US4877965A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Fluorometer
Assignee: DIATRON DIAGNOSTICS Inc
•
Filing: 1985-07-01
•
Granted: 1989-10-31
•
Expires: 2005-07-01
Abstract
Abstract A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from a specimen and operating in accordance with the following method. Producing a burst of concentrated light energy and directing the concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence. Preferably producing an image of the fluorescence. Detecting the fluorescence and producing a signal in accordance with the fluorescence. Controlling the passage of the image of the fluorescence for detecting within a particular time period so as to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence. Timing the operation to sequence the detection of the fluorescence within the particular time period after the production of the burst of concentrated light energy. Scanning the fluorescence from the specimen for forming signals representative of the fluorescence from the specimen. Analyzing the signals to enhance the portion of the signal representing the particular fluorescence relative to the portion of the signal.
Inventors
- 👤 Walter B. Dandliker
- 👤 Howard S. Barr
- 👤 Henry S. Katzenstein
- 👤 Keith R. Watson
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-26 22:05
CPC Classifications
G; G01; G01N; G01N21/00; G01N21/62; G01N21/63; G01N21/64; G01N21/6408; G02; G02B; G02B21/00; G02B21/16; G01N21/645; G01N21/6456; G01N21/6458; G01N2201/00; G01N2201/10; G01N2201/108; G01N2201/1087
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 137
Claim 1
Independent Claim
310 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including, means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence and to enhance the detection of the particular fluorescence relative to the total fluorescence, the beginning of the particular time period being defined by a first particular time after the burst of concentrated light energy and during the production of the particular fluorescence and the end of the particular time period being defined by a second particular time after the first particular time where the second particular time occurs during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of the concentrated light energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the above means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the detection means for forming signals representative of the particular fluorescence from the specimen, and means responsive to the detection of the particular fluorescence from the specimen during the particular time period for producing an image of the particular fluorescence.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
310 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including, means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence and to enhance the detection of the particular fluorescence relative to the total fluorescence, the beginning of the particular time period being defined by a first particular time after the burst of concentrated light energy and during the production of the particular fluorescence and the end of the particular time period being defined by a second particular time after the first particular time where the second particular time occurs during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of the concentrated light energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the above means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the detection means for forming signals representative of the particular fluorescence from the specimen, and means responsive to the detection of the particular fluorescence from the specimen during the particular time period for producing an image of the particular fluorescence.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
35 words
The fluorometer of claim 1 wherein the means for forming signals includes means for producing a scanning of the particular fluorescence from the specimen during the particular time period at different positions on the specimen.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
56 words
The fluorometer of claim 2 wherein the means for detecting includes a photosensitive array for detecting the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen and the means for scanning includes an array control for scanning the photosensitive array to obtain a reproduction of the detected fluorescence of the different spots on the specimen.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
44 words
The fluorometer of claim 2 wherein the means for scanning includes a stepping stage for supporting the specimen and for moving the specimen to a plurality of different positions for providing a detection of the fluorescence emanating from the specimen at the different positions.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
225 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the concentrated light energy for directing the concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with the fluorescence, means coupled to the detecting means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence and wherein the controlling means is an electro-optic modulator formed by a cubic crystal of the class T d , means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the above means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence within the particular time period after the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, and data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
225 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the concentrated light energy for directing the concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with the fluorescence, means coupled to the detecting means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence and wherein the controlling means is an electro-optic modulator formed by a cubic crystal of the class T d , means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the above means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence within the particular time period after the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, and data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
28 words
The fluorometer of claim 5 additionally including means for producing a scanning of the fluorescence from the specimen for forming signals representative of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
53 words
The fluorometer of claim 6 wherein the means for detecting includes a photosensitive array for detecting the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen and the means for scanning includes an array control for scanning the photosensitive array to reproduce the detected fluorescence of the different spots on the specimen.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
44 words
The fluorometer of claim 6 wherein the means for scanning includes a stepping stage for supporting the specimen and for moving the specimen to a plurality of different positions for providing a detection of the fluorescence emanating from the specimen at the different positions.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
60 words
The fluorometer of claim 5 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and with the controlling means controlling the detecting means within a particular time period by detector responsive means and additionally including means for forming signals including a means for producing a scanning of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
