Energy Dispersion Device Using Rotated Diffraction Gratings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional analytical instruments for evaluating the composition of matter are often expensive, complex, and require specialized training, limiting their accessibility for general use in applications such as water quality monitoring, food contamination detection, and soil analysis.
Innovation Solution
An energy dispersion device comprising a unique arrangement of optical components, including double- or single-dispersion diffraction gratings, a collimating optic, and a limiting aperture, which generates multiple spectral orders and allows for real-time calibration, enabling cost-effective and user-friendly analysis of matter without the need for expensive equipment or specialized training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional analytical instruments are used, then measurement precision and accuracy are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument divides the spectral analysis function into discrete, independent modules: a light source, a diffraction grating for wavelength dispersion, a detector array for simultaneous measurement, and a processor for data analysis. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture compared to conventional monolithic instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical optical systems (using lenses, mirrors, and precision alignment mechanisms) with a simpler diffraction grating-based system. The grating provides wavelength dispersion through a straightforward diffraction pattern, eliminating the need for complex mechanical optical benches and precision alignment equipment while maintaining measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If conventional analytical instruments are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument incorporates automatic wavelength calibration using known reference wavelengths from the spectrum, eliminating the need for manual calibration procedures. The processor automatically identifies peaks and assigns wavelengths based on pre-programmed reference data, making the instrument self-calibrating and user-friendly without requiring specialized training or expertise.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes automatic feedback mechanisms where the processor continuously monitors the detector signals, identifies spectral peaks, and compares them against reference wavelengths to maintain accurate calibration. This automated feedback loop ensures consistent measurement precision while shielding the user from complex calibration procedures.
3Measurement precision
If optical benches with precision alignment are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the calibration function from the physical optical alignment system and implements it through software-based reference wavelength comparison. By using a diffraction grating that inherently provides wavelength dispersion and combining it with digital signal processing, the system eliminates the need for precision mechanical alignment while maintaining calibration accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from physical calibration parameters (mechanical alignment, optical path length) to digital calibration parameters (reference wavelength values stored in memory). This parameter transformation allows calibration to be performed through software updates rather than physical adjustment, dramatically reducing optical alignment complexity while preserving measurement precision.
4Measurement precision
If high-cost instrument components are used, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive diffraction gratings and standard detector arrays instead of expensive, precision-crafted optical components. The grating can be manufactured using straightforward photolithography processes, and the detector array can be produced using conventional semiconductor fabrication techniques, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining adequate measurement precision for the intended applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument uses universal, off-the-shelf components such as standard LED light sources, commercially available diffraction gratings, and generic detector arrays that can be used across multiple applications. This universality eliminates the need for custom-manufactured optical components, reducing both manufacturing cost and development time while preserving measurement capability.
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 device provides a cost-effective and user-friendly means to evaluate the physical and chemical composition of matter, capable of measuring stray light levels and compensating for detector limitations, facilitating widespread adoption and accurate on-site analysis.
Implementation Method 1
one or more double-dispersion diffraction gratings, or two or more single-dispersion diffraction gratings... generates multiple diffraction orders dispersed with cylindrical symmetry
Implementation Method 2
a collimating optic for collimating the electromagnetic radiation admitted through the limiting aperture
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides an energy dispersion device, spectrograph and method that can be used to evaluate the composition of matter on site without the need for specialized training or expensive equipment. The energy dispersion device or spectrograph can be used with a digital camera or cell phone. A device of the invention includes a stack of single- or double-dispersion diffraction gratings that are rotated about their normal giving rise to a multiplicity of diffraction orders from which meaningful measurements and determinations can be made with respect to the qualitative or quantitative characteristics of matter.