Modular X-Prism Layout for Multi-Wavelength Beam Superposition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light sources face challenges in combining more than six LED lines due to increased installation space requirements, divergence, and vignetting, limiting the number of wavelengths that can be superimposed and necessitating light source replacement during measurements, which is not feasible in automated processes.
Innovation Solution
An X-prism arrangement comprising multiple X-prisms with three inputs and one output, connected in series or columns, allowing for the superposition of up to nine wavelengths while minimizing space and reducing divergence and vignetting, enabling a compact and modular light source design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If branching or superimposing individual illuminants by means of dichroites is used to combine more LED lines, then the number of superimposed wavelengths increases, but the installation space requirements and free path length increase, leading to increased divergence and vignetting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple dichroites into a single integrated X-prism component that superimposes up to six illuminants simultaneously. This merging approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate branching paths and multiple dichroite assemblies, achieving wavelength multiplexing in a compact single-element structure that eliminates the need for extended installation space and multiple optical paths
Solution Approach 2:
The X-prism utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement of dichroitic surfaces within a cubic geometry to achieve wavelength superposition. By arranging dichroites in different spatial orientations (X, Y, Z dimensions) within the single prism, the patent combines multiple illuminants without requiring extended linear path lengths, effectively using dimensional arrangement to pack optical functionality into compact space
2Adaptability or versatility
If branching or superimposing individual illuminants by means of dichroites is used to combine more LED lines, then the number of superimposed wavelengths increases, but the free path length increases, leading to increased divergence of rays and vignetting
Solution Approach 1:
The X-prism merges all dichroitic beam-combining functions into a single compact optical element where illuminants are superimposed in immediate proximity. This eliminates the extended free path lengths that would otherwise cause ray divergence and vignetting, maintaining high illumination intensity and uniform beam quality even when combining six or more wavelengths
Solution Approach 2:
The X-prism acts as an intermediary optical component that receives multiple illuminants and immediately superimposes them through integrated dichroitic surfaces. This intermediary structure prevents the illuminants from traveling through extended free space where divergence and vignetting would occur, directly coupling the light sources to the combined output path
3Adaptability or versatility
If a superposition of six illuminants is regarded as a technical maximum, then the current system can be maintained, but more than six wavelengths cannot be measured without replacing the light source
Solution Approach 1:
The X-prism is designed as a universal optical component capable of superimposing any combination of up to six different illuminants simultaneously. This multi-functional design allows a single light source configuration to handle multiple wavelength combinations, eliminating the need to replace light sources when changing measurement protocols or when more than six wavelengths are required
4Adaptability or versatility
If the number of LED lines is increased beyond six, then more wavelengths can be superimposed, but the installation space requirements and divergence increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple separate beam-combining components into a single X-prism assembly that handles up to six illuminants. This consolidation reduces system complexity by eliminating multiple separate optical paths, alignment mechanisms, and mounting structures that would be required if each illuminant combination were handled by separate dichroite assemblies
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
The X-prism arrangement facilitates the efficient superposition of multiple wavelengths, reducing installation space and maintaining illumination quality, enabling rapid and exhaustive sample measurement in microscopy and surgical illumination.
Implementation Method 1
The X-prisms each have three inputs and one output... for superimposing electromagnetic radiation of different wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
In order to match the light source to the stained sample, light of different illuminants may be superimposed in a light source by means of dichroites
Data Source
AI summary
An X-prism arrangement for superimposing electromagnetic radiation of different wavelengths is provided, comprising: a first X-prism; a second X-prism; a third X-prism; wherein the X-prisms each have three inputs and one output; at least one input of one X-prism is connected to an output of another X-prism; and an output of this X-prism is connected to an input of a further X-prism.