Surface Property Investigation Apparatus with Movable Optical Filters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatus for investigating surface properties are complex to operate and produce, prone to failure, and unable to detect fluorescence effectively due to the arrangement of light sources and filter elements.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a stationary light source and filter elements arranged between the light source and the surface, allowing for precise measurement of optical properties using multiple detector devices at different angles, enabling the detection of fluorescence and reducing the risk of failure by minimizing the need for multiple light sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources with different emission spectra are arranged on a movable carrier, then surfaces can be stressed with light of different properties, but the apparatus becomes more complex and susceptible to failure
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving multiple light sources, the patent inverts the approach by using a single stationary light source and moving the sample through the beam path. This eliminates the complex movable carrier while achieving the same versatility of measuring different surface properties under different illumination conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
A single light source is designed to provide multiple wavelengths simultaneously, and the sample stage can position different sample areas under the beam. This universal setup can measure various optical properties without requiring multiple specialized light sources, reducing complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used, then different emission spectra can be provided, but the risk of failure increases and replacement becomes necessary
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple wavelength capabilities are merged into a single light source system. The stationary light source provides a spectrum that includes multiple wavelengths, eliminating the need for multiple separate light sources. This reduces the number of failure points while maintaining the ability to provide different emission spectra for various measurements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If filter elements are arranged between the light source and surface, then fluorescence detection becomes possible, but the apparatus complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of a static complex filter arrangement, the patent uses a dynamic approach where the sample itself is moved through the stationary light beam and detection path. Different sample areas or sample types can be positioned to enable fluorescence detection without requiring complex mechanical filter switching mechanisms, reducing apparatus complexity while maintaining versatility.
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 apparatus simplifies operation and production, reduces susceptibility to failure, and allows for precise measurement of optical properties and fluorescence detection, providing a more reliable and efficient method for analyzing surface properties.
Implementation Method 1
a light source (2) which directs light through an opening (30) in the housing (11) onto a surface (10) to be investigated
Implementation Method 2
a first detector device (4) which...detects light scattered or reflected by the surface (10)
Implementation Method 3
at least two filter elements with optical properties which are different from each other which are arranged on a common carrier movable with respect to the light source
Implementation Method 4
effects such as for example a fluorescence of the surfaces to be determined cannot be detected
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an apparatus for the investigation of surface properties with a housing, a light source which directs light through an opening in the housing onto a surface to be investigated, with a first detector device which is arranged inside at a first pre-set angle with respect to the light beam radiated onto the surface by the light source, with a second detector device which is arranged at a second pre-set angle with respect to the light beam radiated onto the surface by the light source and with a third detector device which is arranged inside the housing at a third pre-set angle with respect to the light beam radiated onto the surface by the light source. According to the invention the apparatus has at least two filter elements with optical properties which are different from each other which are arranged on a common carrier movable with respect to the light source, in such a way that each of these filter elements is optionally capable of being brought into a beam path between the light source and the surface.