Light Relay for Multi-Mode Microplate Reader
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microplate readers are limited to single light sources or complex switching between light sources and measurement modes, making them unsuitable for modern multi-purpose applications that require diverse optical measurements in different configurations.
Innovation Solution
A microplate reader design featuring a first light source, a monochromator, and a light relay with multiple inputs and outputs, allowing for the selection of measurement modes by rotating input and output members with optical fibers, enabling the use of multiple narrow-band light sources and a tunable monochromator for improved optical performance and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources and measurement modes are integrated into a single apparatus, then versatility and measurement capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light relay is designed with multiple inputs that can accept different light sources (monochromatized light from first input, direct light from second input, light from third input) and multiple outputs that can guide light to different measurement configurations (first output for standard path, second output for alternative path). This universal design allows a single apparatus to perform multiple measurement modes including fluorescence, absorption, and transmission measurements without requiring separate dedicated systems for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The light relay acts as an intermediary component between the light sources/monochromator and the sample/detector. It mediates the optical path selection by routing light from different inputs to different outputs based on the desired measurement mode. This intermediary structure simplifies the overall system architecture by providing a centralized control point for optical path management, reducing the need for complex individual switching mechanisms for each measurement configuration.
2Device complexity
If a single light source is used for multiple measurement modes, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and optical performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into distinct functional pathways: one pathway for monochromatized light from the first light source (suitable for fluorescence measurements requiring narrow bandwidth), and separate pathways for direct light from second and third light sources (suitable for absorption and transmission measurements). The light relay enables selective activation of these segmented pathways, allowing each light source to be optimized for its specific measurement type while maintaining overall system simplicity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex optical switching mechanisms are used to change light sources and measurement modes, then measurement mode flexibility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The light relay combines multiple optical paths and light sources into a single integrated component structure. By merging the functions of multiple light sources, monochromator output, and various measurement configurations into one unified relay system, the apparatus achieves measurement mode flexibility through a simplified operational interface. The user can select measurement modes without managing separate complex switching mechanisms for each light source or optical path.
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 design allows for versatile and accurate selection of measurement modes, reducing complexity and cost while maintaining high optical performance, enabling diverse measurements like fluorescence and absorption without the need for additional band-limiting filters, and allowing for compact and precise alignment of optical fibers.
Implementation Method 1
a monochromator having an input to which first light source is optically connected or connectable and an output for monochromatized light
Implementation Method 2
a light relay comprising a first input optically connected to the output of the monochromator, at least one second input optically connected or connectable to a second light source such that the light from the second light source by-passes the monochromator
Implementation Method 3
a detector for detecting light from the sample sites
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for optically analyzing samples contained in sample sites of a sample holder, the apparatus has a first light source and at least one second light source, a monochromator having an input to which first light source is optically connected or connectable and an output for monochromatized light, light guiding portion for guiding light originating from the first and from the at least one second light sources to the sample sites, and a detector for detecting light from the sample sites. A light relay having a first input optically connected to the output of the monochromator, at least one second input optically connected or connectable to a second light source such that the light from the second light source by-passes the monochromator, and a first output for guiding light from selected input of the light relay to the sample sites. Based on the apparatus and light relay a versatile sample analyzer can be achieved in a cost-effective manner.