Patent Description:
This invention disclosed, herein, is related to that subject matter recited and taught in <CIT>.

Raman spectroscopy is a well-known technique that can be used to observe vibrational, rotational and other low-frequency modes in molecules. Raman scattering is an inelastic process whereby monochromatic light typically provided by a laser interacts with molecular vibrations, phonons or other excitations resulting in the energy of the laser photons being shifted up or down. Due to conservation of energy the emitted photon gains or loses energy equal to energy of the vibrational state.

Many Raman measurements suffer from fluorescence, which forces usage of longer wavelength (lower energy) excitation lasers to mitigate against the fluorescent signal overwhelming the Raman signal, thereby making the latter impossible to extract. Usage of longer excitation wavelengths facilitates extraction of Raman signals from fluorescent samples but at a cost of reduced sensitivity in the silicon CCD detectors that capture spectrometer signals.

Known Raman probes that capture a Raman spectra covering the entire range of wavenumbers from <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM> can be accomplished by use of:.

Examples of the use of multiple laser techniques are disclosed by:.

Each of the referred-to references focuses on capture of multiple Raman spectra using a dual-laser configuration. However, the references fail to disclose the means for selecting wavelengths used in the spectral analysis based on the material selected and the characteristics of the spectrometer utilized. Hence, there is a need in the industry for a compact Raman probe and spectrometer system that provides for improved quantitative analysis using two or more probe laser wavelengths and a method for selecting the laser probe wavelengths to enhance a quantitative analysis of a target material under investigation for different applications.

The Raman spectral concatenation concept described herein allows use of a single, relatively compact spectrometer to collect both fingerprint and stretch Raman spectra (i.e., collected Raman wavelengths) and a method for selecting the laser source wavelengths to provide for enhanced quantitative analysis of target material under investigation. In accordance with the principles of the invention, the fingerprint spectrum is captured using one excitation wavelength, whereas the stretch spectrum is captured using a second wavelength selected based on a quantum efficiency of the spectrometer and the first wavelength. The selection of one or more of the laser source wavelengths in the manner disclosed, herein, provides for enhanced signal to noise ratio so as to enhance the performance of a quantitative analysis of a target material under investigation.

A compact dual-wavelength Raman probe configured to provide two or more separate laser wavelengths selected in a manner to provide enhanced quantitative analysis of material under investigation is disclosed.

Described herein are embodiments in which two laser sources may be integrated within the housing of (or internal to) a Raman probe and or external to the housing of a Raman probe.

Described herein are embodiments in which light output emitted by two lasers sources may be combined in a common optical path, wherein the emitted light may be combined using either wavelength beam combining with dichroic mirrors or geometric beam combining.

Described herein are embodiments of a Raman probe utilizing coalignment of the excitation and collection light utilizing a same optical axis.

Described herein are embodiment of a Raman probe utilizing a spatially offset of the excitation and collection lights utilizing separate optical paths.

Described herein are embodiments of a method for selecting the wavelengths of light emitted by two laser sources in a Raman probe wherein the wavelengths of the laser sources or probes are selected in a manner based, in part, on the quantum efficiency of a spectrometer used for the analysis of the light reflected by the target material.

In accordance with the principles of the invention, the wavelengths of the probe lasers used in a dual-wavelength Raman probe are selected based on the quantum efficiency of a spectrometer comprising a single detector array (silicon, InGaAs, or any other detector array) within the spectrometer. The quantum efficiency of a detector is a measure of the ratio of collected to incident photons versus wavelength and is a common characteristic of spectrometers supplied by manufacturers.

The invention is directed to a method for determining a first excitation wavelength and a second excitation wavelength for use in a dual laser spectrometer system. Such system comprises a first laser source configured to emit a first excitation wavelength and a second laser source configured to emit a second excitation wavelength; and a spectrometer configured to receive a first Raman signal and a second Raman signal, wherein said first Raman signal is associated with said first excitation wavelength and said second Raman signal is associated with said second excitation wavelength. Said method comprises.

Said second excitation wavelength λp<NUM> is determined as: <MAT>.

Described herein is further a diagnostic system, comprising, optionally, a spectrometer, said spectrometer having a known quantum efficiency; and a Raman probe device configured to provide Raman light wavelengths to the spectrometer, said Raman light wavelengths being generated in response to an excitation light illuminating a target object,
wherein said excitation light comprises at least one of a first light comprising a first wavelength, λp<NUM>, and a second light comprising a second wavelength, λp<NUM>, said first excitation wavelength selected based on at least one characteristic of said target object, and said second excitation wavelength determined based on said first excitation wavelength and a wavelength associated with substantially a peak value of said known quantum efficiency.

The diagnostic system may comprise a control unit adapted to determine the second excitation wavelength, preferably adapted to execute the method substantially as described above.

Described herein is a computer programm comprising instructions to cause the system as described above to determine the second excitation wavelength, preferably by executing the method substantially as described above.

The probe laser wavelengths are determined for different applications based on the quantum efficiency of the spectrometer and the material in a target object such that a desired Raman spectra is substantially coincident to a peak of the detector quantum efficiency and, hence, achieving higher signal to noise ratio.

The selection of Raman excitation wavelengths based on the quantum efficiency of the spectrometer allows shifting of both the fingerprint and stretch regions of the Raman spectrum to wavelengths at which silicon detectors (or similar detectors) have relatively high quantum efficiency.

Raman spectra of each of the two laser sources may be captured separately and subsequently concatenated, or stitched together, to provide a single spectral scan encompassing the entire range of data, including the fingerprint and stretch regions, wherein the signal-to-noise ratio of the Raman signal in the stretch region is enhanced.

