FRET Molecular Identification Tag for Unique Object Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing identification tags lack a reliable method to uniquely identify objects based on varying light intensity patterns, which is essential for distinguishing between different tags and objects.
Innovation Solution
The use of Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) between donor and acceptor molecules on a substrate, where the movement of donor molecules across specific locations on the substrate causes acceptor molecules to emit light, resulting in unique light intensity patterns that can be used for identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional RFID tags are used for object identification, then identification functionality is provided, but the tags suffer from limitations in size, weight, and durability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional electronic RFID tag structures with a molecular-scale identification system based on FRET. The mechanical/electronic components are substituted with molecular assemblies consisting of donor molecules, acceptor molecules, and a substrate, eliminating the need for complex electronic circuits, antennas, and power sources while improving durability and reducing size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters from electronic signal transmission to optical energy transfer at the molecular level. By utilizing FRET efficiency variations based on molecular distances and configurations, the system achieves identification functionality with dramatically reduced physical dimensions and improved reliability.
2Weight of moving object
If molecular FRET-based identification tags are used, then size, weight, and durability are improved, but a reliable method to uniquely identify objects based on varying light intensity patterns is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements unique identification by creating local quality variations in the molecular arrangement on the substrate. Different positions of acceptor molecules relative to the donor molecule create distinct local FRET efficiency patterns, which manifest as unique light intensity signatures. This local differentiation enables reliable identification while maintaining the lightweight molecular structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic movement of the donor molecule across the substrate to generate time-varying light intensity patterns. The donor molecule's movement through different spatial positions relative to stationary acceptor molecules creates a dynamic identification signature that enhances reliability by providing temporal discrimination in addition to spatial differentiation.
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 the unique identification of objects by generating distinct light intensity patterns that differentiate between tags, allowing for visual or imaging-based identification, and offers advantages in terms of size, weight, and durability compared to traditional RFID tags.
Implementation Method 1
the molecules of the first and second types being capable of energy transfer according to Förster Resonance Energy Transfer wherein one of the first type and second type of molecule is a donor molecule and the other of the first type and second type of molecule is an acceptor molecule
Data Source
AI summary
An identification tag has at least one molecule of a first type and at least one molecule of a second type. The molecules are capable of energy transfer according to Förster Resonance Energy Transfer, with one of the types being donor molecules and the other type being acceptor molecules. The tag has a substrate which has a plurality of locations at which molecules of the second type may be located. The light intensity emitted by the acceptor molecule(s) as the molecule of the first type is moved across the locations varies in dependence on whether a molecule of the second type is or is not located in the locations.