Smartphone Micro Lens Sperm Motility Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) systems are large, expensive, and not portable, making it difficult for veterinarians and physicians in rural areas to effectively assess sperm motility and morphology, particularly for farm animals and human reproductive health.
Innovation Solution
A portable device comprising a planar sample chamber with an optically transparent surface and a removable micro lens lid, integrated with a smartphone imaging system for acquiring and processing images of sperm samples, enabling motility and morphology analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional CASA systems are used for sperm analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional CASA system is segmented into two parts: a simple portable sampling device with sample chamber and micro lens for image acquisition, and a separate smartphone for image processing and analysis. This segmentation allows the complex processing functions to be moved to the smartphone while keeping the physical analysis device simple and portable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a smartphone as an intermediary device that bridges the simple portable sampler and the complex analysis software. The smartphone captures images through the portable device's lens, processes them using CASA algorithms, and provides results, thereby eliminating the need for a complex dedicated CASA system.
2Ease of operation
If portable design is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sample chamber is designed with specific local optical qualities - the bottom surface has particular transparency and flatness characteristics optimized for sperm imaging. This localized optimization of optical properties in the critical imaging area ensures high image quality despite the overall simplicity and portability of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable device creates optical copies of the sperm samples using the micro lens and sample chamber, producing images that are then processed by the smartphone. This copying approach allows the simple portable device to capture sufficient image data without requiring complex optical systems.
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
The portable system provides accurate and efficient sperm motility and morphology analysis, facilitating diagnostic decisions in remote settings without the need for large, expensive equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a removable, substantially planar second component that forms a lid for the sample chamber and that comprises a micro lens, wherein the micro lens is optically aligned with the sample chamber
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are imaging-based devices and systems for measuring sperm motility in samples of human or animal origin. The disclosed devices and systems have particular applicability in the fields of agricultural and clinical diagnostics, as well as in vitro fertilization.