Interferometric Sample Testing Device with Waveguide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for sample testing face challenges such as inefficiency and inaccuracy due to structural limitations, environmental temperature variations, and contamination, particularly in detecting 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 light source, to detect viral indicators and protein content by analyzing interference fringe patterns and refractive index data, coupled with a computer-implemented method for processing and identifying sample identities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional sample testing methods are used, then the testing process is simple, but the accuracy and efficiency of detecting viral indicators and protein content are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/chemical testing methods with an optical measurement system. A light source emits light through a waveguide that interacts with the sample, and an imaging component captures interference fringe patterns. This optical substitution enables precise detection of viral indicators and protein content by measuring refractive index changes, achieving high measurement precision without complex mechanical operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a waveguide as an intermediary element between the light source and the sample. The waveguide confines and guides light through the sample medium, enabling controlled interaction between light and the sample. This intermediary structure allows the optical system to probe refractive index variations caused by viral indicators and protein content, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If environmental temperature variations are present, then the testing environment is flexible, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors interference fringe patterns and uses image processing algorithms to compensate for temperature-induced variations. The processor analyzes the captured fringe patterns and adjusts measurements to account for environmental changes, maintaining measurement precision across different temperatures while preserving environmental adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent exploits the fact that refractive index is temperature-dependent by using this parameter change as a feature rather than a nuisance. By measuring how the interference pattern shifts with temperature and correlating these shifts with known refractive index variations, the system can distinguish between temperature effects and actual sample composition changes, maintaining accuracy in varying environmental conditions.
3Ease of operation
If contamination is present in the sample, then the sampling process is straightforward, but the reliability of test results decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical handling and chemical processing steps with non-contact optical measurement. The light-based interferometry system can detect samples through transparent or translucent containers without direct contact, reducing contamination risks from pipettes, probes, or reagents while maintaining ease of operation. The optical system penetrates through the sample medium to measure refractive index properties, ensuring reliable results even when simple sampling is used.
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 solution enhances the accuracy and efficiency of sample testing by effectively detecting viral indicators and protein content through interferometry, providing precise identification of sample types based on refractive index data and temperature considerations.
Implementation Method 1
A sample testing device utilizing interferometry with a waveguide and integrated optical components
Implementation Method 2
utilize interferometry to detect the presence of virus and/or other viral indicator of protein content in a collected sample
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, and systems associated with a sample testing device are provided.