Patent ID: 6384906
Filing Date: 2002-05-07
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A method for calibrating an imaging system so as to obtain accurate imaging of a layered sample that is contained in a sample tube which is positioned on a centrifuge platen in a first location during centrifugation of the sample and tube, said method comprising:a) the step of spinning the platen so as to commence gravimetric compaction of the sample into at least one discernable sample layer in the sample tube; b) the step of providing a target reference device that is disposed on the platen in a location which is offset from said first location, said target reference device including at least one fluorescent band of known length, which band simulates a fluorescent layer of a component in a sample contained in the sample tube; and c) the step of obtaining a clear image of said target reference device during centrifugation of the sample tube on the centrifuge platen so as to establish at least one known reference target reference device band length for the imaging system for use in establishing at least one actual sample layer length imaged by the imaging system during centrifugation of the sample.