Optical measuring device

Abstract

This article discloses a method and apparatus for determining the characteristics of the surrounding environment. The device includes: a plasmonic sensing element (100); a first light source (130) for illuminating a first light sensor and a second light sensor (110, 120), the first light source illuminating the first sensor (110) via the plasmonic sensing element (100); a second light source (140) for illuminating the light sensor (110, 120); and a circuit system for performing: a control function (152) for controlling the light source (130, 140); a function (154) for receiving a measurement signal from the first sensor (110) and a first signal from the second sensor (120); a function (156) for receiving a reference signal from the first sensor (110) and a second signal from the second sensor (120); a function (158) for determining characteristics by comparing the measurement signal and the reference signal; and the control function (152) further controls the light source (130, 140) such that the relationship between the intensity of the light emitted by the light source (130, 140) is constant over time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and optical measurement device for determining the characteristics of the surrounding environment. Background Technology

[0002] Optical sensors are used in a wide range of applications. A typical optical sensor is constructed to convert physical, chemical, physicochemical, or other properties into electrical signals via optical readout. Typically, in an optical sensor, the intensity or spectrum of light transmitted through or reflected from the sensing segment is detected. Therefore, in these optical sensors, it is important to accurately measure the intensity or spectrum of light. In other words, the detected change in light is a measure of the effect in the sensing segment.

[0003] In some optical sensors, the sensing segment is composed of a metal-like thin film, particles, or particle assemblies. This sensing segment can support the propagation of electromagnetic waves at the interface between the thin film or particles and the surrounding environment, often referred to as surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs). SPPs can be propagating, as in the case of continuous films, or localized, as in the case of particles. In either case, the characteristics and behavior of SPPs (e.g., excitation frequency and damping) depend particularly on the characteristics of the surrounding environment.

[0004] Generally, a crucial property of sensors is their ability to protect, prevent, and isolate the output signal from any disturbances that could unintentionally affect the signal, generate noise, produce erroneous signals, or degrade performance. In the field of optical sensors, these disturbances typically include temperature, humidity, ambient light conditions, air pollution, and other external factors that have undesirable effects on the output signal.

[0005] Lasers are a common light source used for optical measurements. Lasers possess many desirable properties, particularly those related to the stability of emitted light. For example, the intensity and wavelength of light emitted by a laser can be stable. In other words, the light emitted by a laser can have essentially constant intensity and wavelength. However, these lasers are typically expensive and can occupy a large area (i.e., require a significant amount of space), which may be unsuitable for small optical sensors.

[0006] Therefore, improvements to optical sensors are needed, without compromising accuracy, stability, and robustness, but in a cost-effective manner. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In view of the above, the purpose of this invention is to provide a robust optical measurement device.

[0008] Another objective of this invention is to provide an optical measurement device that reduces the impact of long-term component drift.

[0009] Another objective of this invention is to provide an optical measurement device that reduces the impact of external factors on the performance of the optical measurement device.

[0010] The object of the present invention is to at least partially mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above-mentioned defects and disadvantages in the art, either alone or in any combination, and to at least solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0011] According to a first aspect, an optical measurement device for determining characteristics of an surrounding environment is provided. The optical measurement device includes: a plasmon sensing element configured to exhibit plasmon resonance conditions dependent on characteristics of the surrounding environment when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation; a first optical sensor; a second optical sensor; a first light source arranged to simultaneously irradiate the first optical sensor and the second optical sensor, wherein the first optical sensor is irradiated via the plasmon sensing element through the first light source; a second light source arranged to simultaneously irradiate the first optical sensor and the second optical sensor; and a circuit system configured to perform: a control function configured to control the first light source and the second light source to alternately irradiate the first optical sensor and the second optical sensor; and a first receiving function. The system can be configured to receive a measurement signal related to light emitted by a first light source from a first light sensor, and a first source signal related to light emitted by the first light source from a second light sensor; a second receiving function configured to receive a reference signal related to light emitted by a second light source from the first light sensor, and a second source signal related to light emitted by the second light source from the second light sensor; a determining function configured to determine characteristics of the surrounding environment by comparing the measurement signal and the reference signal; and a control function further configured to control the first light source and the second light source using the first source signal and the second source signal such that the relationship between the intensity of light emitted by the first light source and the second light source remains constant over time.

[0012] In the context of this disclosure, the term "plasmonic sensing element" should be interpreted as a sensing element in which plasmons can be excited. Here, "plasmonic" should be understood as a quantum of plasma oscillations associated with collective oscillations of charge density. The charge can be provided, for example, by electrons.

[0013] In the context of this disclosure, the term "surrounding environment" should be interpreted as the environment immediately adjacent to the plasmonic sensing element. In other words, the surrounding environment is the environment that affects the plasmonic resonance conditions of the plasmonic sensing element.

[0014] The present invention allows for compensation of the inherent characteristics and / or behavior of components in an optical measurement device, thereby achieving robust and stable readout. This, in turn, allows the optical measurement device to accurately determine the characteristics of the surrounding environment. The present invention can further allow for compensation of the effects of external factors (e.g., one or more of humidity, temperature, pressure, and ambient light), which may affect different components to varying degrees, and thus potentially influence the determination of the characteristics of the surrounding environment. In other words, the present invention can, on the one hand, improve the stability of the optical measurement device, and on the other hand, reduce the impact of external factors on the performance of the optical measurement device.

[0015] Plasmon resonance conditions can be surface plasmon resonance conditions and / or local surface plasmon resonance conditions.

[0016] The terms “surface plasmon resonance condition (SPR)” and “local surface plasmon resonance condition (LSPR)” should be understood as the excited state of charge carriers within a plasmon sensing element, which can be excited by photons or equivalently by the electromagnetic field of light incident on the plasmon sensing element.

[0017] A potential associated advantage is the ability to achieve optical measurement devices with increased sensitivity. For example, relatively small sample sizes can be used to determine the characteristics of the surrounding environment.

[0018] The SPR condition is a resonance condition associated with the collective oscillation of charge density and the boundary conditions at the surface of the plasmonic sensing element. Charge density waves can form and propagate at the surface boundary between the plasmonic sensing element and the surrounding environment. SPR can occur when the incident electromagnetic wave satisfies the resonance condition of the plasmonic sensing element. In other words, the SPR condition is satisfied when the energy and momentum (i.e., wave vector) of the incident electromagnetic wave match the energy and wave vector of the surface plasmon. For example, SPR typically occurs in the visible and / or near-infrared portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The frequency / wavelength / energy of the charge density wave can be set by the electronic properties of the material of the plasmonic sensing element and the material properties of the surrounding environment. It should be understood that SPR can also occur when electromagnetic radiation (i.e., light) interacts with the plasmonic sensing element.

[0019] The LSPR condition is a resonant condition associated with the collective oscillation of charge density and the boundary conditions arising from the finite size of the plasmonic sensing element. As a result, the charge density waveform becomes a frequency / wavelength / energy set by the electronic properties of the plasmonic sensing element's material, its geometry, size, and the material properties of the surrounding environment. For example, if the plasmonic sensing element is a gold particle with a diameter in the range of 50 nm to 100 nm, then LSPR typically occurs in the visible portion of the electromagnetic wavelength spectrum. It should be further understood that LSPR occurs when electromagnetic radiation interacts with the plasmonic sensing element. As a result, an enhanced localized electromagnetic field is generated immediately adjacent to the plasmonic sensing element. The intensity of the enhancement and the spatial extent of the enhanced field depend on many parameters, such as the material, size, shape, and environment of the plasmonic sensing element. The enhanced electric field is beneficial because it increases the sensitivity of the plasmonic sensing element, enabling more effective sensing of the characteristics of the surrounding environment.

[0020] The control function can be configured to control a first light source and a second light source to alternately illuminate a first light sensor and a second light sensor at a frequency of ≥ 0.5 Hz. In other words, at a first time point, the first light source can illuminate both the first and second light sensors simultaneously, and at a second time point, the second light source can illuminate both the first and second light sensors simultaneously. The first and second time points can be separated by a time interval that is the reciprocal of the frequency at which the first and second light sources alternately illuminate the first and second light sensors.

