Hybrid Filter Monochromator Microplate Detection System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current detection systems for microplates lack a single instrument that combines the low detection limits and assay methodology flexibility of filter-based units with the wavelength flexibility and superior UV performance of monochromator-based units, limiting their ability to achieve low stray light and high performance across the full spectral range.
Innovation Solution
A Universal Multidetection System that incorporates a combination of filters and monochromators, allowing for the transmission of a narrow waveband of light through both filter and monochromator paths, with a light source that includes a Xenon flash lamp and Tungsten lamp for broad spectral coverage, and optical devices for separating and directing excitation and emission light, enabling flexible wavelength selection and optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If filter-based units are used, then low detection limits and high signal-to-noise ratio are achieved, but wavelength flexibility and spectral scan capability are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines filter-based units and monochromator-based units into a single hybrid detection system. The filter unit provides low detection limits through high signal levels and blocking of unwanted radiation, while the monochromator unit provides wavelength flexibility and spectral scan capability. This merging allows the system to achieve both low detection limits and wavelength flexibility that neither unit could provide alone.
2Adaptability or versatility
If monochromator-based units are used, then wavelength flexibility and spectral scan capability are achieved, but detection limits and signal-to-noise ratio worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The hybrid system merges the strengths of both filter-based and monochromator-based units. The filter unit handles measurements requiring low detection limits, while the monochromator unit handles measurements requiring wavelength flexibility. This allows the system to maintain high measurement precision when using the filter unit while preserving wavelength flexibility through the monochromator unit.
3Illumination intensity
If filters are used in deep UV, then spectral coverage is achieved, but solarization and filter degradation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines filter-based and monochromator-based units in a hybrid system. For deep UV measurements, the monochromator unit can be used instead of filters, avoiding solarization and filter degradation while maintaining spectral coverage capability. The filter unit remains available for wavelength regions where filters are stable.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a single detection system is used for multiple assay types, then device complexity increases, but versatility improves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal detection system that can perform multiple assay types (absorbance, fluorescence, chemiluminescence) by integrating both filter-based and monochromator-based units. This multi-functional design allows a single instrument to handle diverse assay requirements, improving versatility while managing complexity through modular integration of the two unit types.
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 system achieves low detection limits and flexibility in assay type and wavelength selection, allowing for improved spectral measurement and optimization, particularly in UV regions, while maintaining high signal-to-noise ratios and avoiding the limitations of traditional filter-based and monochromator-based systems.
Implementation Method 1
a light source that includes a Xenon flash lamp and Tungsten lamp for broad spectral coverage
Implementation Method 2
a first optical device that transmits a narrow waveband of light and includes a first filter
Implementation Method 3
a first monochromator that provide different paths for the narrow waveband of the light
Implementation Method 4
Monochromators are usually based on diffraction gratings, and use a flat grating for dispersion and concave mirrors for focusing light
Implementation Method 5
optical devices for separating and directing excitation and emission light
Implementation Method 6
a second optical device that directs the narrow waveband of the broadband excitation light onto the sample and receives emission light from the sample
Implementation Method 7
a detector that converts the narrow waveband of the emission light into an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method for optically analyzing a sample are provided. The apparatus includes a first optical device that transmits a narrow waveband of light and has a first filter and a first monochromator that provide different paths for the narrow waveband of the light. The apparatus may also include a light source that generates the light as broadband excitation light, in which case the first optical device transmits a narrow waveband of the broadband excitation light through the first filter or the first monochromator. Further, the apparatus may include a second optical device that directs the narrow waveband of the broadband excitation light onto the sample and receives emission light from the sample, a third optical device that transmits a narrow waveband of the emission light, and a detector that converts the narrow waveband of the emission light into an electrical signal.