Polarization Detector Array for Fluorescence Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluorescence imaging systems are bulky and expensive, limiting their effectiveness in applications such as fluorescence anisotropy imaging microscopy (FAIM) and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM).
Innovation Solution
A detector array with photo-sensitive detectors equipped with linear polarization filters and wavelength filters, capable of detecting photoluminescence and processing outputs to provide FAIM and FLIM information, utilizing SPADs and an image signal processor to correlate polarized and unpolarized signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional fluorescence imaging systems are used to achieve FAIM and FLIM measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection functions (polarization filtering at different orientations and wavelength filtering) into a single detector array. Each pixel in the array is equipped with specific polarization filters and wavelength filters, allowing simultaneous acquisition of FAIM and FLIM data without requiring separate detection systems. This merging reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The detector array is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: detecting polarized fluorescence for anisotropy measurements and detecting fluorescence lifetime for FLIM measurements. The universal detector design eliminates the need for specialized equipment for each measurement type, reducing overall system complexity while preserving measurement capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If multiple separate detection systems are used for FAIM and FLIM, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of separate FAIM and FLIM detection systems into a single integrated detector array. By equipping each pixel with polarization filters and wavelength filters, the system can simultaneously perform both types of measurements, eliminating the need for multiple separate systems while maintaining the precision required for each measurement type.
3Measurement precision
If traditional imaging systems with extensive equipment are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies operation by combining all necessary filtering and detection functions into a single detector array. Users no longer need to operate multiple separate systems or perform complex setup procedures; the integrated array automatically performs both FAIM and FLIM measurements simultaneously, greatly improving ease of operation while maintaining measurement 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
Enables compact, cost-effective detection and imaging of fluorescence anisotropy and lifetime, facilitating advanced molecular analysis without the need for extensive additional equipment, thereby improving spatial resolution and molecular characterization.
Implementation Method 1
The degree of depolarization that has occurred can be measured by separating the emitted light into orthogonal linear components
Implementation Method 2
a detector for detecting photoluminescence from a sample, the detector comprising: an array of photo-sensitive detectors configured to receive photoluminescence
Data Source
AI summary
Photoluminescence from a sample detector is detected using an array of photo-sensitive detectors. At least one first photo-sensitive detector of the array is provided with a first type of linear polarization filter and at least one second photo-sensitive detector is provided with a second type of linear polarization filter. The first type of linear polarization filter has a plane of polarization which is at angled with respect to a plane of polarization of said second type of polarization filter.