[0021] A potential associated advantage is that the effects on optical measuring equipment at frequencies below the light source illumination frequency can be reduced (e.g., external factors, inherent characteristics and / or behavior of the optical measuring equipment components). This can reduce the impact of long-term drift of one or more electrical and / or optical components.

[0022] The determination function can be configured to determine the characteristics of the surrounding environment by determining the ratio of the measured signal to the reference signal.

[0023] The intensity of light emitted by the first light source and the second light source can be equal.

[0024] A possible associated advantage is that the components of the optical measuring device (particularly the first and second optical sensors) can behave in the same or similar manner when illuminated by equal or similar intensities.

[0025] Another possible associated advantage is that when the second light sensor is illuminated by light from both the first and second light sources, the intensity of the light illuminating the second light sensor can be similar. This allows for improved control over the intensity of the light emitted from both the first and second light sources.

[0026] The optical measurement device may further include: a housing made of an opaque material; and wherein the housing may include channels arranged to enable optical communication between the first light source and the first and second light sensors, and between the second light source and the first and second light sensors.

[0027] A possible associated advantage is that the first and second light sources can be protected by being surrounded by a housing.

[0028] Another possible associated advantage is that the first and second optical sensors can be protected by being surrounded by a housing.

[0029] Another possible associated advantage is that objects that unintentionally block the light emitted from the light source can be prevented from entering the channel. Therefore, more robust and / or reliable optical measurement equipment can be achieved.

[0030] Another possible associated advantage is that the housing can prevent the effects of ambient light and / or stray light.

[0031] Another possible associated advantage is that the channel can be filled or partially filled with a material that can facilitate or influence optical communication between one or more of the light source, the optical sensor, and the plasmonic sensing element. For example, the material can be glass, gas, and / or liquid.

[0032] The optical measurement device may further include: multiple optical fibers; and wherein the multiple optical fibers may be arranged to realize optical communication between the first light source and the first optical sensor and the second optical sensor and / or between the second light source and the first optical sensor and the second optical sensor.

[0033] A possible associated advantage is that the plasmonic sensing element can be positioned remotely from one or more other components of the optical measurement device (e.g., housing, if present). Therefore, the optical measurement device can thus be allowed to sample / perform measurements in confined spaces.

[0034] Another possible associated advantage is that components other than the plasmonic sensing element can be placed in a more favorable environment (i.e., an environment less affected by the surrounding environment), thereby enhancing the performance of the optical measurement device because changes in the characteristics of the surrounding environment have a reduced impact on the components.

[0035] The optical measurement device may further include: another plasmonic sensing element configured to exhibit a plasmonic resonance condition, depending on another characteristic of the surrounding environment, when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation; a third light sensor; and a third light source arranged to simultaneously irradiate the second and third light sensors, wherein the third light sensor can be irradiated via the third light source through the other plasmonic sensing element; wherein the second light source may be further arranged to simultaneously irradiate the second and third light sensors; wherein a control function may be further configured to control the second and third light sources to alternately irradiate the second and third light sensors; wherein a circuit system may be further configured to perform another receiving function, configured to receive from the third light sensor another measurement signal related to the light emitted by the third light source, and from the second light sensor another source signal related to the light emitted by the third light source; wherein a determination function may be further configured to determine another characteristic of the surrounding environment by comparing the other measurement signal and a reference signal; and wherein the control function may be further configured to control the third light source using the second source signal and the other source signal, such that the relationship between the intensity of the light emitted by the second and third light sources remains constant over time.

[0036] A potential associated advantage is that it allows optical measurement devices to sample different parts of the surrounding environment. Therefore, the optical measurement device can thus determine a more complete picture of the surrounding environment because it can determine more than one characteristic of the surrounding environment. Furthermore, if one characteristic is the same as another, the optical measurement device can determine how the characteristics of the surrounding environment vary spatially by arranging plasmonic sensing elements and the other plasmonic sensing element at different spatial locations within the surrounding environment. Furthermore, using more than one plasmonic sensing element allows for the measurement of more than one aspect of the surrounding environment.

[0037] The optical measurement device may further include: a plurality of plasmonic sensing elements, wherein the plasmonic sensing elements are plasmonic sensing elements among the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements; and an optical switch arranged to receive light from a first light source and illuminate a first photosensor via at least one of the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements.

[0038] Therefore, the optical measurement device may include one or more plasmonic sensing elements, and an optical switch may be used to select which of the one or more plasmonic sensing elements is used to illuminate the first optical sensor. Further, it is possible to simultaneously select multiple plasmonic sensing elements through which the first optical sensor is illuminated (i.e., the first optical sensor is illuminated through more than one plasmonic sensing element). For example, by selecting multiple plasmonic sensing elements that respond similarly to changes in the characteristics of the surrounding environment, the optical measurement device can be more sensitive to changes in the characteristics of the surrounding environment. Furthermore, by selecting multiple plasmonic sensing elements that respond differently to changes in the characteristics of the surrounding environment (e.g., by being sensitive to different characteristics of the surrounding environment), the optical measurement device can perform multiplexed measurements of the surrounding environment.

[0039] A potential associated advantage is that it allows optical measurement devices to sample different parts of the surrounding environment. Therefore, the optical measurement devices can determine the characteristics of the surrounding environment with high accuracy. Furthermore, it allows the optical measurement devices to determine how the characteristics of the surrounding environment vary spatially. Furthermore, using multiple plasmonic sensing elements allows for the measurement of multiple surrounding environments, such as multiple batteries, multiple exhaust gas flows, and / or multiple liquids.

[0040] The first light source and / or the second light source can be light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0041] A possible associated advantage is that the first and / or second light sources can be small and energy-efficient. Another possible associated advantage is that the first and / or second light sources can be cheaper than other suitable light sources (e.g., lasers).

[0042] The third light source can be a light-emitting diode (LED).

[0043] A possible associated advantage is that the third light source can be small and energy-efficient. Another possible associated advantage is that the third light source can be cheaper than other suitable light sources (such as lasers).

[0044] According to a second aspect, a method for determining characteristics of an ambient environment is provided. The method includes: illuminating a second light sensor with a first light source; receiving from the second light sensor a first source signal relating to light emitted from the first light source; illuminating the second light sensor with the second light source; receiving from the second light sensor a second source signal relating to light emitted from the second light sensor; using the first source signal and the second source signal to control the first and second light sources such that the relationship between the intensities of light emitted by the first and second light sources is constant over time; illuminating the first light sensor with the first light source via a plasmonic sensing element, wherein when illuminating with electromagnetic radiation, the plasmonic sensing element exhibits plasmonic resonance conditions dependent on characteristics of the ambient environment; receiving from the first light sensor a measurement signal relating to light emitted from the first light source; illuminating the first light sensor with the second light source; receiving from the first light sensor a reference signal relating to light emitted from the second light source; and determining characteristics of the ambient environment by comparing the measurement signal and the reference signal.

[0045] The aforementioned features of the first aspect also apply to the second aspect where applicable. To avoid excessive repetition, refer to the above.

[0046] The first light source can simultaneously illuminate the first light sensor and the second light sensor, and / or the second light source can simultaneously illuminate the first light sensor and the second light sensor.

[0047] The first light source and the second light source can alternately illuminate the first light sensor and / or the second light sensor.

[0048] The first light source and the second light source can alternately illuminate the first photosensitive sensor and / or the second photosensitive sensor at a frequency of ≥ 0.5 Hz.

[0049] One of the measurement signal and the reference signal can be received at a first time point, and the other of the measurement signal and the reference signal can be received at a second time point, wherein the first time point and the second time point can be separated by a time period based on the frequency at which the first light source and the second light source can alternately illuminate the first light sensor and / or the second light sensor.

