Multi-Sensor Light Detector for Single Molecule Discrimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional DNA sequencing technologies face challenges in detecting and discriminating objects emitting low-intensity light, such as single dye molecules, due to limited sensitivity and complexity of existing apparatuses, which hinder efficient detection and analysis in medical and research applications.
Innovation Solution
A detecting apparatus comprising a light detector with multiple optical sensors and a computer processing system that compares output signals to determine the type of object, allowing for the detection and discrimination of objects emitting low-intensity light, including single dye molecules, by processing signals from at least two optical sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional light detectors are used to detect light emitted from single dye molecules, then the apparatus structure is simple, but the sensitivity is insufficient to detect low-intensity light
Solution Approach 1:
The light detector is divided into multiple optical sensors (first optical sensor, second optical sensor, etc.), each detecting light in different wavelength bands. This segmentation allows the system to detect low-intensity light across multiple spectral regions, improving overall detection sensitivity without requiring a single overly complex detector
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends detection from a single wavelength dimension to multiple wavelength dimensions by employing optical sensors that detect different wavelength bands. This dimensional expansion enables the system to capture low-intensity light signals that may be invisible in any single wavelength band alone
2Measurement precision
If color filters are used to detect specific wavelength bands, then wavelength selectivity is improved, but the apparatus becomes more complicated and requires more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the wavelength selection function from physical color filters and implements it through optical sensors with inherent wavelength sensitivity. Each optical sensor is designed to detect specific wavelength bands without requiring additional filter components, thereby achieving wavelength selectivity while simplifying the apparatus structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical color filter system with an optical sensor system that achieves wavelength discrimination through the electronic and optical properties of the sensors themselves. This substitution eliminates the need for physical filters, reducing structural complexity and space requirements while maintaining wavelength detection precision
3Measurement precision
If color filters are used to block certain wavelengths, then wavelength discrimination is improved, but the number of photons reaching the detector is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs optical sensors that simultaneously perform wavelength discrimination and photon detection without requiring separate filtering stages. Each optical sensor is designed to be sensitive to specific wavelength bands while efficiently converting incident photons into detectable signals, thereby achieving both wavelength precision and high photon utilization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from intensity-only measurement to multi-wavelength spectral measurement. By detecting the intensity ratios of light in different wavelength bands, the system achieves wavelength discrimination without blocking photons, as all detected light contributes to the measurement rather than being filtered out
4Reliability
If conventional detection methods are used for single molecules, then the method is simple, but the detection limit is insufficient for low-intensity emission
Solution Approach 1:
The detection method is segmented into multiple wavelength band measurements, with each optical sensor detecting a specific spectral region. The final identification is based on the combined analysis of intensity ratios across all wavelength bands, improving the detection limit for single molecules by utilizing information from multiple spectral regions rather than relying on a single measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a feedback mechanism where the detected light intensities from multiple optical sensors are processed to calculate intensity ratios, which are then compared against reference data for identification. This feedback loop enables the system to achieve high detection sensitivity by iteratively refining the identification based on spectral signature matching
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 apparatus enables efficient detection and discrimination of low-intensity light-emitting objects, improving sensitivity and reducing complexity, thereby enhancing diagnostic and research capabilities in fields like pharmacogenomics and nucleic acid sequencing.
Implementation Method 1
a light detector comprising at least a first optical sensor and a second optical sensor capable of determining the intensity of the light
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for detecting an object capable of emitting light. The apparatus comprises a light detector comprising at least two optical sensors capable of determining the intensity of the light; and a computer processing output signal generated by the optical sensors and comparing a result of the processing with a known result corresponding to a known type to determine whether the object belongs to the known type.