| abstract |
A method for agglutination detection using optical imaging of reaction wells containing agglutination objects in a programmable random access automated apparatus for perforing agglutination assays is provided. An image of the agglutination objects in the reaction wells is taken with analyzation of the intensity values and transitions through relative portions of the image and background which provides intensity values suitable for classifying. The method utilizes slope information from a derivative (Fig. 34 A-E, second row) rather than absolute intensities, thus allowing scoring algorithm based on slope total information. The agglutination detection method uses a CCD camera to take an image at each well (Fig. 34 A-E, first row) of a multiple well cartridge, thus providing information suitable for analyzing from the image detection apparatus, the apparatus processes the information to generate a visual indication of the results of the assays being performed. A micro-processor is provided to assist in the operation of the apparatus as well as the image processing data collection and analysis. |