Analyzing each data set independently is also possible, while collecting the spectra from both excitation wavelengths simultaneously may also be possible.

The compact dual-wavelength Raman probe, disclosed herein, may include optics to configure the output beam of each laser source to have a circular, an elliptical or an elongated cross-section, approximating a shape of a circular or a shape of the elongated emission region of the laser near-field.

The light generated by the laser sources is emitted toward a target object or material under investigation and the resultant scattered signal light is transmitted by the compact Raman probe via an optical beam that may also have a corresponding elliptical cross-section. The excitation and collection paths may be co-linear (i.e., co-aligned) or separate (e.g., spatially-offset (see USPPA <NUM>) or transmission geometry (see <CIT>)). An optical fiber incorporating a core having dimensions approximating those of the returned scattered light beam, transmits the returned scattered light to the entrance aperture of a spectrometer.

The dual-wavelength Raman probe disclosed herein, the dual-wavelength Raman probe may include external cavity lasers (ECLs) that may be integrated into the probe as wavelength-stabilized laser sources. See, for example, <CIT>, "Wavelength-Stabilized Diode Laser". Or may retain the ECLs external to the Raman probe.

A distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) or distributed feedback (DFB) lasers may comprise a wavelength-stabilized laser source that may be integrally incorporated into the Raman probe or may be retained external to the Raman probe.

The light emitted by a laser may be used as the pump source for a non-linear optical (NLO) conversion to produce a different wavelength, e.g., by second-harmonic generation (SHG), third-harmonic generation (THG), or any other non-linear optical process.

In the compact dual wavelength Raman probe, the selection of a second wavelength is based, in part, on a first wavelength and a spectral efficiency of the spectrometer used to collect the Raman signal, as disclosed elsewhere herein.

For a better understanding of exemplary embodiments and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference is made to the accompanying drawings. It is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example only and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention. The description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice. In the accompanying drawings:.

It is to be understood that the figures and descriptions of the present invention described herein have been simplified to illustrate the elements that are relevant for a clear understanding of the present invention, while eliminating, for purposes of clarity many other elements. However, because these omitted elements are well-known in the art, and because they do not facilitate a better understanding of the present invention, a discussion of such elements is not provided herein.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a compact dual-wavelength co-aligned/reflective Raman probe configuration where the light outputted by corresponding ones of the illustrated two laser sources are combined along a same optical path using wavelength beam combining with a dichroic mirror, which is similar to the configuration shown in, and disclosed with regard to <FIG> of <CIT>, which discloses the use of diode lasers as the light sources in Raman spectroscopy.

In this exemplary embodiment, a dual wavelength Raman probe <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> and two external light sources <NUM> and <NUM>, (hereinafter referred to as lasers or laser sources. However, it would be recognized that the light sources <NUM> and <NUM> may similarly be non-lasing sources, e.g., a super luminescent diode) coupled via optical fibers <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, to the internal optics within housing <NUM>. The lasers <NUM> and <NUM> may emit light in a single spatial mode or in multiple spatial modes. Optical couples <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are known devices for coupling optical fibers to equipment or devices.

The laser sources <NUM> and <NUM> may be any laser device or system; preferably laser sources <NUM> and <NUM> are wavelength-stabilized laser sources having narrow bandwidth.

One class of lasers that may be used as a wavelength-stabilized laser source is an external cavity laser. See, for example, <CIT> and <CIT>, which are assigned to the assignee of the instant application, and describe exemplary external wavelength stabilized diode lasers. Sources <NUM>, <NUM> may also be semiconductor lasers that incorporate gratings within their structure, such as a distributed feedback (DFB) or distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) laser.

Laser sources <NUM>, <NUM> may also be a DFB or DBR laser coupled to a non-linear optical element for second- or third-harmonic generation of shorter wavelength laser light, as is well-known in the art.

The compact dual-wavelength Raman probe <NUM> further includes optics <NUM>, <NUM> to configure the output beam of the laser sources <NUM>, <NUM>. Exemplary components shown in <FIG>, are lenses <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> (optics <NUM>) to reshape the optical beam associated with laser <NUM> to form, for example, a beam cross-section suitable for exciting Raman signal (or wavelengths) by a target of interest, <NUM>, and corresponding components <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> (optics <NUM>) to reshape the optical beam associated with laser <NUM>. Narrow-band filters <NUM> and <NUM> reject spontaneous emission from the outputs of lasers <NUM> and <NUM>.

Collimated light beams <NUM> and <NUM> are combined into a single collimated beam <NUM> by use of a first dichroic mirror <NUM> and reflecting mirror <NUM>, wherein mirror <NUM> redirects light beam <NUM> towards first dichroic mirror <NUM>. First dichroic mirror <NUM> further passes light beam <NUM> and redirects light beam <NUM> to form collimated beam <NUM>.

A single short pass filter (not shown). with cut-off wavelength designed to pass the wavelengths emitted by the first laser <NUM> and the second laser <NUM> but blocks wavelengths beyond the longer of the two wavelengths (i.e., light beams <NUM>, <NUM>) may be placed after the light beams <NUM>, <NUM> are combined into collimated beam of light <NUM>.

The probe (excitation, illumination) light beam <NUM> is transmitted through a second short-pass dichroic mirror <NUM>, with transmission characteristics schematically depicted in inset <NUM>, to lens <NUM> which focuses the combined light, comprising the wavelengths emitted by the first laser <NUM> and the second laser <NUM> onto the target object <NUM> along light path <NUM>.

