Light Detection Module with Adjustable Optical Sensitivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current light detection systems in flow cytometry face challenges in simultaneously measuring scattered light from particles with diameters differing by 100 nm or more, often requiring adjustments in sensitivity and voltage gain of photodetectors, which can lead to suboptimal signal amplification and increased noise.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of light detection modules with static and variable optical adjustment components, including bandpass filters, neutral density filters, and adjustable beam splitters, allows for simultaneous measurement of scattered light from particles of varying sizes using a single detector channel, even with low-power light sources, without the need for sensitivity adjustments or significant voltage gain changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sensitivity and voltage gain of photodetectors are adjusted to measure scattered light from particles with different sizes, then measurement capability is improved, but signal amplification becomes suboptimal and noise increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical parameters (beam intensity distribution, wavelength filtering) rather than electrical parameters (voltage gain, sensitivity) to adapt the detection system to different particle sizes. By using adjustable beam splitters and bandpass filters, the system optimizes the optical signal before detection, avoiding the need to adjust photodetector electrical parameters that would amplify noise.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical intermediaries (beam splitters, filters, lenses) between the light source and photodetector to condition the light signal. These intermediaries allow independent optimization of the optical path for different particle sizes without directly affecting the photodetector's electrical parameters, thus maintaining signal quality while improving measurement capability.
2Device complexity
If a single detector channel is used to measure scattered light from particles of varying sizes, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision for different particle sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the optical system dynamic by introducing adjustable components (variable beam splitters, tunable bandpass filters) that can be configured for different particle sizes. This allows a single detector channel to adapt its optical parameters dynamically, maintaining measurement precision across different particle sizes without requiring multiple fixed detector channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal detection system where a single photodetector channel can measure scattered light from particles of different sizes by adjusting optical parameters. The combination of adjustable beam splitters, bandpass filters, and lenses creates a multi-functional system that replaces multiple specialized detectors, reducing complexity while maintaining precision.
3Use of energy by moving object
If low-power light sources are used to irradiate particles, then energy consumption is reduced, but signal intensity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes optical parameters (beam focusing, wavelength selection, intensity distribution) to maximize signal intensity from low-power light sources. By using adjustable lenses and bandpass filters, the system concentrates the available light energy efficiently, achieving adequate signal intensity without requiring high-power sources, thus reducing energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for high mechanical power output from the light source with optimized optical conditioning. Instead of increasing light source power mechanically, the system uses optical elements (lenses, mirrors, filters) to enhance the effective intensity and efficiency of the low-power source, achieving the desired signal strength with lower energy consumption.
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 enables accurate and efficient measurement of scattered light from particles with diameters ranging from 100 nm to 1000 nm, enhancing signal amplification with minimal noise increase, and supports precise characterization and sorting of particles in flow cytometry applications.
Implementation Method 1
the static optical adjustment component includes a bandpass filter
Implementation Method 2
the variable optical adjustment component includes a variable neutral density filter
Implementation Method 3
the variable optical adjustment component includes an adjustable beam splitter
Implementation Method 4
light scatter detector
Implementation Method 5
light can be scattered by the sample... light from the light source can be detected as scattered light from particles in the flow stream
Data Source
AI summary
Light detection systems for simultaneously measuring scattered light (e.g., in a flow stream) from particles having diameters which differ by 100 nm or more are described. Light detection systems according to certain embodiments include a static optical adjustment component, a variable optical adjustment component and a photodetector. Systems and methods for measuring scattered light from a sample (e.g., in a flow stream) and kits having a static optical adjustment component, a variable optical adjustment component and a photodetector are also provided.