Standoff Raman System Using Fiber Bundle Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing direct imaging Raman spectroscopy systems face challenges in accurately separating Raman signals from fluorescence noise and are often cumbersome due to sensitive optical components, making them difficult to use in portable and field-rugged applications, especially in harsh environments where reliable detection of chemicals like explosives is required.
Innovation Solution
A portable system using a fiber optic bundle with a 2D pattern that rearranges into a linear array, allowing individual spectral evaluation of each fiber optic, which enhances signal distinction from noise without relying on spatial correlation or fluorescence removal techniques, and includes a user interface for effective operation and feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional direct imaging Raman spectroscopy systems are used, then Raman signal detection is achieved, but the systems become cumbersome and difficult to use in portable applications
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the collected light into multiple discrete optical fibers arranged in a 2D pattern, with each fiber transmitting light to a corresponding position in a linear array. This segmentation allows the system to maintain spectral resolution while reducing the complexity of optical components needed for portable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the optical fiber arrangement by mapping the 2D pattern of fibers to a linear array of positions. This digital representation eliminates the need for complex spatial correlation hardware while preserving the spectral information from each fiber, enabling portable operation.
2Measurement precision
If fluorescence removal techniques are used, then Raman signal separation is improved, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the light collection into discrete optical fibers, the system segments the spectral information so that each fiber can be independently analyzed. This segmentation enables simple digital signal processing to separate Raman signals from fluorescence without requiring complex optical filters or additional hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex optical fluorescence removal mechanisms with digital signal processing algorithms. Instead of using additional optical components to physically separate signals, the invention uses computational methods to distinguish Raman signals from fluorescence in the digital domain, reducing hardware complexity.
3Loss of information
If spatial mapping of optical fibers is used, then fiber-to-FOV correlation is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a digital copy of the fiber arrangement pattern and uses this digital map to correlate fiber positions with field of view locations. This digital copying approach eliminates the need for complex mechanical alignment and real-time spatial mapping hardware, reducing system complexity while maintaining spatial correlation accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-establishes the spatial mapping relationship between the 2D fiber pattern and the linear array positions during system setup. This preliminary configuration stores the correlation data digitally, eliminating the need for real-time spatial mapping calculations during operation and reducing computational complexity.
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 achieves robust, accurate, and portable chemical detection with improved resolution and precision, capable of identifying trace amounts of substances without complex spatial mapping or fluorescence removal, and provides intuitive user feedback for operation.
Implementation Method 1
One way of translating collected light from the FOV of a Raman imaging spectrometer to the imaging plane is through a fiber optic bundle
Implementation Method 2
use of a laser as an illumination source allows a pinpointed collimated beam to interrogate the target surface
Implementation Method 3
Reflectance along the same optical path can be collected and evaluated for Raman scattering
Implementation Method 4
optical collector/telescope to both interrogate a target surface with light energy and then collect and focus reflectance
Implementation Method 5
evaluated for Raman scattering
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a highly portable, highly flexible standard of distance chemical detector such as can be used, for example, for standoff detection of explosives. Aspects of the invention include techniques for portability compactness and ways to diminish influence of fluorescence on Raman spectroscopy. Additional features can include a compact imaging spectrometer, a wirelessly connected smart device for user interface, and an auto-focus/range finder.