Conical Reflection Member for Consistent Light Detection in Cartridge-Based Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
In measurement apparatuses using cartridges with multiple chambers, variations in the position of the measurement sample within the chambers during reactions lead to inconsistencies in light detection, affecting the accuracy of test substance measurement.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a reflection member with a conical inner face between the cartridge and the photodetector, which guides light generated from the sample to the detector while minimizing light loss by reflecting it back when the sample is displaced from the center, thereby maintaining consistent light detection regardless of the sample's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a plurality of chambers are provided in a cartridge and a reaction between a specimen and a reagent is promoted while transferring a measurement sample between the chambers, then the measurement sensitivity is improved, but the position of the measurement sample in each chamber varies, causing variation in measurement results
Solution Approach 1:
A reflection member is introduced as an intermediary component between the cartridge and photodetector. This reflection member has an inner face that reflects light from the measurement sample toward the photodetector, ensuring that variations in sample position within the chamber do not significantly affect the amount of light reaching the detector, thereby maintaining measurement consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the optical path parameters by introducing a reflection member with specific geometric characteristics (inner face configuration). This modification alters how light travels from the sample to the photodetector, making the detection system less sensitive to positional variations of the sample within the chamber
2Adaptability or versatility
If the measurement sample is positioned at different locations within the chamber (center or edge), then the device can accommodate position variations, but the position of the measurement sample with respect to the photodetector varies, affecting measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The reflection member serves as a mediator that decouples the relationship between sample position and photodetector reception. By reflecting light from various positions within the chamber toward the photodetector, it ensures consistent light collection efficiency regardless of where the sample is located in the chamber
Solution Approach 2:
The reflection member is designed to handle multiple sample positions universally. Its inner face configuration enables it to effectively reflect light whether the sample is at the center, edge, or any intermediate position within the chamber, making the system adaptable to position variations without sacrificing precision
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 reduces variations in detected light intensity due to sample position, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of test substance measurement by ensuring consistent light reception at the photodetector.
Implementation Method 1
the reflection member being configured to reflect, at the inner face, the light generated from the measurement sample stored in the chamber, and guide the light to the photodetector
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a measurement apparatus including: a support mechanism configured to support a cartridge in which a chamber is formed, the chamber being configured to store a measurement sample that generates light an intensity of which varies depending on an amount of a test substance; a photodetector configured to detect the light generated from the measurement sample stored in the chamber; and a reflection member provided between the photodetector and the cartridge supported by the support mechanism, the reflection member having an inner face, the reflection member being configured to reflect, at the inner face, the light generated from the measurement sample stored in the chamber, and guide the light to the photodetector, wherein the reflection member is configured to have an area surrounded by the inner face, the area decreasing from a side where the cartridge supported by the support mechanism is provided toward a side where the photodetector is provided.