Microfluidic Light Absorbance Measurement with Nonlinear Reference Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for light absorbance measurement in microfluidic devices are prone to errors due to variations in light source intensity and require lengthy stabilization times, which hinder rapid and accurate testing.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize nonlinear approximation of reference transmitted light intensities to estimate and correct for light source intensity variations, allowing for rapid and accurate light absorbance measurement by detecting reference and detection chamber intensities during the same rotation period of the microfluidic device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional light absorbance measurement methods are used in microfluidic devices, then light absorbance can be detected, but measurement errors occur due to variations in light source intensity and lengthy stabilization times are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurement of reference transmitted light intensities through the reference chamber before measuring the detection chamber. By establishing a baseline reference value in advance, the system compensates for light source intensity variations without requiring extended stabilization periods, thus reducing measurement errors while minimizing stabilization time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the measured reference transmitted light intensity is used to correct and compensate for variations in light source intensity during the actual measurement process. This feedback loop enables real-time correction of measurement errors caused by light source instability, improving measurement precision without requiring lengthy stabilization periods
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used to cover different wavelengths for various blood test items, then measurement versatility is improved, but system complexity and measurement time increase due to sequential operation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single light source and detector assembly that serves multiple functions by sequentially measuring different reference chambers and detection chambers. This multi-functional approach enables the system to handle various blood test items requiring different wavelengths without needing separate dedicated light sources and detectors for each test type, thus maintaining versatility while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes periodic action by rotating the microfluidic device to bring different reference chambers and detection chambers sequentially into position with the single light source and detector. This periodic measurement approach allows the same optical components to serve multiple measurement purposes at different time intervals, reducing device complexity while maintaining the capability to perform various blood tests
3Measurement precision
If reference chambers are measured multiple times during rotation to capture light source variations, then measurement precision is improved, but the number of measurements and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by measuring reference transmitted light intensities at selected positions during the rotation period rather than continuously measuring at all possible positions. This selective measurement approach captures sufficient information to compensate for light source variations while avoiding redundant measurements, thus improving measurement precision without unduly reducing productivity
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 reduces light absorbance measurement errors and minimizes standby time for light source stabilization, enabling quicker and more reliable results in microfluidic testing.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a plurality of reference transmitted light intensities for the at least one reference chamber... estimating a value between the plurality of reference transmitted light intensities through nonlinear approximation and applying the estimated value to light absorbance measurement of the detection chamber
Implementation Method 2
Blood is injected into the disc-shaped microfluidic device and the microfluidic device is then rotated to create centrifugal force which separates a serum from the injected blood
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses for measuring a light absorbance are provided. The method measures light absorbance of at least one detection chamber of a microfluidic device, including the detection chamber and at least one reference chamber. The detection chamber may accommodate a test subject. The method includes detecting a plurality of reference transmitted light intensities for the at least one reference chamber and estimating a value between the plurality of reference transmitted light intensities through nonlinear approximation. The estimated value is then applied to light absorbance measurement of the detection chamber to reduce a light absorbance error of the detection chamber.