Raman Flow Cell with Transparent Window for Liquid Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid or liquid monitoring systems lack an inexpensive and easily disassemblable flow cell apparatus for reliable sample volume analysis, particularly for detecting harmful substances in water supplies.
Innovation Solution
A flow cell apparatus with a body having an inlet and outlet port, a channel for liquid flow, and an optically transparent window for optical access, designed for easy disassembly and cleaning, with a gasket and retaining plate for secure assembly, suitable for various materials and applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a flow cell apparatus is designed to be easily disassembled for cleaning and part replacement, then ease of operation and maintenance are improved, but structural complexity and assembly reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The flow cell apparatus is divided into distinct modular components including a body, removable window, gasket, and retaining plate. This segmentation allows each component to be independently cleaned, replaced, or maintained without affecting the entire apparatus, directly enabling easy disassembly while managing structural complexity through standardized interfaces between modules.
2Measurement precision
If the channel depth is increased to allow sufficient excitation and illumination for Raman analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but the volume of liquid required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical window is positioned to provide localized optical access directly over the channel region where excitation and illumination occur. This concentrated optical interaction zone ensures sufficient Raman signal generation while limiting the total liquid volume required to only what is needed in the illuminated path, rather than requiring large volumes throughout the entire channel.
3Measurement precision
If an optically transparent window is added to provide optical access for analysis, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity and potential sources of error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optically transparent window serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides optical access for Raman analysis, acts as a sealing element for the channel, and serves as a removable component for easy cleaning and replacement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby managing device complexity while achieving the measurement capability.
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 reliable and cost-effective monitoring of liquids by providing optical access for analysis while minimizing air bubbles and allowing for efficient cleaning and replacement of parts, suitable for detecting chemical or biological substances in water samples.
Implementation Method 1
A window of optically transparent material overlies at least a portion of the channel to provide optical access to the liquid in the channel
Data Source
AI summary
A flow cell apparatus is provided comprising a body having a first surface, an inlet port and an outlet port. A channel is provided in the body having a first end and a second end. In one embodiment, the channel is sized so as to have a depth that allows for sufficient excitation and illumination of solutions or particles contained in a liquid to be analyzed. The inlet port is coupled to the first end of said channel and the outlet port is coupled to the second end of said channel. A window of optically transparent material overlies at least a portion of the channel to provide optical access to the liquid in the channel.