53 words
The fluorometer of claim 9 wherein the means for detecting includes a photosensitive array for detecting the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen and the means for scanning includes an array control for scanning the photosensitive array to reproduce the detected fluorescence of the different spots on the specimen.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
44 words
The fluorometer of claim 9 wherein the means for scanning includes a stepping stage for supporting the specimen and for moving the specimen to a plurality of different positions for providing a detection of the fluorescence emanating from the specimen at the different positions.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
59 words
The fluorometer of claim 5 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and with the controlling means controlling the passage of the image of the fluorescence to the detecting means and additionally including means for forming signals including means for observing or recording of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
21 words
The fluorometer of claim 12 wherein the means for detecting includes a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence emanating from the specimen.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
29 words
The fluorometer of claim 12 wherein the means for detecting includes an image tube to reproduce the pattern of fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
28 words
The fluorometer of claim 12 wherein the means for detecting includes the camera to analyze or record the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
59 words
The fluorometer of claim 5 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and with the controlling means controlling the detecting means within a particular time period by detector responsive means and additionally including means for forming signals including means for observing or recording of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
21 words
The fluorometer of claim 16 wherein the means for detecting includes a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence emanating from the specimen.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
29 words
The fluorometer of claim 16 wherein the means for detecting includes an image tube to reproduce the pattern of fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
19 words
The fluorometer of claim 5 wherein the means for producing the burst of concentrated light energy is a laser.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
27 words
The fluorometer of claim 5 wherein the means for producing the burst of concentrated light energy is a continuous wave source directing light energy through a modulator.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
17 words
The fluorometer of claim 20 wherein the cubic crystal of the class T d is cuprous chloride.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
97 words
The fluorometer of claim 20 wherein the electro-optic modulator is formed from at least one of the following group of materials: CuCl (Cuprous chloride) CuBr (Cuprous bromide) CuI (Cuprous iodide) ZnS (Zinc sulfide) ZnSe (Zinc selenide) ZnTe (Zinc telluride) (CH 2 ) 6 N 4 (Hexamine or Hexamethylenetetramine) (Na, Ca) 8-4 (SO 4 ) 2-1 [(AlSiO 4 ) 6 ] (Hauynite) GaP (Gallium phosphide) Bi 4 (GeO 4 ) 3 (Bismuth germanate) NaClO 3 (Sodium chlorate) BaTiO 3 (Barium titanate) SrTiO 3 (Strontium titanate) KTaO 3 (Potassium tantalate) KTa x Nb 1-x O 3 (Potassium tantalate niobate)
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
38 words
The fluorometer of claim 5 wherein the time period is relatively long and has an ending time sufficiently long to have substantially all of the fluorescence decayed to a low value relative to the original value of fluorescence.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
205 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the concentrated light energy for directing the concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with the fluorescence, means coupled to the detecting means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence and wherein the controlling means is an electro-optic modulator formed by a cubic crystal of the class T d , means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the above means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence within the particular time period after the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, and means coupled to the detection means for forming signals representative of the particular fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
205 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the concentrated light energy for directing the concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with the fluorescence, means coupled to the detecting means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence and wherein the controlling means is an electro-optic modulator formed by a cubic crystal of the class T d , means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the above means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence within the particular time period after the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, and means coupled to the detection means for forming signals representative of the particular fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
17 words
The fluorometer of claim 24 wherein the cubic crystal of the class T d is cuprous chloride.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
60 words
The fluorometer of claim 24 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and with the controlling means controlling the passage of the image of the fluorescence to the detecting means and with the means for forming signals including a means for producing a scanning of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
53 words
The fluorometer of claim 26 wherein the means for detecting includes a photosensitive array for detecting the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen and the means for scanning includes an array control for scanning the photosensitive array to reproduce the detected fluoroscence of the different spots on the specimen.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
44 words
The fluorometer of claim 26 wherein the means for scanning includes a stepping stage for supporting the specimen and for moving the specimen to a plurality of different positions for providing a detection of the fluorescence emanating from the specimen at the different positions.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
58 words
The fluorometer of claim 24 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and the controlling means including detector responsive means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period and the means for forming signals including means for producing a scanning of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
53 words
The fluorometer of claim 29 wherein the means for detecting includes a photosensitive array for detecting the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen and the means for scanning includes an array control for scanning the photosensitive array to reproduce the detected fluorescence of the different spots on the specimen.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