[0050] According to a third aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided. This non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes a program code portion that, when executed on a device with processing capabilities, performs the method according to the second aspect.

[0051] The aforementioned features of the first and / or second aspects also apply to this third aspect where applicable. To avoid excessive repetition, refer to the preceding text.

[0052] The further applicability of this disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description given below. However, it should be understood that while the detailed description and specific examples indicate preferred variations of the inventive concept, they are given by way of illustration only, as various changes and modifications within the scope of the inventive concept will become apparent to those skilled in the art based on this detailed description.

[0053] Therefore, it should be understood that the inventive concept is not limited to the specific steps of the described method or the components of the described system, as such methods and systems can vary. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. It must be noted that, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended to mean one or more of the elements present. Thus, for example, references to “unit” or “the unit” can include several devices, etc. Furthermore, the words “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and similar terms do not exclude other elements or steps. Attached Figure Description

[0054] The above and other aspects of the inventive concept will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate variations of the inventive concept. The drawings should not be construed as limiting the inventive concept to specific variations; rather, they are used to explain and understand the inventive concept. As shown in the drawings, the sizes of layers and regions are enlarged for illustrative purposes and are thus provided to illustrate the overall structure for showing variations of the inventive concept. Throughout the text, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements.

[0055] Figure 1 Optical measurement equipment was showcased.

[0056] Figure 2 Further optical measurement devices, including those with adjustable apertures, were demonstrated.

[0057] Figure 3 An optical measurement device that further includes a housing was demonstrated.

[0058] Figure 4 An optical measurement device that further incorporates multiple optical fibers was demonstrated.

[0059] Figure 5 An optical measurement device was demonstrated that further includes multiple plasmonic sensing elements and optical switches.

[0060] Figure 6 It is a block diagram of a method for determining the characteristics of the surrounding environment.

[0061] Figure 7 An optical measurement device including a plasmonic sensing element and another plasmonic sensing element was demonstrated.

[0062] Figure 8A It shows the temperature and relative signal as they change over time.

[0063] Figure 8B It shows the control signals of temperature and light source that change over time.

[0064] Figure 9A It shows the ambient temperature and measurement signals as they change over time.

[0065] Figure 9B It shows the ambient temperature and reference signal as they change over time.

[0066] Figure 9C It shows the change in ambient temperature over time and Figure 9A The measurement signal and Figure 9B The ratio between the reference signals.

[0067] Figure 10A It shows the relative humidity and measurement signals as they change over time.

[0068] Figure 10B It shows the relative humidity and reference signal as they change over time.

[0069] Figure 10C It shows how relative humidity changes over time and Figure 10A The measurement signal and Figure 10B The ratio between the reference signals.

[0070] Figure 11A The measurement signals, which vary over time, are shown under two different environmental pressures.

[0071] Figure 11B The reference signal, which varies over time, is shown under two different environmental pressures.

[0072] Figure 11C It shows how it changes over time. Figure 11A The measurement signal and Figure 11B The ratio between the reference signals.

[0073] Figure 12 An optical measurement apparatus is shown that further includes a first plasmonic sensing element and a second plasmonic sensing element. Detailed Implementation

[0074] The inventive concept will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which presently preferred variations of the inventive concept are shown. However, the inventive concept can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the variations set forth herein; rather, these variations are provided to achieve thoroughness and completeness and to fully communicate the scope of the inventive concept to those skilled in the art.

[0075] It should be understood that electrical connections between components, even if not explicitly described, can be achieved in a range of different ways. For example, electrical connections can be achieved using conductive cables. As another example, electrical connections can be achieved using printed circuit boards. Therefore, it should be understood that even if not explicitly shown in the figures, optical measuring equipment may include means for electrical connections (e.g., electrical conductors, printed circuit boards, etc.).

[0076] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an optical measuring device 10 for determining the properties of an surrounding environment is shown. This property can be an optical property of the surrounding environment. An optical property can be the dielectric function of the surrounding environment. An optical property can be the refractive index of the surrounding environment. The optical measuring device 10 can be designed to measure a range of different properties. For example, the optical measuring device can be designed to detect a specific gas (e.g., H2, NO2, etc.) near the optical measuring device 10. Alternatively or additionally, the optical measuring device 10 can be designed to determine the properties of a liquid. In a specific example, the state of a battery can be determined by the optical measuring device 10 by exposing the optical measuring device 10 to the electrolyte of the battery. The state of the battery can be, for example, the state of charge and / or the state of health of the battery. Further reference will be made below. Figure 6 The block diagram shown describes the function of the optical measurement device 10.

[0077] like Figure 1 As shown, the optical measurement device 10 includes a plasmonic sensing element 100, a first optical sensor 110, a second optical sensor 120, a first light source 130, a second light source 140, and a circuit system 150. The optical measurement device 10 may further include additional optical components, such as lenses, filters, and / or beam splitters.

[0078] The plasmonic sensing element 100 is configured to exhibit plasmonic resonance conditions, which depend on the characteristics of the surrounding environment, when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation. The plasmonic resonance conditions can be surface plasmonic resonance conditions and / or localized surface plasmonic resonance conditions. The plasmonic sensing element 100 can be associated with a sensing volume. The sensing volume can be a volume defined by the spatial extent of the electromagnetic field from the excited plasmonic resonance. It should be understood that the electromagnetic radiation associated with the sensing volume provides information about the surrounding environment within the sensing volume. Because the spatial extent of this electromagnetic field depends on the details of the plasmonic sensing element 100, the characteristics of the surrounding environment around the plasmonic sensing element 100, and the direction of the incident electromagnetic field related to the geometry of the plasmonic sensing element 100, the volume of the sensing volume depends on all these parameters. Therefore, the electromagnetic field associated with the excited plasmon resonance gradually, and typically approximately exponentially, decreases away from the plasmon sensing element 100, such that the length of the extended sensing volume is typically several hundred nanometers (e.g., 100 nm to 500 nm for SPR) and tens of nanometers (e.g., 10 nm to 100 nm for LSPR). Thus, it should be understood that the optical measurement device 10 of the present invention can be designed to determine a wide range of characteristics of the surrounding environment, as long as the characteristics of interest affect the plasmon resonance conditions of the plasmon element of the optical measurement device 10. In practice, the plasmon sensing element 100 is designed to respond specifically to changes in the characteristics of the surrounding environment, while other components of the optical measurement device 10 do not. A layer can be deposited on the surface of the plasmon sensing element 100, and the deposited layer can be configured to interact with the surrounding environment. This layer can include a material different from the material of the plasmon sensing element 100. The layer can be a dielectric material, such as a metal oxide.

[0079] The first light sensor 110 and / or the second light sensor 120 can generate a signal that depends on the intensity of the light incident on the respective light sensor. A range of different sensors / components exhibit this behavior, such as photodiodes. This signal can further depend on the wavelength of the light incident on the light sensor. Therefore, the specific type of light sensor 110, 120 can be selected by considering one or more wavelengths of light emitted by the light sources 130, 140. In other words, specific types of light sensors 110, 120 and light sources 130, 140 can be selected so that they are suitable for working together.

[0080] like Figure 1As shown, the first light source 130 is arranged to simultaneously illuminate the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120 in S600 and S610. This can be facilitated by using optical components (e.g., beam splitters, mirrors, optical fibers, beam splitters, etc.). It should be understood that the optical measurement device 10 may include these components, even if they are not explicitly shown in the figures. Alternatively or additionally, this can be facilitated by positioning the first light source 130 such that a first portion of the light emitted by the first light source 130 can reach the first light sensor 110, and a second portion of the light emitted by the first light source 130 can reach the second light sensor 120. The first light source 130 may be a light-emitting diode. The first light sensor 110 in S610 is illuminated by the first light source 130 via the plasmonic sensing element 100. The second light sensor 120 can be illuminated by the first light source 130 without passing through optical components configured to specifically respond to the surrounding environment, such as direct illumination. It should be understood that the optical components may be affected by the surrounding environment (e.g., temperature changes) without requiring such a specific configuration. In this scenario, reflectors and other optical components that might be necessary for the second light sensor 120 to be illuminated by the first light source 130 are not considered to be configured to react to the surrounding environment, even if they happen to react to a very small extent. In other words, the degree to which these components react to changes in the characteristics of the surrounding environment should be compared to the degree to which the plasmonic sensing element 100 reacts to changes in the characteristics of the surrounding environment. In this comparison, the degree to which these components react to changes in the characteristics of the surrounding environment is less than the degree to which the plasmonic sensing element 100 reacts to changes in the characteristics of the surrounding environment.

