Frame Transfer CCD Raman Imaging Without Luminescence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Raman imaging systems face interference from luminescence, which can be mitigated by photobleaching the sample, but this step is not always feasible or desirable, necessitating a method to perform Raman imaging without luminescence interference.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a frame transfer CCD for time-resolved data collection, where Raman scattered photons are integrated and transferred to a storage array before luminescence photons are emitted, allowing for Raman imaging without photobleaching the sample, using a light source, optical lens, and controller to segregate Raman and luminescence data sets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a full-frame CCD is used for Raman imaging, then Raman photons can be collected, but luminescence emissions contaminate the image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the CCD detector into two separate arrays: an image array for collecting photons during the exposure period and a storage array for holding the captured image data. This segmentation allows the system to collect Raman photons while avoiding luminescence contamination by transferring data before luminescence occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs the image capture and data transfer actions before the luminescence emission occurs. The controller transfers the Raman data set from the image array to the storage array during a parallel transfer time that overlaps with the Raman integration time, ensuring data is secured before luminescence contaminates the sensor.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If photobleaching is performed to reduce luminescence, then luminescence interference is reduced, but the sample is damaged and additional time is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful luminescence emissions from the detection process by using temporal gating. The frame transfer CCD captures only the early-time Raman scattering signal before luminescence occurs, effectively removing luminescence interference without requiring photobleaching of the sample.
3Measurement precision
If the Raman integration time is extended to improve signal collection, then more Raman photons are captured, but luminescence emissions are also captured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic timing control where the exposure period is precisely timed to match the temporal characteristics of Raman scattering. The controller coordinates the light source pulsing, image array exposure, and data transfer to occur within a time window that captures Raman photons while excluding luminescence emissions.
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 Raman imaging without the contaminating effect of luminescence, allowing for accurate data collection without the need for sample photobleaching, by effectively separating Raman and luminescence data through controlled timing and data transfer.
Implementation Method 1
The frame transfer CCD has an image array and a storage array. The optical lens collects scattered photons and directs the scattered photons to the image array.
Implementation Method 2
The light source illuminates the sample with a plurality of photons to generate scattered photons from the sample.
Implementation Method 3
The controller transfers a Raman data set representative of the scattered photons from the image array to the storage array. The frame transfer CCD may be configured so as the image array integrates the scattered photons during a Raman integration time and the controller transfers the Raman data set from the image array to storage array during a parallel transfer time.
Implementation Method 4
The present disclosure describes a system to perform chemical imaging using a frame transfer CCD. The present disclosure provides for a system for collecting Raman data sets without the 'contaminating' effect of luminescence emitted photons. The frame transfer CCD may allow for time resolved data collection and, hence, Raman imaging may be performed without photobleaching a sample.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for collecting Raman data sets without the “contaminating” effect of luminescence emitted photons. Using a frame transfer CCD for time resolved data collection, Raman imaging may be performed without photobleaching the sample. The system may include a light source, a frame transfer CCD, an optical lens and at least one controller. The light source illuminates the sample with a plurality of photons to generate scattered photons from the sample. The frame transfer CCD has an image array and a storage array. The optical lens collects scattered photons and directs the scattered photons to the image array. The controller transfers a Raman data set representative of the scattered photons from the image array to the storage array. The frame transfer CCD may be configured so as the image array integrates the scattered photons during a Raman integration time and the controller transfers the Raman data set from the image array to storage array during a parallel transfer time. The sum of the Raman integration time and the parallel transfer time is less than the minimum time it takes to trigger luminescence from the sample.