Scanning Light Source Waveguide Coupling for Bio-analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical bio-analysis methods using waveguides face limitations such as short interaction length between bio-samples and light, high background noise, sensitivity to planarity and position, slow operation, and costly complex systems due to the need for precise light coupling into miniature waveguides.
Innovation Solution
A method for coupling light into optical waveguides using a spatially scanning light source, where the light beam is translated relative to the waveguide to generate optical pulses, allowing for simple and cost-effective multi-wavelength pulse injection into multiple waveguides.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional light coupling mechanisms are used to couple light into miniature waveguides, then light coupling precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical light coupling mechanisms with a scanning light source approach. Instead of using precise mechanical alignment systems to couple light into waveguides, the invention uses a scanning light beam that can be dynamically directed to intersect with waveguides at desired locations, eliminating the need for complex mechanical coupling structures while maintaining coupling precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic scanning light source that can move and redirect light beams in real-time to couple with multiple waveguides. This dynamic approach allows a single light source to serve multiple waveguides sequentially, replacing static complex coupling mechanisms with a flexible, movable light delivery system
2Productivity
If multiple waveguides are used to increase analysis capacity, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single light source universal by enabling it to couple with multiple different waveguides through scanning and redirection mechanisms. This single light source performs the function of what would traditionally require multiple dedicated light sources, one for each waveguide, thereby increasing analysis capacity while reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the light delivery function across multiple waveguides that can be selectively activated. Instead of having all waveguides active simultaneously requiring complex multi-source coordination, the system segments the analysis into sequential operations on individual waveguides using a single scanning light source
3Measurement precision
If confocal scanning systems are used for microarray analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but operation speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic scanning of the light source across multiple waveguides in a systematic sequence. This periodic action allows the system to maintain precise measurement at each waveguide location while efficiently cycling through all waveguides, improving overall operation speed compared to traditional sequential confocal scanning of microarrays
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 enhances signal strength, reduces noise, improves operational speed, and simplifies the system by eliminating the need for complex light coupling mechanisms, thereby increasing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of optical bio-analysis.
Implementation Method 1
A method for coupling light into optical waveguides using a spatially scanning light source, where the light beam is translated relative to the waveguide to generate optical pulses
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides methods and devices for generating optical pulses in one or more waveguides using a spatially scanning light source. A detection system, methods of use thereof and kits for detecting a biologically active analyte molecule are also provided. The system includes a scanning light source, a substrate comprising a plurality of waveguides and a plurality of optical sensing sites in optical communication with one or more waveguide of the substrate, a detector that is coupled to and in optical communication with the substrate, and means for spatially translating a light beam emitted from said scanning light source such that the light beam is coupled to and in optical communication with the waveguides of the substrate at some point along its scanning path. The use of a scanning light source allows the coupling of light into the waveguides of the substrate in a simple and cost-effective manner.