[0081] like Figure 1As shown, the second light source 140 is arranged to simultaneously illuminate the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120 in S604 and S614. Similar to the first light source 130, the second light source 140 can be arranged to illuminate the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120 using optical components. Alternatively or additionally, this can be facilitated by positioning the second light source 140 such that a first portion of the light emitted by the second light source 140 can reach the first light sensor 110, and a second portion of the light emitted by the second light source 140 can reach the second light sensor 120. The second light source 140 can be a light-emitting diode (LED). The first light sensor 110 and / or the second light sensor 120 can be illuminated by the second light source 140 without passing through optical components configured to specifically respond to the surrounding environment, such as direct illumination. Similar to the above disclosure, the optical components may be affected by the surrounding environment without requiring such a specific configuration. In this scenario, reflectors and other optical components that might be necessary for the first light sensor 110 and / or the second light sensor 120 to be illuminated by the second light source 140 are not considered to be configured to react to the surrounding environment, even if they happen to react to a very small extent. In other words, the degree to which these components react to the surrounding environment should be compared to the degree to which the plasmonic sensing element 100 reacts to the surrounding environment. In this comparison, the degree to which these components react to the surrounding environment is less than the degree to which the plasmonic sensing element 100 reacts to the surrounding environment.

[0082] Furthermore, the first light sensor 110 can be illuminated by the second light source 140 via a filter (not shown), which is configured to reduce the intensity of light incident on it. The filter can be a transmission filter configured to reduce the intensity of light transmitted through it. The filter can also be a reflection filter configured to reduce the intensity of light reflected from it. The filter can be, for example, a neutral density filter. This can be advantageous because the intensity of light emitted by the second light source 140 and incident on the first light sensor 110 can be similar to the intensity of light emitted by the first light source 130 and incident on the first light sensor 110. In other words, the filter can allow similar light intensities to be incident on the first light sensor 110 regardless of whether the light is emitted by the first light source 130 or the second light source 140. This, in turn, reduces the risk of the first light sensor 110 being saturated by light from the second light source 140, a risk that occurs when the plasmonic sensing element 100 attenuates light to a great extent.

[0083] The circuit system 150 is configured to execute control function 152, first receiving function 154, second receiving function 156, and determination function 158. The first receiving function 154 and the second receiving function 156 can be implemented as a single receiving function. The circuit system 150 can be configured to provide overall control over the functions and operation of the optical measuring device 10. The circuit system 150 may include a processing unit 151. The processing unit 151 may be one or more of a processor, central processing unit, microcontroller, and microprocessor. The circuit system 150 may further include a memory 153. Figure 1 As shown, memory 153 can be configured to store one or more of the functions 152, 154, 156, and 158 that the circuitry 150 is configured to perform. Memory 153 can be a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. Memory 153 can be one or more of a buffer, flash memory, hard disk drive, removable media, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, random access memory (RAM), or another suitable device. In a typical arrangement, memory 153 may include non-volatile memory for long-term data storage and volatile memory serving as system memory for the circuitry 150. Figure 1 As illustrated in the example, memory 153 can exchange data with circuitry 150 via data bus 159. Furthermore, communication between components of the optical measurement device 10 can be performed via data bus 159. Additional control lines and address buses may also exist between memory 153 and circuitry 150. The functions and operations of the optical measurement device 10 can be implemented in the form of executable logic routines (e.g., lines of code, software programs, etc.) stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 153) of the optical measurement device 10 and executed by circuitry 150 (e.g., using processing unit 151). Furthermore, the functions and operations of the optical measurement device 10 can be a standalone software application or part of a software application that performs additional tasks associated with the optical measurement device 10. The described functions and operations can be considered as methods configured to be performed by the corresponding device. Similarly, while the described functions and operations can be implemented in software, such functions can also be implemented via dedicated hardware or firmware, or some combination of hardware, firmware, and / or software. The circuit system 150 may further include electrical components for converting signals from the light sensors 110 and 120. For example, the circuit system 150 may include a signal amplifier and / or an A / D converter. These electrical components and their functions are well known to those skilled in the art. Although the circuit system 150... Figure 1 While schematically shown as a single component, it should be understood that the circuit system 150 can be distributed. For example, the circuit system 150 and / or its functions can be distributed across different physical locations and / or devices.

[0084] Control function 152 is configured to control the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 to alternately illuminate the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120 of S600, S604, S610, and S614. In other words, at a first time point, the first light source 130 simultaneously illuminates both the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120 of S600 and S610, and at a second time point, the second light source 140 simultaneously illuminates both the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120 of S604 and S614. Control function 152 can be configured to control the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 to emit light alternately, thereby allowing the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 to alternately illuminate the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120. Figure 2 As shown in the example, the optical measuring device 10 may further include an adjustable aperture 170, which is arranged to adjustably block light emitted from the first light source 130 and the second light source 140, and a control function 152 may be configured to control the adjustable aperture 170. Therefore, by controlling the adjustable aperture 170, light emitted from one of the light sources 130 and 140 can be blocked, while light emitted from the other of the light sources 130 and 140 can reach the light sensors 110 and 120. By controlling the adjustable aperture 170, the control function 152 can control the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 to alternately illuminate the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120. Figure 2As shown, the adjustable aperture 170 can be a sliding element configured to slide along the direction indicated by the double arrow 172. Alternatively or additionally, the adjustable aperture 170 can be, for example, one or more of a chopper, a mechanical shutter, and a switchable glass (i.e., glass with adjustable light transmission). It should be understood that the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 can intermittently alternately illuminate the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120. In other words, there may be time periods during which neither the first light source 130 nor the second light source 140 illuminates the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120. During these periods, the circuit system 150 can be configured to perform a third receiving function 157. The third receiving function 157 can be configured to receive a first background signal from the first light sensor 110 and a second background signal from the second light sensor 120. One or more of the first receiving function 154, the second receiving function 156, and the third receiving function can be implemented as a single receiving function. A first background signal and / or a second background signal can be used to reduce the background of signals received by the first receiving function 154 and / or the second receiving function 156. The first background signal can be used to reduce the background of signals received from the first light sensor 110, and the second background signal can be used to reduce the background of signals received from the second light sensor 120. The circuit system 150 can be configured to perform a background reduction function 155, which is configured to use the first background signal and / or the second background signal to reduce the background of the received signals.

[0085] Control function 152 can be configured to control the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 to alternately illuminate the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120 of S600, S604, S610, and S614 at a frequency of ≥ 0.5 Hz. Therefore, the first time point (when the first light source 130 simultaneously illuminates the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120) and the second time point (when the second light source 140 simultaneously illuminates the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120) can be separated by a time interval equal to the reciprocal of the frequency at which the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 alternately illuminate the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120. For example, if the frequency is 10 Hz, the time interval between the first time point and the second time point is 0.1 s. It should be understood that there may be delays associated with alternating illumination (e.g., electronic delay, mechanical delay, time delay associated with adjusting the adjustable aperture 170, or time delay after the light sources 130, 140 are instructed to emit light), and the time interval between the first and second time points may therefore be longer than the reciprocal of the frequency.

