Optical Array Blocking Elements Spectral Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical arrays for spectrally selective identification of light in confocal scanning microscopes are either overly complex and expensive due to the use of multiband detectors or insufficiently fast for sequential or line-by-line multicolor detection with samples stained with multiple fluorochromes, as they require rapid diaphragm displacement to block residual illumination light components.
Innovation Solution
An optical array with a slit diaphragm arrangement and tiltable blocking elements that can be independently positioned to mask specific spectral subranges, allowing for flexible spectral selection and rapid adaptability, enabling both multicolor detection and λ scans with high accuracy by selectively blocking wavelength components using a single-channel detector system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiband detectors are used for spectrally selective identification, then spectral detection capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The spectral selection function is segmented from the detection function. Instead of using a complex multiband detector that integrates both spectral selection and detection, the patent separates these functions: a simple single-channel detector is combined with external spectral selection elements (blocking elements and diaphragms) that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining spectral detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Blocking elements are introduced as intermediary components between the light source and the detector. These blocking elements selectively mask specific spectral subranges before the light reaches the detector, enabling spectral selection without requiring the detector itself to have multiple bands. The blocking elements act as mediators that translate spectral selection requirements into physical遮挡 actions, simplifying the detector design while achieving the desired spectral discrimination.
2Measurement precision
If diaphragms are used to block residual illumination light components, then spectral selectivity is improved, but response speed decreases due to mechanical displacement limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static diaphragm arrangements to dynamic, rapidly reconfigurable spectral selection. Blocking elements can be quickly introduced into or removed from the light beam path, and their positions can be adjusted dynamically. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different spectral detection requirements in real-time, achieving both high spectral selectivity and fast response speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables rapid changes in spectral selection parameters by allowing blocking elements to be positioned at different locations within the spectral range. Instead of moving entire diaphragm assemblies, the system can quickly adjust the position and presence of individual blocking elements, changing the selected spectral subrange without mechanical inertia limitations. This parameter flexibility achieves both precision and speed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If blocking elements are introduced into the light beam for rapid spectral adaptation, then adaptability to different spectral ranges is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spectral selection function is divided into multiple independent blocking elements, each responsible for a specific spectral subrange. This segmentation allows flexible combination of different blocking elements to create various spectral selection patterns. The modular nature of segmented blocking elements reduces overall system complexity compared to a monolithic multiband detector, as each element can be independently controlled and positioned.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking elements serve multiple functions: they select spectral subranges, mask residual illumination light, and enable rapid adaptation to different detection requirements. A single blocking element can be positioned to perform different spectral masking tasks depending on the experimental needs. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized components, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high adaptability.
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 configuration allows for high-speed and accurate spectral selection, enabling efficient multicolor detection both frame-by-frame and line-by-line, reducing the complexity and cost of the system while improving adaptability to different experimental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one blocking element which can be introduced into the light beam in order to mask out a predeterminable spectral subrange lying within the selected continuous spectral range
Implementation Method 2
a means for the spatial spectral decomposition of the light beam
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an optical array (2) for the spectrally selective identification of light of a light beam, particularly for identifying light of a detecting light beam (3) in a preferably confocal scanning microscope (1). Said optical array comprises a means (18) for the spatial spectral decomposition of the light beam, means for selecting a given continuous spectral range, and a detector (28). The inventive optical array (2) is characterized by at least one blocking element (25, 26, 27) which can be introduced into the light beam in order to stop down a given partial spectral region located within the selected continuous spectral range.