Light scattered from the target object <NUM> will include Raman, Rayleigh and fluorescent components, which may be collected by lens <NUM> and directed back towards the second dichroic mirror <NUM> through light path <NUM>. In this illustrated case, dichroic mirror <NUM> is configured to reflect the longer Stokes-shifted Raman photons into collimated beam <NUM>. Light at wavelengths longer than the filter cutoff, including at the two excitation wavelengths, will, to a great extent, pass through second dichroic mirror <NUM> and be largely eliminated from beam <NUM>.

Additional optical elements (not shown) may be included in the light path of light beam <NUM> to shape light beam <NUM>. For example, light beam <NUM> may be shaped into a circular beam such that the light beam <NUM> (i.e., combined first excitation wavelength and second excitation wavelength) forms an annular region on said target object <NUM>. The optical elements may be configured to adjust a diameter of the annular region projected onto the target object. The additional optical elements (not shown) may be included the light path of light beam <NUM> to shape light beam <NUM> into an elliptical or elongated shape.

The spatial extent of the excitation light on the target <NUM> may be sufficiently long to give rise to off-axis scattered light, which may result in the reflection of a range of wavelengths - including those that would be preferentially excluded - by the second dichroic mirror <NUM> into beam <NUM>. The design of dichroic mirror <NUM> preferably is such that unwanted light is eliminated as much as is possible.

Dichroic mirror <NUM> may be an edge filter that is designed to direct wavelengths of the Raman scattered light toward spectrometer <NUM>, along a single optical fiber or axis (i.e., co-aligned), while substantially removing other light near the pump wavelengths.

In an embodiment of the invention disclosed in which the Stokes signal wavelength is to be detected, the dichroic mirror <NUM> is a short-pass filter that reflects wavelengths longer than that of the pump wavelength and substantially removes wavelengths at and shorter than the pump wavelengths from optical beam <NUM>, as shown.

In an embodiment of the invention disclosed, in which anti-Stokes signals are to be detected, the dichroic mirror <NUM> is a long-pass filter that reflects wavelengths shorter than that of the pump wavelength and substantially removes wavelengths at and longer than the pump wavelengths from optical beam <NUM>.

Dichroic mirror <NUM> is typically used at a <NUM>□ angle of incidence and, in the embodiment shown in <FIG>, transmits light from the laser sources <NUM> and <NUM> towards the target <NUM> under investigation. Exemplary dichroic mirror are Semrock's RAZOREDGE beamsplitters. RAZOREDGE is a registered Trademark of IDEX Health & Science LLC, Rohnert Park, California.

For detection of Stokes signals, long-pass dichroic filter <NUM> is designed to transmit wavelengths longer than its cutoff wavelength, as shown in inset <NUM>. Lens <NUM> focuses the filtered light onto the entrance facet of optical fiber <NUM>, which transmits the light to slit <NUM> of a compact spectrometer <NUM>.

The filter <NUM> may be one of: a dichroic filter, a volume holographic grating filter, and a fiber Bragg grating filter, used in combination with focusing and collection optics or any filter that provides the required wavelength-dependent blocking and transmitting capabilities. Exemplary filters include STOPLINE□ single notch filters and RAZOREDGE® ultra-steep long-pass edge filters for Stokes detection and ultra-steep short-pass edge filter for anti-Stokes detection. STOPLINE and RAZOREDGE are registered Trademarks of IDEX Health & Science LLC, Rohnert Park, California.

Spectrometer <NUM> is designed to diffract light input through slit <NUM> to a linear silicon detector array (not shown). The range of light diffracted onto the array is limited by the design of the spectrometer's diffraction grating and linear extent of the detector array as is well-known in the art. Accordingly, a spectrometer's grating and detector may be configured so that the detector receives a limited range of wavelengths, e.g., approximately <NUM> to <NUM> for Stokes signals. An exemplary <NUM>-element linear detector may have a resolution of approximately <NUM>-<NUM> (i.e., <NUM> wavenumber, wherein wavenumber is a term of art within the optical field) in both the fingerprint and stretch regions of the spectrum if detected separately.

In another embodiment of the invention, the light from lasers <NUM> and <NUM> of <FIG> may be combined onto a single fiber (not shown) before being presented to dichroic mirror <NUM>. The elements generating and combining the light from lasers <NUM> and <NUM> need not be contained within the body <NUM> and instead may be combined outside of the body <NUM> by means of either geometric or dichroic combination and subsequently combined into a single fiber before being presented to the dichroic mirror <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a dual-laser co-aligned/reflective Raman probe, wherein the laser sources <NUM>, <NUM> are incorporated within the Raman probe housing <NUM>. In this second exemplary embodiment of a dual-laser Raman probe, the elements (components) and operation of the Raman probe shown in.

<FIG> are similar to the elements and operation discussed with regard to the dual-wavelength Raman probe shown in <FIG>. As both the components and the operation of the configuration shown in <FIG> are similar to the components and operation of the dual-laser Raman probe shown in <FIG>, the details of the components and operation of the configuration shown in <FIG> would be understood by those skilled in the art from a reading of the components and operation of <FIG> and, thus, further discussion of <FIG> is believed not needed.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a dual-laser co-aligned Raman/transmissive probe with a Raman probe wherein where the light outputted by external lasers sources <NUM>, <NUM>, are combined into a single optical beam <NUM> using wavelength beam combining with a dichroic mirror <NUM> and reflective mirror <NUM>, as previously discussed. In this third exemplary embodiment, the second dichroic filter, <NUM>, functions to direct the excitation light of the laser sources on to target object <NUM> through lens <NUM>. Lens <NUM> further collects, and transmits to dichroic filter <NUM>, the Raman wavelengths generated in response to an interaction of the excitation wavelengths. Dichroic filter <NUM> then transmits the collected Raman light, as optical beam <NUM>, to filter <NUM>. In this case, filter <NUM>, operates to remove the light of laser sources <NUM> and <NUM> from being presented to slit <NUM> of spectrometer <NUM>.