[0086] The first receiving function 154 is configured to receive, in S612, a measurement signal related to the light emitted by the first light source 130 from the first light sensor 110. Because the first light source 130 illuminates the first light sensor 110 via the plasmonic sensing element 100, the measurement signal contains information related to the surrounding environment. This is because plasmonic resonance conditions allow the plasmonic sensing element 100 to interact with the surrounding environment, thereby affecting the light incident on the plasmonic sensing element 100. How and to what extent the light is affected depends on the type of plasmonic sensing element 100 and the surrounding environment near it. The plasmonic sensing element 100 may include a metal. The metal may be one or more of Ag, Au, Cu, Al, Mg, Ni, Pd, Sn, Hf, Ru, Rh, Ir, and Cr. Which material the plasmonic sensing element 100 comprises (e.g., which one or more of the listed metals) may be selected depending on which characteristic of the surrounding environment the optical measuring device 10 is configured to determine. Furthermore, light incident on the plasmonic sensing element 100 can be attenuated through interaction with the plasmonic sensing element 100, and the degree of attenuation can depend at least in part on the surrounding environment. The attenuation of light by the plasmonic sensing element 100 can be wavelength-dependent. For example, which wavelengths of light are attenuated can depend on the details of the plasmonic sensing element 100 and the surrounding environment. Therefore, the attenuation of light can be a measure of the characteristics of the surrounding environment. For example, the degree to which light of a specific wavelength is attenuated after propagation through / by the plasmonic sensing element 100 can be used to determine the characteristics of the surrounding environment. Furthermore, changes in the surrounding environment may affect which wavelength of light is attenuated most (typically referred to as peak attenuation). By determining how the wavelength of peak attenuation changes, changes in the surrounding environment (e.g., the characteristics of the surrounding environment) can be determined. A shift in peak attenuation can be determined, for example, by determining the attenuation of a specific wavelength of light, which can be different from the wavelength of peak attenuation. For example, the attenuation of light can be determined for light of a first wavelength, and the attenuation of light of the first wavelength can also change as the wavelength of peak attenuation changes. Therefore, by determining how light with a first wavelength attenuates, the wavelength of peak attenuation can be determined. In practice, the first optical sensor 110 can effectively measure within a certain wavelength range. This wavelength range can be a function of the characteristics of optical components (e.g., a light source and / or a light sensor). The wavelength range can be tuned by including a bandpass filter. For example, by placing a bandpass filter between the first light source 130 and the plasmon sensing element 100, the bandwidth of the light emitted by the first light source 130 can be reduced. Alternatively or additionally, a bandpass filter can be placed between the plasmon sensing element 100 and the first optical sensor 110, thereby reducing the wavelength range of light that can reach the first optical sensor 110.Therefore, a wavelength range can be selected to most effectively determine the wavelength of peak attenuation. Furthermore, the shift in peak attenuation can be determined by a spectrometer, i.e., the first optical sensor 110 can be a spectrometer.

[0087] The first receiving function 154 is further configured to receive, in S602, a first source signal related to the light emitted by the first light source 130 from the second light sensor 120. The first source signal can be a measure of the amount of light emitted by the first light source 130. This is because the second light sensor 120 can be illuminated by the first light source 130 via a component configured not to specifically react to the surrounding environment. In other words, the intensity of the light incident on the second light sensor 120 and emitted by the first light source 130 can depend primarily on the amount of light emitted by the first light source 130. Because the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120 can be illuminated by the first light source 130 at a first time point, the measurement signal and the first source signal can be received at that first time point.

[0088] The second receiving function 156 is configured to receive, in S616, a reference signal related to the light emitted by the second light source 140 from the first light sensor 110, and in S606, a second source signal related to the light emitted by the second light source 140 from the second light sensor 120. The reference signal can be a measure of the amount of light emitted by the second light source 140. This is because the first light sensor 110 can be illuminated by the second light source 140 via a component configured not to specifically react to the surrounding environment. In other words, the intensity of the light incident on the first light sensor 110 and emitted by the second light source 140 can depend primarily on the amount of light emitted by the second light source 140. This can also be analogously applied to the second source signal. Because both the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120 can be illuminated by the second light source 140 at a second time point, the reference signal and the second source signal can be received at that second time point.

[0089] The determination function 158 is configured to determine the characteristics of the surrounding environment of S618 by comparing a measurement signal and a reference signal. The determination function 158 can be configured, for example, to determine an absolute measure of the characteristics of the surrounding environment using absolutely calibrated optical sensors 110, 120. The determination function 158 can be configured, for example, to determine a relative measure of the characteristics of the surrounding environment by comparing how the measure of the characteristics changes over time. As understood, the determination function 158 can be configured to compare a measurement signal associated with a first time point and a reference signal associated with a second time point. The characteristics of the surrounding environment can be changes in the surrounding environment. Therefore, the optical measurement device 10 can determine changes in the surrounding environment. The determination function 158 can be further configured to output an output signal. The output signal can be a signal related to the characteristics of the surrounding environment determined by the determination function 158. The determination function 158 can be configured to determine the characteristics of the surrounding environment by being configured to determine the ratio of the measurement signal to the reference signal. It should be understood that the determination function 158 can be configured to perform additional operations to determine the characteristics of the surrounding environment. For example, if the optical measuring device 10 is configured to determine the refractive index of the surrounding environment, the determination function 158 can be further configured to, for example, compare the output signal with a database including the refractive index and signal values. In any case, the measurement signal and the reference signal can allow the determination function 158 to determine a signal (e.g., the output signal) that is a measure of the characteristics of the surrounding environment.

[0090] Control function 152 is further configured to control the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 in S608 using a first source signal and a second source signal, such that the relationship between the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 remains constant over time. Therefore, any external factors affecting the components of the optical measurement device 10 can be compensated for, thereby allowing the optical measurement device 10 to robustly determine the characteristics of the surrounding environment. Furthermore, internal factors, such as unintentional long-term drift of components, can also be compensated for. For example, if the light output from one of the light sources 130 and 140 decreases over time, this will be compensated for by control function 152, as this control function is configured to use the first source signal and the second source signal. This change over time can be offset by changing the drive current of the first light source and / or the second light source 140, so that the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source and / or the second light source 140 remains constant over time. Furthermore, because determination function 158 is configured to use a measurement signal and a reference signal, the influence of, for example, drift of the first light sensor 110 on the determination of the characteristics of the surrounding environment can be reduced.

[0091] The intensity of the light emitted by the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 can be equal.

[0092] Control function 152 can be further configured to further utilize an external reference signal to control the first light source 130 and the second light source 140. The external reference signal can be provided by a reference source 160. Reference source 160 can be configured to provide a stable signal. In this context, a "stable signal" refers to a signal that is stable over time and / or with respect to changing temperature. Reference source 160 can be a reference voltage source or a reference current source. The external reference signal can be an external electrical signal. For example, control function 152 can compare the first source signal with the external reference signal and adjust the first light source 130 such that the relationship between the first source signal and the external reference signal remains constant over time. Further, control function 152 can compare the second source signal with the external reference signal and adjust the second light source 140 such that the relationship between the second source signal and the external reference signal remains constant over time. By further utilizing the reference signal, drift of any one or both of the light sources 130 and 140 can be compensated by control function 152.

[0093] like Figure 1 As shown, the optical measurement device 10 may further include a reference element 180 configured to exhibit reference plasmon resonance conditions dependent on a reference material within the reference element 180 when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation, wherein the reference element 180 may be arranged such that the second light source 140 irradiates the first photosensor 110 via the reference element 180. The reference element 180 may include a layer deposited on its surface. This layer may include a material different from the material of the reference element 180. The deposited layer of the reference element 180 may, for example, include a dielectric material. The reference element 180 may be configured to respond to changes in the surrounding environment other than the characteristics of interest. For example, the deposited layer of the reference element 180 may be configured to respond to changes in the surrounding environment other than the characteristics of interest. In other words, the reference element 180 may be configured to respond to characteristics other than those of the surrounding environment to which the plasmon sensing element 100 is specifically configured to respond. In other words, the reference element 180 can be physically separated from and / or shielded from the surrounding environment to be measured, but is still affected by the surrounding environment (e.g., humidity, temperature, ambient light, etc.). This allows the optical measurement device 10 to further reduce the influence of external factors other than the characteristics of interest in the surrounding environment.

