Raman Spectroscopy Probe With Chromatic Depth Splitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Raman spectroscopy methods lack depth resolution and miniaturization, making them unsuitable for invasive diagnostics, particularly in human tissues and aorta examinations, where precise depth information and miniaturized sensors are required for accurate tumor diagnostics and plaque analysis.
Innovation Solution
The method employs chromatic depth splitting of foci using quasi-monochromatic electromagnetic radiation with multiple discrete wavelengths or wavelength tuning, combined with chromatic depth splitting elements, to achieve depth-resolved Raman spectroscopy, allowing for simultaneous or sequential formation of multiple foci in the object space, and uses achromatization and diffractive elements for improved focus alignment and detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If chromatic depth splitting of foci is implemented using multiple wavelengths, then depth resolution is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the excitation light into multiple discrete wavelengths, with each wavelength forming a separate focus at a different depth in the object space. This segmentation enables depth-resolved Raman spectroscopy by assigning specific depth ranges to specific wavelengths, thereby achieving depth resolution without requiring mechanical scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wavelength as an additional dimension for depth encoding. By using chromatic depth splitting, the system maps wavelength to depth position, creating a four-dimensional measurement space (x, y, z, λ) where wavelength serves as a proxy for depth. This dimensional approach enables simultaneous multi-depth measurement without mechanical movement.
2Ease of operation
If miniaturization of Raman probe is achieved, then ease of operation for invasive diagnostics is improved, but detection sensitivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested fiber optic structure where a single-mode fiber core is embedded within a double-clad fiber. The single-mode core delivers excitation light while the double-clad structure collects Raman scattered light. This nesting enables miniaturization of the probe while maintaining efficient light delivery and collection, thereby preserving detection sensitivity in a compact form factor suitable for invasive diagnostics.
3Measurement precision
If multiple wavelengths are used for excitation, then depth resolution is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic modulation of multiple wavelength sources, switching between different wavelengths in a time-multiplexed manner rather than illuminating all wavelengths simultaneously. This periodic activation reduces peak power requirements and overall energy consumption while still achieving depth-resolved measurements through sequential excitation at different depths.
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 approach enables high diagnostic certainty with depth-resolved Raman spectroscopy, facilitating minimally invasive examinations, such as in vivo tissue analysis and plaque detection, while reducing the probe size and improving focus alignment for enhanced diagnostic accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
Raman spectroscopy with at least one Raman excitation light source (1.1, 1.2, 1.3) or Raman excitation light source system (1) for Raman excitation by irradiating
Implementation Method 2
forming either simultaneously or sequentially of at least two spatially distributed foci or focused areas by spectral decomposition with chromatic depth splitting in object space
Implementation Method 3
capturing the inelastically scattered Raman radiation, feeding the inelastically scattered Raman radiation to the spectrometer, detecting the inelastically scattered Raman radiation using the spectrometer
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4.1~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and arrangement for Raman spectroscopy with an excitation light source system, which simultaneously or serially activates Raman excitation light with different discrete wavelengths or adjusts the wavelengths of same. In this way, light with different wavelengths is used in the Raman excitation. The focussing optic of the arrangement is designed with chromatic means for these excitation wavelengths or is assigned same, such that, on the one hand, an excitation focus shifts into the depths of the object space in a predetermined manner during the wavelength adjustment. On the other hand, multiple separated excitation foci are formed in the depths of the object space, during the simultaneous or serial activation of Raman excitation light of different wavelengths. The object space can be, for example, the inside of an aorta or an artery. The light that is Raman-scattered at different depths in the object space is separated on the return and supplied for spectroscopic detection.