44 words
The fluorometer of claim 29 wherein the means for scanning includes a stepping stage for supporting the specimen and for moving the specimen to a plurality of different positions for providing a detection of the fluorescence emanating from the specimen at the different positions.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
59 words
The fluorometer of claim 24 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and with the controlling means controlling the passage of the image of the fluorescence to the detecting means and with the means for forming signals including means for observing or recording of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
21 words
The fluorometer of claim 32 wherein the means for detecting includes a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence emanating from the specimen.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
29 words
The fluorometer of claim 32 wherein the means for detecting includes an image tube to reproduce the pattern of fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
28 words
The fluorometer of claim 32 wherein the means for detecting includes a camera to analyze or record the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
59 words
The fluorometer of claim 24 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and with the controlling means controlling the detecting means within a particular time period by detector responsive means and with the means for forming signals including means for observing or recording of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
21 words
The fluorometer of claim 36 wherein the means for detecting includes a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence emanating from the specimen.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
29 words
The fluorometer of claim 36 wherein the means for detecting includes an image tube to reproduce the pattern of fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
19 words
The fluorometer of claim 24 wherein the means for producing the burst of concentrated light energy is a laser.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
27 words
The fluorometer of claim 24 wherein the means for producing the burst of concentrated light energy is a continuous wave source directing light energy through a modulator.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
35 words
The fluorometer of claim 24 wherein the time period has a beginning time and an ending time defining a sufficiently short time to enhance the detection of the particular fluorescence relative to the total fluorescence.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
45 words
The fluorometer of claim 24 additionally including data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
38 words
The fluorometer of claim 42 wherein the time period is relatively long and has an ending time sufficiently long to have substantially all of the fluorescence decayed to a low value relative to the original value of fluorescence.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
216 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the concentrated light energy for directing the concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with the fluorescence, means coupled to the detecting means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence and wherein the controlling means is an electro-optic modulator formed from at least one of the following group of materials: CuCl (Cuprous chloride) CuBr (Cuprous bromide) CuI (Cuprous iodide) ZnS (Zinc sulfide) ZnSe (Zinc selenide) ZnTe (Zinc telluride) (CH 2 ) 6 N 4 (Hexamine or hexamethylenetetramine) (Na, Ca) 8-4 (SO 4 ) 2-1 [(AlSiO 4 ) 6 ](Hauynite) GaP (Gallium phosphide) Bi 4 (GeO 4 ) 3 (Bismuth germanate) NaClO 3 (Sodium chlorate) BaTiO 3 (Barium titanate) SrTiO 3 (Strontium titanate) KTaO 3 (Potassium tantalate) KTa x Nb 1-x O 3 (Potassium tantalate niobate)
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
216 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the concentrated light energy for directing the concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with the fluorescence, means coupled to the detecting means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence and wherein the controlling means is an electro-optic modulator formed from at least one of the following group of materials: CuCl (Cuprous chloride) CuBr (Cuprous bromide) CuI (Cuprous iodide) ZnS (Zinc sulfide) ZnSe (Zinc selenide) ZnTe (Zinc telluride) (CH 2 ) 6 N 4 (Hexamine or hexamethylenetetramine) (Na, Ca) 8-4 (SO 4 ) 2-1 [(AlSiO 4 ) 6 ](Hauynite) GaP (Gallium phosphide) Bi 4 (GeO 4 ) 3 (Bismuth germanate) NaClO 3 (Sodium chlorate) BaTiO 3 (Barium titanate) SrTiO 3 (Strontium titanate) KTaO 3 (Potassium tantalate) KTa x Nb 1-x O 3 (Potassium tantalate niobate)
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
337 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the concentrated light energy for directing the concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with the fluorescence, means coupled to the detecting means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the above means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence within the particular time period after the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, and means coupled to the detection means for forming signals representative of the particular fluorescence from the specimen, and data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence, and wherein the data processing means includes first means for differentiating the signals produced by the detecting means at a number of time points to produce a plurality of individual time point signals, second means for integrating the signals produced by the detecting means over a corresponding number of time intervals to produce a plurality of individual time integrated signals and third means responsive to the signals from the detecting means, the individual time point signals and the individual time integrated signals for operating upon these signals in a particular relationship to determine the particular fluorescence from the specimen during the particular period as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
337 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the concentrated light energy for directing the concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with the fluorescence, means coupled to the detecting means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the above means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence within the particular time period after the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, and means coupled to the detection means for forming signals representative of the particular fluorescence from the specimen, and data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence, and wherein the data processing means includes first means for differentiating the signals produced by the detecting means at a number of time points to produce a plurality of individual time point signals, second means for integrating the signals produced by the detecting means over a corresponding number of time intervals to produce a plurality of individual time integrated signals and third means responsive to the signals from the detecting means, the individual time point signals and the individual time integrated signals for operating upon these signals in a particular relationship to determine the particular fluorescence from the specimen during the particular period as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
