Portable Raman System Optical Coupling for Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing portable Raman systems are often inaccurate or unreliable for certain technical applications and can only perform Raman measurements with fixed sample configurations, while traditional vials require large sample volumes for Raman spectroscopy.

Innovation Solution

A portable Raman system comprising an optical source, spectrometer, and optical system that allows for coupling light from one or more optical sources and spectrometers to a sample, enabling flexible measurement configurations and smaller sample volumes through a compact, handheld design with interchangeable sample holders and optical components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of moving object

If portable Raman systems are used, then portability is improved, but measurement accuracy and reliability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple optical sources and spectrometers into a single portable Raman system, integrating their functions through a common optical path and control system. This merging allows the compact device to leverage the combined capabilities of multiple components, achieving both portability and measurement accuracy by consolidating functionality rather than relying on a single simplified component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Device complexity

If fixed sample configuration is used, then device simplicity is improved, but measurement versatility deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice simplicityVSAvoidmeasurement versatility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic sample configuration capabilities within the portable Raman system, allowing the optical path, sample holders, and measurement parameters to be adjusted and reconfigured during operation. This dynamic adaptability enables the system to handle various sample types and measurement requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure through programmable control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If traditional vials are used, then sample holding capability is improved, but sample volume requirement increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesample holding capabilityVSAvoidsample volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the traditional vial design by changing key parameters such as volume, shape, and optical properties to create optimized sample holders for portable Raman spectroscopy. These parameter changes enable the use of smaller sample volumes while maintaining ease of operation and compatibility with the portable device's optical system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 system provides accurate and flexible Raman spectroscopy capabilities for various applications, allowing measurements on smaller sample volumes while maintaining a standard vial form-factor and enabling the use of external, more powerful optical sources and spectrometers for enhanced performance.

Implementation Method 1

A present disclosure relates to a Raman system for use in performing Raman spectroscopy on a sample

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRaman scattering:

Data Source

PatentUS11287383B2Optical Raman system
Publication Date: 2022.03.29 UNIV COURT OF THE UNIV OF ST ANDREWS
  • US11287383B2 patent drawing
  • US11287383B2 patent drawing
  • US11287383B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A Raman system for use in performing Raman spectroscopy on a sample, comprises an optical source, a spectrometer, and an optical system for coupling light from the optical source to a sample and for coupling light from the sample to the spectrometer and a further spectrometer. A Raman system for use in performing Raman spectroscopy on a sample, comprises an optical source, a spectrometer and an optical system for coupling light from the optical source and a further optical source to a sample and for coupling light from the sample to the spectrometer. The optical system may be configured for coupling light from the optical source and the further optical source to the sample and for coupling light from the sample to the spectrometer and the further spectrometer. The Raman system may be portable and/or may be configured to be transported and/or carried and/or may be handheld.