Compact optical system for substantially simultaneous monitoring of samples in a sample array
Inventors
Abbott, Richard David • Riley, Patrick L. • Evans, Zackery Kent • Nay, Lyle M.
Assignees
Publication Number
US-11442258-B2
Publication Date
2022-09-13
Expiration Date
2033-03-15
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Abstract
Optical systems and apparatuses configured for enabling substantially simultaneous observation of a plurality of points in an array from a common reference point. Without the optical systems and apparatuses disclosed herein, less than all of the plurality of points can be observed substantially simultaneously from the common reference point.
Core Innovation
This invention provides optical systems and apparatuses specially configured to enable substantially simultaneous observation or monitoring of multiple points of interest arranged in an array, such as the sample wells of a 96-well plate, from a common reference point. Without these particular optical systems and apparatuses, it is not possible to observe all points in such arrays substantially simultaneously from a single vantage point.
The disclosed optical system includes a body with multiple points of interest, such as sample wells, and a means disposed in the optical path for allowing observation of each point substantially at the same time. This means can include a mirror with a compound curvature, a sample block with a single axis of curvature paired with a complementary mirror, or a sample block itself featuring compound curvature. These means are specifically noted as being other than a focusing lens.
The invention addresses the limitations of prior systems, which could either not view all wells simultaneously from a close proximity or required movement of the optical device or expensive lens systems, resulting in a larger form factor or increased optical complexity. Through the use of specially shaped and positioned curved mirrors or sample blocks, the system directs light paths so that the ray lengths from each point of interest to the observation apparatus are substantially equal, minimizing eclipsing and crosstalk while avoiding complex lens systems.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes one independent claim with several main inventive features.
Optical system utilizing a paraboloid reflective element for simultaneous observation
An apparatus comprises: - A sample block at a first end of a body, including multiple recessed receptacles each sized and shaped for a sample container. - An observation element at the second end, having a light source and a camera; the light source directs light toward the first end. - A reflective element above the sample block with a single reflective surface formed as a non-apex portion of a paraboloid. - The reflective element is positioned so it directs light from the light source simultaneously to each sample container and reflects their images simultaneously to the observation element. - The reflected images are distorted into a fan-shaped image, allowing capture of a first data set representing the distorted image, which comprises a fluorescent signal for each sample container. - A computer processes this data set to yield a second set representing an undistorted image.
The independent claim covers an integrated apparatus facilitating simultaneous optical monitoring of multiple sample containers using a specially formed paraboloid reflective element, combined with a coordinated light source, camera, and data processing for image correction.
Stated Advantages
Enables substantially simultaneous observation of all points of interest in a sample array from a common reference point without the need for focusing lenses.
Reduces form factor and complexity compared to systems requiring increased distance between the detector and sample array or multiple individual detectors.
Minimizes interference, eclipsing, and crosstalk between adjacent sample wells during optical observation.
Allows for substantially equal ray lengths from sample wells to the observation element, facilitating accurate and consistent data collection.
Distortions introduced by the system are predictable and can be corrected in data processing, yielding undistorted images.
Documented Applications
Real-time monitoring of biological samples undergoing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or similar nucleic acid amplification techniques in sample arrays.
Monitoring of optically detected assays performed in a multi-well plate or other planar array formats, including fluorescent assays, protein and nucleic acid melting assays, direct fluorescent antibody assays, and turbidimetric assays.
Use within thermocycling systems, such as PCR instruments, for substantially simultaneous monitoring of fluorescence in each of a plurality of biological samples.
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