60 words
The fluorometer of claim 45 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and with the controlling means controlling the passage of the image of the fluorescence to the detecting means and with the means for forming signals including a means for producing a scanning of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
53 words
The fluorometer of claim 46 wherein the means for detecting includes a photosensitive array for detecting the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen and the means for scanning includes an array control for scanning the photosensitive array to reproduce the detected fluoroscence of the different spots on the specimen.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
44 words
The fluorometer of claim 46 wherein the means for scanning includes a stepping stage for supporting the specimen and for moving the specimen to a plurality of different positions for providing a detection of the fluorescence emanating from the specimen at the different position.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
58 words
The fluorometer of claim 45 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and the controlling means including detector responsive means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period and the means for forming signals including means for producing a scanning of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
53 words
The fluorometer of claim 49 wherein the means for detecting includes a photosensitive array for detecting the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen and the means for scanning includes an array control for scanning the photosensitive array to reproduce the detected fluorescence of the different spots on the specimen.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
44 words
The fluorometer of claim 49 wherein the means for scanning includes a stepping stage for supporting the specimen and for moving the specimen to a plurality of different positions for providing a detection of the fluorescence emanating from the specimen at the different positions.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
59 words
The fluorometer of claim 45 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and with the controlling means controlling the passage of the image of the fluorescence to the detecting means and with the means for forming signals including means for observing or recording of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
21 words
The fluorometer of claim 52 wherein the means for detecting includes a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence emanating from the specimen.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
29 words
The fluorometer of claim 52 wherein the means for detecting includes an image tube to reproduce the pattern of fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
28 words
The fluorometer of claim 52 wherein the means for detecting includes a camera to analyze or record the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
59 words
The fluorometer of claim 45 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and with the controlling means controlling the detecting means within a particular time period by detector responsive means and with the means for forming signals including means for observing or recording of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
21 words
The fluorometer of claim 56 wherein the means for detecting includes a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence emanating from the specimen.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
29 words
The fluorometer of claim 56 wherein the means for detecting includes an image tube to reproduce the pattern of fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
19 words
The fluorometer of claim 45 wherein the means for producing the burst of concentrated light energy is a laser.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
27 words
The fluorometer of claim 45 wherein the means for producing the burst of concentrated light energy is a continuous wave source directing light energy through a modulator.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
22 words
The fluorometer of claim 45 wherein the means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period is an electro-optic modulator.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
35 words
The fluorometer of claim 45 wherein the time period has a beginning time and an ending time defining a sufficiently short time to enhance the detection of the particular fluorescence relative to the total fluorescence.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
38 words
The fluorometer of claim 45 wherein the time period is relatively long and has an ending time sufficiently long to have substantially all of the fluorescence decayed to a low value relative to the original value of fluorescence.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
332 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including, means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means during a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence and wherein the time period has a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the signals representing the particular fluorescence relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence, the beginning time of the time period being a first particular time after the burst of concentrated light energy and after the production of the particular fluorescence, and the ending time being a second particular time after the first particular time and during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, and data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means during the particular time period for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time interval relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence during the particular time interval.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
332 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including, means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means during a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence and wherein the time period has a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the signals representing the particular fluorescence relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence, the beginning time of the time period being a first particular time after the burst of concentrated light energy and after the production of the particular fluorescence, and the ending time being a second particular time after the first particular time and during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, and data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means during the particular time period for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time interval relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence during the particular time interval.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
48 words
