Raman Probe Magnification Layer SERS Sensitivity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Raman spectroscopy probes face challenges in efficiently collecting Raman scattered light at the distal end of a scoping device, which limits the sensitivity of Raman spectroscopy for tissue analysis.
Innovation Solution
The Raman spectroscopy probe incorporates an elongate body with optical transmission lines and a magnification layer at the distal end, which enhances surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) by inducing surface plasmons, thereby increasing the sensitivity of Raman spectroscopy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large cross-sectional area of optical transmission line is provided, then Raman scattered light collection is improved, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical-chemical parameters of the optical transmission line by incorporating a magnification layer with high refractive index material. This layer modifies the optical parameters (refractive index contrast) to enhance light collection efficiency without increasing the physical cross-sectional area, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structure by combining the optical transmission line core with a magnification layer made of high refractive index material. This composite structure enables improved Raman scattered light collection through enhanced optical confinement and directionality, achieving better measurement precision without proportionally increasing device complexity
2Measurement precision
If surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is implemented using a magnification layer, then sensitivity is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements the magnification layer as a thin film structure with high refractive index material deposited on or integrated with the optical transmission line. This thin film approach enables SERS effect while maintaining ease of manufacture through established thin film deposition techniques, resolving the contradiction between sensitivity improvement and manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The magnification layer acts as an intermediary element between the optical transmission line and the tissue sample. It mediates the optical interaction by enhancing the electromagnetic field at the interface, thereby improving SERS sensitivity without requiring complex manufacturing processes, as it can be integrated as a separate functional layer
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 use of a magnification layer for surface-enhanced Raman scattering significantly enhances the Raman scattered light, leading to increased sensitivity and improved ability to analyze tissue, including cancerous tissue.
Implementation Method 1
The magnification layer is for inducing surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) at the exposed surface
Implementation Method 2
enhances surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) by inducing surface plasmons
Implementation Method 3
light for inducing Raman scattering in a tissue
Implementation Method 4
at least one optical transmission line within the elongate body for guiding light
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Various embodiments provide a Raman spectroscopy probe. The probe comprises an elongate body having a proximal end and a distal end. The probe comprises an optical transmission line within the elongate body for guiding light for inducing Raman scattering in a tissue between the proximal end and the distal end in a distal direction and for guiding Raman scattered light between the distal end and the proximal end in a proximal direction. The probe comprises a magnification layer arranged at or on the distal end. The magnification layer has an exposed surface for contacting the tissue, wherein the magnification layer is positioned such that the light for inducing Raman scattering impinges on the magnification layer. The magnification layer is for inducing surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) at the exposed surface.