Automated analysis of images using bright field microscopy
US8744164B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 4, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jun 3, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 14, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06V20/693
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system and method for automatically observing and counting cells without using a stain or a fluorescent material. The system includes an optical microscope having a sensor that provides an electrical signal representative of a field of view. The microscope is motorized so as to allow automatic change of focus. A sample containing cells to be analyzed is provided. No stain or fluorescent substance is used. When the microscope is operated in a deliberately out-of-focus condition, cells appear to have either a bright or a dark spot that can be used to report the number of cells in the sample. The intensity variation detected in images acquired in different focal planes is used to identify cell shapes using image analysis software such as CellProfiler. A result is reported in any convenient format, such as a false color image.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.