Particle Analyzer Pore Blocking Control via Residual Sample Reuse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional particle analyzers, such as blood cell analyzers, face the challenge of pore blocking events due to the small pore size being easily obstructed by proteins, cell debris, blood clots, or lipids, leading to reduced reliability and the need for complex handling processes, including manual re-acquisition and re-dilution of samples.
Innovation Solution
A particle test control method and device that monitors for pore blocking events in real-time, suspends the test, performs an unblocking operation, and re-counts the sample using the residual diluted sample from the reaction cell, thereby reducing the probability of failure and simplifying the handling process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a small pore size is used in the counting cell, then the particle counting precision is improved, but the pore is easily blocked by proteins, cell debris, blood clots, or lipids
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary dilution of the sample in a reaction cell before counting, reducing the concentration of blocking substances (proteins, cell debris, blood clots, lipids) in advance. This preliminary action prevents pore blocking while maintaining the ability to accurately count particles through the small-pore counting cell.
Solution Approach 2:
A liquid addition system acts as an intermediary between the sample and the counting cell, controlling the flow of diluted sample through the pore. The system includes a liquid discharge valve that regulates sample delivery, preventing direct contact between undiluted sample and the counting pore, thus reducing blocking while maintaining counting precision.
2Reliability
If manual re-acquisition and re-dilution of samples is performed when pore blocking occurs, then the test can be continued, but the handling process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects pore blocking events and performs self-service by controlling the liquid addition system to deliver additional diluted sample from the reaction cell to the counting cell. This automated response eliminates the need for manual re-acquisition and re-dilution operations, maintaining test continuity while simplifying the handling process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous operation by keeping the liquid discharge valve in a close status to preserve residual diluted sample in the reaction cell after initial counting. When pore blocking occurs, the system continues using the same diluted sample rather than stopping for re-acquisition, ensuring uninterrupted testing and reducing operational complexity.
3Loss of substance
If the liquid discharge valve is kept in a close status to maintain residual diluted sample, then the sample utilization is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid discharge valve serves multiple functions: it controls sample delivery to the counting cell, preserves residual diluted sample in the reaction cell, and enables automatic response to pore blocking events. This multi-functionality maximizes sample utilization while the integrated control system manages valve operations without requiring additional complex mechanisms.
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 minimizes the likelihood of test result failures by fully utilizing residual diluted samples and reducing the need for repeated sample acquisition and dilution, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of particle counting processes.
Implementation Method 1
counting the sample in the counting cell by impedance method
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a particle analyzer and a particle test control method and device thereof. A method comprises, acquiring a blood sample in a test location; preparing a diluted sample by the acquired sample; after acquiring a diluted sample, monitoring whether a pore blocking event occurs during a counting process; when the pore blocking event occurs, suspending the test of the sample, and performing an unblocking operation; and after the unblocking operation is completed, re-counting the same diluted sample without re-acquiring and re-diluting the blood sample by the impedance method after the unblocking operation.