Sliding Spectrometry Module for Mobile Device Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spectrometers integrated with mobile communication devices face challenges in seamlessly switching between spectrometry and camera functionality, requiring complex configurations and separate components that are not compact or user-friendly.
Innovation Solution
A portable communication device with a sliding spectrometry module that includes a first and second waveguide, an analyte region, and a spectral dispersion element comprising a diffraction grating, allowing the module to be moved between spectrometry and image capture configurations, enabling simultaneous use of camera and flash functionality for radiation analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a spectrometer is integrated with a mobile communication device, then the functionality for analyte identification is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the spectrometry module with the mobile communication device by integrating the radiation source, waveguide, diffraction grating, and detector into a unified structure that shares components with the camera system, thereby achieving analyte identification functionality while managing device complexity through component sharing
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile communication device is designed to perform multiple functions: standard imaging through the camera and spectrometry for analyte identification. The radiation source and optical components serve dual purposes, enabling the device to function as both a camera and a spectrometer depending on the configuration of the sliding module
2Measurement precision
If separate components are used for spectrometry and camera functionality, then the measurement precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The spectrometry module is designed to slide between two positions, dynamically changing the optical path. In the first position, radiation from the analyte passes through the diffraction grating to the detector for spectrometry. In the second position, the module allows standard camera operation. This dynamic reconfiguration enables precise spectrometry measurements while maintaining ease of operation through automatic or simple manual switching
3Adaptability or versatility
If a sliding spectrometry module is implemented, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spectrometry module is nested within the mobile communication device, with the radiation source, waveguide, diffraction grating, and detector arranged in a compact configuration that fits within the device housing. The sliding mechanism allows the module to move between positions while remaining integrated with the overall device structure, managing complexity through nested component arrangement
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
The solution provides a simple, compact, and robust apparatus that can efficiently switch between spectrometry and image capture modes, facilitating easy analysis of analytes and image capture without the need for separate devices, enhancing usability and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The transmitted or reflected radiation can then be diffracted by a diffraction grating to yield a spectrum which is characteristic of the analyte
Implementation Method 2
a first waveguide configured to transmit radiation from the radiation source toward an analyte region
Implementation Method 3
a second waveguide configured to transmit diffracted radiation from the analyte region toward the camera
Implementation Method 4
the radiation from the radiation source is then reflected from, or transmitted by, the analyte
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 1c~2a
AI summary
In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, apparatus comprising a waveguide and a spectral dispersion element, the apparatus being configured to be moveably attachable to a portable device, the portable device comprising a radiation sensing element and a radiation source, the apparatus being configured to be moveably attachable to the portable device to provide a first configuration in which the waveguide is positioned to transmit radiation from the radiation source towards an analyte region and/or from the analyte region towards the dispersion element; and such that the dispersion element is positioned to disperse radiation from the analyte region to form a spectrum which is provided towards the radiation sensing element for spectral analysis, and a second configuration in which the radiation sensing element and radiation source are able to capture and illuminate a scene for image capture.