Integrated Optofluidic Interrogation Module for Flow Cytometer Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flow cytometers require complex and costly mechanical alignment of light sources and flow cells, necessitating skilled personnel and resulting in high installation and service times.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an optofluidic interrogation module within the flow cytometer, featuring a linear fiber array with non-circular core optical fibers and fiber optic light conveyor couplers, which aligns laser beams with the flow core stream without the need for manual adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment of light sources and flow cells is performed using x-y-z stages and adjustable mechanical components, then proper alignment can be achieved, but assembly time increases, skilled personnel are required, and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-aligning the light source and flow cell during the manufacturing process. The light source is positioned and fixed relative to the flow cell before the product is shipped to the customer, eliminating the need for field alignment adjustments. This pre-performed alignment action resolves the contradiction by achieving precise alignment (improving manufacturing precision) while reducing assembly time at the installation site.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through self-aligning mechanical features such as keyed mounting slots, registration marks, and fixed geometric relationships between components. These features enable the light source and flow cell to automatically align with each other without requiring external adjustment tools or skilled operators. The system aligns itself during installation, thereby reducing assembly time and eliminating the need for skilled personnel while maintaining alignment precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex mechanical mounting components and adjustable stages are used for alignment, then proper positioning can be achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the complex adjustable mechanical components (x-y-z stages, multiple mounting brackets, adjustment screws) from the final product design. Instead, it retains only the essential fixed mounting features needed for initial alignment during manufacturing. By taking out the unnecessary complexity while preserving the core alignment function through simpler fixed mounting, the patent reduces device complexity while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment systems with simpler fixed mechanical mounting structures. Instead of using adjustable stages and movable components, the design employs rigid fixed mounting with pre-established geometric relationships. This substitution of complex adjustable mechanical systems with simple fixed mechanical structures reduces device complexity while achieving the required alignment precision through manufacturing accuracy rather than field adjustment.
3Manufacturing precision
If skilled technicians perform alignment adjustments, then proper alignment can be achieved, but service costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by designing the system to be inherently self-aligning through fixed geometric relationships, keyed mounting features, and registration marks. During installation or repair, the components automatically align with each other without requiring skilled technicians to perform complex adjustment procedures. This self-aligning capability enables field personnel or even customers to perform installations and repairs themselves, dramatically reducing service costs while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-aligning and pre-adjusting all optical components during the manufacturing process. The alignment work that would otherwise require skilled technicians during installation or repair is performed in advance at the factory. This preliminary alignment action eliminates the need for expensive skilled service personnel during field operations, reducing service costs while maintaining high alignment precision through controlled manufacturing processes.
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 solution simplifies the assembly and operation of flow cytometers, reducing alignment time, costs, and the need for skilled technicians while maintaining signal quality and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a linear fiber array integrated with the flow cell and comprising a plurality of non-circular core optical fibers each configured to project excitation wavelength light onto a corresponding focal spot within the flow cell
Implementation Method 2
a focusing optical system integrated with the flow cell and configured to relay the excitation light from the non-circular core optical fibers to the focal spots
Implementation Method 3
a light detector (e.g., forward scatter detector) integrated with the flow cell
Data Source
AI summary
Integrated optofluidic interrogation modules are provided. Integrated optofluidic interrogation modules of interest include a flow cell comprising a light-accessible flow channel for transporting particles in a flow stream, a linear fiber array integrated with the flow cell and comprising a plurality of non-circular core optical fibers each configured to project excitation wavelength light onto a corresponding focal spot within the flow cell, and a plurality of fiber optic light conveyor couplers for operably attaching a plurality of light sources to the linear fiber array. Also provided are flow cytometers comprising the subject integrated optofluidic interrogation modules, as well as methods of use thereof.