Removable Absolute Transmission Accessory for Unmodified FTIR Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional FTIR spectrometers require modifications to optical elements for absolute transmission measurements, which can lead to damage or improper installation, rendering them unusable for other types of measurements and risking inaccurate results.
Innovation Solution
An absolute transmission (AT) device is integrated into the spectrometer without altering existing optics, allowing for collimated light to be directed to the sample through a removable AT device that includes an aperture and screen, optionally with an on-board detector for sample detection, enabling AT measurements without modifying the spectrometer's components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If optical elements are modified or replaced to enable absolute transmission measurements, then measurement capability is improved, but device reliability and usability deteriorate due to risk of damage and inability to perform other measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The optical path is divided into separate functional modules: a first optical element for generating collimated light, a second optical element for focusing light to the sample compartment, and an AT device for absolute transmission measurements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical path through the AT device that allows collimated light to reach the sample without requiring modification of the primary spectrometer optics. The AT device acts as a mediator that enables absolute transmission measurements while preserving the integrity of the original optical system for other measurement types.
2Measurement precision
If optical elements are modified for absolute transmission measurements, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components and installation risks
Solution Approach 1:
The spectrometer is designed with multi-functionality, where the same optical path can support both traditional spectrometer measurements and absolute transmission measurements. The AT device can be integrated without requiring permanent modification to the optical elements, allowing the system to perform multiple measurement types with a single configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical elements and AT device are pre-configured and positioned to enable absolute transmission measurements without requiring on-the-fly modifications or complex installation procedures. The collimated light path is established in advance through the first optical element, and the focusing is pre-arranged through the second optical element, simplifying the measurement process.
3Device complexity
If traditional optical elements are used without modification, then device simplicity is maintained, but ability to perform absolute transmission measurements is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is designed with dynamic flexibility, allowing the AT device to be integrated or removed from the optical path as needed. The first and second optical elements can be positioned to enable absolute transmission measurements when the AT device is present, while maintaining the ability to perform traditional measurements when the AT device is removed, providing adaptability without permanent modification.
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 efficient and accurate AT measurements without altering the spectrometer's internal components, maintaining its usability for other measurement types and reducing the risk of damage or improper installation.
Implementation Method 1
Such spectrometers typically incorporate an interferometer such as a Michelson interferometer that has a beamsplitter and a moving mirror. The interferometer modulates the beam from a source to provide an output beam in which the intensity of the radiation at various wavelengths is varied.
Implementation Method 2
The first optical element is configured to receive the modulated light and direct the modulated light towards a second optical element
Implementation Method 3
The second optical element focuses the modulated light to a sample compartment
Implementation Method 4
The aperture and screen are provided to direct an incoming light beam to the sample and downstream optical components
Implementation Method 5
The detector compartment is configured to receive the modulated light from the sample compartment
Data Source
AI summary
An absolute transmission accessory for a spectrometer. One example spectrometer system includes a base plate, a light source configured to transmit light, and an interferometer mounted to the base plate. The interferometer receives the light from the light source and output modulated light. The spectrometer system includes a first optical element configured to receive the modulated light and direct the modulated light, and a second optical element configured to receive the modulated light and focus the modulated light to a sample compartment. The spectrometer system includes a detector compartment including one or more detectors, the detector compartment configured to receive light from the sample compartment. The spectrometer system includes a sample holder coupled to the base plate. The modulated light is directed to the sample holder, and light exiting the sample holder is directed through the sample compartment and to the detector compartment via the second optical element.