In this third exemplary embodiment of a dual-laser Raman probe, the remaining elements (components) and operation shown in <FIG> are similar to the elements and operation discussed with regard to the dual-wavelength Raman probe shown in <FIG>. As both the components and the operation of the configuration shown in <FIG> are similar to the components and operation of the dual-laser Raman probe shown in <FIG>, the details of the components and operation of the configuration shown in <FIG> would be understood by those skilled in the art from a reading of the components and operation of <FIG> and, thus, further discussion of <FIG> is believed not needed.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a dual-laser spatially-offset / transmissive Raman probe where the light outputted by two external laser sources <NUM>, <NUM> is combined along a same optical path using wavelength beam combining with a dichroic mirror <NUM> and mirror <NUM> as previously discussed. The combined light <NUM> is then directed by mirror <NUM> through focusing lens <NUM> onto target object <NUM>. Collection lens <NUM> collects the Raman light generated in response to the illumination of the target object <NUM> with the combined excitation (or illumination light) light <NUM> and directs the collected Raman light, i.e., light beam <NUM>, to filter <NUM>, which operates to remove the excitation wavelengths from the collected Raman light, as previously discussed.

In this fourth exemplary embodiment of a dual-laser Raman probe, the remaining elements (components) and operation shown in <FIG> are similar to the elements (components) and operation discussed with regard to the dual-wavelength Raman probe shown in <FIG>. As both the remaining components and the operation of the configuration shown in <FIG> are similar to the remaining components and operation of the dual-laser Raman probe shown in <FIG>, the details of the remaining components and operation of the configuration shown in <FIG> would be understood by those skilled in the art from a reading of the components and operation of <FIG> and, thus, further discussion of <FIG> is believed not needed.

The invention further relates to a diagnostic system, comprising a spectrometer, said spectrometer comprising a known quantum efficiency, and a Raman probe device configured to provide Raman light wavelengths to said spectrometer, said Raman light wavelengths being generated in response to an excitation light illuminating a target object, wherein said excitation light comprises at least one of a first light comprising a first excitation wavelength, λp<NUM> and a second light comprising a second excitation wavelength, λp<NUM>, said first excitation wavelength selected based on a fluorescence generated by an interaction of the first excitation wavelength with said target object (this fluorescence can be regarded as at least one characteristic of said target object) and said second excitation wavelength determined based on a wavelength λQE at which a quantum efficiency of said spectrometer within the fingerprint region defined by the first excitation wavelength assumes a peak value and a Raman shifted peak of interest vPOI for the target object. Therefore, the second excitation wavelength is based on said first excitation wavelength and a wavelength associated with substantially a peak value of said known quantum efficiency.

Said second excitation wavelength is determined as:<MAT>λp<NUM> = <NUM> / [νpoi + <NUM>/λQE] ; wherein λQE is said wavelength associated with substantially said peak of said quantum efficiency within a range defined by the first excitation wavelength; and νpoi is the Raman shifted peak of interest for the target object. More precisely, νpoi is the wavenumber of a Raman shifted peak of interest, given in the same dimensions as <NUM>/λQE. Preferably, the Raman shifted peak of interest (νpoi) is a stretch peak emitted by the target object upon irradiation with the first laser light at the first excitation wavelength.

The system further comprises a control unit that is adapted to determine the second excitation wavelength by executing the method according to the invention as described elsewhere herein.

In a preferred embodiment, within the system as described above said Raman probe comprises a first lens configured to focus said first light and said second light onto said target object; and a filter configured to pass said Raman light wavelengths and to block said first wavelengths and said second wavelengths from passing to said spectrometer.

In a preferred embodiment, within the system as described above, said first lens is configured to collect said Raman light wavelengths and provide said collected Raman light wavelengths to said filter.

In a preferred embodiment, the system as described above comprises a second lens, said second lens configured to collect said Raman light wavelengths, and to provide said Raman light wavelengths to said filter.

In a preferred embodiment, the system comprises an optical device comprising: at least one optical fiber configured to receive said excitation light; and to direct said received excitation light to said target object; and a plurality of optical fibers configured to receive said Raman light wavelengths and to direct said received Raman light wavelengths to said second lens.

In a preferred embodiment, the system comprises a mask, wherein said mask prevents selected ones of said plurality of optical fibers receiving said Raman light wavelengths from receiving said Raman light wavelengths.

In a preferred embodiment, within the system as described above, said optical device comprises: a plurality of optical fibers arranged in one of: a <NUM>-dimensional array of optical fibers and a <NUM>-dimensional array of optical fibers.

In a preferred embodiment, within the system as described above, said optical device comprises a plurality of optical fibers arranged annularly about a center optical fiber, wherein said center optical fiber is one of: said transmissive optical fiber and said receptive optical fiber.

Within the system as described above, said at least one characteristic of the target object is associated with a fluorescence generated by said target object when illuminated by said first excitation wavelength. The first excitation wavelength is selected such as to minimize the impact of fluorescence on the Raman spectral signal.

Said first light and said second light may be emitted concurrently. Said first excitation wavelength and said second excitation wavelength may be emitted sequentially.

