Dynamic autofocus method and system for assay imager

Abstract

A method and system are provided for controlling focus dynamically of a sample imager. The method comprises scanning a sample with an optical assembly that apportions the sample into regions based on a scan pattern. The optical assembly has a focal setting with respect to the sample. The method further comprises shifting the focal setting of the optical assembly during scanning of the sample, and detecting one or more images representative of one of the regions from the sample. The one or more images have associated degrees of focus corresponding to the focal setting of the optical assembly. The method analyzes the image(s) to obtain a focus score or scores corresponding thereto, where the focus scores represent a degree to which the optical assembly was in focus when detecting the images. The method adjusts the focus setting based on the focus score(s).

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 122,550, filed Dec. 15, 2008 and having the same title, which is hereby incorporated by reference in the entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to sample imaging, and more specifically to dynamic autofocus methods and systems for assay imaging.[0003]A wide variety of optical systems exist that capture images of an area of interest on assays for subsequent analysis. Each image may be obtained by detecting light produced across an entire area of interest on an assay substrate at one point in time. Alternatively, each image may be obtained by scanning an illumination source across the area of interest while detecting light produced at the current illuminated spot. For example, a series of successive line scans of a tightly focused illumination beam may be directed across the area of interest, such as in a raster...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a method and system for controlling the focus of a sample imager. The system detects images of a sample and analyzes them to determine the degree of focus. Based on these focus scores, the system adjusts the focus setting of the optical assembly to improve the quality of the images. The technical effect of this invention is to provide a more efficient and accurate method for detecting and analyzing samples using optical imaging techniques.

Problems solved by technology

However, conventional optical imagers have experienced certain limitations.

However, conventional focus mechanisms utilize components separate and part from the optical components that are used to capture images of the region of interest, thereby increasing the cost, complexity, and number of parts that may potentially fail.

Further, in certain optical systems, the image cannot be captured until after the focus mechanism first performs focus measurements and adjusts the optical components relative to the area of interest.

Thus, the focus mechanism may adjust the focal plane in a manner that is incomplete or inaccurate.

Images