Circularized Semiconductor Laser Diode Probe for In Situ Spectroscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photometric devices face challenges such as difficulty in manufacturing, bulkiness, unreliable illumination components, and complex structural parts, particularly in biotech applications like cell density monitoring, which hinder efficient light absorbance measurements.
Innovation Solution
The use of a photometric device equipped with a circularized semiconductor laser diode (CSLD) as a light source, coupled with a molded polytetrafluoroethylene sensor tip and advanced detector systems, allows for precise light emission and analysis, enabling accurate optical absorbance, scattering, and fluorescence measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional photometric devices are used for light absorbance measurements, then basic measurement functionality is provided, but manufacturing difficulty increases and device bulkiness worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light source, optical path, and detector into an integrated probe assembly where the semiconductor laser diode is mounted directly on a circuit board within a sealed housing, eliminating the need for separate external components and complex alignment mechanisms found in traditional photometric devices
Solution Approach 2:
The probe design uses a single integrated assembly that can perform multiple spectroscopic measurements (absorbance, scattering, fluorescence) by switching between different detection modes, replacing the need for multiple specialized devices
2Reliability
If traditional illumination components are used in photometric devices, then basic light emission is achieved, but reliability of illumination components deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical illumination components (such as incandescent bulbs or arc lamps with complex power supplies and control mechanisms) with a solid-state semiconductor laser diode that is electronically controlled, significantly improving reliability and reducing power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The semiconductor laser diode operates at low power levels (milliwatt range) compared to traditional high-power illumination sources, and its emission wavelength can be precisely controlled by changing electrical parameters, providing both reliability and energy efficiency
3Measurement precision
If conventional photometric devices are used, then basic measurements are possible, but measurement precision and signal-to-noise ratio are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a focused semiconductor laser beam that creates a well-defined measurement volume within the sample, allowing precise localization of the measurement region and reducing interference from surrounding areas, thereby improving measurement precision and reducing noise
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical filters and wavelength-selective components as intermediaries between the light source and detector, allowing only the desired wavelength range to reach the detector and blocking scattered light and other interference, thus improving signal-to-noise ratio
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
This configuration enhances measurement accuracy, reduces noise, and improves signal-to-noise ratio, making it suitable for reliable cell density monitoring and other spectroscopic applications, while being more efficient and easier to manufacture.
Implementation Method 1
emitting a beam of incident light from a circularized semiconductor laser diode (CSLD) in a photometric device
Implementation Method 2
the cells present within the optical gap absorb and scatter a certain amount of the light
Implementation Method 3
the cells present within the optical gap absorb and scatter a certain amount of the light
Implementation Method 4
collecting and analyzing fluorescent emissions occurring in the sample as a result of the incident light
Data Source
AI summary
A circularizated semiconductor laser diode (CSLD), such as for example a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) may be used for optical measurements. The CSLD may be used in a cell density probe to perform cell density determination and/or turbidity determination, such as in a biotech, fermentation, or other optical absorbance application. The cell density probe may comprise a probe tip section made from a polytetrafluoroethylene material, which provides sealability, ease of manufacture, durability, cleanability, optical semi-transparency at visible and near infrared wavelengths, and other advantages. The probe tip advantageously provides an optical gap that allows for in situ measurements of optical measurements including but not limited to absorbance, scattering, and fluorescence.