Optical Sensor Signal Separation for Antioxidant Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods lack an effective means to measure and separate non-fluorescence and fluorescence signals to assess antioxidant levels in the body, which are crucial for evaluating health and life habits.
Innovation Solution
An optical sensor system that includes a light source, a signal separator, and photodetectors to distinguish between non-fluorescence and fluorescence signals, using filters and photodetectors to detect and analyze these signals, and a processor to estimate analyte concentrations and health conditions based on the detected signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current measurement methods are used, then general health assessment is possible, but accurate measurement and separation of non-fluorescence and fluorescence signals for antioxidant levels cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical signal detection into two separate detection paths: one for non-fluorescence signals and another for fluorescence signals. By using distinct photodetector parts and signal processing channels, the system segments the measurement process to accurately capture both signal types independently, thereby achieving precise measurement of antioxidant levels without signal interference
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical filter as an intermediary component between the sample and photodetectors. The filter selectively transmits or blocks specific wavelengths, enabling the separation of fluorescence signals from non-fluorescence signals. This intermediary element facilitates accurate signal discrimination and prevents information loss in the measurement process
2Adaptability or versatility
If simple optical detection is used, then device complexity is low, but the ability to separately detect non-fluorescence and fluorescence signals is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs an optical sensor that performs multiple functions within a single integrated device: it can detect both non-fluorescence signals (for total antioxidant capacity) and fluorescence signals (for specific antioxidant levels) using the same light source and detector platform. This multi-functional approach enhances adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the detection system into specialized components: a light source for excitation, optical filters for wavelength selection, and separate photodetector parts for different signal types. This modular segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system manageability and reduced complexity
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 accurate measurement and analysis of antioxidant levels, such as carotenoids and flavonoids, allowing for the assessment of health conditions and life habits by reconstructing spectra and applying regression or machine learning techniques.
Implementation Method 1
a light source part configured to emit light onto an object
Implementation Method 2
a signal separator configured to separate optical signals, returning from the object, into a fluorescence signal and a non-fluorescence signal
Implementation Method 3
The signal separator may include at least one of a dichroic filter, a beam splitter, a cut-on filter, or a cut-off filter
Implementation Method 4
a first photodetector part configured to detect the non-fluorescence signal; and a second photodetector part configured to detect the fluorescence signal
Data Source
AI summary
An optical sensor according to an example embodiment includes: a light source part configured to emit light onto an object; a signal separator configured to separate optical signals, returning from the object, into a fluorescence signal and a non-fluorescence signal; a first photodetector part configured to detect the non-fluorescence signal; and a second photodetector part configured to detect the fluorescence signal.