Asymmetric Aperture Fluorometer for Low-Concentration Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluorometers struggle to accurately measure low concentrations of substances like dipicolinic acid in solutions, which are crucial for regulatory compliance and product stability, due to their limited sensitivity and accuracy at low fluorescence intensities.
Innovation Solution
A fluorometer design featuring an asymmetric aperture and excitation filter configuration that reduces direct electromagnetic radiation to the detector, enhancing sensitivity by blocking stray radiation and improving the measurement of low-intensity fluorescence, allowing for precise concentration determination of dipicolinic acid and other chemicals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional fluorometers are used to measure low concentrations of substances, then the measurement capability is limited, but the sensitivity and accuracy at low fluorescence intensities deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an asymmetric aperture positioned at an angle to the optical axis, creating an asymmetric light path that blocks direct electromagnetic radiation from reaching the detector while allowing fluorescence at specific angles to pass through. This asymmetric configuration enhances the instrument's ability to detect low concentrations by eliminating stray light interference.
2Measurement precision
If direct electromagnetic radiation reaches the detector, then the signal strength increases, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates due to interference with fluorescence detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and blocks the harmful component (direct electromagnetic radiation) from the optical path using an asymmetric aperture and positioning structure. By removing this interfering radiation while preserving the fluorescence signal path, the detector can accurately measure low-intensity fluorescence without being overwhelmed by direct excitation light.
Solution Approach 2:
The asymmetric aperture acts as an intermediary element that selectively transmits fluorescence radiation while blocking direct electromagnetic radiation. This mediator component enables the detector to receive only the desired fluorescence signal at specific angles, filtering out interfering radiation and improving measurement accuracy.
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
The fluorometer achieves improved sensitivity and accuracy in measuring low concentrations, enabling detection of substances at parts per billion levels, even in colored or turbid samples, thereby ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and maintaining product stability.
Implementation Method 1
an excitation source configured for emitting electromagnetic radiation at one or more wavelengths to induce fluorescence in the sample
Implementation Method 2
an excitation filter configured for transmitting electromagnetic radiation within a first wavelength range toward the sample
Implementation Method 3
dipicolinic acid exhibits fluorescence when excited by electromagnetic radiation of certain wavelengths
Implementation Method 4
a detector adapted to measure the intensity of fluorescence emitted by the electromagnetic radiation
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluorometer 100 or measuring fluorescence of a sample includes an excitation source 158 for emitting electromagnetic radiation along a first beam path to induce fluorescence in the sample. An excitation filter 188 transmits electromagnetic radiation from the excitation source toward the sample. An excitation filter holder 190 supports the excitation filter and defines an aperture 192 for passage of electromagnetic radiation from the excitation source. The aperture is positioned asymmetrically relative to the first beam path such that the aperture allows an asymmetrical portion of the electromagnetic radiation in the first beam path to pass toward the sample and the excitation filter holder blocks passage of a corresponding asymmetrical portion of the electromagnetic radiation in the first beam path. The blocked passage of the corresponding asymmetrical portion of the electromagnetic radiation in the first beam path reduces the amount of electromagnetic radiation oriented directly from the emitter module 140 to the detector module.