[0094] like Figure 3As illustrated in the example, the optical measurement device 10 may further include a housing 200 made of an opaque material. The opaque material may include, for example, plastic and / or metal. The material of the housing 200 may be opaque to light emitted by the first light source 130 and the second light source 140. The housing 200 may include channels 210 arranged to enable optical communication between the first light source 130 and the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120, and between the second light source 140 and the first light sensor 110 and the second light sensor 120. The housing 200 may include a port 220 allowing the plasmonic sensing element 100 to communicate with the surrounding environment. By including the housing 200, the internal components of the optical measurement device 10 can be protected from debris. Furthermore, the internal components of the optical measurement device 10 can be protected from the influence of the surrounding environment. Figure 3 The optical measuring device 10 is shown in a partially exploded view. For example... Figure 3 As shown, housing 200 may include cavity 230. Cavity 230 may be arranged to receive light sensors 110, 120 and light sources 130, 140. More specifically, a first cavity 230a of housing 200 is arranged to receive a first light sensor 110 (indicated by arrow 111), a third cavity 230c of housing 200 is arranged to receive a first light source 130 (indicated by arrow 131), and a fourth cavity 230d is arranged to receive a second light source 140 (indicated by arrow 141). Further, as in Figure 3In the example shown, the second light sensor 120 can be arranged in the second cavity 220b of the housing 200. Therefore, in the assembled state, light sensors 110, 120 and light sources 130, 140 can be arranged in their respective cavities 230. The housing 200 can be configured such that only the plasmon sensing element 100 is exposed to the surrounding environment. For example, in the assembled state, light sensors 110, 120 and light sources 130, 140 can be arranged in their respective cavities 230, and each respective cavity 230 can be hermetically sealed. For example, the first channel 210a connecting the first cavity 230a and the location where the plasmon sensing element 100 is arranged, and the channel connecting the third cavity 230c and the location where the plasmon 100 is arranged, can each include an optically transparent seal. The optically transparent seal allows the light sensors 110, 120 and light sources 130, 140 to be hermetically sealed from the surrounding environment. For example, the plasmon sensing element 100 can be arranged to further serve as one of the optically transparent seals. Therefore, the plasmonic sensing element 100 can be arranged such that one main surface of the plasmonic sensing element 100 is in communication with the surrounding environment, while the other main surface of the plasmonic sensing element 100 is not in communication with the surrounding environment. Further, it is envisioned that another optically transparent seal could be a second plasmonic sensing element. Therefore, the first light source 130 can be arranged to illuminate the first light sensor 110 via both plasmonic sensing elements. An example of this arrangement is shown in... Figure 12 middle. Figure 12 Optical measurement equipment and Figure 3 Optical measuring devices share many similarities. However, Figure 12 The optical measurement device includes a first plasmonic sensing element 100a and a second plasmonic sensing element 100b, which are arranged to seal the light sensors 110, 120 and the light source 130, 140 from the surrounding environment. The first plasmonic sensing element 100a and the second plasmonic sensing element 100b are each arranged such that one main surface communicates with the surrounding environment via a port 220a, and the other main surface is hermetically sealed to the surrounding environment.

[0095] like Figure 4As illustrated in the example, the optical measurement device 10 may further include multiple optical fibers 300. The multiple optical fibers 300 can be arranged to enable optical communication between the first light source 130 and the first optical sensor 110 and the second optical sensor 120, and / or between the second light source 140 and the first optical sensor 110 and the second optical sensor 120. In this way, the components of the optical measurement device 10 can be positioned remotely from each other. For example, the plasmon sensing element 100 can be coupled to the first light source 130 and the first optical sensor 110 via optical fibers 300b and 300c, thereby allowing the plasmon sensing element 100 to be placed in locations unsuitable for the optical measurement device 10. This may be advantageous, for example, in chemically harsh environments or in situations where measurements cannot be performed in small spaces that accommodate the optical measurement device 10. Figure 4 As shown, the first light source 130 can be connected to the first beam splitter 310a via the first optical fiber 300a. The first beam splitter 310a can be further connected to the first optical sensor 110 via the plasmonic sensing element 100 via the second optical fiber 300b and the third optical fiber 300c. The first beam splitter 310a can be further connected to the second optical sensor 120 via the fourth optical fiber 300d. Similarly, the second light source can be connected to the second beam splitter 310b via the fifth optical fiber 300e. The second beam splitter 310b can be further connected to the first optical sensor via the sixth optical fiber 300f, and to the second optical sensor via the seventh optical fiber. Figure 3 As can be seen, the plasmonic sensing element 100 can be placed, for example, in the test unit 320.

[0096] The optical measurement device 10 may further include a plurality of plasmonic sensing elements 500. The plasmonic sensing elements 100 may be plasmonic sensing elements 100a, 100b, and 100c among the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements 500. The optical measurement device 10 may further include an optical switch 400 arranged to receive light from a first light source 130 and illuminate a first photosensor 110 via at least one of the plasmonic sensing elements 100a, 100b, and 100c among the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements 500. The circuit system 150 may be further configured to perform a switching function (not shown). The switching function may be configured to control the optical switch 400, thereby allowing the switching function to select which one or which combination of the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements 500 illuminates the first photosensor 110 via the first light source 130. This allows the optical measurement device 10 to sample different portions of the surrounding environment. In other words, it allows the optical measurement device 10 to determine how the characteristics of the surrounding environment vary spatially. Furthermore, each of the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements 500 can be configured to determine different characteristics of the surrounding environment. By measuring the different characteristics of the surrounding environment, a more complete picture of the surrounding environment can be determined. Each of the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements 500 can be arranged to optically communicate with the first optical sensor 110. For example, each of the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements 500 can be coupled to the first optical sensor 110 using an optical fiber. The optical measurement device 10 may further include an optical combiner (not shown) coupled to each of the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements 500 and the first optical sensor 110. The optical combiner can be configured to combine the light associated with each of the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements 500 and illuminate the first optical sensor 110.

[0097] Further, it is envisioned that the optical switch 400 can be arranged to receive light from the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements 500 and illuminate the first photosensitive sensor 110. In other words, the first light source 130 can be arranged to illuminate all plasmonic sensing elements 100a, 100b, 100c of the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements 500, and the optical switch 400 can be arranged to select (using, for example, a switching function) which one or which combination of plasmonic sensing elements 100a, 100b, 100c of the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements 500 can illuminate the first photosensitive sensor 110.

[0098] like Figure 7As illustrated in the example, the optical measurement device 10 may further include another plasmon sensing element 700, a third light sensor 710, and a third light source 730. The third light source 730 may be a light-emitting diode. The other plasmon sensing element 700 may be configured to exhibit plasmon resonance conditions that depend on another characteristic of the surrounding environment when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation. The third light source 730 may be arranged to simultaneously irradiate the second light sensor 120 and the third light sensor 710. The third light sensor 710 may be irradiated via the other plasmon sensing element 700 through the third light source 730. The second light source 140 may be further arranged to simultaneously irradiate the second light sensor 120 and the third light sensor 710. The second light source 140 may be arranged to simultaneously irradiate the first light sensor 110, the second light sensor 120, and the third light sensor 710. The control function 152 may be further configured to control the second light source 140 and the third light source 730 to alternately irradiate the second light sensor 120 and the third light sensor 710. Control function 152 can be configured to control the first light source 130, the second light source 140, and the third light source 730 such that light sensors 110, 120, and 710 are illuminated by light from one of the first light source 130, the second light source 140, and the third light source 730 at a single point in time. In other words, control function 152 can be configured to control the light sources 130, 140, and 730 to alternately illuminate light sensors 110, 120, and 710.

