Time-Resolved Laser Fluorescence Spectroscopy Parallel Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (LIFS) techniques are limited by the time required to resolve multiple spectral components from wide band light emissions, making real-time measurements challenging, especially when multiple stimulation locations on a sample need to be measured.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a wavelength-splitting device to split responsive light emissions from a biological sample into spectral bands, which are then temporally delayed to allow for separate detection at an optical detector within a single detection window, enabling near real-time recording of time-resolved and wavelength-resolved information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a scanning monochromator is used to resolve spectral components one wavelength at a time, then spectral resolution is improved, but measurement time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The broadband emission spectrum is segmented into multiple spectral bands using a wavelength-splitting device (such as a diffraction grating or prism array), allowing simultaneous detection of multiple wavelength components rather than scanning sequentially through the spectrum
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from temporal dimension (sequential wavelength scanning) to spatial dimension (parallel spectral band separation), where different wavelength components are spatially separated and detected simultaneously by an array of photodetectors or a spectral camera
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple stimulation locations on a sample need to be measured, then comprehensive sample characterization is improved, but total measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement task is segmented into multiple parallel channels, each handling a different spatial location or spectral component simultaneously, allowing comprehensive sample characterization without sequential measurement delays
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple measurement functions (spatial mapping and spectral resolution) are merged into a single detection system that captures both dimensions simultaneously, eliminating the need for repeated measurements at different locations
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
This approach allows for the efficient and rapid characterization of biological samples by enabling the simultaneous detection of multiple spectral components within a single measurement window, thereby overcoming the limitations of existing techniques.
Implementation Method 1
a wavelength-splitting device to split the responsive light emission into a set of spectral bands of different central wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
an optical detector to detect the light emissions
Implementation Method 3
Laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (LIFS) has been extensively applied to complex biological systems
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides systems for characterizing a biological sample by analyzing emission of fluorescent light from the biological sample upon excitation and methods for using the same. The system includes a laser source, collection fibers, a demultiplexer and an optical delay device. All references cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety as though fully set forth. Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of-ordinary skill in the art in which this invention belongs.