Waveguide Ring Resonator Analyzer for Compact Non-Invasive Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-invasive analysis systems are difficult to miniaturize due to the large size of the photodiode used to detect changes in probe light direction.
Innovation Solution
The non-invasive substance analyzer employs an optical waveguide circuit with a first light intensity detector that detects changes in probe light intensity due to the ON/OFF of excitation light, rather than changes in position, utilizing a configuration that includes an excitation light source, probe light source, and a first light intensity detector optically coupled to a second optical waveguide.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a photodiode is used to detect changes in the travelling direction of probe light, then measurement precision is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical position detection system (photodiode detecting light position changes) with a waveguide-based system that directly guides and detects light intensity changes. The waveguide circuit integrates the light path and detection function, eliminating the need for a large photodiode while maintaining measurement precision through intensity-based detection instead of position-based detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from detecting light position changes in two-dimensional space (requiring a large photodiode area) to detecting light intensity changes through the waveguide's optical path. By using the waveguide's internal optical field distribution and intensity modulation, the system achieves equivalent measurement information without requiring large detection area.
2Area of stationary object
If an optical waveguide circuit with ring resonator is used, then device size is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The waveguide-type ring resonator serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a light guide, a resonant enhancement structure, and a detection element. The ring resonator's ability to confine and enhance light fields allows it to perform both optical transmission and sensing functions, reducing the need for separate components and simplifying the overall device architecture despite the sophisticated optical physics involved.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a compact optical circuit where the ring resonator is integrated within the waveguide structure. The resonator is nested within the broader waveguide circuit, creating a hierarchical integration where smaller functional elements are embedded within larger structural components, achieving high functionality in a compact footprint.
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
This approach miniaturizes the non-invasive substance analyzer while maintaining accurate analysis capabilities by detecting intensity changes in the probe light, allowing for efficient substance detection with high precision.
Implementation Method 1
The infrared light is absorbed by the biological sample, and thereby the biological sample generates heat
Implementation Method 2
The probe light is totally internally reflected at an interface between the optical medium and the biological sample
Implementation Method 3
The heat absorbed by the biological sample is transferred to the optical medium, which changes the refractive index of the optical medium
Data Source
AI summary
The non-invasive substance analyzer includes an optical waveguide circuit, a probe light source, and a light intensity detector. The optical waveguide circuit has a sample mounting region. The probe light source emits probe light. The optical waveguide circuit includes a first optical waveguide to which the probe light is incident, a waveguide-type ring resonator, and a second optical waveguide. The light intensity detector detects an intensity of first light which is a part of the probe light and is optically coupled to the second optical waveguide.