FTIR Absolute Transmission Accessory Without Optics Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional FTIR spectrometers require modifications to optical elements for absolute transmission (AT) measurements, which can lead to damage or improper installation, rendering them unusable for other types of measurements and risking inaccurate results.
Innovation Solution
An AT device is integrated into the spectrometer system that allows for AT measurements without altering existing optics, using a sample holder and aperture to direct collimated light to the sample, with optional on-board detection for sample type recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If optical elements are modified or removed to enable AT measurements, then AT measurement capability is improved, but the spectrometer becomes dedicated to AT measurements and unusable for other types of measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The spectrometer is divided into functional modules: a first accessory compartment for AT measurements with a sample holder and aperture, and a second accessory compartment for other measurement types. This segmentation allows each compartment to be optimized for its specific function while the main spectrometer body remains unchanged and versatile for other measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
An optical element is introduced as an intermediary component in the AT measurement path. This optical element enables AT measurements by directing light through the sample without requiring modification of the primary spectrometer optics, thus preserving the spectrometer's versatility while achieving accurate AT measurements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If optical elements are modified or removed to enable AT measurements, then AT measurement capability is improved, but the risk of damage to the spectrometer or components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The AT measurement functionality is extracted into a separate, dedicated accessory compartment with its own sample holder and aperture. This extraction isolates the AT measurement path from the main spectrometer optics, eliminating the risk of damage to the spectrometer's primary components while enabling AT measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample holder and aperture in the first accessory compartment are designed as replaceable, non-critical components. If damage occurs, these components can be easily replaced without affecting the main spectrometer, thus minimizing the harmful impact on the overall system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If optical elements are modified or removed to enable AT measurements, then AT measurement capability is improved, but improper installation risks inaccurate or inefficient measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The AT measurement system is segmented into a separate accessory compartment with pre-assembled components (sample holder and aperture). This pre-assembly eliminates the need for users to perform complex optical modifications or alignments, reducing installation errors and ensuring reliable measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical elements for AT measurements are pre-positioned and pre-aligned within the first accessory compartment during manufacturing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for user alignment procedures, reducing the risk of improper installation and ensuring consistent, accurate measurements.
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 efficient and accurate AT measurements without modifying the spectrometer, maintaining its usability for other measurement types and reducing the risk of damage or installation errors.
Implementation Method 1
The interferometer modulates the beam from a source to provide an output beam in which the intensity of the radiation at various wavelengths is varied
Implementation Method 2
The aperture and screen are provided to direct an incoming light beam to the sample and downstream optical components
Implementation Method 3
the intensity of the output light at the one or more wavelengths is compared to the intensity of the input light at the one or more wavelengths to determine characteristics of the sample, such as the absorbance, the transmittance
Implementation Method 4
Fourier analysis is performed on the output signal data to yield the measured characteristics that provide information about the identity of the components within the sample
Data Source
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Figure 2B
AI summary
An absolute transmission accessory for a spectrometer. One example spectrometer system includes a base plate, a light source configured to transmit light, and an interferometer mounted to the base plate. The interferometer receives the light from the light source and output modulated light. The spectrometer system includes a first optical element configured to receive the modulated light and direct the modulated light, and a second optical element configured to receive the modulated light and focus the modulated light to a sample compartment. The spectrometer system includes a detector compartment including one or more detectors, the detector compartment configured to receive light from the sample compartment. The spectrometer system includes a sample holder coupled to the base plate. The modulated light is directed to the sample holder, and light exiting the sample holder is directed through the sample compartment and to the detector compartment via the second optical element.