Nano and microscale patterned surfaces for centering a droplet
AssigneeThermo Electron Scientific Instruments LLC
InventorsMargaret E. Robinson, Damian W. Ashmead
Life of this patent
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Abstract
System and methods for spectrophotometers are described that can utilize ferrules configured to hold a sample test droplet therebetween via surface tension. Light sources in the systems can shine a light on the test droplet and an output of reflected or refracted light can be measured, which can assist in various testing and analysis procedures. Nanoscale or microscale structures can be incorporated on the ferrules to create hydrophobic or superhydrophobic surfaces. This helps prevent test droplets from wetting the ferrules surfaces and helps prevent polluting or mixing of test materials. The ferrules can therefore achieve certain self-cleaning capabilities and test results are more accurate.
Claims16
A system comprising:
- a first ferrule including a first pedestal;
- a second ferrule including a second pedestal, wherein the first and second ferrules are moveably coupled so that the first and second pedestals align on opposite sides of a sample location;
- a plurality of nano or micro scale structures or a combination thereof formed on the first or second pedestal, the plurality of nano or micro scale structures causing the first or second pedestal to be hydrophobic, wherein the plurality of nano or micro structures are formed across an aperture of the first or second pedestal;
- and one or more radiation sources, optically coupled with one or both of the first and second ferrules and configured to excite a test droplet suspended between the first and second pedestals in the sample location.
A ferrule for use in a spectrophotometer, comprising:
- a pedestal configured to receive a drop of test material thereon;
- and
- a plurality of nano or micro structures formed on the pedestal, the plurality of nano or micro structures causing the pedestal to be hydrophobic, wherein the ferrule includes one or more radiation sources configured to excite test droplets on the pedestal, and wherein the one or more radiation sources comprise a single radiation source in a center of the pedestal and the plurality of nano or micro structures comprise a bullseye pattern around the single radiation source.
A ferrule for use in a spectrophotometer, comprising:
- a pedestal configured to receive a drop of test material thereon;
- and
- a plurality of nano or micro structures formed on the pedestal, the plurality of nano or micro structures causing the pedestal to be hydrophobic, wherein the ferrule includes one or more radiation sources configured to excite test droplets on the pedestal, wherein the one or more radiation sources comprise a single radiation source in a center of the pedestal and the plurality of nano or micro structures comprise a radial pattern around the single radiation source, the radial pattern comprising a plurality of segments, and each segment of the radial pattern tapering to the center of the pedestal.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.