[0099] The circuit system 150 can be further configured to perform another receiving function (not shown). This other receiving function can be configured to receive another measurement signal related to the light emitted by the third light source 730 from the third light sensor 710, and another source signal related to the light emitted by the third light source 730 from the second light sensor 120. The determination function 158 can be further configured to determine another characteristic of the surrounding environment by comparing the other measurement signal and the reference signal. The control function 152 can be further configured to control the third light source 730 using the second source signal and the other source signal, such that the relationship between the intensity of the light emitted by the second light source 140 and the third light source 730 remains constant over time.

[0100] Those skilled in the art recognize that the description of the first optical sensor 110, the first light source 130, and the plasmonic sensing element 100 can be applied to the third optical sensor 710, the third light source 730, and another plasmonic sensing element 700. In other words, further including the third optical sensor 710, the third light source 730, and the other plasmonic sensing element 700 allows the optical measurement device 10 to determine two different characteristics of the surrounding environment. However, the other characteristic determined using the other plasmonic sensing element 700 may be the same characteristic determined using the plasmonic sensing element 100. In this case, information related to how the determined characteristic varies spatially can be determined by arranging the plasmonic sensing elements 100 and 700 at different spatial locations.

[0101] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the inventive concept is by no means limited to the preferred variations described above. Rather, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

[0102] For example, the optical measurement device 10 has been described separately as having either a housing 200 or an optical fiber; however, it should be understood that combinations of both are possible. For example, the channels in the housing 200 may include optical fibers, thereby enabling optical communication between the components of the optical measurement device 10.

[0103] It should be further understood that the various parts of the function can be implemented as separate functions. For example, the parts of control function 152 associated with controlling light sources 130 and 140, and the parts of control function 152 associated with, for example, comparison signals, can be implemented as separate functions. It should be further understood that the various parts of the function can be executed on separate devices, which may be physically separate but interconnected.

[0104] As another example, the optical measurement device 10 may further include one or more temperature sensors configured to determine the temperature of the optical measurement device 10 and the surrounding environment. The control function 152 may be further configured to compensate its output by taking into account the readings of the one or more temperature sensors and the predetermined or predicted effect of temperature on the optical measurement device. This compensation may be achieved using a lookup table, which may be formed during the calibration of the optical measurement device.

[0105] exist Figure 8A , Figures 9A to 9C , Figures 10A to 10C and Figures 11A to 11C In the diagram, the vertical axis is labeled "Signal Level (Any Unit)". This signal level should be interpreted as a relative signal level or a relative change in the signal. Specifically, in each corresponding graph, this signal level can be the change in the signal relative to a time of 0 minutes.

[0106] exist Figures 8A to 8B In the example shown, the ambient temperature (i.e., the atmospheric temperature around the optical measuring device 10) is controlled over time. Figure 8A The ambient temperature (represented by dashed lines) and relative signal (represented by solid lines) change over time. Figure 8A In the example, the relative signal is the ratio between the measurement signal from the first light sensor 110 and the reference signal from the first light sensor 110. The measurement signal relates to the light emitted by the first light source 130 and received at the first light sensor via the plasma sensing device 100. The reference signal relates to the light emitted by the second light source 140. (As in...) Figure 8A As seen in the example, the relative signal depends on the ambient temperature. However, in Figure 8A In the example, by using Figure 8B The demonstrated use of drive current to control the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 has reduced this dependence. Those skilled in the art will understand how to determine the operation of light sources 130 and 140 based on the first and second source signals. Figure 8B The driving current is adjusted so that the intensity of the light from the light sources 130 and 140 on the second optical sensor 120 is substantially constant, for example, by using a feedback loop. Figure 8B In the diagram, ambient temperature is represented by a dashed line, and drive current is represented by a solid line. The drive current can be the current driving the first light source 130 and / or the second light source 140. It should be noted that the temperature dependence on the signal is merely an example, and similar behavior can be observed and compensated for for changes in relative humidity and pressure, which will be combined with... Figures 9A to 9C , Figures 10A to 10C and Figures 11A to 11C Let's have a discussion.

[0107] exist Figures 9A to 9C In the example shown, the ambient temperature (i.e., the atmospheric temperature around the optical measuring device 10) is controlled over time. Figure 9A In the diagram, the ambient temperature (represented by dashed lines) and the measurement signal from the first optical sensor 110 (represented by solid lines) are shown to change over time. Figure 9A In the example, the plasmonic sensing element 100 of the optical measurement device 10 has been removed. Therefore, Figure 9A The measured signal is related to the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source 130. As is clearly visible, the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source 130 is sensitive to ambient temperature. Figure 9B In the diagram, the ambient temperature (represented by dashed lines) and the reference signal from the first optical sensor 110 (represented by solid lines) are shown to change over time. Figure 9B The reference signal is related to the intensity of the light emitted by the second light source 140. This is similar to the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source 130 (e.g., Figure 9AAs shown, the intensity of the light emitted by the second light source 140 is sensitive to ambient temperature. However, because the intensities of the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 are controlled such that the intensity is constant on the second light sensor 120, the temperature dependence of the signal has been reduced. Figure 9C It shows how it changes over time. Figure 9A Measurement signals and Figure 9B The ratio of the reference signal (represented by the solid line) and the ambient temperature (represented by the dashed line). For example, in Figure 9C As can be seen, the ratio between the measured signal and the reference signal may be less sensitive to ambient temperature compared to the measured signal and the reference signal.

[0108] exist Figures 10A to 10C In the example shown, the relative humidity (i.e., the relative humidity of the atmosphere surrounding the optical measuring device 10) is controlled over time. Figure 10A In the diagram, relative humidity (represented by dashed lines) and the measurement signal from the first light sensor 110 (represented by solid lines) are shown to change over time. Figure 10A In the example, the plasmonic sensing element 100 of the optical measurement device 10 has been removed. Therefore, Figure 10A The measured signal is related to the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source 130. As is clearly visible, the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source 130 is sensitive to relative humidity. Figure 10B In the diagram, relative humidity (represented by dashed lines) and reference signals from the first optical sensor 110 (represented by solid lines) are shown to change over time. Figure 10B The reference signal is related to the intensity of the light emitted by the second light source 140. This is similar to the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source 130 (e.g., Figure 10A As shown, the intensity of the light emitted by the second light source 140 is sensitive to relative humidity. However, because the intensities of the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 are controlled such that the intensity is constant on the second light sensor 120, the dependence of the signal on relative humidity has been reduced. Figure 10C It shows how it changes over time. Figure 10A Measurement signals and Figure 10B The ratio of the reference signal (represented by the solid line) and the relative humidity (represented by the dashed line). For example, in Figure 10C As can be seen, the ratio between the measured signal and the reference signal may not be very sensitive to relative humidity.

[0109] exist Figures 11A to 11CIn the example shown, the ambient pressure (i.e., the atmospheric pressure surrounding the optical measuring device 10) is controlled over time. The ambient pressure is controlled between a first pressure P1 and a second pressure P2 over time. The first pressure P1 is 1 atmosphere (approximately 1.0 bar, or 100 kPa), and the second pressure P2 is 0.25 atmospheres (approximately 0.25 bar, or 25 kPa). Figures 11A to 11C In the examples, the environmental pressure was controlled at a first pressure P1 from 0 to approximately 15 minutes, from approximately 30 minutes to approximately 45 minutes, from approximately 60 minutes to approximately 75 minutes, and from approximately 90 minutes to 100 minutes. Figures 11A to 11C In the examples, the environmental pressure was controlled at the second pressure P2 from approximately 15 minutes to approximately 30 minutes, from approximately 45 minutes to approximately 60 minutes, and from approximately 75 minutes to approximately 90 minutes. Figure 11A In the diagram, the measurement signal (represented by the solid line) from the first optical sensor 110 is shown as changing over time. Figure 11A In the example, the plasmonic sensing element 100 of the optical measurement device 10 has been removed. Therefore, Figure 11A The measured signal is related to the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source 130. As is clearly visible, the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source 130 is sensitive to ambient pressure. Figure 11B In the diagram, the reference signal (represented by the solid line) from the first optical sensor 110 is shown to change over time. Figure 11B The reference signal is related to the intensity of the light emitted by the second light source 140. This is similar to the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source 130 (e.g., Figure 11A As shown, the intensity of the light emitted by the second light source 140 is sensitive to ambient pressure. However, because the intensities of the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 are controlled such that the intensity is constant on the second light sensor 120, the dependence of the signal on ambient pressure has been reduced. Figure 11C It shows how it changes over time. Figure 11A The measurement signal and Figure 11B The ratio of the reference signal (represented by the solid line). For example, in Figure 11C As can be seen, the ratio between the measured signal and the reference signal may not be very sensitive to environmental stress.

