Acousto-Optical Modulator for Light Scattering Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current light scattering systems lack the ability to easily switch between different measurement configurations such as auto-correlation, cross-correlation, and modulated cross-correlation, requiring separate devices and potentially damaging delicate samples during mechanical changes.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional light scattering system with a light beam modulation unit that uses an acousto-optical modulator to generate and control 0-order and 1st-order diffracted beams independently or alternately, allowing for fast switching between different operation modes and enabling auto-correlation, cross-correlation, and modulated cross-correlation measurements without mechanical changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate devices are used for different measurement configurations (auto-correlation, cross-correlation, modulated cross-correlation), then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single light scattering device capable of performing multiple measurement configurations (auto-correlation, cross-correlation, and modulated cross-correlation) by using an acousto-optical modulator to generate different beam configurations. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate devices while maintaining measurement precision across all configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic control of the acousto-optical modulator to switch between different measurement configurations rapidly. The modulator can generate 0-order and 1st-order diffracted beams independently or alternately, allowing the system to adapt its beam configuration dynamically based on the required measurement type, thereby simplifying the overall device architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical changes are made to switch between measurement configurations, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to potential sample damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical switching mechanisms with an acousto-optical modulator that uses acoustic waves to control light beam diffraction. This non-mechanical approach allows for rapid switching between measurement configurations without physical movement, eliminating the risk of sample damage associated with mechanical changes while maintaining full adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The acousto-optical modulator uses periodic acoustic waves to dynamically control the generation of 0-order and 1st-order diffracted beams. This periodic action enables fast switching between different beam configurations and measurement modes without any mechanical movement, ensuring sample integrity while providing versatile measurement capabilities.
3Productivity
If fast switching between operation modes is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves fast switching between operation modes through dynamic control of the acousto-optical modulator, which can rapidly generate 0-order and 1st-order diffracted beams independently or alternately. This dynamic approach enables high-speed mode switching for improved productivity while consolidating multiple functions into a single device, thereby limiting the increase in overall complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible and user-friendly measurement of different particle sizes with increased switching frequency, reducing measurement time and improving accuracy without damaging samples, and allowing for simultaneous or alternating generation of diffracted beams with high intensities.
Implementation Method 1
an acousto-optical modulator for splitting a light beam received from the light input into a 0-order diffracted and a 1st order diffracted beam
Data Source
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AI summary
Light beam modulation unit (M) for a light scattering device is proposed, comprising: A single light input (1) an acousto-optical modulator (4) for splitting a light beam received from the light input (1) into a 0-order diffracted and a 1st-order diffracted beam, wherein the acousto-optical modulator is arranged at a first distance from the light input (1), wherein the first light output (2) is arranged at a first angle with respect to the incoming light beam and at a second distance along a first propagation path of the 0-order diffracted beam from the acousto-optical modulator (4), wherein the second light output (3) is arranged at a second angle with respect to the incoming light beam and at a third distance along a second propagation path of the diffracted beam between the acousto-optical modulator (4), and a controller (C) for controlling the acousto-optical modulator (4) such that a 0-order diffracted beam with a first intensity or a 1st-order diffracted beam with a second intensity is generated independently or that a 0-order diffracted beam with a first intensity and a 1 st-order diffracted beam with a second intensity are generated as alternating beams or as simultaneous beams.