Filterless Fluorescence Detection via Time-Domain Circuitry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for fluorescent detection are often complex and expensive due to the need for optics to differentiate multiple fluorescent wavelengths, and there is a need for cost-effective alternatives that can efficiently detect fluorescent species without relying on optical filters.
Innovation Solution
A filterless time-domain detection circuit that uses electronic time measurement and signal analysis circuitry to detect fluorescent species by exciting them during an excitation time window and processing the resulting time-varying light intensity signals, eliminating the need for wavelength-dependent optical filters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical filters are used to differentiate fluorescent wavelengths, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical filters (mechanical/optical system) with electronic time-domain measurement circuitry. Instead of using physical filters to separate wavelengths, the system uses temporal resolution to distinguish fluorophores based on their fluorescence decay characteristics, substituting optical mechanics with electronic measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from spatial/wavelength domain (using optical filters to separate wavelengths) to time domain (measuring fluorescence decay time). This parameter transformation eliminates the need for complex optical filtering while maintaining detection accuracy through temporal differentiation.
2Measurement precision
If optical filters are used to differentiate fluorescent wavelengths, then detection accuracy is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive optical filters with inexpensive electronic timing circuitry. The time-domain measurement approach uses standard electronic components (timers, counters, processors) that are significantly cheaper than high-quality optical filters, reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining detection precision.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing from wavelength-based detection (requiring expensive optical filters) to time-based detection (using inexpensive electronic circuitry), the patent achieves cost reduction without sacrificing measurement accuracy. The electronic components are more economical and easier to manufacture than precision optical filters.
3Adaptability or versatility
If optical filters are used for multiplex detection, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal detection system where a single time-domain measurement circuit can detect multiple fluorophores with different decay characteristics. Instead of requiring separate optical filters for each wavelength, one electronic circuit performs all detections by measuring temporal profiles, providing multi-functionality with reduced complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms multiplex detection from the optical domain (multiple filters for multiple wavelengths) to the temporal domain (single circuit measuring multiple decay times). This parameter change enables a single universal circuit to handle multiple fluorophores by analyzing their distinct fluorescence decay time signatures.
4Device complexity
If time-domain measurement is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement speed requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic excitation pulses followed by detection during the fluorescence decay period. This periodic action allows the system to measure fluorescence lifetime by observing the decay profile over multiple cycles, reducing the need for extremely high-speed single-shot measurement while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous monitoring of the fluorescence decay signal throughout the entire decay period, accumulating data continuously rather than relying on single rapid measurements. This continuous action allows for more robust measurement statistics and reduces the speed requirements for individual measurement events.
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 approach enables efficient and cost-effective detection of fluorescent species, reducing the complexity and cost of equipment while maintaining accuracy, and is compatible with inexpensive light sources like LEDs, allowing for multiplex detection of multiple fluorophores.
Implementation Method 1
a fluorescent chemical species excitation arrangement; a filterless fluorescent chemical species detection arrangement
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method are described in which the lifetime of a fluorescent species or fluorophores is detected in the absence of any optical filter. Based on the measured fluorescent lifetimes, molecules or compounds attached to a fluorophores such as small organic molecules, polymers, peptides, saccharides and nucleic acids can be identified or assayed.