Isolated Optical Path Spectrometer for Compact High Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spectrometers are too large and costly for consumer use, lacking sufficient sensitivity and resolution for portable applications, and often require complex alignment of optics.
Innovation Solution
A compact spectrometer design with isolated optical paths and a straight optical axis, utilizing a filter array, lens array, and sensor array, without dispersive elements, to achieve high sensitivity and resolution in a small, rugged form factor suitable for integration into consumer devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional spectrometer designs are used to achieve high resolution, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into discrete functional modules: illumination source, sample chamber, diffraction grating, and sensor array. Each module is independently optimized and aligned, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining spectral resolution through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
A diffraction grating is introduced as an intermediary element between the sample and sensor to separate wavelengths spatially. This intermediary enables spectral resolution without requiring complex optical paths, as the grating naturally disperses light into its constituent wavelengths that can be directly detected
2Ease of operation
If spectrometer size is reduced for portable applications, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from traditional linear optical paths to a two-dimensional sensor array configuration where wavelengths are mapped spatially across the sensor plane. This dimensional change allows compact packaging while preserving spectral resolution through the spatial encoding of wavelength information
Solution Approach 2:
Mechanical scanning systems are replaced with a static diffraction grating and fixed sensor array configuration. The spectral separation is achieved through the optical properties of the grating rather than mechanical movement, enabling a compact, rugged design suitable for portable applications while maintaining measurement precision
3Volume of moving object
If optical path length is decreased to reduce device size, then volume of moving object is improved, but measurement precision worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The optical path is configured with curved or angled surfaces including the diffraction grating at an oblique angle and arched sample chamber walls. These curved geometries increase the effective optical path length within a compact volume by bouncing light multiple times through the sample, enhancing sensitivity without increasing device size
Solution Approach 2:
The optical design ensures continuous interaction between light and sample through multiple reflections and passes within the compact chamber. Light traverses the sample repeatedly rather than in a single straight line, maintaining sensitivity despite the reduced overall device volume
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 design enables spectrometers that are small enough for consumer devices while maintaining high sensitivity and resolution, allowing for accurate spectroscopic analysis of complex mixtures.
Implementation Method 1
a diffuser is located along the optical path prior to the filter array in order to provide at least constant angular distribution of light energy among the filters of the array
Implementation Method 2
a first-stage optic, such as a lens, to focus or concentrate the radiation onto an imaging array
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of isolated optical paths extending from a filter array to a sensor array
Data Source
AI summary
A spectrometer comprises a plurality of isolated optical channels comprising a plurality of isolated optical paths. The isolated optical paths decrease cross-talk among the optical paths and allow the spectrometer to have a decreased length with increased resolution. In many embodiments, the isolated optical paths comprise isolated parallel optical paths that allow the length of the device to be decreased substantially. In many embodiments, each isolated optical path extends from a filter of a filter array, through a lens of a lens array, through a channel of a support array, to a region of a sensor array. Each region of the sensor array comprises a plurality of sensor elements in which a location of the sensor element corresponds to the wavelength of light received based on an angle of light received at the location, the focal length of the lens and the central wavelength of the filter.