Spectroscopy Apparatus Optical Splitter for Continuous Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Raman spectroscopy apparatuses require sequential exposure and data collection methods, increasing analysis time due to limited spectral range detection at a given time, and struggle with efficient mapping of sample areas without introducing discontinuities.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs an optical splitter to divide the spectrum into two portions, dispersing each across different rows or columns of a two-dimensional detector array, with a controller synchronously shifting data during sample movement, allowing continuous collection of spectrally separated portions without reducing spectral resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the spectrum is dispersed widely across the CCD to provide high spectral resolution, then spectral resolution is improved, but only a part of the spectrum can be detected at any one time, increasing analysis time
Solution Approach 1:
The optical splitter divides the incident light into multiple beams, each carrying a different portion of the spectrum. These segmented spectral portions are then dispersed across different regions of the CCD detector simultaneously, allowing the entire spectrum to be captured in parallel rather than sequentially through multiple exposures.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical splitter introduces a spatial dimension to the detection process by directing different spectral portions to different spatial locations on the CCD. This allows simultaneous detection of multiple spectral regions that would otherwise require sequential imaging, effectively transforming a time-based limitation into a spatial solution.
2Quantity of substance
If sequential exposure method is used to detect different parts of the spectrum, then complete spectral range is covered, but the time required to analyse the complete spectrum increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical splitter enables continuous detection of the complete spectrum by simultaneously directing all spectral portions to the CCD in a single exposure. This eliminates the interruptions and sequential operations required in traditional methods, maintaining continuous useful action throughout the detection process.
3Loss of time
If the spectrum is dispersed narrowly across the CCD to detect the whole spectrum at once, then analysis time is reduced, but spectral resolution is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The optical splitter segments the spectrum into multiple portions and directs each to a different region of the CCD. This allows each spectral portion to be dispersed widely across its assigned detector region, maintaining high spectral resolution while enabling simultaneous detection of the entire spectrum in a single exposure.
4Quantity of substance
If edge filters and mirrors are used to split the spectrum into separate optical paths, then multiple parts of the spectrum can be viewed simultaneously, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical splitter performs multiple functions simultaneously: it divides the incident light into multiple beams, separates different spectral portions, and directs them to appropriate detector regions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components and complex optical arrangements, simplifying the overall device architecture.
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 method enables simultaneous recording of spectrally separated portions of the spectrum, reducing analysis time and allowing for efficient spectral mapping without discontinuities, while maintaining high spectral resolution.
Implementation Method 1
an optical splitter arranged in an optical path between the optical input and the detector to split light based upon wavenumber such that, for a spectrum generated by a given point on the sample, each of a first portion and a second portion of the spectrum is dispersed across photodetector elements of a different row or column of the array
Implementation Method 2
a diffraction grating arranged to disperse the two beams in the spectral direction such that the spectral ranges of the two beams are captured by the detector
Implementation Method 3
a charge-coupled device (CCD) comprising a two-dimensional array of pixels
Data Source
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AI summary
This invention concerns a spectroscopy apparatus comprising a support (18) for a sample (102), a light source arranged to generate a light profile (110) on the sample (102). The support (102) and light source are arranged such that the light profile (110) is movable relative to the sample (102). The spectroscopy apparatus further comprises an optical input (16) for receiving light generated by interaction of the sample (102) with light from the light source, a detector (24) comprising a two-dimensional array of photodetector elements (104), a dispersive device (44) arranged between the optical input and the detector (24) to spectrally disperse light received by the optical input (16) in a spectral direction across the detector (24), an optical splitter (38) located in an optical path between the optical input (16) and the detector (24) to split light based upon wavenumber such that, for a spectrum generated by a given point on the sample (102), each of a first portion (50A) and a second portion (50B) of the spectrum is dispersed across photodetector elements (104) of a different row or column of the array. The apparatus further comprises a controller (25) arranged to control shifting of data between the photodetector elements (104) in a spatial direction, perpendicular to the spectral direction, synchronously with relative movement between the light profile (110) and the sample (102) so that data is accumulated on each of the first and second portions (50A, 50B) of the spectrum across different sets of photodetector elements (104) of the detector (24) during the relative movement.