Multivariate Optical Element for Real-Time Spectral Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical analysis systems face challenges in accurately measuring light intensity due to interfering factors, leading to inaccurate data interpretation, and are often impractical due to high costs and sensitivity to environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
The system employs multivariate optical computing with a multivariate optical element (MOE) and bandpass filters to control the spectral range of the illumination source, reducing noise and increasing measurement precision by focusing on wavelengths carrying information, and eliminates the need for fiber optic probes, making it simpler and more economical.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional light intensity measurement is used, then the system is simple, but measurement precision deteriorates due to interfering factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the broad spectral range into multiple specific wavelength bands using bandpass filters. Each bandpass filter isolates a specific wavelength range that carries information about different components of the sample. This segmentation allows the system to measure multiple parameters simultaneously while rejecting interfering factors outside the selected bands, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring overly complex equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by selecting specific wavelength bands that are optimized for detecting particular sample components. Each wavelength band is chosen to maximize the signal from the target component while minimizing interference from other factors. This localized spectral analysis at specific wavelengths improves measurement precision for each parameter while keeping the overall system relatively simple.
2Ease of manufacture
If fiber optic probes are used, then light can be delivered to samples, but costs increase and attenuation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fiber optic probe from the system entirely. Instead of using fiber optic cables to deliver light to the sample and collect the reflected light, the system uses free-space optics with mirrors and lenses. This elimination of fiber optic probes removes the source of signal attenuation and reduces system costs, while maintaining the ability to deliver and collect light through alternative optical pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the fiber optic mechanical system with a free-space optical system using mirrors and lenses. Instead of relying on fiber optic cables to guide light, the system uses reflective mirrors to direct light paths and lenses to focus and collect light. This substitution eliminates the attenuation problems associated with fiber optic probes while reducing overall system complexity and cost.
3Reliability
If existing optical analysis systems are used, then light intensity can be measured, but reliability deteriorates due to sensitivity to environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spectrum into specific wavelength bands that are less susceptible to environmental interference. By measuring at multiple discrete wavelength bands rather than across the entire spectrum, the system can identify and compensate for environmental effects that affect all wavelengths uniformly, while the ratio-based measurement approach isolates the sample-specific information from environmental noise, improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism through ratio-based measurements. By calculating the ratio of light intensity at different wavelength bands, the system automatically compensates for environmental variations such as source intensity drift or ambient light changes. This feedback approach maintains measurement reliability without requiring additional environmental sensors or complex correction algorithms.
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 enhances measurement precision and reduces costs by minimizing noise and attenuation, allowing for accurate and efficient analysis of light data in real-time without the need for expensive equipment.
Implementation Method 1
filtering the source light through a spectral element in the optical element analysis system
Implementation Method 2
reflecting the focused light from the sample through the second region in a second direction of a beamsplitter
Implementation Method 3
focusing the reflected light proximate the sample
Implementation Method 4
optically filtering the data of the first light with the multivariate optical element into an orthogonal component
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical analysis system and method for determining information carried by light include a multivariate optical element disposed in the system to receive a source light from an illumination source; filtering the source light through a spectral element in the optical element analysis system; reflecting the filtered light through an inner region of a cavity in a first direction of a sample to be measured, the cavity defining a second region disposed about the inner region; focusing the reflected light proximate the sample; reflecting the focused light from the sample through the second region in a second direction of a beamsplitter, the light being reflected from the sample carrying data from the sample; splitting the sample carrying light with the beamsplitter into a first light and a second light; optically filtering the data of the first light with the multivariate optical element into an orthogonal component; directing the first light filtered by the multivariate optical element onto a first photodetector; directing the second light onto a second photodetector; and comparing the orthogonal component to information present in the second light to determine a property of the sample.