Interferometric Sample Testing Device with Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample testing methods face inefficiencies and inaccuracies due to structural limitations, environmental temperature variations, and contamination, which affect the detection of viral indicators and protein content in samples.
Innovation Solution
A sample testing device utilizing interferometry with a waveguide and integrated optical components, including a collimator, beam splitter, and lens array, to detect viral indicators and protein content by analyzing interference fringe patterns and refractive index data, coupled with a computer-implemented method for identifying samples based on interferometric data and temperature control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing sample testing methods are used, then the testing process is simple, but the accuracy and efficiency of detecting viral indicators and protein content are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical components (waveguide, collimator, beam splitter, lens array, camera) into an integrated interferometric testing system. This merging of components enables accurate detection of viral indicators and protein content through interference fringe analysis, resolving the contradiction by achieving high measurement precision through systematic integration rather than simple individual measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an interferometric measurement system as an intermediary between the sample and direct detection. The system uses reference beams and sample beams that interfere to produce fringe patterns, which then serve as intermediaries carrying information about viral indicators and protein content. This intermediary measurement approach enables accurate detection while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design
2Measurement precision
If environmental temperature control is not implemented, then the device operation is simple, but the detection accuracy is affected by temperature variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements temperature control by monitoring and adjusting the temperature parameter of the waveguide and optical components. By maintaining temperature within a specified range (e.g., 20-30°C), the system prevents temperature-induced refractive index changes that would affect interference fringe patterns. This parameter control approach ensures measurement precision without requiring overly complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs temperature sensors to continuously monitor the thermal environment of optical components and provides feedback for active temperature compensation. This feedback mechanism allows the system to adjust for temperature variations in real-time, maintaining detection accuracy while using a relatively simple control architecture based on standard sensing and compensation techniques
3Reliability
If sample contamination is not controlled, then the sampling process is simple, but the reliability of sample identification is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical path into separate reference and sample channels, each with dedicated waveguides and optical components. This segmentation isolates the sample measurement path from potential contamination sources in the reference path, enabling reliable sample identification through comparison of interference fringes from uncontaminated reference and sample beams
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a controlled, contamination-free environment for the optical components and sample measurement area. By maintaining an inert or controlled atmosphere (e.g., through sealed enclosures, filtered air, or controlled humidity), the system prevents contamination of optical surfaces and sample interfaces, ensuring reliable detection without requiring overly complex active contamination control mechanisms
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
Enhances the accuracy and efficiency of sample testing by effectively detecting viral indicators and protein content through advanced optical analysis and temperature management, improving the reliability of sample identification.
Implementation Method 1
a waveguide and an integrated optical component
Implementation Method 2
the integrated optical component may comprise a collimator and a beam splitter
Implementation Method 3
the integrated optical component may comprise a collimator and a beam splitter
Implementation Method 4
a lens array disposed on the first surface
Implementation Method 5
utilize interferometry to detect the presence of virus and/or other viral indicator of protein content in a collected sample
Implementation Method 6
analyzing interference fringe patterns and refractive index data
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, and systems associated with a sample testing device are provided.