In a preferred embodiment, the system as described above comprises a first laser configured to generate said first light, wherein said first laser is one of: internal to said Raman probe and external to said Raman probe device; and/or a second laser configured to generate said second light, wherein said second laser is one of: internal to said Raman probe and external to said Raman probe device.

This disclosure further relates to Raman probe device comprising a first lens, said first lens configured to receive at least one of: a first excitation wavelength λp<NUM>, said first excitation wavelength determined based on at least one characteristic of a target object, and a second excitation wavelength λp<NUM>; and said first lens configured to focus said at least one of said first excitation wavelength and said second excitation wavelength onto said target object, wherein a Raman wavelength is generated in response to said target object being illuminated by a corresponding one of at least one of said first excitation wavelength and said second excitation wavelength; and wherein the Raman probe device further comprises a filter, said filter configured to pass said Raman wavelength generated in response to said target object being illuminated by a corresponding one of at least one of said first excitation wavelength and said second excitation wavelength, to a spectrometer; and wherein said spectrometer comprises a known quantum efficiency and said second excitation wavelength is determined as: λp<NUM> = <NUM> / [vpoi + <NUM>/λQE] ; wherein λQE is a wavelength associated with a peak of said quantum efficiency within a range defined by the first excitation wavelength; and vpoi is the Raman shifted peak of interest for the target object.

In a preferred embodiment of the Raman probe as described above, said first lens is configured to collect said Raman wavelength and to present said collected Raman wavelength to said filter.

In a preferred embodiment, the Raman probe as described above comprises a second lens, said second lens configured to collect said Raman wavelength and to present said collected Raman wavelength to said filter.

In a preferred embodiment, the Raman probe as described above comprises a first laser source configured to emit said first excitation wavelength; and a second laser source configured to emit said second excitation wavelength, wherein at least one of said first laser source and said second laser source is external to said Raman probe. Alternatively, at least one of said first laser source and said second laser source may be internal to said Raman probe.

In a preferred embodiment of the Raman probe as described above, said first excitation wavelength and said second excitation wavelength are emitted one of: concurrently and sequentially.

In a preferred embodiment, the Raman probe as described above comprises an optic device comprising a plurality of optical fibers, wherein selected ones of said optical fibers receive said first excitation wavelength and said second excitation wavelength; and selected ones of said optical fibers receive said Raman light wavelengths.

In a preferred embodiment of the Raman probe as described above, said plurality of optical fibers are arrange in one of a matrix configuration and an annular configuration.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a distance based spatial-offset Raman probe configuration, wherein the spatial separation (or distance) <NUM> between the excitation light wavelengths <NUM> and the collected light wavelengths <NUM> allows for the detection of sub-surface regions of target object <NUM>. Hereafter, the combined light <NUM> comprising first excitation wavelength <NUM> and second excitation wavelength <NUM> shall be referred to as excitation light <NUM> and the Raman light wavelengths shall be referred to as collected light wavelengths <NUM>. By increasing a distance <NUM> between the excitation light wavelengths <NUM> and collected light wavelengths <NUM> regions below a surface of target object <NUM> may be observed.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram of a second embodiment of a distance based spatially oriented Raman probe. In this illustrated embodiment, which is similar to the embodiment shown in <FIG>, further includes optical device <NUM>, which is in optical communication with lenses <NUM> and <NUM>. In this second embodiment, light (or excitation wavelengths) emitted by lens <NUM> are directed to optical device <NUM> through an optically clear material (e.g. optical fibers) and Raman light <NUM>, generated in response to excitation light <NUM> illuminating target object <NUM>, may be collected by optical device <NUM> and provided to collection lens <NUM> through a second set of optically clear material (e.g., optical fibers).

For example, optical device <NUM> may comprise an optical probe that may be used to scan target object <NUM> while emitting excitation wavelengths <NUM> and collecting Raman wavelengths <NUM>. The tip of optical probe may include an optically clear material (e.g., plurality of optical fibers) that receive excitation wavelengths from lens <NUM> and a second, separate, optically clear material (e.g., optical fibers) that collect Raman light wavelengths and provide the collected Raman wavelengths to collection lens <NUM>. Alternatively, optical device <NUM> may be a stationary device that includes a platform on to which target object may be placed or contained. Optical device <NUM> may include a plurality of optical fibers, for example, that receive excitation wavelengths <NUM> and a second plurality of optical fibers, for example, that collect Raman light wavelengths <NUM> and provide the collected Raman light wavelengths to collection lens <NUM>. In addition, the first set of optical fibers and the second set of optical fibers may be orientated as shown in <FIG>, for example. In another embodiment, the first set of optical fibers may be oriented such that the excitation wavelength <NUM> is projected onto target object <NUM> at an angle and the second set of optical fibers may be oriented at an angle with respect to target object <NUM>. In still another embodiment, the first set of optical fibers (or clear material) may be positioned on one side of target object <NUM> and the second set of optical fibers may be positioned on a second side of target object <NUM>.

Although optical device <NUM> is shown external to housing <NUM>, it would be recognized that optical device <NUM> may be internal to housing <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a first exemplary embodiment of optical device <NUM> wherein a first set of a plurality of optical fibers (or other optically clear material) <NUM>, and a second set of optical fibers <NUM> are arranged in a <NUM>-dimensional array. In this exemplary embodiment, optic fibers <NUM> represent a transmissive device that may be used to provide excitation wavelengths or light <NUM> to target object <NUM> while optical fiber <NUM> represent a receptive device that may be used to collect Raman light or wavelengths704 and provide the collected light to collection lens <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Spatial distance <NUM> between the excitation wavelengths <NUM> and the Raman wavelength <NUM> may be varied, for example, by utilizing different ones of collection fibers <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a second example of optical device <NUM>, which includes a two-dimensional array comprising a first and second sets of optical fibers <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged in a matrix.

