Modular Microorganism Detection System for Opaque Culture Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated systems for counting microorganisms in culture devices, such as PETRIFILM plates, are limited by the need for expensive equipment and light-permeable substrates, leading to inefficiencies and inaccuracies in colony counting.
Innovation Solution
A modular sample processing and detection system that automates multiple steps, including sample loading, incubation, and detection, using interlocking modules to align and transfer culture devices, allowing for flexible customization and reduced equipment usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If video-based automated counting systems are used, then counting automation is achieved, but equipment cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a sample preparation module and a detection module. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function with simpler, more cost-effective equipment rather than requiring a single complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses digital imaging to create a visual copy of the culture device contents, which can then be analyzed by computer software. This replaces the need for complex video processing hardware with simpler imaging equipment and software-based analysis.
2Extent of automation
If video-based automated counting systems are used, then counting automation is achieved, but processing time increases due to intensive computation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary sample preparation and culture device placement in an automated manner before the detection phase. This preliminary automation reduces the need for complex real-time processing during the actual counting operation, thereby reducing processing time.
3Measurement precision
If light-permeable substrates are used for accurate colony counting, then detection accuracy is improved, but substrate selection is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring light to pass through the substrate from below, the system illuminates the culture device from above and captures images of the colonies. This inverted illumination approach allows the use of opaque or non-light-permeable substrates while maintaining accurate colony detection.
4Device complexity
If manual sample processing is used, then equipment cost is reduced, but labor intensity and error rate increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides manual tasks into separate automated modules that handle specific functions such as sample loading and culture device placement. This segmentation provides automation benefits for labor-intensive steps while keeping the overall system simpler than fully automated alternatives.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to be partially self-servicing, where the automated modules handle routine tasks without requiring complex external control systems. This reduces both labor intensity and system complexity by allowing the equipment to perform basic functions autonomously.
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 modular system enhances the accuracy and efficiency of microorganism detection by automating labor-intensive processes, reducing errors, and minimizing equipment needs, while allowing for various tests to be performed with a single system.
Implementation Method 1
In other systems, such as that described in EP 0 301 600, the absorbance and transmission of light is used to detect colonies.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A modular automated system for sample processing and/or detection of microorganisms is provided. The modular system includes modules that perform at least one function in the process of detecting microorganisms in a culture device, such as collection of multiple samples, sample loading, sample preparation, sample incubation, and detection of microorganisms in samples. An exemplary embodiment of a modular sample processing and/or detection system can include an automated loading module, a liquid processing module, modular incubator, a second automated loading module, a reader module, and a collector.