Patent ID: 6922241
Filing Date: 2005-07-26
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. Apparatus adapted for use in a flow cytometer for detecting light scattered by a small particle or cell comprising a biological liquid, said small particle or cell being irradiated by a light beam as it passes through an optical flow cell of said flow cytometer, said apparatus comprising: (a) a plurality of photodetectors; (b) a plurality of optical fibers, each optical fiber having a light-collecting end, and having a light-discharge end disposed in close proximity to one of said photodetectors; and (c) a pair of fiber optic holders, one holder serving to support the respective light-collecting ends of a first portion of said plurality of optical fibers in a position to receive and collect back-scattered light from an irradiated cell or particle, and the other of said holders serving to support the respective light-collecting ends of a second portion of said plurality of optical fibers in a position to receive and collect forward-scattered light from the same irradiated cell or particle, said other fiber optic holder further serving (a) to support a light-diffusing surface in a position to diffuse axial beam light, as modulated in intensity by a particle or cell passing through said light beam, and (b) to support a third portion of said plurality of optical fibers in a position to receive and collect said axial beam light upon being diffused by said light-diffusing surface.