Automated SERS Calibration via Inkjet Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) methods require manual calibration curves and lookup tables for analyte concentration determination, which are prone to variations due to sample uniformity, environmental conditions, and device drift, making them inefficient for accurate quantitative analysis.
Innovation Solution
An integrated SERS concentration calibration system using an inkjet dispenser to automate the dispensing of known analyte concentrations onto a SERS substrate, generating a concentration-dependent array for automatic calibration curve creation, enabling rapid identification of unknown analyte concentrations without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual calibration curves and lookup tables are used for analyte concentration determination, then the system can perform SERS analysis, but measurement precision deteriorates due to variations from sample uniformity, environmental conditions, and device drift
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically generating fresh calibration curves at the point of testing using an inkjet dispenser to create concentration-dependent arrays. This eliminates the need for relying on pre-established manual calibration curves and lookup tables that are prone to variations, thereby improving measurement precision and reliability simultaneously.
2Productivity
If manual calibration processes are used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by incorporating an integrated inkjet dispenser that automatically dispenses analyte solutions at known concentrations to generate calibration curves without manual intervention. The system autonomously performs the entire calibration process, from dispensing to data acquisition, significantly improving productivity while the added complexity is justified by the automation benefits.
3Productivity
If automated inkjet dispensing is used to generate calibration curves, then productivity improves through rapid automatic calibration, but device complexity increases due to integration of dispensing system
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies merging by integrating the inkjet dispensing system with the SERS substrate and data acquisition components into a unified automated calibration platform. This combination allows the system to perform multiple functions (dispensing, sensing, and data collection) in one integrated unit, improving productivity while managing device complexity through functional consolidation.
4Measurement precision
If manual calibration methods are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but measurement precision worsens due to human error and variations
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical operations with automated electronic control. The inkjet dispenser is controlled by a computer or microprocessor to automatically dispense precise volumes of analyte solutions, eliminating human error in manual calibration operations. This substitution improves measurement precision while the automated control interface maintains ease of operation through software-driven simplicity.
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 minimizes measurement errors by automating the calibration process, improving accuracy and reducing variations, and allows for precise quantitative analysis of analytes at the point of testing.
Implementation Method 1
The systems incorporate both an inkjet dispenser and a SERS sensing system. The inkjet dispenser is able to quickly and reliably dispense small volumes of different known concentrations of a solution containing a known analyte into different sensing members of a SERS substrate.
Implementation Method 2
Raman spectroscopy is used to study the transitions between molecular energy states when photons interact with molecules, which results in the energy of the scattered photons being shifted. The Raman spectrum of different molecules or matters has characteristic peaks that can be used to identify the species.
Data Source
AI summary
A surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy calibration curve generating system includes a SERS sensor, which includes a substrate and a plurality of sensing members formed on the substrate. Each of the sensing members includes a plurality of SERS signal amplifying structures. An inkjet dispensing device is to dispense different concentrations of a solution including a known analyte of interest onto the respective sensing members to form a concentration dependent array. A Raman spectrometer is to interrogate the concentration dependent array. A processor is operatively connected to each of the inkjet dispensing device and the Raman spectrometer. Computer-readable instructions are embedded on a non-transitory, tangible computer-readable medium and are executable by the processor. The computer-readable instructions are to automatically generate an intensity profile as a function of concentration for the concentration dependent array.