Modular Multi-Color Flow Cytometer Layout for Compact Bench Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flow cytometers are large in size, limiting their deployment in core labs where multiple instruments compete for bench space and requiring complex systems that are costly and inefficient to maintain, especially when handling cells labeled with a variety of fluorescence colors.
Innovation Solution
A modular flow cytometer with a compact design capable of processing up to 50 colors, utilizing compact optoelectronics, integrated detectors, and a modular enclosure to reduce size and electromagnetic interference, while maintaining performance and serviceability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional flow cytometers are designed to handle multiple fluorescence colors, then the system complexity increases, but the device size becomes unmanageably large
Solution Approach 1:
The flow cytometer is divided into modular components including a fluidics module, optics module, and electronics module. Each module handles specific functions independently, allowing the system to process multiple fluorescence colors through coordinated module operations rather than requiring all components to be physically integrated in a large unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The compact flow cytometer employs universal detectors and optical components that can handle multiple fluorescence wavelengths. The system uses a set of lasers with wavelengths selected to excite various fluorochromes, and the detectors are configured to detect multiple color signals, enabling one instrument to replace multiple specialized devices.
2Measurement precision
If conventional flow cytometers use complex system construction, then measurement precision is maintained, but electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronics are extracted and isolated in a separate electronics module away from the optics and fluidics modules. This physical separation removes the source of electromagnetic interference from proximity to sensitive optical detectors, reducing electromagnetic interference while preserving the precision needed for accurate cell analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces shielding and grounding systems as intermediary elements between electronic components and sensitive optical detection areas. These intermediaries act as barriers that block or redirect electromagnetic interference, protecting the measurement precision without requiring simplification of the complex system architecture.
3Productivity
If multiple flow cytometers are deployed in core labs, then service capacity increases, but bench space consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple flow cytometer functions are merged into a single compact instrument. The modular design integrates fluidics, optics, and electronics into one unified system that can process multiple parameters and fluorescence colors simultaneously, replacing what would traditionally require multiple separate instruments and thereby reducing bench space consumption while maintaining service capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from horizontal expansion (multiple large instruments side-by-side) to vertical integration (compact multi-functional system). By stacking functions vertically within a compact footprint rather than spreading components horizontally across multiple devices, the system achieves high service capacity in a reduced bench space area.
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 compact modular flow cytometer is more portable, cost-effective, and user-friendly, reducing electromagnetic interference and enabling efficient operation in core labs and medical environments without compromising performance.
Implementation Method 1
The bio-cells are fluorescently labeled and then excited by the lasers to emit light at correspondent wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
The fluorescence and the scattered light can be detected and measured
Implementation Method 3
The fluorescence emitted by the cells is collected by a lens
Implementation Method 4
Optical steering mirrors direct the light signals to the correspondent detectors
Implementation Method 5
such as a photomultiplier tube (PMT), an avalanche photodiode (APD) or a PIN diode
Data Source
AI summary
A system, an apparatus, and a method are provided for a modular flow cytometer with a compact size. In one embodiment, the modular flow cytometry system includes the following: a laser system for emitting laser beams; a flow cell assembly positioned to receive the laser beams at an interrogation region of a fluidics stream where fluoresced cells scatter the laser beams into fluorescent light; a fiber assembly positioned to collect the fluorescent light; and a grating system including a dispersive element and a receiver assembly, wherein the dispersive element is positioned to receive the fluorescent light from the fiber assembly and to direct spectrally dispersed light toward the receiver assembly.