LED Voltage-Based Thermal Compensation for Stable Assay Output
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Diagnostic assay systems face challenges due to temperature fluctuations affecting optical components, leading to performance degradation and reduced lifespan, especially in inhospitable environments with limited access to replacements.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that monitor and compensate for temperature fluctuations by measuring voltage across the LEDs, using the voltage as a proxy for junction temperature to stabilize photonic output and extend LED life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If temperature compensation is implemented using voltage measurement as a proxy for junction temperature, then the noise-to-signal ratio is reduced and photonic output consistency is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional voltage sensing and processing circuitry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses voltage measurement as an intermediary parameter to indirectly measure LED junction temperature. Instead of directly measuring temperature with thermal sensors, the system measures the voltage across the LED at a known current, which correlates to junction temperature through the diode's electrical characteristics. This intermediary approach allows temperature compensation without direct thermal contact, reducing the noise-to-signal ratio and improving photonic output consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/thermal measurement systems (temperature sensors requiring physical contact with the LED junction) with an electrical measurement system. By utilizing the electrical characteristics of the LED itself (voltage-current relationship), the system eliminates the need for separate thermal sensing hardware, thereby reducing device complexity while achieving temperature compensation.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If real-time voltage monitoring is implemented to compensate for temperature fluctuations, then LED lifespan is extended and performance is maintained, but the ease of operation decreases due to more complex control procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the LED system automatically monitors its own voltage and adjusts its operation accordingly. The control system continuously measures the voltage across the LED, determines the junction temperature from this voltage, and applies compensation to maintain optimal performance. This self-monitoring and self-adjusting capability extends LED lifespan without requiring manual intervention or complex external control procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback loop where the measured voltage is continuously fed back to the control system, which then adjusts the LED operating parameters to compensate for temperature effects. This closed-loop feedback mechanism automatically maintains optimal LED performance and extends lifespan, while the control procedures remain standardized and do not require complex manual operations.
3Reliability
If voltage-based temperature compensation is used instead of traditional temperature sensors, then the system becomes more reliable in harsh environments with limited access to replacements, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase for the voltage sensing circuitry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the LED serve multiple functions: it not only emits light for the assay but also acts as its own temperature sensor through voltage measurement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate temperature sensing components that would require precise manufacturing and calibration. The voltage sensing circuitry can use standard electronic components with less stringent manufacturing tolerances, improving reliability in harsh environments where replacement is difficult.
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 system effectively reduces noise-to-signal ratio, extends LED lifespan, and maintains consistent photonic output by real-time thermal compensation without the need for temperature sensors, enhancing performance and reliability in harsh conditions.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a voltage across the LED to operate at a given current; and correlating the voltage to a junction temperature of the LED such that the voltage is a proxy of the junction temperature
Implementation Method 2
a light-emitting diode (LED) configured to provide an optical output for excitation of a biological sample
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for monitoring, characterizing and controlling operation of LEDs are provided herein. Methods includes measuring a voltage across the LED, and correlating the voltage to a junction temperature of the LED. This correlation can be used to improve operation of the LED by increasing the signal to noise ratio of the LED signal, characterize the LED by comparing to an I-V curve, control LED operation to compensate for LED degradation and avoid crosstalk, and/or to generally improve performance and life expectancy of the LED. Improved performance of the LED can include stabilizing the photon output during performance of an assay to provide a desired dye reporter signal required for the assay and/or reducing an intra-shot during of the LED output during the assay. System and device with control units configured to perform these methods are also described herein.