Sample Holder with Internal Reflection for Biological Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for analyzing biological samples are limited in their ability to provide accurate and efficient optical and image analysis, particularly for small samples and in various clinical and laboratory settings, due to limitations in sample holders and illumination techniques.
Innovation Solution
The development of sample holders with optically transmissive portions and internal reflection capabilities, allowing for both epi-illumination and trans-illumination, along with advanced detector systems and methods for precise measurement and analysis of small biological samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional sample holders with single-illumination methods are used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision and analysis accuracy are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The sample holder integrates multiple illumination methods (epi-illumination and trans-illumination) into a single device structure, allowing both illumination modes to be achieved through the same sample holder without requiring separate devices. The light guide structure combines multiple light paths within one component.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample holder is designed to perform multiple functions: it can provide both epi-illumination (light from above) and trans-illumination (light from below) capabilities, making it a multi-functional device that adapts to different optical analysis requirements without needing separate specialized holders.
2Quantity of substance
If small sample volumes are analyzed, then the loss of substance is reduced, but the illumination uniformity and measurement reliability become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide structure is designed with specific local optical properties to ensure uniform light distribution across the small sample volume. The internal reflection surfaces are positioned and shaped to provide consistent illumination throughout the sample chamber, addressing the specific lighting needs of small samples.
Solution Approach 2:
The light guide acts as an intermediary component that distributes light uniformly across the small sample volume. It mediates between the light source and the small sample, ensuring that even tiny sample volumes receive consistent and uniform illumination for reliable measurements.
3Measurement precision
If multiple illumination directions are implemented, then the measurement precision improves, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide structure utilizes internal reflection to redirect and distribute light throughout the sample chamber without requiring additional active energy input. The optical design allows the system to self-distribute the illumination energy efficiently through passive optical elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated light guide maintains continuous light distribution across the sample volume through internal reflection pathways, ensuring that the illumination action continues uniformly without interruption or energy loss between different illumination zones.
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
Enables improved optical examination and measurement of biological samples, providing accurate quantitative and qualitative data, even for small sample volumes, and facilitating precise analysis in various settings.
Implementation Method 1
a sample holder having an optically transmissive portion and a portion configured to provide internal reflection of light within the sample holder
Implementation Method 2
internal reflections may include partial internal reflection and may include total internal reflection of light
Implementation Method 3
an external light source disposed on one side of the sample holder may provide epi-illumination of a sample within the sample holder
Implementation Method 4
may provide trans-illumination of a sample within the sample holder
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices, apparatus, and systems are provided for image analysis. Methods of image analysis may include observation, measurement, and analysis of images of biological and other samples; devices, apparatus, and systems provided herein are useful for observation, measurement, and analysis of images of such samples. The methods, devices, apparatus, and systems disclosed herein provide advantages over other methods, devices, apparatus, and systems.