Multi-Channel Light Signal Detection for Microscopy Dynamic Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current detection methods in microscopy and laser-scanning microscopy are limited by sensitivity loss due to capacitor discharge downtime, narrow dynamic range in photon counting, and high costs for multiple detector systems, making them inflexible and less effective for various examination methods.
Innovation Solution
A method and detector module that selects and processes output signals based on changeable selection criteria using a programmable logic switch, such as an FPGA, allowing flexible adjustment to different examination conditions, with a single detector module capable of handling multiple analysis methods, and using a PMT or other photon converters for wide dynamic range sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single condenser is used for signal integration in laser-scanning microscopy, then the device complexity is reduced, but sensitivity loss occurs due to downtime required for condenser discharge between measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single condenser into multiple independent condensers (first condenser and second condenser) that can operate in parallel. This segmentation allows one condenser to be discharged while another simultaneously performs integration, eliminating the downtime that causes sensitivity loss while maintaining relatively simple device complexity
2Measurement precision
If photon multiplier voltage is maximized to detect individual photons, then measurement precision for single photons is improved, but dynamic range is reduced because multiple photons produce no additional signal intensity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage control of the photon multiplier, allowing the voltage to be adjusted based on the number of photons detected. For single photon detection, maximum voltage is applied for high precision, while for multiple photons, voltage is reduced to prevent saturation and maintain dynamic range, thus adapting the detection sensitivity to the signal intensity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating voltage parameter of the photon multiplier dynamically according to the detection requirements. By adjusting the voltage parameter, the system can optimize between single-photon sensitivity and multi-photon dynamic range, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and adaptability
3Measurement precision
If separate detectors are used for different spectral ranges and examination methods, then measurement precision for each specific method is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal detector module that can perform multiple examination methods (fluorescence lifetime measurement, FCS measurement, spectral selection) using a single condenser and photon multiplier combination. The system achieves method-specific precision through software-controlled signal processing and evaluation rather than through separate physical detectors, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy
4Measurement precision
If integration time constant is increased to improve signal-to-noise ratio, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to longer measurement time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous signal integration by using multiple condensers in parallel, where while one condenser is being discharged, another continues integrating the signal. This continuous operation eliminates the downtime between integration cycles, allowing longer effective integration times for improved signal-to-noise ratio without reducing measurement speed and productivity
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
Enables flexible and efficient signal processing across various microscopy methods, reducing sensitivity loss and costs by allowing online selection of analysis methods and using a single detector module with adjustable sensitivity, thereby improving the range of applications and reducing stress on samples.
Implementation Method 1
a light signal impinges on an optoelectronic converter, where the light is converted into an electric signal
Data Source
AI summary
A method for detecting and analyzing light signals, in which a light signal impinges an optoelectric converter, where it is converted into an electric signal and the electric signal subsequent to the conversion is distributed into several analysis channels (13.1-13.4), within each analysis channel (13.1), (i) a signal analysis is performed, which is different from the signal analysis for the other analysis channels (13.2-13.4) and (ii) an output signal is created. In such a method, one or more output signals are selected for further processing and output using a specified, changeable selection criterion.