A fluorometer as set forth in claim 64 wherein the detecting means includes means for scanning the fluorescence from the specimen to obtain the production of the signals representative of the fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
53 words
The fluorometer of claim 65 wherein the means for detecting includes a photosensitive array for detecting the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen and the means for scanning includes an array control for scanning the photosensitive array to reproduce the detected fluorescence of the different spots on the specimen.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
44 words
The fluorometer of claim 65 wherein the means for scanning includes a stepping stage for supporting the specimen and for moving the specimen to a plurality of different positions for providing a detection of the fluorescence emanating from the specimen at the different positions.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
292 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the concentrated light energy for directing the concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with the fluorescence, means coupled to the detecting means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the above means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence within the particular time period after the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence, and the data processing means including first means for differentiating the signals produced by the detecting means at a number of time points to produce a plurality of individual time point signals, second means for integrating the signals produced by the detecting means over a corresponding number of time intervals to produce a plurality of individual time integrated signals and third means responsive to the signals from the detecting means, the individual time point signals and the individual time integrated signals for producing signals representing the particular fluorescence.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
292 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the concentrated light energy for directing the concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with the fluorescence, means coupled to the detecting means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the above means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence within the particular time period after the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence, and the data processing means including first means for differentiating the signals produced by the detecting means at a number of time points to produce a plurality of individual time point signals, second means for integrating the signals produced by the detecting means over a corresponding number of time intervals to produce a plurality of individual time integrated signals and third means responsive to the signals from the detecting means, the individual time point signals and the individual time integrated signals for producing signals representing the particular fluorescence.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
28 words
The fluorometer of claim 68 additionally including means for producing a scanning of the fluorescence from the specimen for forming signals representative of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
53 words
The fluorometer of claim 69 wherein the means for detecting includes a photosensitive array for detecting the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen and the means for scanning includes an array control for scanning the photosensitive array to reproduce the detected fluorescence of the different spots on the specimen.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
44 words
The fluorometer of claim 69 wherein the means for scanning includes a stepping stage for supporting the specimen and for moving the specimen to a plurality of different positions for providing a detection of the fluorescence emanating from the specimen at the different positions.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
40 words
The fluorometer of claim 69 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and the controlling means including detector responsive means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
53 words
The fluorometer of claim 72 wherein the means for detecting includes a photosensitive array for detecting the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen and the means for scanning includes an array control for scanning the photosensitive array to reproduce the detected fluorescence of the different spots on the specimen.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
44 words
The fluorometer of claim 72 wherein the means for scanning includes a stepping stage for supporting the specimen and for moving the specimen to a plurality of different positions for providing a detection of the fluorescence emanating from the specimen at the different positions.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
59 words
The fluorometer of claim 68 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and with the controlling means controlling the passage of the image of the fluorescence to the detecting means and additionally including means for forming signals including means for observing or recording of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
20 words
The fluorometer of claim 75 wherein the means for detecting includes a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
29 words
The fluorometer of claim 75 wherein the means for detecting includes an image tube to reproduce the pattern of fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
32 words
The fluorometer of claim 75 wherein the means for detecting includes the human eye or a camera to analyze or record the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
59 words
The fluorometer of claim 68 additionally including means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the fluorescence and with the controlling means controlling the detecting means within a particular time period by detector responsive means and additionally including means for forming signals including means for observing or recording of the fluorescence from the specimen.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
21 words
The fluorometer of claim 79 wherein the means for detecting includes a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence emanating from the specimen.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
29 words
The fluorometer of claim 79 wherein the means for detecting includes an image tube to reproduce the pattern of fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
19 words
The fluorometer of claim 68 wherein the means for producing the burst of concentrated light energy is a laser.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
27 words
The fluorometer of claim 68 wherein the means for producing the burst of concentrated light energy is a continuous wave source directing light energy through a modulator.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
19 words
The fluorometer of claim 68 wherein the means for controlling the passage of the image is an electro-optic modulator.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
21 words
The fluorometer of claim 84 wherein the electro-optic modulator is formed by a cubic crystal of the class T d .
