Analytical multi-spectral optical detection system

Abstract

Analytical multi-spectral optical detection systems and methods. A light source (1) provides one or multiple lines (e.g., discrete wavelengths) of high spectral purity excitation light that is optically coupled to a sample via delivery fiber optic cables (3) . Emission light is collected and provided to an emission detector, such as a diffraction gradient spectrophotometer emission detector (7) , using collection fiber optic cables (5) bundled with the delivery fiber optic cables in a probe interface (8) positioned proximal a sample holder (4) . The probe interface may be scanned over one or more samples, or one or more samples may be scanned proximal a fixed interface probe. Multiple excitation wavelengths allows for simultaneous excitation and detection of multiple fluorescent dyes in the visible spectrum. This increases sample throughput and reduces signal variations associated with signal acquisition at different times. The optical system provides several advantages over other systems including higher sensitivity, improved compatibility with fluorescent dyes, better signal discrimination, increased system reliability and reduced manufacturing and service costs.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates generally to signal detection and analysis, and more particularly to multispectral fluorescent signal detection and analysis. Background technique [0002] Many systems are currently used to excite and detect fluorescent signals in solid or liquid samples. Examples of these systems can be found in US 6,015,674, US 5,928,907, US 6,713,297, US2002 / 0109844A1, EP 1080364B1 and EP 1080364A1. [0003] Each of these systems has flaws. For example, the use of multiple optical cables in US 6,015,674A and US 5,928,907A and the use of separate optical components for each sample in US 6,713,297B2, US 2002 / 0109844A1, EP 1080364B1 and EP 1080364A1 increases the number of optical system components. Many commercial systems also use filters to control the optical bandwidth, further increasing the number of optical components. This results in reduced detection accuracy and higher manufacturing and maintenance costs. [0004] Another lim...

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Problems solved by technology

Thermal control efficiency and uniformity are also problematic due to the presence of holes in thermal control blocks of these other designs

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