Autofocus systems and methods for particle analysis in blood samples
US10495561B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 17, 2014 |
| Grant date | Dec 3, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 17, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC —)General
Abstract
Particles such as blood cells can be categorized and counted by a digital image processor. A digital microscope camera can be directed into a flowcell defining a symmetrically narrowing flowpath in which the sample stream flows in a ribbon flattened by flow and viscosity parameters between layers of sheath fluid. A contrast pattern for autofocusing is provided on the flowcell, for example at an edge of a rear illumination opening. The image processor assesses focus accuracy from pixel data contrast. A positioning motor moves the microscope and/or flowcell along the optical axis for autofocusing on the contrast pattern target. The processor then displaces microscope and flowcell by a known distance between the contrast pattern and the sample stream, thus focusing on the sample stream. Blood cell images are collected from that position until autofocus is reinitiated, periodically, by input signal, or when detecting temperature changes or focus inaccuracy in the image data.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.