Laser Ablation Pattern Scanning for Continuous Multi-Region Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser ablation systems require users to define a beam trajectory and then execute it, limiting the ability to efficiently analyze multiple regions of a sample simultaneously, as they cannot specify parameters for additional scans during ongoing scanning operations.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allow users to process image data to generate location data for a laser ablation system, enabling the execution of a first scan in a region-of-interest while simultaneously defining and storing parameters for a second scan, allowing for real-time adjustment and execution of additional scans without interrupting the ongoing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a user defines a beam trajectory and executes it in conventional laser ablation systems, then the scanning operation can be performed, but the user cannot specify parameters for additional scans during ongoing scanning operations, limiting efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-processes image data to generate location data and prepares scan parameters before the scanning operation begins. This allows the beam trajectory and ablation parameters to be predetermined and stored, enabling the laser to execute multiple scans efficiently without requiring real-time parameter configuration during operation.
2Productivity
If the system executes scans sequentially after defining beam trajectories, then each scan can be performed accurately, but multiple regions cannot be analyzed simultaneously, reducing throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the sample analysis into multiple independent scan operations, each with its own beam trajectory and ablation parameters. The image data is processed to identify multiple regions of interest, and location data is generated for each region. This segmentation allows the system to execute multiple scans in sequence with high precision while maintaining overall productivity through automated parameter management.
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
Facilitates efficient compositional analysis by enabling the simultaneous specification and execution of multiple scans within the same system, improving the analysis of heterogeneous samples by allowing continuous scanning and parameter configuration during operation.
Implementation Method 1
a laser configured to generate a laser beam having parameters suitable for ablating or otherwise dissociating a portion of the sample within the sample chamber
Implementation Method 2
at least one scanning component configured to impart relative movement between the sample and the laser beam
Data Source
AI summary
A laser ablation system, and method, facilitates the execution of user-defined scans (i.e., in which a laser beam is scanned across a sample along a beam trajectory to ablate or dissociate a portion of the sample) and enables the user define additional scans while a scan is being executed.