We will delve in more detail here on the types of questions we ask our customers when starting a spectrometer design program and the various stages of development.
Some recent spectrophotometer development tasks included:
Miniaturize a current lab prototype
Automate an existing instrument
Improve or redesign an existing spectrophotometer
Increase the range of samples tested
Add image capturing to an existing setup
Provide electronics and software design
These programs may include design optimization, improvement of a proven concept prototype, or development of a completely new concept. We work then to design and manufacture the optical and electronic parts, develop the firmware and software for data processing, manufacture optical and mechanical custom components, and assemble the desired number of working prototypes.
Zemax model of a spectrophotometer Illumination system using cylindrical lenses
Zemax model of illumination system with a lenticular lens arrays for uniform slit illumination
Depending on the stages of development, certain components may have been previously determined or may require development
Common Spectrophotometer Components
Illumination system type
Light acquisition system type
Fiber collimator
Cylindrical lens
Diffraction grating
Aspherical mirror
Image sensor/ Camera
Display screen
Secondary optical channel with lens and detector
A Czerny-Turner scheme layout of a monochromator, a critical spectrophotometer component that separates a band of light based on refraction with a prism or diffraction (grating)
Given the defined components, we review with our client the key performance and system construction details.
Key Parameters
Size of system
Size of area analyzed
Working distance
Minimum and maximum exposure time
Point of incident light
Incident and excident light axis polar and altitude angle
Beam shaping and positioning
Operating wavelength range
FOV
Magnification
Focus range
Shutter speed
Resolution
Signal to noise ratio
Transmission considerations
Polarization considerations
Scattering considerations
Distortion considerations
Electronic board power supply range
Requirements about sensitivity, working wavelengths, and environmental conditions for the spectrophotometer can be defined during a feasibility study if unknown at the start.
Some customers may have additional requirements to meet aesthetics and ergonomic concerns. This typically happens once proof of concept is established and the project moves to the next phase of development. In the second stage, we:
Address any thermal, environmental constraints
Optimize the optical system for production volume
Update the optical elements and their placement
Prepare technical documentation and testing criteria
Need assistance designing a custom spectrometer? Learn more about our design services here.
