An artificial intelligence-enabled autofocusing device created by researchers at the National Institute of device Rourkela has the potential to greatly enhance microscopic imaging used in disease diagnosis and biomedical diagnostics.
The invention, created by NIT Rourkela's Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering in partnership with startup Glowvista Instruments Private Limited, is intended to provide quick, precise, and repeatable imaging findings with the least amount of human involvement. The invention, "A Method for Autofocusing in Optofluidic Microsystems and Processes," has been granted a patent by the research team.The NIT Rourkela team created an optofluidic digital microscopy platform that combines automated motion control, optical imaging systems, and deep learning technology to address these issues. Through an adaptive feedback mechanism, the device automatically modifies focus while continuously analysing microscopic images in real time.
The institute claims that the technology, which cost about Rs 1.20 lakh to create, has demonstrated encouraging outcomes in laboratory-scale testing. According to reports, the device used sophisticated blood cell categorisation algorithms to accurately detect complete blood cell counts, malaria, and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.Prof. Earu Banoth, an assistant professor in the Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering and the founder-director of Glowvista Instruments Pvt. Ltd., Dr. Shaik Ahmadsaidulu, a research graduate from NIT Rourkela, and incubatee members Amol Lalchand Salve and Padmanaban Selvakumar from Glowvista Instruments comprise the research team.
Speaking about the invention, Prof. Banoth stated that the objective is to create a basic portable diagnostic device with performance on par with imported automated microscopy technology. The team intends to extend the system for various biomedical applications and field-level deployment, he continued.

AI-powered intelligent autofocus, real-time image processing, automated focus adjustment, cloud-enabled learning, and improved imaging of complicated biological samples are some of the technology's key benefits.
The technology may find use in digital pathology, AI-assisted microscopy, portable medical equipment, smart lab automation, biomedical diagnostics, and remote diagnostic systems, according to researchers.
The Government of India's Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) provided financial assistance for the project.
According to NIT Rourkela officials, the innovation highlights the institute's focus on creating reasonably priced indigenous healthcare solutions and is in line with the Government of India's "Make in India" strategy.