Fluid Detection Panel with Integrated Filter Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spectrometers are large and expensive, limiting their application, especially when combined with microfluidic substrates, as they include free-space optical elements like prisms and gratings, making them unsuitable for portable and cost-effective spectroscopic detection in fields like biology and chemistry.
Innovation Solution
A fluid detection panel comprising a filter structure, a fluid-driven substrate, and a sensor, where the filter structure filters light emitted by a light source, and the fluid-driven substrate enables a liquid sample to move to a detection area, allowing for compact and cost-effective spectroscopic analysis by integrating a spectrometer with the panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional spectrometers with free-space optical elements (prisms and gratings) are used, then spectroscopic detection capability is achieved, but device size and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical free-space optical elements (prisms and gratings) with an integrated optical filter structure and microfluidic substrate combination. This substitution eliminates the need for bulky mechanical components while maintaining spectroscopic detection functionality through planar integrated structures that guide and filter light within the chip itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by integrating the optical filter structure directly onto the microfluidic substrate, with the detection area positioned within the microfluidic channel. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional layers (optical filtering, fluid handling, detection) to be combined in a compact three-dimensional configuration, significantly reducing overall device volume.
2Measurement precision
If traditional spectrometers with free-space optical elements are used, then spectroscopic detection capability is achieved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical filter structure, microfluidic substrate, and detection area into a single integrated fluid detection panel. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate assemblies of prisms, gratings, and optical benches, reducing both material costs and manufacturing complexity while maintaining spectroscopic detection performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs planar integrated optical filters and microfluidic structures that can be manufactured using cost-effective semiconductor fabrication techniques. These integrated components replace expensive, precision-machined optical elements with cheaper, lithographically-defined structures that achieve comparable spectral resolution at lower cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If integrated optical filter structure with liquid crystal layer is used, then peak transmission wavelength can be controlled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a liquid crystal layer within the optical filter structure that can dynamically adjust its molecular orientation in response to applied voltage. This dynamic control mechanism allows the peak transmission wavelength to be tuned electronically, providing adaptability for different detection applications without requiring physical reconfiguration of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid crystal-based optical filter serves multiple functions: it acts as a wavelength-selective filter, provides tunable spectral response, and enables the device to detect multiple analytes with different spectral signatures. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single integrated component rather than requiring multiple separate filters or detection 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
Enables the detection of small or trace amounts of liquid samples, facilitating applications such as substance analysis, molecular diagnostics, and bacteria classification, while reducing size and cost, and allowing for portable use in various fields.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the plurality of sub-filter structures comprises a liquid crystal layer and control electrodes; and the control electrodes are configured to receive a driven voltage signal, so as to control a peak transmission wavelength of the at least one of the plurality of sub-filter structures
Implementation Method 2
The filter structure is configured to reflect at least part of light that is emitted by the light source and within a pre-determined wavelength range, and to transmit light that is emitted by the light source and outside of the pre-determined wavelength range
Implementation Method 3
the sensor is configured to receive light which is emitted by the light source and sequentially passes the filter structure and the detection area
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid detection panel and a fluid detection device are disclosed. The fluid detection panel includes a fluid-driven substrate, a filter structure and a sensor. The filter structure is configured to filter light emitted by a light source; the fluid-driven substrate comprises a detection area, and is configured to enable a liquid sample to move to the detection area; the sensor is configured to receive light which is emitted by the light source and sequentially passes the filter structure and the detection area.