Particle Analysis in Liquid via Multi-Plane Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for analyzing particles in liquid samples are time-consuming, inaccurate, and often require centralized equipment, making them unsuitable for quick and cost-effective analysis, especially in point-of-care settings.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the acquisition of multiple images at closely spaced focus planes within a sample retaining device, allowing for the identification and analysis of particles in focus, which enables deeper sample coverage and more precise concentration determination without the need for sample settling, using image analysis techniques that determine light intensity or pixel variance differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional manual counting in a counting chamber is used, then particle concentration can be determined, but the analysis is time-consuming and requires sample settling for several minutes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical counting process with an automated image acquisition and analysis system. Multiple images are captured at different focus planes simultaneously, eliminating the need for manual counting and sample settling. The image analysis system automatically identifies and counts particles, providing rapid results without time-consuming mechanical procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional planar counting in a single focus plane to three-dimensional volumetric analysis by capturing multiple images at different focus planes. This allows particles throughout the entire sample volume to be counted simultaneously, eliminating the need for sequential counting and sample settling operations.
2Measurement precision
If manual particle counting is performed, then particle concentration can be determined, but the results vary depending on the person performing the analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective manual counting with an automated digital image analysis system that uses consistent algorithms and criteria. The system objectively identifies and counts particles based on predefined parameters, eliminating inter-operator variability and ensuring reliable, reproducible results across different users and laboratories.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies of the sample through multiple captured images, which can be consistently analyzed by computer algorithms. This digital copying approach eliminates the variability inherent in manual visual counting, as the same digital images can be processed identically by the analysis system regardless of who operates it.
3Productivity
If automated analysis using the Coulter principle is used, then particle concentration can be determined rapidly, but the apparatus is expensive and requires centralized location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable sample chamber that can be easily discarded after use, eliminating the need for expensive, complex, and difficult-to-maintain centralized equipment. The low-cost, single-use chamber allows for portable, point-of-care analysis without requiring investment in sophisticated automated instruments like Coulter counters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive electrical impedance sensing (Coulter principle) with a simpler optical imaging system using standard cameras and light sources. This substitution dramatically reduces equipment cost and complexity while maintaining rapid analysis capability through automated image processing rather than requiring costly electrical measurement hardware.
4Volume of stationary object
If images are acquired at different focus planes to analyze particles, then larger sample volume can be covered, but the distance between focus planes should be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a movable focus plane mechanism that can dynamically adjust the spacing between consecutive focus planes. This dynamic adjustment allows optimization of the distance between planes based on particle size and distribution, ensuring that particles are captured in focus while maintaining appropriate spacing to cover the desired sample volume without redundancy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent systematically varies the focus plane spacing parameter to optimize image quality and particle detection. By adjusting the distance between consecutive focus planes as a controllable parameter, the system achieves optimal coverage of the sample volume while maintaining sufficient resolution to distinguish particles, balancing volumetric coverage with imaging precision.
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 approach allows for rapid, accurate, and cost-effective analysis of particle concentrations and types in a larger sample volume, enabling reliable point-of-care diagnostics with minimal equipment investment.
Implementation Method 1
acquiring, by means of an image acquiring device, a plurality of images of said sample at different focus planes
Implementation Method 2
determining the greatest difference in light intensity between an area of the image which is occupied by the particle and an area of the image where no particle is distinguishable
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to methods for analysis of particles in a liquid sample, the sample being retained in a sample retaining device, the method comprising: acquiring, by means of an image acquiring device, a plurality of images of said sample at different focus planes within the sample retaining device; analysing said images, by means of an image analyser, for identifying which, if any, of the particles of the sample are imaged in focus in each of the images, and analysing those particles which have been identified as being imaged in focus; wherein said plurality of images are acquired at different, essentially parallel, focus planes, which planes are separated from each other by a distance, said distance being less than 10 micrometers. The invention also relates to apparatuses adapted to be used for the inventive methods.