Waveguide Enhanced SERS Docking Station for Pathogen Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current testing technologies for pathogens like viruses and bacteria are slow, prone to false negatives, and lack the ability to rapidly identify and track mutations, leading to delayed reporting and inadequate response to emerging biological threats.
Innovation Solution
A photonic processing solution with microfluidics and additive manufacturing, utilizing a compact surface-enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) system for rapid, accurate, and sensitive detection, integrated with a docking station for near-real-time monitoring and reporting, which includes a test card with a modified waveguide and microfluidic channel for analyte detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If current testing technologies are used, then testing can be performed, but detection speed is slow and reporting is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical/chemical testing systems with a photonic detection system using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The system uses optical waves to interact with analytes in a waveguide, enabling rapid detection without the lengthy processing required by traditional methods. The photonic system directly detects molecular vibrations, eliminating intermediate processing steps that cause delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from indirect signal measurement to direct optical signal measurement. By using SERS, the system detects Raman scattering signals which provide direct molecular fingerprint information, enabling instantaneous identification without the need for multiple processing stages that delay reporting.
2Measurement precision
If current testing technologies are used, then testing can be performed, but sensitivity is low and false negatives occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality enhancement by using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy with localized surface plasmon resonance structures. The waveguide contains specific regions with enhanced optical fields that locally amplify the Raman signal from analytes. This localized enhancement concentrates the detection capability at the critical interaction zones, dramatically improving sensitivity and reducing false negatives.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes curved or rounded geometries in the waveguide structure to enhance optical mode confinement and field distribution. The curved waveguide sections create evanescent field regions that increase the interaction length between light and analyte, thereby enhancing detection sensitivity and reducing false negative results.
3Productivity
If current testing technologies are used, then testing can be performed, but the system is complex and deployment is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated waveguide-based system. The waveguide simultaneously provides sample confinement, optical path guidance, and analyte detection. By combining these functions in one structure, the system eliminates the need for separate components required by conventional testing systems, thereby reducing overall complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The photonic waveguide system is designed as a universal platform that can detect multiple analytes simultaneously using the same basic structure. The waveguide can be configured for different detection modes (transmission, reflection, evanescent coupling) and can accommodate various analyte types, making the system multi-functional and easier to deploy across different applications without requiring separate specialized equipment for each test.
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 rapid, accurate, and sensitive detection of pathogens with near-instantaneous results, reducing the risk of false negatives and enabling timely reporting, thus improving public health response to emerging threats.
Implementation Method 1
a waveguide having an uncladded sensor portion and an outer surface and side surfaces formed on a silicon substrate
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a compact surface-enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) system for rapid, accurate, and sensitive detection
Implementation Method 3
The Raman spectrum from the SERS interactions is detected using a detector coupled with a Michelson interferometer
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure presents a docking station into which a test card can be inserted for rapid analyte detection and reporting. This docking station has portable capability and can include wire or wireless transmission to a local server or cloud-based server. A test card that has a test structure located on the test structure that includes a modified waveguide can be inserted into the and a docking station that includes a laser and interferometer provides for accurate and rapid detection of a test sample.