Specimen Analyzer Optical Interference Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing specimen analyzers face difficulties in performing accurate optical measurements when specimens exhibit symptoms of hemolysis, chyle, or icterus, as interfering substances like hemoglobin, lipid, or bilirubin absorb or scatter light, hindering correct analysis.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that acquire optical information from specimens before analysis, using a combination of light sources and filters to determine the presence and concentration of interfering substances, adjusting analytical conditions based on this information to ensure accurate measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If optical measurement is performed on specimens containing interfering substances (hemoglobin, lipid, bilirubin), then the measurement process can be completed, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to light absorption and scattering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by measuring the optical properties of specimens before adding reagents and performing the main analysis. The system measures light absorption and scattering characteristics of the original specimen, then uses this information to correct or compensate for interference effects during subsequent measurements, thereby maintaining measurement precision even in the presence of interfering substances
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by measuring optical properties at multiple different wavelengths. The system captures absorption spectra across a range of wavelengths and uses this spectral information to identify and quantify interfering substances. By analyzing how different substances absorb light at different wavelengths, the system can mathematically separate and correct for interference effects, preserving measurement accuracy
2Productivity
If specimens with remarkable hemolysis, chyle, or icterus symptoms are analyzed, then the analytical throughput is maintained, but the reliability of analytical results deteriorates due to insufficient light transmission and scattering
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary optical characterization of specimens before main analysis by measuring light transmission and scattering at multiple wavelengths. This early detection of severe interference allows the system to apply appropriate correction algorithms or adjust measurement parameters in advance, ensuring reliable results even for specimens with remarkable hemolysis, chyle, or icterus symptoms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the preliminary optical measurement results to dynamically adjust the main analysis process. The system feeds back the measured absorption and scattering characteristics into the analysis algorithm, which then compensates for interference effects in real-time, maintaining result reliability while preserving analytical throughput
3Ease of operation
If a bar code label is placed on the blood collection tube for specimen identification, then the ease of operation is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates because the label obstructs optical access to the specimen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the specimen handling into distinct phases: identification phase and measurement phase. The bar code label remains on the tube for easy identification and tracking, while the measurement system uses optical fibers or transparent containers to access the specimen without the label. This segmentation allows both functions to coexist without interference
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing transparent containers or optical fibers as mediators between the bar-coded specimen tube and the measurement system. The intermediary allows optical access to the specimen while leaving the bar code label undisturbed on the original tube, thus maintaining both ease of operation and measurement 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 reliable analysis by identifying and mitigating the effects of interfering substances, increasing the number of analyzable specimens and improving analytical efficiency by optimizing measurement conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a light of a specific wavelength is absorbed
Implementation Method 2
analyzing scattered light or transmitted light from the analytical sample
Data Source
AI summary
A novel method of specimen analysis in which prior to specimen analysis, any interfering substance can be measured. There is provided a method of specimen analysis, comprising the steps of irradiating a specimen with light to thereby obtain an optical information on the specimen from the specimen; mixing the specimen with a reagent to thereby obtain an analytical sample; and irradiating the analytical sample with light to thereby obtain an optical information on the sample from the analytical sample and processing the optical information on the sample to thereby accomplish analysis of the analytical sample. In the step of the analysis of the analytical sample, analytical conditions commensurate with the analytical sample are set on the basis of the optical information on the specimen.