Transmission Raman Spectroscopy for Non-Invasive Container Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spectroscopy methods are inadequate for non-invasive analysis of samples contained in opaque or transparent containers, as they often fail to distinguish between the container material and the sample, especially when samples may contain illicit or dangerous substances, and require direct access or focused radiation.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing transmission Raman spectroscopy that emits radiation through a container wall, allowing scattered radiation to be detected from multiple locations within the sample, with a comparator to differentiate the sample signal from the container background, and a processor to identify substances of interest without the need for reference beams or focused detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional spectroscopy methods are used to analyze samples in containers, then analysis can be performed, but the method fails to distinguish between container material and sample, and requires direct access or focused radiation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the radiation paths into multiple distinct paths (incident path and detection path) that are spatially separated. The emitter directs radiation through a first location on the container while the detector receives radiation through a second location, creating separate illumination and detection zones that enable distinction between container and sample signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional single-point or focused radiation analysis to a distributed spatial analysis approach. By using multiple locations on the container (first location for emission, second location for detection) and allowing radiation to pass through different paths, the system adds spatial dimensionality to the analysis, enabling differentiation between container material and sample contents.
2Measurement precision
If radiation is focused on a distinct sample region, then measurement precision improves, but the system cannot analyze samples within opaque containers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal analysis method that works across different container types (transparent, translucent, opaque) by using multiple radiation paths and locations. The system can analyze samples in various container configurations without requiring focused radiation or direct access, making it universally applicable to different container materials and sample states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the container walls themselves as intermediaries that allow radiation to pass through while maintaining the ability to distinguish sample signals. By directing radiation through the container wall at a first location and detecting it at a second location, the container acts as a medium that does not interfere with the analysis capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple radiation paths are used to illuminate the entire sample, then the ability to analyze opaque containers improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs the container's own structure and walls to facilitate the radiation paths. The container walls serve as natural guides and transmitters for the radiation, eliminating the need for external optical components or complex positioning mechanisms. The system leverages the existing container geometry to create multiple effective paths without adding significant complexity.
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 non-invasive analysis of samples in various container types, reducing false positives and background interference, allowing for efficient detection of substances within opaque and transparent containers without removing the sample, thereby enhancing safety and efficiency in security and industrial applications.
Implementation Method 1
The emitter is configured to emit radiation directed at a first location on the container. At least a portion of the radiation passes through the container and into the sample.
Implementation Method 2
the emitted radiation becomes a diffusive light source within the container without formation of a distinct sample region
Implementation Method 3
The detector is configured to receive a transmission Raman signal including Raman radiation from multiple portions of the sample
Implementation Method 4
The comparator is configured to compare the transmission Raman signal with the radiation emitted by the emitter
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for analyzing samples in containers are provided, where an emitter emits radiation at a first location on the container, with a portion of the radiation passing through the container and into the sample, some of the radiation is reflected within the container, a detector receives a transmission Raman signal including Raman radiation from multiple portions of the sample, and a comparator compares the transmission Raman signal with the radiation emitted by the emitter.