Movable Optical Filter Carrier for Fast Lab-on-a-Chip Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lab-on-a-chip analysis devices face challenges in efficiently and rapidly switching between different optical filters for fluorescence-based detection methods, which limits their versatility and compactness.
Innovation Solution
A filter device with an electrically driven filter carrier that allows for rapid filter changes, featuring a drive unit to move filter regions between positions in the light path, including optical filters and empty positions, enabling simultaneous use of multiple filter regions for various detection methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate filter devices are used for different detection methods, then detection versatility is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple filter devices into a single integrated filter device with a common carrier element that holds different filter carriers (first filter carrier with color filters, second filter carrier with black filter). This merging approach allows the device to perform multiple detection methods (fluorescence detection with different excitation wavelengths) while reducing overall device complexity and size compared to using separate filter devices for each detection method.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter device is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple detection functions. The carrier element can accommodate different types of filter carriers (color filters for multi-wavelength fluorescence, black filter for chemiluminescence), making the single device adaptable to various detection methods without requiring separate specialized devices for each application.
2Speed
If filter switching mechanism is added to enable rapid filter changes, then detection speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter device incorporates a drive unit that enables dynamic switching between different filter carriers mounted on the carrier element. This dynamic capability allows rapid changes in filter configuration during operation, enabling the system to switch between different detection methods (e.g., from fluorescence to chemiluminescence) without manual intervention, thereby improving detection speed while maintaining automated operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple filter carriers are mounted on carrier element, then detection versatility is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter device is segmented into modular components: a common carrier element and separate interchangeable filter carriers (first filter carrier, second filter carrier). Each filter carrier can be manufactured independently and then mounted on the carrier element, simplifying the manufacturing process compared to creating a single complex integrated filter assembly. This segmentation also facilitates easier maintenance and replacement of individual filter carriers.
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 filter changes in less than half a second, allowing for efficient fluorescence detection across multiple wavelength ranges, enhancing the device's versatility and compact design while supporting methods like PCR and melting curve analysis.
Implementation Method 1
The optical module can be used for optical diagnostics, for example to observe an amplification of DNA by means of a fluorescence measurement after each polymerase chain reaction cycle, or for another fluorescence-based detection method
Implementation Method 2
In the case of a color filter, at least one wavelength range of the light can be filtered out at the corresponding filter region
Implementation Method 3
In the case of a black filter, the light can be completely absorbed at the corresponding filter region
Data Source
AI summary
A filter device for an optical module for a lab-on-a-chip analysis device, in which the optical module has a light path, includes a support element, a filter support, and a drive device. The support element can be mounted in the optical module. The filter support is arranged so that it can move on the support element. The filter support also has a first filter region and a second filter region. The drive device is configured such that the filter support can move between a first position in which the first filter region is arranged in the light path, and a second position in which the second filter region is arranged in the light path.