Microscope Channel Separation via Automatic Spectral Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current microscope systems require manual and time-consuming adjustments of detection channels to separate emission spectra of fluorescent dyes, lacking an automated method for unequivocal separation.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a sample with multiple fluorescent dyes, where emission spectra are ascertained, separation points are determined, and channels are adjusted to allocate specific spectral portions to individual detectors, using a micromirror array or SP module to direct wavelengths to appropriate channels for detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual adjustment of sliders is used to separate emission spectra, then detection channels can be separated, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires expert knowledge

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation precisionVSAvoidadjustment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs automatic self-adjustment by analyzing the measured emission spectrum and autonomously determining optimal slider positions, eliminating the need for manual user adjustment while maintaining precise spectral separation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from the measured emission spectrum to automatically adjust slider positions, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes channel separation based on actual spectral data

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If manual adjustment by expert users is used, then accurate separation is achieved, but the operation becomes complex and requires specialized knowledge

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation accuracyVSAvoiduser operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically performs the complex task of spectral separation without requiring user expertise, making the operation simple while maintaining high accuracy through algorithmic analysis of emission spectra

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-calculates optimal slider positions based on measured spectra before actual detection, preparing the separation configuration in advance to simplify user operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If spectral regions are manually allocated to channels, then detection channels can be configured, but the process lacks automation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechannel configuration flexibilityVSAvoidseparation automation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses feedback from measured emission spectra to automatically determine and allocate spectral regions to channels, achieving both automation and adaptability through data-driven configuration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes spectral allocation parameters based on measured emission data, enabling automatic adaptation to different fluorescent dye combinations while maintaining configuration flexibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 automatic and precise separation of emission spectra, reducing user effort and improving image quality by optimizing the allocation of spectral regions to detection channels.

Implementation Method 1

using a micromirror array or SP module to direct wavelengths to appropriate channels for detection

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection and wavelength-dependent directional control: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

providing a sample which is equipped with at least two fluorescent dyes wherein the sample being excitable with different wavelengths

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluorescence: Fluorescence

Data Source

PatentUS7596454B2Method for separating detection channels of a microscope system
Publication Date: 2009.09.29 LEICA MICROSYSTEMS CMS GMBH
  • US7596454B2 patent drawing
  • US7596454B2 patent drawing
  • US7596454B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for separating detection channels is disclosed, a sample (15) being equipped with at least two different fluorescent dyes. Firstly the emission spectrum of at least two fluorescent dyes is ascertained. From the emission spectra, the separation points of the wavelength and of the individual detection channels are determined. Lastly, adjustment of the separation of the at least two channels is accomplished on that basis.