Waveguide Interferometry for Accurate Sample Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods, apparatus, and systems for sample testing face challenges due to structural limitations, environmental temperature, and contamination, affecting efficiency and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The use of interferometry with a waveguide and integrated optical components, including a collimator and beam splitter, to detect viral indicators and protein content in samples, combined with a lens array and imaging components to analyze interference fringe patterns, and a computer-implemented method to derive refractive index data for sample identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If interferometry with waveguide and integrated optical components is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple optical components (collimator, beam splitter, lens array, imaging components) directly onto the waveguide structure, merging previously separate components into a unified integrated system. This integration maintains the high measurement precision of interferometry while reducing the overall device complexity by eliminating separate mounting and alignment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The waveguide acts as an intermediary element that guides light between the light source and the sample, enabling precise interferometric measurements without requiring complex external optical alignment. The integrated optical components on the waveguide surface serve as mediators that simplify the optical path while maintaining measurement accuracy.
2Manufacturing precision
If integrated optical components are used on waveguide, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed as a modular cartridge that can be manufactured and tested separately, then integrated into the larger testing system. This segmentation allows for specialized manufacturing processes for the waveguide and optical components while simplifying the overall assembly process, balancing manufacturing precision requirements with ease of manufacture.
3Productivity
If advanced optical analysis and data processing are used, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system includes automated data processing and analysis capabilities that perform refractive index calculations and sample identification without requiring manual intervention. The computer-implemented methods automatically process interferometric data, derive refractive index values, and identify samples, improving productivity while the integration of these functions into the device architecture minimizes the perceived complexity for the user.
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
Enhances the efficiency and accuracy of sample testing by providing precise detection of viral indicators and protein content through advanced optical analysis and data processing techniques.
Implementation Method 1
In some embodiments, example methods, apparatuses, and systems may utilize interferometry to detect the presence of virus and/or other viral indicator of protein content in a collected sample.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, and systems associated with a sample testing device are provided. For example, an example sample testing device may include a substrate layer defining a bottom surface of the sample testing device, as well as a waveguide disposed on the substrate layer and includes at least one reference channel and at least one sample channel.