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
17 words
The fluorometer of claim 85 wherein the cubic crystal of the class T d is cuprous chloride.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
97 words
The fluorometer of claim 85 wherein the electro-optic modulator is formed from at least one of the following group of materials: CuCl (Cuprous chloride) CuBr (Cuprous bromide) CuI (Cuprous iodide) ZnS (Zinc sulfide) ZnSe (Zinc selenide) ZnTe (Zinc telluride) (CH 2 ) 6 N 4 (Hexamine or Hexamethylenetetramine) (Na, Ca) 8-4 (SO 4 ) 2-1 [(AlSiO 4 ) 6 ] (Hauynite) GaP (Gallium phosphide) Bi 4 (GeO 4 ) 3 (Bismuth germanate) NaClO 3 (Sodium chlorate) BaTiO 3 (Barium titanate) SrTiO 3 (Strontium titanate) KTaO 3 (Potassium tantalate) KTa x Nb 1-x O 3 (Potassium tantalate niobate)
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
38 words
The fluorometer of claim 68 wherein the time period is relatively long and has an ending time sufficiently long to have substantially all of the fluorescence decayed to a low value relative to the original value of fluorescence.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
44 words
The fluorometer of claim 68 wherein the time period has a beginning time and an ending time defining a sufficiently short time to enhance the detection of the signals representing the particular fluorescence relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
107 words
The fluorometer of claim 68 wherein the first means produces the plurality of individual time point signals produces the plurality of individual time point signals for a specimen not carrying a fluorescent label, said specimen being not necessarily of the same size and disposition as that of the specimen carrying the fluorescent label but consisting of the same material but without added fluorescent label, and the third means extracts from the individual time point signals and the derivatives at the corresponding time points and the characteristic decay time of the particular fluorescence the emission intensity representing the particular fluorescence only and being separated from the background emission.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
312 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means in a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence wherein the time period has a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the particular fluorescence relative to the total fluorescence, the beginning time occurring a first particular time after the burst of concentrated light energy and during the production of the particular fluorescence and the ending time occurring a second particular time after the first particular time and during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the detecting means for forming signals representative of the particular fluorescence from the specimen, and means responsive to the detection of the particular fluorescence from the specimen during the particular time period for producing an image of the particular fluorescence during the particular time interval.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
312 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means in a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence wherein the time period has a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the particular fluorescence relative to the total fluorescence, the beginning time occurring a first particular time after the burst of concentrated light energy and during the production of the particular fluorescence and the ending time occurring a second particular time after the first particular time and during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the detecting means for forming signals representative of the particular fluorescence from the specimen, and means responsive to the detection of the particular fluorescence from the specimen during the particular time period for producing an image of the particular fluorescence during the particular time interval.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
57 words
The fluorometer of claim 71 wherein the means for detecting includes a photosensitive array for detecting the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen and the means for producing signals includes an array control for scanning the photosensitive array to obtain a reproduction of the detected fluorescence of the different spots on the specimen.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
39 words
The fluorometer of claim 91 including, a stepping stage for supporting the specimen and for moving the specimen to a plurality of different positions for providing a detection of the fluorescence emanating from the specimen at the different positions.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
280 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means during a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence wherein the particular time period has a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the particular fluorescence relative to the total fluorescence, the beginning time and the ending time occurring during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the particular fluorescence during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the detecting means for forming signals representative of the particular fluorescence from the specimen during the particular time period, and means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the particular fluorescence during the particular time period.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
280 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means during a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence wherein the particular time period has a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the particular fluorescence relative to the total fluorescence, the beginning time and the ending time occurring during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the particular fluorescence during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the detecting means for forming signals representative of the particular fluorescence from the specimen during the particular time period, and means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for producing an image of the particular fluorescence during the particular time period.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
21 words
The fluorometer of claim 94 wherein the means for detecting includes a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence emanating from the specimen.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
29 words
The fluorometer of claim 94 wherein the means for detecting includes an image tube to reproduce the pattern of fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
28 words
The fluorometer of claim 94 wherein the means for detecting includes the camera to analyze or record the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
27 words
The fluorometer of claim 94 wherein the means for producing the burst of concentrated light energy is a continuous wave source directing light energy through a modulator.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
22 words
The fluorometer of claim 94 wherein the means for controlling the detecting means within a particular time period is an electro-optic modulator.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
