Compact Spectroscope Using Movable Reflector and Concave Grating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spectroscopes are not adequately compact or versatile for outdoor on-site spectroscopic analysis, as they lack efficient mechanisms for downsizing and adapting to various use cases while maintaining precision and stability.
Innovation Solution
A compact spectroscope design featuring a hollow frame with a concave diffraction grating, a movable reflector, and a photodetector system that allows for adjustable reflection angles and selective wavelength exit, enabling precise spectroscopic analysis with a compact and stable structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional spectroscope designs are used, then spectroscopic analysis can be performed, but the device size is large and not suitable for outdoor on-site applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the concave diffraction grating is positioned within a frame that has apertures arranged on a Rowland circle. The optical elements (concave diffraction grating, movable reflector, photodetector) are nested within the compact frame structure, allowing the spectroscope to achieve a compact size while maintaining the optical path requirements for spectroscopic analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a three-dimensional arrangement of optical elements within the frame, positioning the concave diffraction grating, movable reflector, and photodetector at specific spatial coordinates that satisfy the Rowland circle geometry. This 3D optimization allows compact packaging while maintaining optical performance
2Length of moving object
If the spectroscope is downsized for portability, then outdoor on-site use becomes feasible, but manufacturing precision and optical alignment become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-calculates and pre-arranges the positions of the aperture, concave diffraction grating, movable reflector, and photodetector according to the Rowland circle geometry before manufacturing. The frame structure is designed with predetermined mounting positions that ensure correct optical alignment, eliminating the need for complex post-assembly adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural housing, defines the Rowland circle geometry through aperture positioning, supports the optical elements, and maintains the precise spatial relationships required for optical alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and simplifies manufacturing
3Volume of moving object
If a compact design is implemented, then portability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to precise optical element positioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions into a single integrated frame structure. The frame housing, aperture positioning, and optical element mounting are merged into one component that inherently provides the correct Rowland circle geometry. The movable reflector combines wavelength selection and light directing functions in a single moving element
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the complex alignment requirements from the assembly process and embeds them into the frame's structural design. The Rowland circle geometry is built into the frame's aperture positioning, so the complex spatial relationships are determined by the frame structure itself rather than requiring precise manual alignment of separate components
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 design achieves a compact and precise spectroscope capable of performing spectroscopic analysis across a wide wavelength range, enhancing outdoor on-site applications and reducing manufacturing costs through optimized optical element alignment and integration.
Implementation Method 1
a concave diffraction grating that serves as a spectro-element with a light-dispersing function
Implementation Method 2
a movable reflector disposed at a position of the second aperture to reflect light dispersed by the concave diffraction grating and change a reflection angle of the reflected light
Implementation Method 3
a photodetector configured to receive the light exited through the optical exit and output a signal according to the received light
Data Source
AI summary
A frame, a spectroscope, a spectrometry unit, and an image forming apparatus. The frame has hollow structure and includes at least four apertures including a first aperture, a second aperture, a third aperture through which light enters the frame, and a fourth aperture, a concave diffraction grating disposed at a position of the first aperture, and a movable reflector disposed at a position of the second aperture to reflect light dispersed by the concave diffraction grating and change a reflection angle of the reflected light. Through the fourth aperture of the frame, the light reflected by the movable reflector exits the frame. The spectroscope includes the frame, and the frame further includes an optical entrance disposed at a position of the third aperture, and an optical exit disposed at a position of the fourth aperture.