Synchronous Light and Filter Wheels for Multi-Label Excitation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light modules and signal detection devices are limited by the number of filters and light sources, which restricts the number of detectable optical labels, and require sequential irradiation with excitation light of different wavelengths for multiple targets, inefficiently utilizing resources.
Innovation Solution
A light module with a light source wheel and filter wheel that rotate synchronously, allowing multiple light sources and filters to be aligned and switched efficiently, enabling simultaneous excitation and detection of multiple optical labels using a multi-wavelength light source unit and multi-bandpass filter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple filters are used to detect multiple optical labels, then the number of detectable channels increases, but the device complexity and structural constraints increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single light source unit is configured to provide multiple excitation wavelengths through wavelength selection means (filters or monochromators), enabling one light source to excite multiple different optical labels. This multi-functional design allows the system to detect multiple targets without proportionally increasing the number of light sources and filters, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining high adaptability
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of light sources and filters is increased to accommodate more detection channels, then more targets can be detected, but the structural constraints on the optical part are exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple wavelength selection means (filters or monochromators) are combined in a shared optical path, allowing a single light source to sequentially or simultaneously provide multiple excitation wavelengths. This merging approach enables multiple detection channels to be achieved without proportionally increasing the physical footprint and structural complexity of the optical system
3Productivity
If conventional light modules are used, then the structure is simple, but the efficiency of exciting multiple fluorescent substances simultaneously is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The light module incorporates dynamic wavelength selection capability, where filters or monochromators can be adjusted to select different excitation wavelengths as needed. This dynamic configuration allows the system to optimize excitation efficiency for different fluorescent substances while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, avoiding the need for multiple fixed light source units
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 enables simultaneous excitation of multiple optical labels with higher performance and intensity, overcoming the limitations of conventional devices by allowing more types of excitation light and reducing the need for filter replacement.
Implementation Method 1
an optical label having a unique excitation wavelength range and a unique emission wavelength range
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of filters filtering light emitted by the light sources
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a light module comprising a plurality of light sources emitting light to excite samples; a light source wheel accommodating the plurality of light sources; a plurality of filters filtering light emitted by the light sources; a filter wheel accommodating the plurality of filters; and a motor rotating the light source wheel and the filter wheel.