Compact Spectrometer with Segmented Aperture and Reference LED
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spectrometer devices face challenges in complex environments and consumer applications due to cumbersome calibration requirements, high energy consumption, and limitations from incandescent light sources and thermal emitters, as well as issues with stray light and bulky components.
Innovation Solution
A spectrometer device comprising at least one light emitting element for emitting light in a measurement spectrum, a separate reference light emitting element for emitting reference light in a reference spectrum, an interface element to block reference light and transfer measurement light to a detector array, a segmented aperture for filtering stray light, and an optical separation element for separating light into its constituent wavelengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If incandescent light sources and thermal emitters are used, then broad spectrum coverage is achieved, but energy consumption increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light source function by using multiple LEDs with different emission spectra instead of a single incandescent source. Each LED emits in a specific wavelength range, and together they cover the required spectrum, reducing energy consumption while maintaining spectral coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters by using LEDs operating at lower temperatures and lower power consumption compared to incandescent sources. This parameter change reduces energy consumption and extends device lifetime without requiring complex thermal management systems
2Measurement precision
If reference light emitting element is added for calibration, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reference light source with the measurement light sources in a single integrated device. The reference light emitting element is combined with the measurement LEDs and detector array, allowing simultaneous acquisition of reference and measurement signals without requiring separate calibration equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-calibration by using its own reference light emitting element to generate reference signals. The system automatically acquires and stores reference signals from internal components, eliminating the need for external calibration equipment and manual calibration procedures
3Measurement precision
If stray light is not filtered, then device simplicity is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - the segmented aperture - positioned between the light source and detector. This aperture acts as a spatial filter that blocks stray light paths while allowing desired light to reach the detector, improving measurement precision without requiring complex optical systems
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 solution enables more efficient and compact spectrometer systems that reduce energy consumption, eliminate the need for cumbersome calibration, and minimize stray light, making them suitable for complex environments and consumer applications.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light emitting element configured for emitting light in a measurement spectrum
Implementation Method 2
at least one reference light emitting element, specifically at least one reference light emitting element separate from the at least one light emitting element, configured for emitting reference light in a reference spectrum
Implementation Method 3
at least one optical separation element, specifically the at least one dispersive element, more specifically at least one linear variable filter element
Implementation Method 4
at last one segmented aperture configured for acting as one or more of an angle filter, preferably as an angle filter for at least one dispersive element, and a straylight filter
Implementation Method 5
at least one interface element, specifically a sample interface, configured for receiving light of the measurement spectrum and transferring light of the measurement spectrum to at least one detector array of the spectrometer device, wherein the interface element is further configured for blocking reference light of the reference spectrum
Implementation Method 6
the at least one detector array comprising a plurality of detector elements, wherein the detector array is configured for generating at least one detector signal according to an illumination of the plurality of detector elements by one or more of the measurement spectrum and the reference spectrum
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a spectrometer device for analyzing a sample. The spectrometer device includes at least one light emitting element; and at least one reference light emitting element. Further, the spectrometer device includes at least one interface element, at least one segmented aperture, and at least one optical separation element. Further, the spectrometer device includes at least one detector array including a plurality of detector elements.Further disclosed herein are a spectrometer system, a method for determining at least one information related to a spectrum of a sample with the spectrometer device and various uses of a spectrometer system.