Microdissection Viewing System with Overlay Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microscopy techniques lack an efficient method for accurately guiding microdissection of specimens using digital images, particularly for remote or complex sample analysis, where precise alignment and annotation are crucial for further molecular analysis like PCR.
Innovation Solution
A microdissection system comprising a portable computer with a screen displaying annotated images of specimens, a microdissection device that attaches to the computer, and software modules for receiving and overlaying image data, allowing users to align and dissect samples based on annotated templates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a portable computer with screen is used to display annotated images for microdissection guidance, then remote analysis capability and accessibility are improved, but device complexity and setup requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The portable computer serves multiple functions: displaying annotated reference images, providing guidance for microdissection, and enabling remote analysis capabilities. This multi-functional approach allows a single device to address both local and remote analysis needs without requiring separate specialized equipment for each function.
2Measurement precision
If a microdissection device with receiving region is attached to the portable computer, then alignment precision between physical sample and digital image is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent receiving region acts as an intermediary between the physical microdissection device and the digital image displayed on the screen. This transparent interface allows simultaneous visualization of both the reference image and the physical sample, enabling precise alignment without requiring complex mechanical coupling or additional alignment mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If annotated images are displayed on screen for microdissection template, then dissection accuracy is improved, but information loss between digital image and physical sample occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a digital copy (annotated image) of the reference sample and displays it on screen for guidance during microdissection of the target sample. This copying approach allows the reference sample to be viewed and annotated digitally while the physical target sample remains intact for dissection, eliminating the need to physically handle or potentially damage the reference sample during the process.
4Measurement precision
If the device covers the screen partially, then overlay alignment between sample and image is improved, but viewing area of the screen is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving region is designed with localized transparency only in the specific area where sample-overlay alignment is needed, while the rest of the device structure remains opaque for structural support. This localized transparency allows the screen to remain fully viewable for annotation and analysis, while providing precise alignment coverage only where the sample is positioned.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides devices, systems and methods for the acquisition and display of captured and/or saved slide images of a sample. In particular embodiments, the images are displayed on a portable computer attached to a removable device configured to hold a slide of the sample. The device is aligned with the portable computer so that the displayed sample image is overlaid with the sample being held by the device. In exemplary embodiments, the displayed image is used as a template for dissection of the sample being held by the device.