Fluorescence Detector Fiber Bundle Spectrometer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current detector devices for laser-induced fluorescent light detection face limitations in temporal resolution and signal-to-noise ratio, often requiring expensive equipment and being prone to adjustment errors due to free-beam setups and filter-based imaging applications.
Innovation Solution
A detector device utilizing a fiber-based multi-channel measuring system with a multimode fiber bundle and bandpass filters to collect and focus fluorescent light, coupled with a spectrometer for improved signal separation and background subtraction, enhancing signal-to-noise ratio and reducing adjustment errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a spectrometer is used to detect multiple spectral bands simultaneously, then the spectral coverage is improved, but the temporal resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the spectral detection into multiple independent channels, each with its own detector and bandpass filter. This segmentation allows simultaneous detection of multiple spectral bands with high temporal resolution, as each channel operates independently without the temporal limitations of a scanning spectrometer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a limited number of strategically selected spectral channels (e.g., 2-4 channels) rather than attempting to detect the entire spectrum. This partial action approach achieves sufficient spectral coverage for identifying fluorescent substances while maintaining high temporal resolution and reducing system complexity.
2Speed
If individual detectors with bandpass filters are used, then the temporal resolution is improved, but the number of spectral channels deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-channel detection system where each detector-channel combination can detect different spectral bands. This universal design allows the same hardware configuration to detect multiple fluorescent substances with different emission spectra, achieving both high temporal resolution and adequate spectral coverage.
3Speed
If integrator spectrometers are used, then the temporal resolution is improved, but the equipment cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive integrator spectrometers with a simpler configuration of individual detectors and bandpass filters. This approach uses more affordable, readily available components to achieve the same functional outcome of high temporal resolution detection without requiring costly specialized equipment.
4Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If free-beam setups with beam splitters are used, then the detection capability is improved, but the alignment stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical fibers as intermediaries to replace free-beam setups with beam splitters. The fiber optic cables guide light between components, eliminating the need for precise alignment of free-space optical paths. This intermediary approach maintains detection capability while dramatically improving alignment stability and reducing sensitivity to environmental disturbances.
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 solution provides a cost-effective and robust detection of laser-induced fluorescent light with improved temporal resolution and signal-to-noise ratio, effectively reducing background signals and alignment errors, allowing for quick identification of sample composition.
Implementation Method 1
at least one detection optics (10) designed to collect and/or focus the fluorescent light (50) emanating from the sample (60) and to couple the collected and/or focused fluorescent light (50) into an optical fiber bundle (20)
Implementation Method 2
a fiber bundle (20) having a plurality of individual fibers (26) for coupling fluorescent light (50) from the detection optics (10) to individual detectors (40, 42, 44, 46)
Implementation Method 3
an optical bandpass filter (41, 43, 45, 47) arranged between the fibers (26) and the detectors (40, 42, 44, 46), which filters out a spectral range (72, 74, 76, 78) of a fluorescence spectrum (70) of the transmitted fluorescent light (50)
Implementation Method 4
a spectrometer (30) which has a plurality of detectors (40, 42, 44, 46) designed to couple in the fluorescent light (50) transmitted by the fiber bundle (20)
Implementation Method 5
an electromagnetic radiation source, in particular in the form of a laser (12), for generating an excitation pulse to excite a sample containing, encompassing, or carrying a chemical and/or biological substance to fluoresce
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a detector device (100) and a method for detecting fluorescence light (50), in particular laser-induced fluorescence light (50), from a sample (60) located at a detection distance (61), comprising at least one detection optic (10) configured for collecting and/or focusing the fluorescence light (50) emanating from the sample (60) and for coupling the collected and/or focused fluorescence light (50) into an optical fiber bundle (20), a spectrometer (30) optically coupled to the fiber bundle (20) and comprising a plurality of detectors (40, 42, 44, 46) configured for coupling the fluorescence light (50) transmitted by the fiber bundle (20). Each group (32, 34, 36, 38) of fibers (26) of the fiber bundle (20) is assigned to a detector (40, 42, 44, 46) of the plurality of detectors (40, 42, 44, 46).