Optical Signal Detection Module Spatial Fiber Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample assay instruments face challenges in efficiently detecting optical signals from multiple sources with varying wavelengths, leading to misalignment issues and reduced accuracy in multiplex assays.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a system of signal transmission fibers with specific spatial core arrangements and a frame assembly that secures and reconfigures these fibers to maintain alignment, along with a signal detector carrier that moves to sequentially couple with each fiber end, allowing for precise detection of optical signals across different wavelengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple signal detectors are used to detect different wavelengths simultaneously, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity and alignment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection function into multiple signal detectors, each dedicated to a specific wavelength. This segmentation allows each detector to be optimized for its specific wavelength while maintaining overall system versatility. The frame assembly segments the fiber arrangements into distinct spatial configurations that can be independently aligned.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-plane fiber arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration with first ends in a first spatial arrangement and second ends in a second spatial arrangement. This dimensional change allows multiple detectors to be positioned at different locations and orientations, enabling simultaneous multi-wavelength detection while managing alignment complexity through spatial distribution.
2Measurement precision
If fibers are reconfigured from first spatial arrangement to second spatial arrangement, then detection accuracy is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly is pre-configured with positioning features that guide the fibers into their final spatial arrangement. The first ends are initially arranged in a first spatial configuration, and the frame assembly contains the necessary structures to reconfigure them to a second spatial arrangement, eliminating the need for complex post-manufacturing alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame assembly acts as an intermediary component between the fiber bundle and the signal detectors. It provides the mechanical structure and alignment features that enable the transformation from one spatial arrangement to another, simplifying the manufacturing process by decoupling fiber fabrication from final alignment.
3Measurement precision
If signal detector carrier moves sequentially to couple with each fiber end, then misalignment is reduced, but detection time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The signal detector carrier is designed to move dynamically between different positions, sequentially coupling with each fiber end. This dynamic positioning allows precise alignment with each fiber while maintaining the ability to quickly transition between detection points, optimizing the balance between alignment precision and detection speed.
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 configuration enhances the detection accuracy and efficiency by ensuring symmetric intensity patterns, reducing misalignment issues, and enabling precise measurement of optical signals from multiple sources, thereby improving the performance of multiplex assays.
Implementation Method 1
Each fiber is configured to transmit an optical signal between the first end and the second
Implementation Method 2
at least one signal detector configured to be optically coupled to the second end of each signal transmission fiber and configured to detect an optical signal emitted by each signal emission source
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for detecting an optical signal emission includes signal transmission fibers. Each fiber includes cores having the same spatial core arrangement at each end. The first ends are configured to be optically coupled to the signal emission sources. Each fiber is configured to transmit an optical signal between the first end and the second. The apparatus can also include a frame assembly securing the first ends of the fibers in a first spatial fiber arrangement corresponding to a spatial arrangement of the signal emission sources. The frame assembly can also secure the second ends of the fibers in a second spatial fiber arrangement different from the first spatial fiber arrangement. The apparatus can also include at least one signal detector configured to be optically coupled to the second ends of the fibers and configured to detect an optical signal emitted by each signal emission source.