Compact Optical System for Particle Analyzer Using Dual Focus Light Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional particle analyzers require a larger detector unit due to the longer distance between the flow cell and the microscope objective lens, resulting in a less compact optical system.
Innovation Solution
A compact optical system for particle analyzers is achieved by positioning a light shielding member at a second focus between the condenser lens and photodetector, allowing for a shorter distance between the flow cell and detecting lens, and utilizing a beam splitter and dichroic mirror to optimize light path and detection angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a light shielding member (wire) is disposed between the flow cell and microscope objective lens to block direct light, then direct light blocking is achieved, but the distance between flow cell and detecting lens must be lengthened, resulting in a larger detector unit and particle analyzer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a second focal point in addition to the first focal point (at the flow cell). The light shielding member is positioned at this second focal point located between the condenser lens and photodetector, creating a new spatial dimension for light blocking that eliminates the need for increased distance between flow cell and detecting lens
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the second focal point as an intermediary location for placing the light shielding member. This intermediary position allows the shielding member to effectively block direct light paths while maintaining a compact overall optical system configuration
2Measurement precision
If a predetermined distance is maintained between photodetector and microscope objective lens for suitable optical magnification, then detection accuracy is ensured, but the detector unit becomes larger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical configuration by introducing a second focal point and repositioning the light shielding member, which allows for optimized optical magnification with reduced distances. This parameter change enables compact detector unit design while maintaining detection precision
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
The solution results in a more compact particle analyzer without increasing cost or complexity, enabling efficient detection of scattered and fluorescent light with improved optical magnification and reduced space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
the irradiation optical system forms a first focus that focuses the light from the light source on the particle passing through the flow cell
Implementation Method 2
forms a second focus that focuses the light from the light source at a position between the condenser lens and photodetector
Implementation Method 3
a light shielding member for blocking the direct light from the light source entering into the photodetector
Implementation Method 4
a condenser lens for directing the light toward the photodetector
Implementation Method 5
utilizing a beam splitter and dichroic mirror to optimize light path and detection angles
Implementation Method 6
utilizing a beam splitter and dichroic mirror to optimize light path and detection angles
Data Source
AI summary
A compact optical system for a particle analyzer and particle analyzer using same are provided. The optical system for a particle analyzer of the present invention comprises a light source, an irradiation optical system for irradiating particles passing through a flow cell with light from the light source, a photodetector for receiving the scattered light from the particles, a light shielding member for blocking the direct light from the light source from impinging the photodetector, and a detecting lens for directing the scattered light toward the photodetector, wherein the irradiation optical system forms a first focus that focuses the light from the light source on the particle passing through the flow cell, and forms a second focus that focuses the light from the light source at a position between the detecting lens and photodetector, and disposes the light shielding member at the position of the second focus.