Surface Plasmon Imaging with Spatial Light Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface plasmon resonance technologies are limited to measuring only surface plasmon resonance and cannot generate a two-dimensional image for analyzing sample characteristics, restricting their application range.
Innovation Solution
A surface plasmon resonance imaging apparatus and method that includes a light irradiation unit, a light modulator to spatially pattern-encode light, a light detector to detect the encoded light as a spectral signal, a signal processor to decode and analyze the signal, and an output unit to display the data as a two-dimensional image, utilizing components like spatial light modulators and spectrometers to achieve this.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional surface plasmon resonance measurement is used, then surface plasmon resonance can be measured, but two-dimensional imaging capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms conventional one-dimensional surface plasmon resonance measurement into two-dimensional imaging by introducing a spatial light modulator that encodes spatial information into the optical path. The DMD device divides the detection field into multiple pixel regions, enabling simultaneous measurement of resonance characteristics across a two-dimensional sample area, thus adding the spatial dimension to the measurement capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If spatial light modulator and pattern encoding are added, then two-dimensional imaging capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spatial light modulator (DMD) as an intermediary device between the light source and the sample. This mediator encodes spatial pattern information into the incident light, enabling two-dimensional imaging functionality without fundamentally redesigning the entire SPR measurement system. The DMD acts as a programmable interface that adds imaging capability while maintaining compatibility with conventional SPR measurement principles.
3Measurement precision
If spectral signal detection is implemented, then sample characteristic analysis is enabled, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic modulation of the incident light wavelength and uses a spectrometer to detect reflected light intensity at different wavelengths. By sweeping through a wavelength range and analyzing the periodic variations in reflected intensity, the system extracts spectral information that reveals sample characteristics such as refractive index and thickness, enabling comprehensive analysis through systematic wavelength modulation.
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 the measurement and analysis of sample characteristics such as concentration, thickness, and refractive index as a two-dimensional image, expanding the applicability of surface plasmon resonance technology to bio-sensing and other industrial fields.
Implementation Method 1
Electrons in a metal surface vibrate in a vertical direction (normal) with respect to the metal surface to perform a collective vibration motion. This is referred to as a surface plasmon wave.
Implementation Method 2
a light modulator configured to spatially pattern-encode light reflected by the metal coating film and the prism
Implementation Method 3
a light detector configured to detect a pattern-encoded light signal, obtained through pattern-encoding by the light modulator, as a spectral signal
Data Source
AI summary
A surface plasmon resonance imaging apparatus is provided. The surface plasmon resonance imaging apparatus includes a light irradiation unit configured to irradiate polarized light onto a metal coating film provided on one surface of a prism, a light modulator configured to spatially pattern-encode light reflected by the metal coating film and the prism, a light detector configured to detect a pattern-encoded light signal, obtained through pattern-encoding by the light modulator, as a spectral signal, a signal processor configured to spatially decode the spectral signal and analyze a decoded spectral signal to generate characteristic data of a sample provided on the metal coating film, and an output unit configured to output the characteristic data of the sample as a two-dimensional (2D) image.