Dual-Wavelength Spectroscopy for Continuous Zero-Point Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing spectroscopic analysis methods and apparatuses face challenges in maintaining accurate zero point calibration over extended periods without requiring frequent replacement of reference samples, particularly due to asymmetrical optical paths and environmental variations.

Innovation Solution

A spectroscopic analysis apparatus and method that employs a double beam configuration to measure absorbance at two wavelengths, using one wavelength for sample analysis and another for correction, allowing for continuous zero point calibration by calculating post-correction absorbance based on the second wavelength.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If zero point calibration is performed by replacing the measurement sample with a reference sample, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but measurement continuity is interrupted and time is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary measurement of the reference sample before the actual measurement sequence, establishing a baseline absorbance value in advance. This preliminary action allows the reference sample to be measured continuously without interrupting the main measurement flow, as the calibration data is already prepared before the measurement begins.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement system continuously measures both the reference sample and the measurement sample without interruption. The reference sample is measured at the beginning and end of each measurement sequence, maintaining continuous calibration activity while the measurement sample is measured throughout the entire process, eliminating gaps in measurement continuity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

2Productivity

If a double-beam apparatus is used with asymmetric optical paths, then simultaneous measurement of sample and reference is enabled, but misalignment occurs over time reducing measurement accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimultaneous measurement capabilityVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system measures the reference sample at the beginning and end of each measurement sequence, using the absorbance values to calculate drift correction factors. This feedback mechanism continuously monitors and corrects for optical path misalignment and other variations, maintaining measurement accuracy despite the asymmetric optical paths of the double-beam apparatus.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts measurement parameters based on the measured absorbance values of the reference sample. By calculating drift correction factors from the reference sample measurements and applying these corrections to the measurement sample data, the system compensates for optical path variations and maintains measurement precision throughout the experiment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If zero point calibration is performed regularly, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but operational complexity increases and measurement time is consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvezero point calibration accuracyVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-calibration by automatically measuring the reference sample and calculating drift correction factors without requiring manual intervention. The controller automatically processes the absorbance values, computes correction factors, and applies them to the measurement data, eliminating the need for manual zero point calibration operations and reducing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The reference sample measurement serves multiple functions: it provides baseline calibration data at the beginning of measurement, verifies system stability at the end of measurement, and enables continuous drift correction throughout the measurement process. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate calibration operations, simplifying the overall operational process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 stable and accurate spectroscopic measurements over time by correcting absorbance at specific wavelengths using absorbance at specific wavelengths, ensuring precise spectroscopic analysis without the need for frequent reference sample changes.

Implementation Method 1

a light source configured to emit light comprising at least a first wavelength and a second wavelength

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light

Implementation Method 2

a spectrometer configured to separate light emitted from the light source into light of the first wavelength and light of the second wavelength

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpectral separation: Diffraction

Implementation Method 3

a detector configured to detect light of the first wavelength and light of the second wavelength that are emitted from the spectrometer and pass through a sample

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight detection: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 4

the controller calculates first absorbance of the sample corresponding to light of the first wavelength and second absorbance of the sample corresponding to light of the second wavelength based on a detection result of the detector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAbsorbance measurement: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentUS20250389584A1Spectroscopic analysis apparatus, spectroscopic analysis method, and spectroscopic analysis program
Publication Date: 2025.12.25 HITACHI HIGH TECH ANALYSIS CORP
  • US20250389584A1 patent drawing
  • US20250389584A1 patent drawing
  • US20250389584A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The spectroscopic analysis apparatus (1) includes a light source (11) configured to emit light comprising at least a first wavelength and a second wavelength, a spectrometer (12) configured to separate the light emitted from the light source (11) into light of the first wavelength and light of the second wavelength, a detector (14) configured to detect light of the first wavelength and light of the second wavelength that are emitted from the spectrometer (12) and pass through a sample(S), and a controller (16) configured to calculate first absorbance of the sample corresponding to light of the first wavelength and second absorbance of the sample corresponding to light of the second wavelength on the basis of a detection result of the detector (14), wherein the controller (16) calculates post-correction absorbance of the sample(S) corresponding to light of the first wavelength by correcting the first absorbance using the second absorbance.