[0110] Therefore, in view of the above results, according to the present invention, controlling the first light source 130 and the second light source 140 can reduce the influence of ambient temperature, relative humidity and / or ambient pressure on the ratio of the measured signal to the reference signal.

[0111] In addition, variations of the disclosed variants can be understood and implemented by a person skilled in the art when practicing the claimed invention by studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

Claims

1. An optical measuring device (10) for determining the characteristics of an surrounding environment, the optical measuring device comprising: Plasmon sensing element (100) is configured to exhibit plasmon resonance conditions that depend on the characteristics of the surrounding environment when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation, wherein the plasmon resonance conditions are localized surface plasmon resonance conditions. First optical sensor (110); Second optical sensor (120); A first light source (130) is arranged to simultaneously illuminate the first photosensor (110) and the second photosensor (120), wherein the first photosensor (110) is illuminated by the first light source (130) via the plasmonic sensing element (100); A second light source (140) is arranged to simultaneously illuminate both the first photosensor (110) and the second photosensor (120), wherein the first photosensor (110) is not illuminated by the plasmonic sensing element through the second light source (140); and Circuit system (150), which is configured to perform: Control function (152) is configured to control the first light source (130) and the second light source (140) to alternately illuminate both the first photosensitive sensor (110, 120) at different time points. A first receiving function (154) is configured to receive a measurement signal related to the light emitted by the first light source (130) from the first light sensor (110) and a first source signal related to the light emitted by the first light source (130) from the second light sensor (120). A second receiving function (156) is configured to receive a reference signal related to the light emitted by the second light source (140) from the first light sensor (110), and to receive a second source signal related to the light emitted by the second light source (140) from the second light sensor (120), and A determination function (158) is configured to determine the characteristics of the surrounding environment by comparing the measured signal with the reference signal, and The control function (152) is further configured to use the first source signal and the second source signal to control the first light source (130) and the second light source (140) so that the relationship between the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source (130) and the second light source (140) is constant over time.

2. The optical measuring device (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The control function (152) is configured to control the first light source (130) and the second light source (140) to alternately illuminate the first photosensitive sensor and the second photosensitive sensor (110, 120) at a frequency of ≥ 0.5 Hz.

3. The optical measuring device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The determination function (158) is configured to determine the characteristics of the surrounding environment by determining the ratio of the measured signal to the reference signal.

4. The optical measuring device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The intensity of the light emitted by the first light source (130) and the second light source (140) is equal.

5. The optical measuring device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A shell made of opaque material (200); and The housing (200) includes a channel (210) arranged to enable optical communication between the first light source (130) and the first and second light sensors (110, 120), and between the second light source (140) and the first and second light sensors (110, 120).

6. The optical measuring device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: Multiple optical fibers (300); and The multiple optical fibers (300) are arranged to enable optical communication between the first light source (130) and the first and second optical sensors (110, 120) and / or between the second light source (140) and the first and second optical sensors (110, 120).

7. The optical measuring device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: Another plasmonic sensing element (700) is configured to exhibit plasmonic resonance conditions that depend on another characteristic of the surrounding environment when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation. Third optical sensor (710); as well as A third light source (730) is arranged to simultaneously illuminate the second light sensor (120) and the third light sensor (710), wherein the third light sensor (710) is illuminated by the third light source (730) via the other plasmonic sensing element (700); The second light source (140) is further arranged to simultaneously illuminate the second photosensor (120) and the third photosensor (710). The control function (152) is further configured to control the second light source (140) and the third light source (730) to alternately illuminate the second photosensitive sensor and the third photosensitive sensor (120, 710). The circuit system (150) is further configured to perform another receiving function (754), which is configured to receive another measurement signal related to the light emitted by the third light source (730) from the third light sensor (710) and another source signal related to the light emitted by the third light source (730) from the second light sensor (120); The determining function (158) is further configured to determine another characteristic of the surrounding environment by comparing the other measurement signal and the reference signal; and The control function (152) is further configured to use the second source signal and the other source signal to control the third source (730) so that the relationship between the intensity of the light emitted by the second source (140) and the third source (730) is constant over time.

8. The optical measuring device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: Multiple plasmonic sensing elements (500), wherein the plasmonic sensing element (100) is a plasmonic sensing element (100a, 100b, 100c) among the multiple plasmonic sensing elements (500). as well as An optical switch (400) is arranged to receive light from the first light source (130) and illuminate the first photosensor (110) via at least one of the plurality of plasmonic sensing elements (500) (100a, 100b, 100c).

9. The optical measuring device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first light source (130) and / or the second light source (140) are light-emitting diodes.

10. The optical measuring device (10) according to claim 7, wherein, The third light source (730) is a light-emitting diode.

11. A method (60) for determining the characteristics of a surrounding environment, the method comprising the steps of: S600: The second light sensor (120) is illuminated by the first light source (130); S602: Receive a first source signal from the second photosensor (120) relating to the light emitted from the first light source (130); S604: The second light sensor (120) is illuminated by the second light source (140); S606: Receive a second source signal from the second photosensor (120) relating to the light emitted from the second light source (140); S608: Use the first source signal and the second source signal to control the first light source (130) and the second light source (140) so that the relationship between the intensity of the light emitted by the first light source (130) and the second light source (140) is constant over time; S610: The first light source (130) illuminates the first photosensor (110) via the plasmonic sensing element (100), wherein when illuminated by electromagnetic radiation, the plasmonic sensing element (100) exhibits a plasmonic resonance condition that depends on the characteristics of the surrounding environment, wherein the plasmonic resonance condition is a local surface plasmonic resonance condition. S612: Receive a measurement signal related to the light emitted from the first light source (130) from the first optical sensor (110); S614: The first photosensor (110) is illuminated by the second light source (140), wherein the first photosensor (110) is not illuminated by the plasmonic sensing element through the second light source (140); S616: Receive from the first photosensor (110) a reference signal relating to the light emitted from the second light source (140); and S618: The characteristics of the surrounding environment are determined by comparing the measured signal with the reference signal.

12. The method (60) according to claim 11, wherein, The first light source (130) simultaneously illuminates the first photosensitive sensor (110) and the second photosensitive sensor (120), and / or the second light source (140) simultaneously illuminates the first photosensitive sensor (110) and the second photosensitive sensor (120).

13. The method (60) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The first light source (130) and the second light source (140) alternately illuminate the first photosensitive sensor (110) and / or the second photosensitive sensor (120).

14. The method (60) according to claim 13, wherein, The first light source (130) and the second light source (140) alternately illuminate the first photosensitive sensor (110) and / or the second photosensitive sensor (120) at a frequency of ≥ 0.5 Hz.

15. The method (60) according to claim 14, wherein, The measurement signal and the reference signal are received at a first time point (S612, S616), and the other of the measurement signal and the reference signal is received at a second time point (S612, S616), wherein the first time point and the second time point are separated by a time period based on the frequency at which the first light source (130) and the second light source (140) alternately illuminate the first light sensor (110) and / or the second light sensor (120).

16. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising program code portions that, when executed on a device having processing capabilities, perform the method (60) according to any one of claims 11 to 15.

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