288 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means during a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence during the particular time period, the particular time period having a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the particular fluorescence relative to the fluorescence including the particular fluorescence, the beginning time and ending time occurring during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the detecting means for forming signals representative of the particular fluorescence from the specimen, and means responsive to the signals from the detecting means during the particular time period for producing an image of the particular fluorescence during the particular time period.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
288 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means during a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence during the particular time period, the particular time period having a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the particular fluorescence relative to the fluorescence including the particular fluorescence, the beginning time and ending time occurring during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the detecting means for forming signals representative of the particular fluorescence from the specimen, and means responsive to the signals from the detecting means during the particular time period for producing an image of the particular fluorescence during the particular time period.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
21 words
The fluorometer of claim 100 wherein the means for detecting includes a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence emanating from the specimen.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
29 words
The fluorometer of claim 100 wherein the means for detecting includes an image tube to reproduce the pattern of fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
19 words
The fluorometer of claim 100 wherein the means for producing the burst of concentrated light energy is a laser.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
45 words
The fluorometer of claim 100 additionally including data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
33 words
A fluorometer as set forth in claim 100, including, means for recording the particular fluorescence from the specimen during the particular time period as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
332 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means during a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence during the particular time period the particular time period having a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time period relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence during the particular time period, the beginning time and the ending time occurring during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence from the specimen during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time interval relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time interval other than the particular fluorescence, and means responsive to the signal from the data processing means for producing an image of the particular fluorescence.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
332 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce a fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting the fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means during a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence during the particular time period the particular time period having a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time period relative to the portion of the signals representing the remaining fluorescence during the particular time period, the beginning time and the ending time occurring during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence from the specimen during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time interval relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time interval other than the particular fluorescence, and means responsive to the signal from the data processing means for producing an image of the particular fluorescence.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
64 words
The fluorometer of claim 106 wherein the means for detecting includes a photosensitive array for detecting the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen and means are included for scanning the fluorescence from the specimen and the means for scanning includes an array control for scanning the photosensitive array to reproduce the detected fluorescence of the different spots on the specimen.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
55 words
The fluorometer of claim 106 wherein means are included for scanning the fluorescence from the specimen and the means for scanning includes a stepping stage for supporting the specimen and for moving the specimen to a plurality of different positions for providing a detection of the fluorescence emanating from the specimen at the different positions.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
39 words
A fluorometer as set forth in claim 106 wherein the means for forming signals includes means for scanning the fluorescence produced from the specimen during the particular time period as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
332 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting such fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence wherein the particular time period has a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time period relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time period other than the particular fluorescence, the beginning and ending times occurring during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of concentrated energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the particular fluorescence from the specimen during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means during the particular time period for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time period relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time period other than particular fluorescence, and means responsive to the signals from the data processing means for producing an image of the fluorescence.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
332 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting such fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence wherein the particular time period has a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time period relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time period other than the particular fluorescence, the beginning and ending times occurring during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of concentrated energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the particular fluorescence from the specimen during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means during the particular time period for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time period relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time period other than particular fluorescence, and means responsive to the signals from the data processing means for producing an image of the fluorescence.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
21 words
The fluorometer of claim 110 wherein the means for detecting includes a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence emanating from the specimen.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
