A computer vision based optical method for measuring fluid level in cell culture plates

PLoS One. 2023 Sep 8;18(9):e0290951. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290951. eCollection 2023.

Abstract

For a transparent well with a known volume capacity, changes in fluid level result in predictable changes in magnification of an overhead light source. For a given well size and fluid, the relationship between volume and magnification can be calculated if the fluid's index of refraction is known or in a naive fashion with a calibration procedure. Light source magnification can be measured through a camera and processed using computer vision contour analysis with OpenCV. This principle was applied in the design of a 3D printable sensing device using a raspberry pi zero and a camera.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Calibration
  • Cell Culture Techniques*
  • Computers
  • Refraction, Ocular*
  • Vision Tests