As with the arrangement shown in <FIG>, excitation wavelengths or light <NUM> may be provided to target object <NUM> through fibers <NUM>, while Raman light <NUM> may be collected through optical fibers <NUM>.

In this illustrated embodiment, spatial distance <NUM> may be measured horizontally, vertically or diagonally with respect to the transmissive fibers and the receptive fibers.

A mask may be utilized to limit the number of receptive devices receiving the Raman light wavelengths. The mask may be used for determining a minimum separation (or maximum separation distance). Returning to <FIG>, a mask (not shown) may be positioned between the second and fifth rows of receptive fiber optic cables, <NUM> to establish a minimum separation distance between the transmissive fiber optic cable <NUM> and the receiving fiber optic cables <NUM>. Accordingly, the separation distance may be made variable.

<FIG> illustrate exemplary embodiment of optical devcie <NUM>, wherein optical fibers <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged in a circular or annular configuration.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a center transmissive fiber <NUM> surrounded by a plurality of collection fibers <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a center transmissive fiber <NUM> surrounded by two rows of a plurality of collection fibers <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a plurality of transmissive fibers <NUM> centered around a center collection fiber <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a center based transmissive fiber <NUM> surrounded by a ring of optically clear material <NUM> for collecting the Raman light <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a center based transmissive fiber <NUM> surrounded by a plurality of collection fibers <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a center-based collection fiber <NUM> surrounded by a optically clear material <NUM>.

In one embodiment, physical separation <NUM> of excitation wavelength <NUM> from collected wavelength <NUM> may be achieved through the use of a central illumination (excitation) region and an annular collection region. In another embodiment, physical separation <NUM> of excitation wavelength <NUM> from collected wavelength704 may be achieved through the use an annular illumination (excitation) region and a central collection region. In another embodiment, the collection wavelength region may be physically moved or masked from the excitation wavelength region to allow for variable distance between the excitation wavelength illumination area and the collection light wavelength area.

In another embodiment, the excitation wavelength region and the collection wavelength region may be oriented on opposite sides of the target object, <NUM>, in a so-called transmission configuration.

In still another embodiment, the excitation wavelengths <NUM> may be directed toward target object <NUM> at an angle. Similarly, the collected wavelengths <NUM> may be collected at an angle with respect to the target object <NUM>.

Although exemplary embodiments of a dual wavelength co-aligned/reflective Raman probe, with external lasers (<FIG>), a dual wavelength co-aligned/reflective n Raman probe, with internal lasers (<FIG>) ,a dual wavelength co-aligned/transmissive Raman probe with external lasers (<FIG>) and a dual wavelength spatially-oriented/ reflection Raman probe with external lasers (<FIG>) are discussed, it would be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the method of selection of excitation wavelength presented, herein, is applicable to other types of dual wavelength Raman probes (e.g., spatiallyoriented/reflection Raman probe with external lasers or internal lasers).

In addition, it would be known by those skilled in the art that the combining of the excitation wavelengths discussed may be performed by any of a known number of known wavelength combining methods (e.g., wavelength beam combining with dichroic mirrors or geometric beam combining, see <CIT>).

The excitation lasers <NUM>, <NUM> disclosed, herein, may be operated simultaneously, concurrently or sequentially. Sequential operation eliminates spurious signals e.g., fluorescence, that may be generated when both laser sources were to be operated simultaneously. However, it would be understood that simultaneous or concurrent operation has been considered as well. Hence, when the operation of the sources is concurrent, the laser light of the two sources may be combined as in joining together to form a single light beam composed of two wavelengths. Whereas, when (e.g., wavelength beam, geometric beam combining (see <CIT>, for example).

In the case of where the operation of the sources is sequential, then the laser light of one source is considered "combined" with the non-presence of light from the second laser light source such that a single beam of a single wavelength is formed.

Exemplary Raman pump wavelengths currently in use are <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. As is known in the art, shorter wavelength pump wavelengths yield higher Raman scattered signals as the Raman intensity is proportional to λ-<NUM>. However shorter pump wavelengths are more likely to give rise to fluorescence, which can overwhelm the Raman spectral features. The method of Raman concatenation offers the possibility of mitigating the negative impact of fluorescence with the shorter wavelength excitation source since fluorescence is wavelength dependent while the Raman signal is both proportional to the λ-<NUM> and shifts with respect to the excitation wavelength. This allows for the possibility of quantifying a Raman signal in the Stretch band when it is not possible to quantify a Raman signal in the fingerprint region when high levels of fluorescence are present. Finally, the specific wavelength of the short or long wavelength laser source can be selected to mitigate any fluorescence resonance effects.

Further, Stokes spectra are typically more intense than are anti-Stokes spectra. As is well known in the art, a Stokes shift of v (measured in wavenumbers, i.e., cm-<NUM>) will give rise to a Raman signal wavelength, λs, related to the probe wavelength, λp, by: <MAT>.

Generally, the "fingerprint" region of the spectrum includes wavenumbers less than about <NUM>-<NUM> whereas the "stretch" region includes wavenumbers ranging from about <NUM>-<NUM> to <NUM>-<NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an example of the determination of fingerprint and stretch regions of a spectrum that may be excited by two separate wavelengths such that the two resultant Stokes signal spectra can be detected using a single detector array in a compact spectrometer.

