LED Light Source Module with Guiding Rod for Analytical Instruments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing analytical instruments face challenges with short-lived and energy-intensive light sources, such as xenon and halogen lamps, and LEDs with limited intensity and short lifespans, which complicates maintenance, regulatory compliance, and data reproducibility, especially in biological sample analysis where high illumination intensity is required.
Innovation Solution
A modular light source module comprising LEDs and a light guiding rod, designed for easy replacement and energy efficiency, with a control unit and memory device to maintain consistent light output and interface compatibility, allowing for the use of new LED types without altering the analytical instrument's other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If xenon or halogen lamps are used as light sources in analytical instruments, then high illumination intensity is achieved, but energy consumption increases and lifetime decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the light source by transitioning from thermal radiation sources (xenon/halogen lamps) to electroluminescence sources (LEDs). This involves changing the emission mechanism, spectral characteristics, and operating parameters to achieve high illumination intensity with lower energy consumption and extended lifetime.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/thermal light generation system (lamps requiring heating elements and complex power supplies) with a solid-state electroluminescence system (LEDs), eliminating the need for thermal conversion and associated energy losses while maintaining high illumination intensity.
2Illumination intensity
If xenon or halogen lamps are used as light sources in analytical instruments, then high illumination intensity is achieved, but lifetime decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent fundamentally changes the operational parameters and physical state of the light source by using solid-state LED technology instead of thermal lamp technology, resulting in dramatically extended operational lifetime while maintaining high illumination intensity through efficient electroluminescence conversion.
3Use of energy by moving object
If light sources are replaced in analytical instruments, then energy efficiency and lifetime are improved, but regulatory compliance and data reproducibility become challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light source into a modular LED module that can be independently replaced without affecting the rest of the analytical instrument system. This modular approach allows for maintenance and upgrades while preserving the regulatory compliance of the overall system through controlled interfaces and standardized replacement procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a standardized interface and mounting system that allows LED modules to be copied and replaced identically, ensuring that the optical characteristics and system performance remain consistent across replacements, thereby maintaining data reproducibility and regulatory compliance.
4Use of energy by moving object
If LEDs are used to replace intensive light sources, then energy consumption and lifetime are improved, but light intensity becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple LED chips into a single module assembly, combining their individual light outputs to achieve the required total illumination intensity. This modular combination allows scaling of light output while maintaining the energy efficiency advantages of individual LED components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the electrical and optical parameters of the LED module, including drive current, voltage, and optical coupling efficiency, to maximize light output per unit of energy consumed, thereby achieving high illumination intensity with low energy consumption.
5Adaptability or versatility
If light sources with different characteristics are used, then adaptability and energy efficiency are improved, but manufacturing complexity and interface compatibility increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal mounting interface and mechanical structure that can accommodate different LED types and configurations within the same module format. This universal design allows the system to adapt to various LED technologies while maintaining consistent manufacturing processes and installation procedures.
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 provides a long-lasting, energy-efficient, and cost-effective light source module that maintains consistent performance and regulatory compliance, enabling the use of new LED technologies while minimizing hardware changes and ensuring data reproducibility in biological sample analysis.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light guiding rod adapted to guide and shape light emitted by the LED
Implementation Method 2
comprising at least one light-emitting diode (LED)
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A light source module (110) for use in an analytical instrument (112) for analyzing at least one sample (114) is disclosed. The light source module (110) comprises at least one light-emitting diode (LED, 118) and at least one light guiding rod (120) adapted to guide and shape light (122) emitted by the light-emitting diode (118). The light source module (110) further comprises at least one memory device (126). The memory device (126) has stored therein at least one driving parameter set (128), for driving the light-emitting diode (118) in such a way that desired emission properties of light (122) provided by the light source module (110) are generated.