Multi-LED Optical System for Biophotonic Sample Characterization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biophotonic systems face limitations as real-time holistic health systems at the point-of-care, particularly in accurately analyzing body fluids and environmental samples for diagnostic purposes.
Innovation Solution
An optical system utilizing at least two LEDs with different spectral maxima to emit light of varying wavelengths, coupled with a spectrometer to measure reflected, scattered, and fluorescent components, enabling precise characterization of body fluids and environmental samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single LED light source is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and ability to identify substances is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The light source is segmented into multiple LEDs, each emitting at different wavelengths. This allows the system to analyze substances across multiple spectral regions simultaneously, improving measurement precision without requiring a single complex broadband light source.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple LEDs with different spectral characteristics are combined to create a universal light source that can detect various substances (blood, adipose tissue, environmental samples) using different wavelengths, making the device more versatile and precise.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple LEDs with different wavelengths are used, then the ability to identify substances is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into multiple independent LED channels, each targeting specific wavelength ranges. This modular approach enhances adaptability for different sample types while keeping each individual channel relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the wavelength parameter by selecting different LEDs based on the sample type and desired analysis. This allows versatile sample analysis capability while avoiding the need for a continuously adjustable complex monochromator system.
3Measurement precision
If broadband light source is used, then the spectral coverage is improved, but the measurement precision at specific wavelengths is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using one broadband source, the spectral range is segmented into multiple discrete wavelength bands, each covered by a dedicated LED. This provides both broad spectral coverage and high precision at each specific wavelength region.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating wavelength parameter by activating different LEDs as needed, providing precise spectral measurements at multiple discrete wavelengths while maintaining broad overall spectral coverage.
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 allows for the identification of substances previously undetectable and enhances the accuracy of parameter determination in body fluids and environmental samples, improving the performance of biophotonic systems for point-of-care diagnostics.
Implementation Method 1
spectrum comprising reflected components of the light
Implementation Method 2
scattered components of the light
Implementation Method 3
light caused by Raman scattering
Implementation Method 4
light caused by Raman scattering or fluorescence of the element
Data Source
AI summary
An optical system having a chamber for receiving an element of body fluid or tissue or environmental sample to be characterized has a light source for illuminating the chamber with light, and a spectrometer for recording a spectrum of light originating from the chamber. The light source has two separate LEDs to emit light having at least two spectral maxima of different wavelength ranges. The light from the light source is directed to the chamber. A method for determining a parameter representing a property of the element with the optical system, wherein, light having at least two spectral maxima of different wavelength ranges generated by separate LEDs is directed onto the element, a spectrum with reflected components of the light, scattered components of the light, and/or light caused by Raman scattering or fluorescence of the element is measured with the spectrometer, and the parameter is determined by evaluating the spectrum.