Simultaneous Raman and Fluorescence Spectroscopy via UV Excitation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current spectroscopy methods are limited in their ability to simultaneously and effectively utilize Raman scattered energy and fluorescence scattered energy for the characterization and identification of substances, particularly hazardous chemical or biological substances.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that employs ultraviolet light to simultaneously excite Raman scattering and fluorescence scattering, using collection optics and wavelength selective elements to separate and detect these energies, allowing for simultaneous analysis by detectors and subsequent characterization or identification of substances through data processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If separate spectroscopy systems are used for Raman and fluorescence analysis, then each technique can be optimized independently, but the system complexity increases and analysis time is extended

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectroscopy analysis capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy capabilities into a single integrated system. The system uses a single ultraviolet laser source that simultaneously excites both Raman scattering and fluorescence emission from the sample. A single detector captures both spectral signals, and a unified data processing system analyzes both types of data together. This merging approach maintains the analytical precision of both techniques while reducing overall system complexity and enabling simultaneous analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a multi-functional spectroscopy system where a single apparatus performs both Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy. The ultraviolet laser source serves dual excitation purposes, the optical collection system gathers both scattering types, and the detector system identifies both spectral signatures. This universal system eliminates the need for separate specialized equipment for each spectroscopy type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If sequential analysis methods are used for Raman and fluorescence, then each measurement can be optimized, but the total analysis time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectral data qualityVSAvoidanalysis speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous simultaneous measurement of both Raman and fluorescence signals. The ultraviolet laser continuously excites the sample, generating both scattering types at the same time. The detector system continuously captures both spectral signals without interruption or sequential switching. This continuous simultaneous action maintains high spectral data quality while dramatically reducing total analysis time compared to sequential methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Measurement precision

If multiple separate detectors are used for Raman and fluorescence detection, then each detection channel can be optimized, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoiddetector system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a universal detector system that simultaneously detects both Raman scattered photons and fluorescence emitted photons. The detector is configured to capture the full spectral range containing both signal types, and the data processing system separates and analyzes the overlapping spectral information. This single multi-functional detector approach maintains detection sensitivity for both techniques while avoiding the complexity of multiple separate detector systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7359040B1Simultaneous capture of fluorescence signature and raman signature for spectroscopy analysis
Publication Date: 2008.04.15 PERATON INC
  • US7359040B1 patent drawing
  • US7359040B1 patent drawing
  • US7359040B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method are provided for analyzing a substance using spectroscopy techniques. Raman scattered energy and fluorescence scattered energy are simultaneously excited in the substance from a beam of ultraviolet light. The Raman scattered energy and the fluorescence scattered energy, as well as the fluorescence energy lifetime are detected and analyzed to characterize or identify the substance.