Multi-Chamber Observation Holder for Simultaneous Cell Imaging

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing observation holders are inefficient in simultaneously observing multiple characteristics and functions of cells from multiple samples.

Innovation Solution

An observation holder with a rectangular accommodation unit and an observation unit that allows observation from below, featuring spaced holes connected by a passageway for efficient observation of multiple samples.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a conventional observation holder structure is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot efficiently observe multiple characteristics and functions of many cells from multiple samples simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveobservation efficiencyVSAvoidholder structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holder is divided into multiple independent observation chambers (first chamber, second chamber, etc.), each capable of holding and observing cells from different samples. This segmentation allows simultaneous observation of multiple samples while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each observation chamber is designed with universal functionality to observe multiple characteristics of cells (morphology, movement, division) through a single holder structure. The chambers can accommodate various cell types and observation conditions, making the holder multi-functional for different observation purposes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple observation chambers are added to observe multiple samples simultaneously, then observation capability increases, but the holder structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-sample observation capabilityVSAvoidholder structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holder is divided into multiple independent observation chambers (first chamber, second chamber, etc.), each capable of holding and observing cells from different samples. This segmentation allows simultaneous observation of multiple samples while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple observation chambers are integrated into a single holder body that can be placed on one microscope stage. The chambers share common structural elements and observation pathways, combining multiple observation functions into a unified device that reduces overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If observation chambers are designed to accommodate multiple cell types, then versatility improves, but the chamber structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecell type accommodation capabilityVSAvoidchamber structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each observation chamber is designed with universal functionality to observe multiple characteristics of cells (morphology, movement, division) through a single holder structure. The chambers can accommodate various cell types and observation conditions, making the holder multi-functional for different observation purposes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The chamber structure incorporates specific local features (such as bottom openings, wall structures, and positioning elements) that enable universal cell accommodation while maintaining structural simplicity. These localized design elements provide the necessary adaptability without requiring complex overall chamber design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS12585101B2Observation holder, observation apparatus, observation chip, and method of manufacturing observation chip

Publication Date: 2026.03.24 HIRATA CORPORATION

AI summary

The present invention relates to an observation holder, including an accommodation unit configured to accommodate an observation target, and an observation unit formed below the accommodation unit, wherein an observation target accommodated in the accommodation unit can be observed from below, the accommodation unit includes an accommodation unit main body in which a plurality of holes for accommodating an observation target are formed, and an accommodation unit upper portion formed on an upper portion of the accommodation unit main body, the accommodation unit upper portion includes a wall surrounding a space above the accommodation unit main body, as a storage for storing a predetermined liquid, and two adjacent holes of the plurality of holes are connected in the observation unit.