n2 and h. By using a multi-well test plate for imaging, the individual refractive indices of different sample fluids in all the wells can be determined simultaneously in one measurement.