Fluid sample analysis by optical fourier transform imaging

Abstract

An optical fourier transform image representative of characteristics of a liquid sample and particles within the fluid sample is quickly and inexpensively generated by an optical fourier transform system. A small liquid sample is received in a lenticular array liquid sample container with the fluid sample entering open-ended microchannels in the container preferably by capillary action. The container is formed of an optical material such that the fluid sample in the microchannels forms a grating when placed into an optical fourier transform system. Accordingly, the fourier transform image generated within the system is characteristic of the liquid sample forming the grating for the system. The liquid sample container is formed of two plates of optical acrylic, which may be coated or otherwise treated to make it non-hydrophobic to prevent the loss of moisture from liquid samples. A first one of the plates has an array of microgrooves formed into a first surface of the plate. A second plate defines a microgroove surface for engaging the first plate to close the microgrooves and turn them into the open-ended microchannels of the container. The two plates are aligned relative to one another by pins on one plate which are received in matching apertures in the other plate. The two plates are secured to one another by an appropriate adhesive. The first plate also defines a handle for holding and handling the container.