Multi-Fibre Light Collection for High-Resolution Spectroscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spectroscopic systems face challenges in efficiently collecting light from objects while maintaining high spatial resolution and preserving signal quality, particularly in non-invasive applications like intracranial pressure sensing.
Innovation Solution
A spectroscopy system utilizing a multi-mode fibre with a larger cross-sectional area to collect light, coupled to multiple single-mode or few-mode fibres, which are arranged to receive light from the multi-mode fibre and transmit it to a detection apparatus, ensuring high spatial resolution and reduced signal deterioration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single fibre with larger cross-sectional area is used to collect light, then the amount of light collected increases, but the spatial resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The light collection apparatus is segmented into multiple fibres with different cross-sectional areas. The first fibre (larger cross-section) collects light from the object, while multiple second fibres (smaller cross-sections) are coupled to the first fibre to transmit light to the detector. This segmentation allows the system to simultaneously achieve high light collection efficiency and maintain spatial resolution through the smaller second fibres.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hierarchical dimension to the fibre structure, with a first level (first fibre) for light collection and a second level (second fibres) for light transmission. This dimensional hierarchy allows the system to optimize for both light gathering area and spatial resolution independently at different levels of the optical path.
2Measurement precision
If multiple small fibres are used to maintain spatial resolution, then the spatial resolution is preserved, but the amount of light collected decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light collection function of the first fibre with the light transmission function of multiple second fibres. By coupling these fibres together, the system combines the large light-gathering area of the first fibre with the high spatial resolution capabilities of the multiple smaller second fibres, achieving both objectives simultaneously.
3Quantity of substance
If a fibre with many modes of light is used, then more light can be transmitted, but the signal quality deteriorates quickly
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the optical path are assigned different fibre types with appropriate modal characteristics. The first fibre (MMF) with larger cross-section handles light collection where high light gathering is needed, while the second fibres (SMF or FMF) with smaller cross-sections handle light transmission where signal quality preservation is critical. This local optimization of fibre properties at different locations resolves the contradiction between light quantity and signal quality.
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 enables increased light collection with improved measurement sensitivity and signal quality, allowing for more robust and efficient attachment to objects, particularly suitable for non-invasive physiological measurements.
Implementation Method 1
The first fibre is configured to be coupled to the object to receive the light therefrom. The plurality of second fibres are arranged to couple the first fibre to the detection apparatus.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
A spectroscopy system comprising: an illumination apparatus configured to direct light towards an object; a light collection apparatus configured to receive light from the object; and a detection apparatus. The light collection apparatus comprises a first fibre and a plurality of second fibres, wherein the first fibre has a larger cross-sectional area than each second fibre. The first fibre is configured to be coupled to the object to receive the light therefrom. The plurality of second fibres are arranged to couple the first fibre to the detection apparatus.