Optical Measurement Path Selection Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical-based measurement instruments face limitations in versatility, as they often require specific wavelength selection for excitation light, which can be inefficiently managed using either monochromators or optical filters, lacking the ability to seamlessly switch between these options based on measurement type and sample characteristics.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates an excitation light path selection mechanism that allows users to choose between a path directing excitation light through a monochromator and another path bypassing it, enabling flexible wavelength selection by using both a monochromator and an excitation filter in tandem or solely relying on the filter, depending on the measurement requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a monochromator is used for wavelength selection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into multiple independent wavelength selection paths: a monochromator path for high-precision wavelength selection and an optical filter path for simpler wavelength selection. Each path can be independently activated or deactivated based on measurement requirements, allowing the system to balance precision and complexity dynamically.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different wavelength selection modes (monochromator-only, filter-only, or combined) based on the specific measurement task. This dynamic adaptability allows the device to optimize its complexity level according to the precision requirements of each measurement type.
2Device complexity
If optical filters are used for wavelength selection, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the monochromator and optical filter into a unified wavelength selection system where both components work together or independently. The optical filter provides initial wavelength pre-selection to reduce the burden on the monochromator, while the monochromator provides fine-tuned wavelength selection, achieving high precision with optimized overall complexity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple wavelength selection devices are used in tandem, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dual wavelength selection system is segmented into distinct functional stages: the optical filter handles broad wavelength pre-selection and the monochromator handles precise wavelength tuning. This segmentation allows each component to operate in its optimal performance range while maintaining manageable system complexity through clear functional division.
4Measurement precision
If the instrument is designed for dedicated measurement types, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is designed with universal wavelength selection capabilities that can accommodate multiple measurement types (fluorescence, absorbance, luminescence, etc.). By providing both monochromator and optical filter paths, the system can be configured for different measurement modes, making a single instrument suitable for diverse analytical applications while maintaining high precision for each specific measurement type.
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 the versatility and precision of optical-based measurements by allowing for optimal wavelength selection, improving the instrument's ability to handle various types of samples and assays, thereby increasing measurement accuracy and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a monochromator configured for selecting a wavelength of excitation light
Implementation Method 2
a monochromator configured for selecting a wavelength of excitation light
Implementation Method 3
an excitation filter configured for transmitting the wavelength of excitation light selected by the monochromator
Implementation Method 4
a light source configured for generating excitation light
Implementation Method 5
the sample produces emission light in response to being irradiated by the excitation light
Implementation Method 6
the sample produces emission light in response to being irradiated by the excitation light
Implementation Method 7
a light detector configured for measuring emission light
Data Source
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AI summary
In an optical-based sample analysis, for example fluorescence-based or absorbance-based measurement, a selection is made between a first excitation light path and a second excitation light path. The first excitation light path directs excitation light from a light source, through an excitation monochromator, through an excitation filter, and to a sample. The second excitation light path directs excitation light from the light source, through the excitation filter, and to the sample while bypassing the excitation monochromator. Excitation light generated by the light source is transmitted along either the first excitation light path or the second excitation light path in accordance with the selection made, thereby irradiating the sample. In response the sample produces emission light (transmitted light in the case of absorbance measurements), which is transmitted to and measured by a light detector.