In accordance with the principles of the invention, the two probe wavelengths designated as λp<NUM> <NUM> and λp<NUM> <NUM> excite the stretch and fingerprint regions of the Raman spectrum, respectively. In this illustrated case, the second excitation wavelength λp<NUM> is of a shorter wavelength than the first excitation wavelength λp<NUM> <NUM>.

Further illustrated is an exemplary wavelength range associated with a fingerprint region, Δv<NUM>, <NUM> expressed in wavenumbers. The illustrated fingerprint region <NUM> is shown as extending from Raman signal wavelengths λs<NUM> <NUM> to λs<NUM> <NUM>, which are associated with the first excitation wavelength λp<NUM> <NUM>. Wavelengths λs<NUM> <NUM> and λs<NUM> <NUM> are determined from wavelength λp<NUM> <NUM> by shifted values V<NUM> and V<NUM>, respectively, wherein shifted values V<NUM> and V<NUM> may be determined from equation <NUM>, above.

In this illustrated example, Raman signal wavelength λs<NUM> <NUM> is conventionally shifted <NUM>-<NUM> (nanometers) from first excitation wavelength λp<NUM> <NUM> to avoid saturating the spectrometer with the backscattered pump light, while Raman signal wavelength λs<NUM> <NUM> is determined by calculating the wavelength associated with the fingerprint wavenumber range, Δv<NUM> <NUM>: <MAT>.

Further illustrated is a wavelength range associated with the Raman signal Stretch region, Δv<NUM> , <NUM> expressed in wavenumbers. The illustrated Stretch region is shown as extending from Raman signal wavelengths λs<NUM> <NUM> and λs<NUM> <NUM>, which are associated with the second excitation wavelength λp<NUM> <NUM>. Wavelengths λs<NUM> <NUM> and λs<NUM> <NUM> are determined from wavelength from λp<NUM> <NUM> by shifted values V<NUM> and V<NUM>, respectively, wherein values V<NUM> and V<NUM> may be determined from equation <NUM>, above.

Accordingly, Raman signal wavelength λs<NUM> <NUM> is selected to essentially coincide with λs<NUM> <NUM> so as to enable the detector element of a spectrometer to be utilized for both pump lasers, while Raman signal wavelength λs<NUM> 217is determined by calculating the wavelength associated with the Stretch wavenumber range, Δv<NUM> <NUM>, wherein the difference between λs<NUM> and λs<NUM> define the Stretch region.

Further shown is an exemplary quantum efficiency curve, QE(λ) <NUM>, of the spectrometer to be used for the collection and analysis of the Raman signals generated by the first and second excitation wavelengths.

Accordingly, with a proper selection of the second excitation wavelength λp<NUM> 210and the first excitation wavelength λp<NUM> <NUM> the generated Raman signals within both the stretch region and the fingerprint region may be captured by the detector element of a single spectrometer.

For the purposes of describing the subject matter regarded as the invention to those skilled in the art, the fingerprint region wavenumber range and Stretch region wavenumber range are approximately equal, i.e., Δv<NUM> ≈ Δv<NUM>, resulting in λs<NUM>≈ λs<NUM> and λs<NUM> λs<NUM>.

Furthermore, while second excitation wavelength λp<NUM> <NUM> and first excitation wavelength λp<NUM> <NUM> may be selected to provide for the capture of both the fingerprint and Stretch region using a same detector array, the selection of wavelengths λp<NUM> <NUM> and λp<NUM> <NUM> in accordance with the principles of the invention provides for the enhancement of the analytical performance of the spectrometer.

<FIG> illustrates a flowchart <NUM> of an exemplary process for determining the wavelengths of a dual-wavelength Raman probe in accordance with the principles of the invention.

In accordance with the principles of the invention, at step <NUM>, a first excitation wavelength (i.e., λp<NUM>) is selected. The first excitation wavelength is associated with the fingerprint region of the Raman signals reflected or scattered by the target object when illuminated by the first excitation wavelength.

The first excitation wavelength, λp<NUM>, is selected to be as short as possible to mitigate fluorescence of the Raman spectra generated by the inelastic scattering of the first excitation wavelength by the target object. Thus, first excitation wavelength, λp<NUM>, is determined based on the Raman target sample <NUM> under investigation and its particular fluorescence characteristics when illuminated by the excitation wavelength.

For example, it would be known in the art that a first excitation wavelength, λp<NUM>, for target classes of materials such as heavy petroleum (oil), biological materials, pharmaceutical materials and clear liquids may be selected as <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, respectively.

For purpose of teaching the invention claimed, a wavelength such as <NUM> (nanometers) may be selected as the first excitation wavelength, wherein <NUM> is selected to minimize the fluorescence generated by the target object when illuminated by the first excitation wavelength.

The desired range of the fingerprint region wavenumbers (Δv<NUM>) is selected based on a desired spectral range and resolution of the spectrometer (e.g. <NUM>-<NUM>) at step <NUM>.

The selection of the first excitation wavelength, λp<NUM> and Δv<NUM> defines the longest measured wavelength of the spectrometer (λs<NUM>) (step <NUM>) as <MAT>.

In this exemplary example with the use of a first excitation wavelength, λp<NUM> , of <NUM>, the longest measured wavelength λs<NUM> may be determined from equation <NUM> above, as <NUM>.

Inspection of the quantum efficiency spectrum associated with the spectrometer to be used in the collection and analysis of the Raman signals may then be performed to determine a peak wavelength of the spectrometer quantum efficiency response, QE(λ), in the determined fingerprint region (i.e., between wavelength λp<NUM> ( which is approximately equal to λs<NUM> ) and λs<NUM> ( step <NUM>).

