Multiplex illuminator and device reader for microcantilever array
AssigneeProtiveris, Inc.
InventorTimothy D. Seeley
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Abstract
A device reader having a multiplex illuminator, the illuminator, and methods for reading deflection of a large number of microcantilevers are provided. The illuminator includes a micro-optical subassembly for illuminating cantilevers (illuminator) that uses a plurality of VCSELs for generating an array of electromagnetic beams, and focuses the beams on the cantilevers. Deflection of the cantilevers causes a change in angle of the beams reflected from the cantilevers, which is recorded by a plurality of position sensitive devices.
Claims51
A method for reading an array of detectors contained in a device, the method comprising:
- illuminating each of the detectors of the array with a plurality of electromagnetic beams arranged in an array, such that at least one electromagnetic beam illuminates at least one of the detectors of the array;
- and
- sensing the plurality of electromagnetic beams reflected from the detectors.
An apparatus for reading an array of detectors contained in a microfluidics device, the apparatus comprising:
- a housing having an opening to receive the microfluidics device;
- an array of illuminators positioned in the housing such that each illuminator is configured to illuminate at least one of the detectors in the array of detectors;
- and
- a position-sensing device contained in the housing and positioned to receive at least one electromagnetic beam reflected from the detectors.
An illuminator apparatus which is a micro-optical subassembly for illuminating a plurality of microcantilevers, the apparatus comprising:
- a means for generating and transmitting a plurality of electro-magnetic beams in a linear array;
- an electrical power source further having electronics, control, wiring harness and interface connector;
- a microlens array for focusing the beams to provide a spot of illumination on each microcantilever target, wherein the microcantilever is emplaced so that the beams are reflected from the target;
- and a housing for the apparatus.
An illuminator for generating an array of electromagnetic beams for reading a plurality of detectors, the illuminator comprising a plurality of vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs), a circuit with electronics and control, and a housing.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.