Optical Reader Spot Array for Parallel SERS Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) technologies face challenges in efficiently detecting substances of interest, such as explosives and toxins, due to time-consuming analysis processes that can lead to decomposition or unrecognizability of substances, and limitations in simultaneous multi-location data collection.
Innovation Solution
The development of optical readers that generate a spot array on a substrate using a holographic spot pattern generator, coupled with a feedback loop and actuator system, allowing for real-time parallel detection of substances by focusing and adjusting the light intensity to achieve threshold levels, enabling simultaneous multi-location data collection and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional SERS detection methods are used, then detection capability is achieved, but analysis time is too long causing substance decomposition or unrecognizability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection process into multiple parallel measurement locations on the substrate. Instead of analyzing one location at a time, the system simultaneously measures multiple spots where different substances of interest may be present, thereby reducing total analysis time while maintaining detection accuracy for each substance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from sequential one-dimensional detection to parallel two-dimensional spatial detection by illuminating multiple locations on the substrate simultaneously. This dimensional expansion allows concurrent measurement of multiple substances across different spatial positions, eliminating time delays that cause substance decomposition
2Productivity
If sequential single-location detection is used, then measurement precision is maintained, but productivity is too low
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple independent measurement channels, each targeting a specific location on the substrate. This segmentation enables parallel processing of multiple substances simultaneously, increasing productivity without requiring a complete redesign of the core detection mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The optical detection system is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple substances of interest across different locations on the substrate using a single integrated instrument. The system can detect various substances (explosives, toxins, etc.) at multiple sites simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate analysis operations
3Loss of time
If multiple locations are detected sequentially, then measurement precision is maintained, but time delay causes substance decomposition
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements simultaneous multi-location detection by expanding from sequential one-point measurement to parallel multi-point measurement across the substrate surface. This dimensional transition ensures all locations are measured at the same time, eliminating time delays that cause substance decomposition while maintaining spectral measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary positioning and alignment of multiple measurement locations before actual detection begins. By pre-configuring the spatial arrangement of measurement spots and ensuring proper optical alignment, the system enables immediate simultaneous measurement without sequential delays, preventing substance degradation during setup
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 significantly increases the analysis rate, reduces the time required for thorough analysis, and enhances the likelihood of detecting substances of interest by allowing for negligible time differences between detections, thereby preventing decomposition and ensuring accurate recognition.
Implementation Method 1
a spot pattern generator to receive the light beam and to generate a two-dimensional spot array from the light beam
Implementation Method 2
an objective lens that focuses the light beams to the substrate at different locations
Implementation Method 3
the objective lens collects the reflected light from the substrate and focuses the reflected light to a single location on the sensor
Implementation Method 4
a sensor to convert the reflected light into an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
Optical readers are disclosed in examples herein. An example optical reader including a light source to emit a light beam; and a spot pattern generator to receive the light beam and to generate a two-dimensional spot array from the light beam, the two-dimensional spot array to be directed toward a substrate having nanostructures, the two-dimensional spot array to be sensed to detect a presence or an absence of a substance of interest on the substrate.