Microscopic Raman Device Optical Axis Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Microscopic Raman devices with multiple laser light sources face the challenge of optical axis deviation when switching between laser light sources, affecting the accuracy and precision of Raman scattered light detection.

Innovation Solution

The microscopic Raman device employs a configuration with multiple dichroic beam splitters and mirrors, allowing for simultaneous irradiation of a sample with multiple laser lights without the need for optical axis deviation, ensuring consistent optical paths for Raman scattered light detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single optical element is used for multiple laser light sources, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to optical axis deviation during switching

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoptical element configurationVSAvoidRaman scattered light detection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the optical path into separate segments for each laser light source. Each laser light source has its own dedicated optical element (first optical element for first laser, second optical element for second laser), preventing optical axis deviation during switching while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular organization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If optical elements are switched between multiple laser light sources, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to optical axis deviation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelaser light source switching capabilityVSAvoidoptical element alignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The optical system is segmented into independent optical paths for each laser light source. Each path has its own optical element with a fixed optical axis, eliminating the need for precise realignment during switching and maintaining manufacturing precision while achieving adaptability through modular design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a universal optical path structure where multiple laser light sources can be switched without deviating from a common detection path. The spectrometer and detector serve multiple functions by receiving Raman scattered light from different laser sources through a unified optical architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If optical elements are switched for different laser wavelengths, then versatility is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to potential exposure to laser light during switching

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-wavelength laser capabilityVSAvoidsystem safety during switching

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The optical system is divided into separate, non-interfering paths for each laser wavelength. Each optical element is dedicated to a specific laser source, eliminating the need for switching operations that could cause accidental laser exposure and improving reliability while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 configuration prevents optical axis deviation during switching between laser light sources, enhancing the precision and accuracy of Raman scattered light detection and reducing the need for mechanical adjustments or exposure to laser light during switching.

Implementation Method 1

a first dichroic beam splitter that reflects the first laser light and allows a second laser light to pass therethrough; a second dichroic beam splitter that reflects the second laser light

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDichroic reflection: Dichroic Filter

Implementation Method 2

a first mirror that reflects light having a first wavelength range; a second mirror that reflects light having a second wavelength range

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 3

a spectrometer. When the first laser light is reflected by the first optical element and passes through the third optical element to irradiate a sample, a first Raman scattered light is generated from the sample

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpectroscopic dispersion: Diffraction Grating

Data Source

PatentUS12287290B2Microscopic Raman device

Publication Date: 2025.04.29 SHIMADZU CORP

AI summary

Provided is a microscopic Raman device including: a first laser light source that generates a first laser light; a second laser light source that generates a second laser light having a wavelength different from a wavelength of the first laser light; a first optical element; a second optical element; a third optical element; a fourth optical element; and a spectrometer. When the first laser light is reflected by the first optical element and passes through the third optical element to irradiate a sample, a first Raman scattered light is generated from the sample. When the second laser light is sequentially reflected by the second optical element, the fourth optical element, and the third optical element to irradiate the sample, a second Raman scattered light is generated from the sample. The first Raman scattered light passes through the third optical element and the first optical element to enter the spectrometer.