Prism array based portable microplate reader
Inventors
Li, Lei • WANG, Li-Ju • SUN, Rongrong • Chang, Yu-Chung
Assignees
Washington State University WSU
Publication Number
US-11000853-B2
Publication Date
2021-05-11
Expiration Date
2037-03-22
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Abstract
The methods and configurations herein provide for analysis of microplate based assays. Certain aspects include: an optical illumination panel; a plurality of sample wells configured to receive light from the optical illumination panel, and wherein the plurality of sample wells is configured with a first field of view; at least one aperture array configured to isolate directed light therethrough the plurality of sample wells; at least one optical array configured to receive optical information from the plurality of sample platforms, wherein the at least optical array comprises an array of individual microprisms configured with equal apex angles at distal equidistances along a row, wherein the individual microprism apex angles decrease toward the center of the row culminating in at least one flat surface along a center portion of the row; and a detector configured to capture the optical information with a second field of view as provided by the at least one optical array.
Core Innovation
The invention provides a portable microplate reader based on a prism array that enables analysis of microplate-based assays using an optical system optimized for mobile, low-cost, and high-throughput testing. The diagnostic apparatus consists of an optical illumination panel, a plurality of sample wells configured to receive light, at least one aperture array to isolate directed light, at least one optical array comprising a specially designed array of microprisms, and a detector that captures optical information. The unique microprism array is constructed so the apex angles of the microprisms decrease toward the center of a row, culminating in flat surfaces at the center, allowing light from every well to be precisely redirected into the detector's field of view.
Traditional microplate assay readers are expensive, large, and confined to laboratory use, preventing widespread and in-field application, particularly in resource-limited settings. The disclosed invention addresses this problem by providing a compact, affordable, and user-friendly reader, facilitating point-of-care testing and decentralized diagnostics by integrating mobile devices such as smartphones for image acquisition and analysis, along with custom software for data interpretation and transmission.
The apparatus is capable of direct high-throughput optical measurements and can be manufactured using cost-effective techniques such as 3D printing, injection molding, and vacuum forming processes. This facilitates widespread adoption and adaptability for various settings and microplate formats. The prism array technology ensures that light from all wells is efficiently collected, resolving the field-of-view mismatch between traditional cameras and multi-well plates, thereby supporting a miniaturized and scalable diagnostic system for a range of assay types.
Claims Coverage
The patent contains one independent claim outlining six main inventive features that collectively define the scope of the innovation.
Integrated microprism array with variable apex angles
The diagnostic apparatus features at least one optical array that includes an array of individual microprisms. Each microprism is configured with equal apex angles at distal equidistances along a row, with the apex angles decreasing toward the center of the row and culminating in at least one flat surface at the center portion. This arrangement allows for efficient collection and redirection of light from multiple sample wells into the detector's field of view.
Optical backlight illumination panel for sample excitation
An optical backlight illumination panel is positioned so that a plurality of sample wells can receive light, enabling optical interrogation of samples within the wells.
Hard aperture array for isolating directed light
At least one hard aperture array is configured to isolate and direct light from the optical backlight panel through the plurality of sample wells, improving accuracy by reducing crosstalk and stray light between wells.
Optical grating for spectral interrogation
An optical grating is included to enable spectral interrogation of the directed light, allowing the apparatus to perform spectral analysis of the light passing through the samples.
Detector configuration for capturing redirected optical information
A detector is configured to capture the optical information of the directed light, as received from the optical grating, within a field of view as provided by the optical array.
Compatibility with mobile and computing devices for analysis and communication
The apparatus supports integration with at least one of a smartphone, laptop, IPAD, or PDA, which can connect directly or wirelessly. This enables optical information to be processed locally or remotely, and allows communication through various protocols (hardwired, cellular, IEEE, Bluetooth) for data transfer, analysis, and user feedback.
The inventive features as defined in the independent claim establish a portable diagnostic apparatus utilizing a microprism array, dedicated optical illumination and isolation, spectral interrogation, and compatibility with mobile computing and communication devices.
Stated Advantages
Provides a low-cost, compact, and high-throughput optical sensing platform suitable for in situ screening of immunoassays.
Enables accurate and reliable spectral measurements using integrated optical arrays and a custom application for data capture and alignment.
Facilitates decentralized, point-of-care diagnostic testing outside of traditional laboratories, including in resource-limited and field environments.
Allows for rapid, onsite acquisition and analysis of optical assay data, supporting faster clinical decisions and reducing turnaround time.
Harnesses affordable manufacturing processes like 3D printing and vacuum forming to reduce component costs.
Documented Applications
Colorimetric analysis of emission and absorption of assays using multi-well microplates.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis in both laboratory and field settings.
Fluorescent analysis and optical spectrum analysis of chemical or biological substances.
Field testing and diagnosis of human biomarkers such as human IL-6 via immunoassay.
Field analysis of plant viruses in agricultural applications using ELISA methods.
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