Raman Signal Detection Using Timing Control to Reduce Fluorescence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Raman spectroscopy is hindered by the low intensity of Raman scattered light and the interference of background fluorescence, which complicates molecular analysis, and existing methods to separate Raman signals often distort or reduce the precision of low-intensity signals.
Innovation Solution
A Raman signal measuring method and apparatus that emit exciting light and detect scattered light before fluorescence is generated, using timing signals to control the illumination and detection systems, ensuring that the detection of light is terminated before fluorescence occurs, thereby minimizing the impact of background fluorescence and enhancing signal precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If filters are used to separate Raman signals from background fluorescence, then fluorescence interference is reduced, but Raman signal precision is distorted and measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting Raman scattered light signals within a specific time window that ends before the fluorescence window begins. The timing controller pre-establishes the detection timing to capture Raman signals before fluorescence interference occurs, thereby eliminating the need for filters that would otherwise distort the signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the temporal detection process into distinct time windows: a Raman signal detection window and a fluorescence window. By separating the detection timing into these distinct segments, the system can capture Raman signals without contamination from fluorescence, achieving both fluorescence rejection and signal precision preservation.
2Quantity of substance
If the detection time window is extended to capture more Raman signals, then signal intensity increases, but fluorescence interference increases and measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by establishing a detection time window that captures Raman signals before fluorescence begins. The timing controller is configured to terminate Raman signal detection before the fluorescence window starts, ensuring maximum signal capture without fluorescence contamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action by using pulsed exciting light and corresponding periodic detection windows. Each excitation pulse generates a Raman signal within a specific time window, followed by a fluorescence window that is excluded from detection. This periodic timing structure allows repeated capture of clean Raman signals.
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 allows for the accurate detection of Raman signals with reduced background fluorescence interference, improving the precision and reliability of molecular analysis in Raman spectroscopy.
Implementation Method 1
emitting exciting light from an optical illumination system including a light source toward a target object to be analyzed
Implementation Method 2
If light is incident on a sample to be analyzed, inelastically scattered light having a wavelength different from that of the incident light may be detected. This frequency shift between incident light and scattered light is called 'Raman shift' and indicates the state of vibrational or rotational energy of molecules.
Implementation Method 3
samples to be analyzed may absorb incident light as well as scattering the incident light, and may thus exhibit strong fluorescence, resulting in additional difficulties in performing Raman spectroscopy. This fluorescence is called 'background fluorescence'
Implementation Method 4
detecting light scattered from the target object, by using an optical detection system including an optical detector
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided are a Raman signal measuring method and apparatus (1000) which use a difference in a time scale between Raman scattered light and fluorescence. Thus, after exciting light is incident upon a target object, light scattered from the target object may be detected before the target object generates fluorescence in response to the exciting light. As a result, a Raman signal in which background fluorescence is reduced may be obtained.