Fluorescence Detection Device with Linear Light Source and Detector Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for capturing fluorescent dye in a living body using infrared cameras are limited by a restricted 360° range of observation and require observer expertise, making it difficult to accurately and easily detect fluorescent dye in lymph flows through extremities.
Innovation Solution
A fluorescence detection device with a plurality of light sources and detectors arranged in a line, where detectors are between light sources, and a support portion to ensure excitation light coverage, outputs fluorescence as an electric signal, allowing for accurate detection without relying on visual observation, and is designed to be fitted around extremities for wide-range detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an infrared camera is used to capture fluorescent dye, then the image can be easily obtained, but the observation range is limited and cannot capture 360° range of lymph flows
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the observation area into multiple linear arrays of light sources and detectors that can be wrapped around the extremity. Each linear array segment captures fluorescence from a specific angular range, and multiple segments together provide 360° coverage. This segmentation allows the system to overcome the limited field of view of a single camera while maintaining ease of operation through modular design.
2Ease of operation
If an infrared camera is used to capture fluorescent dye, then the image can be obtained, but observer experience is required for accurate detection
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical/visual observation system (infrared camera requiring expert interpretation) with an automated electronic detection system. The linear arrays of light sources and detectors directly convert fluorescence into electrical signals that are processed automatically, eliminating the need for observer expertise while maintaining ease of operation. The alternating arrangement ensures accurate spatial mapping of the fluorescent dye position.
3Measurement precision
If light sources and detectors are arranged in a line with detectors between light sources, then fluorescence can be detected at the same area as excitation light emission, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex alternating arrangement is implemented as a modular linear array that can be segmented into repeating units of light source-detector pairs. This modular segmentation makes the complex arrangement easier to manufacture and assemble, reducing the practical complexity despite the sophisticated spatial configuration required for accurate position capture.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear array is wrapped around the extremity in a circumferential direction, adding a spatial dimension to the arrangement. This transforms the one-dimensional linear array into a three-dimensional configuration that provides 360° coverage while maintaining the alternating light source-detector pattern. The band structure simplifies the implementation of the alternating arrangement by providing a natural mounting geometry.
4Ease of operation
If a band is used to wrap around extremity with light sources and detectors arranged in longitudinal direction, then detection can be fitted easily on extremity, but the application range of excitation light may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The band is designed to be flexible and adaptable to different extremity sizes and shapes. The light sources and detectors are arranged in a longitudinal direction along the band, which can be wrapped around various body parts. This dynamic, flexible design maintains ease of fitting while the alternating arrangement of light sources and detectors ensures that excitation light can reach a wide area through multiple emission points along the band's length.
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 easy and accurate capture of fluorescent dye in a living body, expanding the application range of excitation light and reducing manufacturing costs by using amplifiers to output specific or combined electric signals for precise dye position identification.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of light sources that apply an excitation light from an outside of a living body toward fluorescent dye previously injected into the living body
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of detectors that detect fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent dye by the excitation light, and output the detected fluorescence as an electric signal
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(a)~2(c)
Figure 3
AI summary
A fluorescence detection device comprises: a plurality of light sources that apply an excitation light from an outside of a living body toward fluorescent dye previously injected into the living body; and a plurality of detectors that detect fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent dye by the excitation light, and output the detected fluorescence as an electric signal. The plurality of light sources and the plurality of detectors are arranged in at least one line. At least one detector is placed between two light sources, and at least one light source is placed between two detectors.