Optical Detector Signal Measurement with Multi-Voltage Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Measurement systems using optical detectors face delays due to the need for settling time after changing high voltage levels, limiting the ability to perform fast, real-time signal acquisition across the entire dynamic range.
Innovation Solution
A measurement system with a programmable device that rapidly switches between multiple power sources coupled to an optical detector, allowing for continuous operation without requiring voltage stabilization between measurements, enabling fast, real-time signal acquisition across the entire dynamic range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the high voltage level supplied to the optical detector is changed to modify sensitivity, then the detector can adapt to different signal strengths, but the measurement system experiences a long settling time delay
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-establishes multiple high voltage power sources with different output levels (e.g., 500V, 750V, 1000V) corresponding to different detector sensitivity requirements. When a measurement is needed, the controller directly selects and switches to the appropriate pre-configured power source without needing to adjust voltage levels dynamically, thereby eliminating the settling time delay while maintaining adaptability to different signal strengths
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic switching between multiple discrete high voltage power sources based on real-time measurement needs. The controller monitors signal strength requirements and automatically switches between pre-configured voltage levels, enabling the detector sensitivity to adapt dynamically without the time penalty of voltage adjustment settling
2Adaptability or versatility
If the high voltage level is adjusted to cover the entire dynamic range, then all signal levels can be detected, but fast real-time signal acquisition cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the continuous dynamic range adjustment into multiple discrete high voltage levels (e.g., 500V, 750V, 1000V), each corresponding to a specific signal strength range. By switching between these segmented voltage levels rather than continuously adjusting, the system achieves full dynamic range coverage while maintaining fast acquisition speed comparable to operating at a single fixed voltage level
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic switching between multiple discrete voltage sources to adapt to different signal levels in real-time. This dynamic selection of pre-configured voltage levels enables the system to cover the entire dynamic range without the speed penalty of voltage adjustment, as the switching occurs rapidly without requiring voltage stabilization time
3Device complexity
If a single power source is used to simplify the system, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to perform rapid measurements across different signal levels is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single power source with adjustable voltage, the system segments the power provision into multiple discrete high voltage power sources, each optimized for a specific signal strength range. This segmentation enables rapid switching between different measurement conditions, significantly increasing measurement throughput for kinetic studies and high-throughput screening while maintaining relatively simple individual power source designs
Solution Approach 2:
Each high voltage power source in the system is designed to be universally applicable for its specific voltage level, and the controller intelligently selects among them based on measurement requirements. This multi-functionality approach allows the system to handle various signal levels efficiently, improving productivity across different measurement scenarios without requiring overly complex individual components
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 rapid and accurate measurement of multiple product samples over a consistent period, facilitating kinetic measurements and high-throughput screening without the need for prolonged settling times.
Implementation Method 1
optical detector to detect light emitted by the sample
Data Source
AI summary
A measurement system comprises an optical detector, a plurality of power sources operable to provide different outputs, and a controllable circuit operable to couple a first selected one of the plurality of power sources to the optical detector. A programmable device is operable when each of the plurality of power sources is providing an associated power output to: (a.) obtain a first measurement from the optical detector while the first selected one of the plurality of power sources is coupled to the optical detector; (b) cause the controllable circuit to couple a second selected one of the plurality of power sources to the optical detector in response to the first measurement; and (c) obtain a second measurement from the optical detector while the second selected one of the plurality of power sources is coupled to the optical detector. Optical measurement methods are also disclosed.