29 words
The fluorometer of claim 106 wherein the means for detecting includes an image tube to reproduce the pattern of fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
28 words
The fluorometer of claim 110 wherein the means for detecting includes a camera to analyze or record the fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
27 words
The fluorometer of claim 110 wherein the means for producing the burst of concentrated light energy is a continuous wave source directing light energy through a modulator.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
34 words
A fluorometer as set forth in claim 110, including, means for recording the particular fluorescence produced from the specimen during the particular time period as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
336 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting such fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence wherein the time period has a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time interval relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time period other than the particular fluorescence, the beginning and ending times occurring during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence within the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means during the particular time period for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time period relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time period other than the particular fluorescence, and means responsive to the enhanced signals from the data processing means for producing an image of the particular fluorescence during the particular time period.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
336 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophore molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting such fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence wherein the time period has a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time interval relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time period other than the particular fluorescence, the beginning and ending times occurring during the production of the particular fluorescence from the specimen as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence within the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means during the particular time period for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time period relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time period other than the particular fluorescence, and means responsive to the enhanced signals from the data processing means for producing an image of the particular fluorescence during the particular time period.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
21 words
The fluorometer of claim 116 wherein the means for detecting includes a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence emanating from the specimen.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
29 words
The fluorometer of claim 116 wherein the means for detecting includes an image tube to reproduce the pattern of fluorescence emanating from a plurality of spots on the specimen.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
19 words
The fluorometer of claim 116 wherein the means for producing the burst of concentrated light energy is a laser.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
34 words
A fluorometer as set forth in claim 116, including, means for recording the particular fluorescence produced from the specimen during the particular time period as a result of the burst of concentrated light energy.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
323 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophpre molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting such fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence wherein the particular time period has a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time period other than the particular fluorescence the beginning and ending times occurring during the production of the particular fluorescence, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means during the particular time period for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time period relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time period other than the particular fluorescence, and the means for controlling the passage of the image constituting an electro-optic modulator formed by a cubic crystal of the class T d .
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
323 words
A fluorometer for measuring a particular fluorescence emanating from particular fluorophpre molecules in a specimen, including means for producing a burst of concentrated light energy having a pulse time short compared to the decay time of the particular fluorescence and having sufficient energy to excite substantially all of the particular fluorophore molecules, means responsive to the burst of concentrated light energy for directing the burst of concentrated light energy toward the specimen to produce fluorescence from the specimen including the particular fluorescence, means responsive to the fluorescence from the specimen for detecting such fluorescence and for producing signals in accordance with such detection, means coupled to the detecting means for obtaining a controlled operation of the detecting means within a particular time period to optimize the detection of the particular fluorescence wherein the particular time period has a beginning time and an ending time to enhance the detection of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time period other than the particular fluorescence the beginning and ending times occurring during the production of the particular fluorescence, means coupled to the burst producing means, to the detecting means and to the controlling means for timing the operation of the detecting means to sequence the detection of the fluorescence during the particular time period as a result of the production of the burst of concentrated light energy, data processing means responsive to the signals produced by the detecting means during the particular time period for analysing the signals to enhance the portion of the signals representing the particular fluorescence during the particular time period relative to the portion of the signals representing the fluorescence during the particular time period other than the particular fluorescence, and the means for controlling the passage of the image constituting an electro-optic modulator formed by a cubic crystal of the class T d .
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
17 words
The fluorometer of claim 121 wherein the cubic crystal of the class T d is cuprous chloride.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
97 words
The fluorometer of claim 121 wherein the electro-optic modulator is formed from at least one of the following group of materials: CuCl (Cuprous chloride) CuBr (Cuprous bromide) CuI (Cuprous iodide) ZnS (Zinc sulfide) ZnSe (Zinc selenide) ZnTe (Zinc telluride) (CH 2 ) 6 N 4 (Hexamine or Hexamethylenetetramine) (Na, Ca) 8-4 (SO 4 ) 2-1 [(AlSiO 4 ) 6 ] (Hauynite) GaP (Gallium phosphide) Bi 4 (GeO 4 ) 3 (Bismuth germanate) NaClO 3 (Sodium chlorate) BaTiO 3 (Barium titanate) SrTiO 3 (Strontium titanate) KTaO 3 (Potassium tantalate) KTa x Nb 1-x O 3 (Potassium tantalate niobate)
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