Multispectral Optical Sensor for Simultaneous Fluid Species Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current infrared (IR) spectroscopic sensors are expensive, large, and power-intensive, limiting their adoption in commercial and consumer applications, and are not suitable for detecting multiple species simultaneously without reducing accuracy or increasing power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A multispectral optical sensor using a light source, interference filter, and multiple light detectors arranged to compensate for spatial variations in light intensity, allowing for simultaneous detection of multiple species in a fluid sample by analyzing absorption spectra across various wavelength bands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current IR spectroscopic systems are used to detect multiple species, then detection accuracy is maintained, but device size, cost, and power consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection functions into a single integrated sensor device. Multiple light sources covering different spectral regions (e.g., mid-IR and far-IR), multiple interference filters for different wavelength bands, and multiple detectors are merged into one compact unit, enabling simultaneous detection of multiple species without requiring separate sensor systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor device is designed with multi-functionality to detect various species across different spectral ranges. By incorporating broadband light sources, tunable interference filters, and multiple detector types, a single device can perform multiple detection tasks that would traditionally require separate specialized sensors.
2Measurement precision
If current IR spectroscopic systems are used to detect multiple species, then detection accuracy is maintained, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection system into modular functional components: light sources for different spectral regions, interference filters for specific wavelength bands, and detectors for particular absorption ranges. This segmentation allows for optimized manufacturing of individual components and assembly into a complete sensor system, reducing overall cost while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes parameter changes in the optical components, particularly interference filters with specific transmission characteristics and light sources operating at different temperatures or wavelengths. By carefully selecting and tuning these parameters, the system achieves accurate multi-species detection using cost-effective components rather than expensive broad-spectrum equipment.
3Measurement precision
If current IR spectroscopic systems are used to detect multiple species, then detection accuracy is maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by sequentially activating different light sources and detectors for different spectral regions rather than operating all components continuously. The system can switch between mid-IR and far-IR detection modes, activating only the necessary light sources and detectors for the current measurement task, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor device incorporates dynamic control of its optical components, allowing real-time adjustment of which light sources and detectors are active based on the detection requirements. This dynamic operation enables the system to optimize power consumption by engaging only the necessary subsystems for detecting specific species or under particular conditions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple NDIR sensors are used to detect two or more species simultaneously, then detection capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple separate NDIR sensors, the patent merges multiple detection capabilities into a single integrated device. By combining multiple light sources, interference filters, and detectors in one system, the invention achieves multi-species detection without the complexity of coordinating multiple independent sensor units.
Solution Approach 2:
The single sensor device is designed with universal detection capability for multiple species through its multi-functional optical train. The system can detect different gases or species by switching between different light source-detector-filter combinations, replacing the need for multiple specialized NDIR sensors with one versatile instrument.
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 sensor provides accurate, simultaneous detection of multiple species in a fluid sample while being smaller, less expensive, and consuming less power, making it suitable for commercial and consumer applications.
Implementation Method 1
at least one interference filter... there is a spatial variation in the intensity of light from the at least one light source incident on the at least one interference filter
Implementation Method 2
studying the resulting spectrum of light absorbed by or transmitted through the sample in order to identify the vibrations
Implementation Method 3
the intensity of light absorption is measured at a particular wavelength
Data Source
AI summary
An optical sensor for multispectral analysis of a fluid sample comprises at least one light source, at least one interference filter, and a plurality of light detectors arranged such that light emitted by the at least one light source is incident on the at least one interference filter. There is a spatial variation in the intensity of light incident on the said at least one interference filter.