Shutter Assembly for Luminescence Sample Analyzer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luminescence-based analyzers are physically large and lack a compact, portable design due to the separation of illumination and detection systems, which complicates the use of multiple illumination sources and poses a risk to sensitive detectors.
Innovation Solution
A luminescence-based sample analyzer with a shutter assembly that allows both illumination and detection from the same side of the assay sample vessel, using a shutter mechanism with parallel blades and a reflector to direct photons towards the detector while protecting it from the illuminator during measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the detector is widely separated from the high intensity light source and path barriers are provided, then the detector is protected from damage, but the device size increases and portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the illumination source and detector into a single-side configuration, eliminating the need for wide separation and internal path barriers. The shutter mechanism enables both functions to share the same optical path without compromising detector protection, thereby reducing device size while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter assembly acts as an intermediary component that controls light exposure to the detector. It serves as a protective barrier during illumination and allows unobstructed detection during measurement, resolving the contradiction between detector protection and compact design
2Reliability
If multiple illumination sources are used to achieve proper illumination intensity without harming the detector, then detector protection is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple access points required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the illumination and detection functions into a single access point configuration. The shutter mechanism enables one illumination source to be used without requiring multiple access points, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining detector protection
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter assembly provides dynamic control of the optical path, transitioning between illumination mode and detection mode. This dynamic switching enables a single illumination source to be used safely with a single access point, eliminating the need for multiple static access points
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 design results in a compact, energy-efficient analyzer that effectively activates samples for luminescence analysis while safeguarding the detector, enhancing portability and reducing power consumption by using a stepper motor for precise shutter control.
Implementation Method 1
The illuminator causes luminescence of the assay sample
Implementation Method 2
The resulting photon emission, often very weak, is then detected and measured with a sensitive detector, converted to an electrical signal
Implementation Method 3
The shutter assembly includes an illuminator and is positioned between the detector and the support, intersecting the optical axis
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 2
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
A sample analyzer has a support for an assay sample vessel, a detector, and a shutter assembly. The assay sample vessel contains an assay sample within an assay sample reservoir. The detector has an optical axis aligned with the assay sample reservoir, so as to detect luminescence from the assay sample. The shutter assembly includes an illuminator and is positioned between the detector and the support, intersecting the optical axis, such that the illuminator causes luminescence of the assay sample. Thus both illumination and detection occur on the same side of the assay sample vessel.