Spectrometer Calibration Using Dual Light Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transmission spectroscopy calibration is challenging, especially in thermal and physical environments, as existing methods require frequent interruption of measurement processes to perform baseline or calibrating measurements, which is impractical and affects spectral performance.
Innovation Solution
A method using a diffuser and internal light sources to calibrate a spectrometer without mechanical devices, allowing for frequent calibration updates without stopping the measurement process, using a combination of dark-state and light-state baseline calibration values to maintain spectral performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If frequent calibration measurements are performed to maintain spectral performance, then measurement precision is improved, but the measurement process must be interrupted which reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the calibration function into two separate light sources: a first light source dedicated to calibration measurements and a second light source dedicated to sample measurements. This segmentation allows calibration and measurement to occur independently without interfering with each other, resolving the contradiction by enabling frequent calibration without interrupting the measurement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs calibration measurements using the first light source before switching to the second light source for sample measurements. By completing calibration in advance and maintaining readiness, the system can update calibration values without interrupting the ongoing measurement process, thus improving measurement precision while maintaining productivity.
2Measurement precision
If calibration is performed continuously to reduce noise and increase repeatability, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple light sources and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the lighting system into two distinct light sources with dedicated functions: the first light source for calibration and the second for measurement. This clear segmentation simplifies control logic compared to a single multi-functional light source, as each light source can be independently controlled and optimized for its specific purpose, thereby improving repeatability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spectrometer system is designed with universal components that serve multiple purposes: the same sensor and optical path are used for both calibration and measurement, while only the light sources are differentiated. This multi-functionality approach reduces overall device complexity by avoiding duplicate components while still enabling continuous calibration for improved precision and repeatability.
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 continuous calibration of spectrometers in thermal and physical environments, reducing noise and increasing repeatability, and allowing the use of sensors that were previously unsuitable due to thermal limitations, without interrupting measurement processes.
Implementation Method 1
determine a calibration value for a spectrometer using light reflected from a first light source of the spectrometer to a sensor of the spectrometer, and wherein the light is reflected from a diffuser of the spectrometer to the sensor
Implementation Method 2
using light reflected from a diffuser of the spectrometer
Data Source
AI summary
A device may determine a calibration value for a spectrometer using light from a first light source; deactivate the first light source after determining the calibration value; perform measurement with regard to a sample based on the calibration value, wherein the measurement of the sample is performed using light from a second light source; determine that the calibration value is to be updated; and update the calibration value using the light from the first light source.