Aperture Array Measurement Device for Reducing Analyte Volume
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring small specimen characteristics require large amounts of analyte and are prone to errors due to dimensional variations in aperture array structures, and are complicated by the need for preprocessing and signal interference from containers.
Innovation Solution
A measurement device with a detachable aperture array structure that can be fixed in multiple cavities, allowing for sensitive electromagnetic wave measurements without the need for large analyte volumes and reducing errors from structural variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a large capacity container is used to accommodate liquid and aperture array structure, then the specimen can be measured, but a large amount of analyte is required
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture array structure is divided into multiple independent aperture arrays, each corresponding to a separate cavity. This segmentation allows the use of multiple small cavities instead of one large container, thereby reducing the total amount of analyte required while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single large container to multiple small cavities arranged in an array configuration. This dimensional reorganization allows the system to achieve the same measurement function using smaller individual volumes, reducing the total analyte requirement.
2Measurement precision
If the electromagnetic wave passes through both the liquid containing the specimen and the container, then the specimen characteristics can be measured, but the signal becomes weak and analysis becomes complicated due to reflection and absorption
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture array structure is extracted from the container and positioned at the bottom of the cavity, allowing the electromagnetic wave to pass through the aperture array first and then interact with the liquid specimen. This extraction reduces the number of interfaces the electromagnetic wave must traverse, minimizing reflection and absorption losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The aperture array structure serves as an intermediary element between the electromagnetic wave source and the liquid specimen. It enables the electromagnetic wave to couple effectively with the specimen while minimizing unwanted interactions with the container walls, thereby strengthening the measurement signal.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a new aperture array structure is prepared and specimen is attached for each measurement, then different specimens can be measured, but the measurement process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
A single aperture array structure is designed to serve multiple functions by being reusable across different measurements. The aperture array can be detached from one cavity and attached to another, allowing the same structure to measure different specimens without requiring preparation of new arrays, thereby increasing throughput while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding the aperture array structure after each measurement, the invention enables recovery and reuse of the same aperture array in different cavities for different specimens. This reduces the time and resources required for preparing new aperture arrays while maintaining the ability to measure various specimens.
4Measurement precision
If dimensional variations in the aperture array structure are present, then manufacturing is easier, but measurement error increases particularly when the amount of specimen is small
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture array structure is segmented into multiple identical or similar aperture arrays that can be manufactured with the same dimensional specifications. By using multiple segments rather than one large array, the system becomes more sensitive to small specimen changes while the manufacturing precision requirements for each segment remain manageable.
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 highly sensitive measurements of small specimen characteristics with reduced analyte volume requirements and improved throughput, while minimizing errors and biohazard risks, and allowing for easy reuse of the aperture array structure.
Implementation Method 1
radiating a container that accommodates both the liquid containing the specimen and an aperture array structure with an electromagnetic wave... detecting the electromagnetic wave passing through the aperture array structure... analyzing a transmittance spectrum
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The present invention is a measurement device that includes a device main unit (21) including at least one cavity (20) for accommodating an analyte containing a specimen and an aperture array structure (1) including a plurality of apertures (10) extending therethrough in a direction perpendicular to a principal surface thereof. The aperture array structure (1) is fixed such that part or all of the aperture array structure (1) is positioned in the cavity (20).