Patent ID: 6778263
Filing Date: 2004-08-17
Classification: G01N,G02B,G06T

Abstract:
A method for using an engineered sample of calibration objects to enhance the performance of a flow imaging system configured to obtain images of sample objects entrained in a flow of fluid passing through the flow imaging system, using a time-delay-integration (TDI) detector, comprising the steps of:(a) providing an engineered sample of calibration objects that enables a reliable data signal to be obtained during each update cycle of the flow imaging system, each calibration object being sufficiently small so as to readily pass through the fluidics of the flow imaging system; (b) introducing the engineered sample of calibration objects into the flow of fluid passing through the flow imaging system; (c) using the flow imaging system to collect data corresponding to the engineered sample of calibration objects, the data enabling the flow imaging system to reach and maintain a stable state, the data including velocity data that are used to synchronize the TDI detector to the flow of fluid passing through the flow imaging system, the data further including diagnostic data indicating whether the flow imaging system is functioning as desired; and (d) introducing sample objects into the flow of fluid passing through the flow imaging system, whereby synchronization of the TDI detector to the flow of fluid passing through the flow imaging system that is facilitated by the engineered sample of calibration objects enhances the ability of the flow imaging system to collect data corresponding to the sample objects.