Broadband Multispectral Tissue Diagnostics With Rotating Detector Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic modalities for analyzing body tissues and biological parameters lack the capability to provide comprehensive and accurate information across a broad spectral range, particularly in intra-heartbeat diagnostics, and do not effectively differentiate between tissue types or identify specific molecules and compounds.
Innovation Solution
A broadband multispectral diagnostic system utilizing a light source that outputs light across a broad spectral range, a dispersion element, and a detector mechanism, capable of scanning wavelengths from UV to SWIR, combined with techniques like Raman scattering and Fourier transform spectroscopy, to analyze tissue types and molecular species.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If broadband multispectral scanning across UV to SWIR is implemented, then measurement precision and diagnostic accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple detectors and dispersion elements
Solution Approach 1:
The broadband spectrum is segmented into multiple wavelength ranges (UV, visible, NIR, SWIR) with each range detected by specialized detectors optimized for that range. The system uses a rotating assembly that sequentially positions different detectors to capture different spectral segments, allowing high-precision multispectral measurement while managing complexity through modular detection architecture
Solution Approach 2:
A single rotating assembly integrates multiple functions: it holds and positions multiple detector types (photodiode, CCD, InGaAs, MCT), incorporates dispersion elements (prisms or gratings) for spectral separation, and enables sequential access to different wavelength ranges. This multi-functional design consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into one integrated platform
2Measurement precision
If narrow wavelength selection using monochromator is used, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to sequential wavelength scanning
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic rotation of the detector assembly to sequentially access different wavelength ranges. Each rotation cycle captures data across the full spectral range by positioning appropriate detectors at appropriate times, transforming continuous spectral scanning into a periodic sampling process that maintains precision while reducing total acquisition time through efficient temporal multiplexing
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating assembly pre-positions multiple detectors and dispersion elements in advance within the rotation mechanism. During operation, the required detector-wavelength combination is already in position or can be quickly accessed through rotation, eliminating the need for mechanical adjustment during scanning and reducing time loss through pre-configured spectral pathways
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple interchangeable detectors are used to cover broad spectrum, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to detector switching mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple detector types (photodiode for UV/visible, CCD for visible/NIR, InGaAs for NIR, MCT for SWIR) are merged into a single rotating assembly that physically co-locates all detectors. The rotation mechanism provides automatic switching by bringing the appropriate detector into the optical path for each wavelength range, combining multiple detection capabilities into one integrated moving assembly rather than requiring separate stationary detector systems
Solution Approach 2:
The detector assembly transitions from static to dynamic configuration through rotation. The system adapts to different spectral requirements by dynamically repositioning detectors during operation, with the rotation providing continuous, smooth transitions between detector configurations. This dynamic approach replaces complex electronic switching with simple mechanical rotation, reducing switching complexity while maintaining versatility
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 high-resolution, intra-heartbeat diagnostics and deep tissue penetration, allowing for the identification of anatomical features, tumors, and concentration changes in blood, with improved accuracy and functionality by scanning across a broad spectral range.
Implementation Method 1
the dispersion element spatially separates the portion of the light into components of different wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
the detector mechanism detects the resulting light
Implementation Method 3
a light source providing an output of light across a broad spectral range
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary diagnostic systems and methods involve delivering multispectral light to a tissue of a patient, detecting light from the tissue, and analyzing the tissue based on the detected light. Light delivery can be achieved using a multi-dispersion element monochromator apparatus that includes a broad spectrum light source, a rotating body, and multiple dispersion elements in operative association with the rotating body.