Pixel Array Spectral Detector for Biological Sample Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spectrophotometric methods for analyzing biological samples lack precision in spectral analysis, particularly in accurately detecting light absorption across a wide spectrum, leading to incomplete characterization of biological specimens.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a pixel array detector with band pass filters and optical guiding members to ensure orthogonal illumination and precise wavelength detection, allowing for the acquisition of high-resolution spectral signatures by filtering and directing light through a biological sample, and a controller for analyzing and comparing these signatures with stored data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a traditional spectrophotometer is used to measure light absorption, then the device can measure intensity as a function of wavelength, but the measurement precision is insufficient for accurate spectral analysis of biological samples
Solution Approach 1:
The detector is divided into multiple pixels arranged in an array, with each pixel detecting light at a specific wavelength. This segmentation allows simultaneous measurement of multiple wavelengths, improving spectral analysis precision while maintaining manageable device complexity through parallel processing
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from measuring intensity at a single wavelength to measuring intensity across multiple wavelengths simultaneously by adding the wavelength dimension. The pixel array detects light intensities across the spectrum, enabling comprehensive spectral analysis that traditional single-wavelength spectrophotometers cannot achieve
2Measurement precision
If the light source illuminates the sample without proper guidance, then the setup is simple, but the illumination is not even and orthogonal, reducing measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
An optical guiding member is introduced as an intermediary component between the light source and the sample. This member directs and shapes the light to provide even, orthogonal illumination across the sample, improving measurement precision while the modular design keeps the added complexity manageable
3Measurement precision
If no wavelength filtering is used, then the detector receives all wavelengths, but the spectral signature is incomplete and lacks wavelength-specific information
Solution Approach 1:
Each pixel in the detector array is associated with a specific wavelength range through wavelength-selective filters. This local quality assignment ensures that each pixel detects light at its designated wavelength, providing complete spectral information with wavelength-specific accuracy. The filter array structure, while adding complexity, enables this precise wavelength discrimination
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 characterization of biological samples by providing detailed spectral information, enhancing the detection of molecules and substances within the sample, including viruses, through precise wavelength analysis and calibration.
Implementation Method 1
a light source for illuminating the compound specimen with a spectrum of light
Implementation Method 2
detector configured for detecting light transmitted through or reflected from the biological sample
Implementation Method 3
a band pass filter disposed along the array of pixels and being configured to filter various wavelengths of the spectrum
Implementation Method 4
pixel array having a plurality of pixels each of which being configured to detect intensity of one wavelength within the spectrum
Implementation Method 5
optical guiding member for directing illumination from the light source to the seat and the cuvette and being configured to form an even and orthogonal illumination
Data Source
AI summary
A device for spectral analysis including a seat for holding therein a compound specimen; a light source for illuminating the compound specimen with a spectrum of light; and a detector configured for detecting light transmitted through or reflected from the biological sample, the detector including a pixel array having a plurality of pixels each of which being configured to detect intensity of one wavelength within the spectrum such that the pixel array obtains a spectral signature of the biological sample including intensities of wavelengths within the spectrum.