The quantum efficiency curve, QE(λ), provides a measure of the efficiency of the spectrometer to collect the Raman signals over a known wavelength band. For example, and for purposes of describing the invention claimed, the quantum efficiency response curve ( λQE) within the range of the determined fingerprint region may be determined from current measurements or previous measurements of the response characteristics of the spectrometer.

For example, and for the purpose of describing the invention claimed to those skilled in the art, and with reference to <FIG>, a peak (maximum) quantum efficiency (λQE) <NUM> of the quantum efficiency response curve <NUM> within the determined fingerprint region <NUM> may be determined. For the purpose of teaching the invention claimed, the peak quantum efficiency in this illustrated example may be determined to be <NUM>.

The Raman shifted peak of interest (vpoi) may then be determined for the specific chemical compound under investigation (i.e., target object) at step <NUM>. For example, and for the purposes of describing the invention claimed to those skilled in the art, a Raman shifted peak of interest for a specific target object may be determined to be associated with a wavenumber of <NUM>-<NUM>.

The second excitation wavelength (λp<NUM>) for quantitative analysis in the Stretch region may then be determined at step <NUM> as: <MAT>.

Accordingly, the second excitation wavelength, (λp<NUM>) may be determined based on the Raman shift peak of interest, which is associated with the specific target object, and the peak quantum efficiency of the spectrometer within the fingerprint region, which is defined by the selection of the first excitation wavelength.

From the exemplary wavelength selected as the first excitation wavelength (λp<NUM>) <NUM>, for the exemplary Raman shifted peak of interest (vpoi) of <NUM>-<NUM> and the peak quantum efficiency ( λQE) <NUM>, a second excitation wavelength (λp<NUM>) <NUM> may be determined as <NUM>.

As would be appreciated, the selection of the second excitation wavelength in the manner disclosed in equation <NUM> provides for a coincidence of the Raman peak of interest wavelengths with the peak wavelength (λQE) of the spectrometer quantum efficiency within the fingerprint region.

Hence, the analysis of the Raman signals associated with the second excitation wavelengths is performed at, or substantially close to, the peak quantum efficiency of the spectrometer which results in better analytical performance of the target object.

Although the selection of the second excitation wavelength is determined based of the peak quantum efficiency, as expressed in equation <NUM>, and the most significant spectra performance may be achieved when the determined second excitation wavelength is coincident with the peak quantum efficiency, it would be recognized that a non-peak quantum efficiency value may similarly be utilized to determine the second excitation wavelength. It is, however, preferred that a wavelength λQE is determined at which the quantum efficiency within the range of a quantum efficiency curve QE(λ) assumes a peak value, associated with said spectrometer. That is, in accordance with the principles of the invention, the term "peak" as used with regard to the term "peak quantum efficiency" need not be the "peak" or maximum value as used in the ordinary and customary sense. Rather the term "peak" as used herein is considered to be a range about the maximum (or peak) value of spectra quantum efficiency. For example, the range may be defined by a range of +/- <NUM> percent of the wavelength number of the maximum value of the spectra quantum efficiency. Similarly, the range may be defined as +/- <NUM> percent of the wavelength number of the maximum value of the spectra quantum efficiency. In another example, the range may be defined as the wavelength numbers within 3dB of the maximum value of the spectra quantum efficiency. See for example, <FIG>, wherein points 240a, 240b represent the 3db (or half-power) points with respect to the peak quantum efficiency <NUM>. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the specific range may be determined by a desired increase in the signal-to-noise ratio of the received Raman spectra.

Accordingly, the determination of a second excitation wavelength base equation <NUM> may be more generally expressed as: <MAT> where δ represents a range about the maximum (peak) quantum efficiency value.

Thus, in accordance with the principles of the invention, the term "peak" is considered to be one of: the maximum value of the response spectra of the spectrometer and a range about the maximum value of the response spectra of the spectrometer.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary process for operating a dual-wavelength Raman probe in accordance with the principles of the invention.

In accordance with the principles of the invention, a first spectral Raman component generated by the excitation of the target object by a first excitation wavelength, is captured, filtered, received, processed and stored as shown in steps <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. More specifically, a target object is illuminated by a first excitation wavelength (i.e., λp<NUM>), which has been selected to minimize the fluorescence generated by the target object when illuminated by the first excitation wavelength. The Raman scattered light reflected or scattered by the target object is captured at step <NUM>. The Raman scattered light is then filtered at step <NUM> and provided to the spectrometer at step <NUM>. At step <NUM>, a spectral analysis performed on the reflected or scattered signals provided to the spectrometer are then stored at step <NUM>.

At step <NUM>, a second excitation wavelength (i.e., λp<NUM> ) is determined based on the first excitation wavelength and the quantum efficiency of the spectrometer within the fingerprint region determined based on the first excitation wavelength, as discussed above.

In accordance with the principles of the invention, after a determination of the second excitation wavelength based on equation <NUM> above, is made, an evaluation of the determined second excitation wavelength may be made with regard to wavelength performance of conventional laser devices in order to determine a suitability of using conventional lasers having known wavelength output.

That is, the wavelengths of one or more selected conventional lasers may be evaluated with regard to equation <NUM> to determine which of the more or more selected conventional lasers may be used in place of specially designed lasers that output a wavelength based on equation <NUM>.

A second Raman component generated by the excitation of the target object <NUM> by the determined second excitation wavelength, is captured, filtered, received, processed, and stored as shown in steps <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. Specifically, the target object <NUM> is illuminated by the second excitation wavelength at step <NUM>. The scattered or reflected Raman wavelengths associated with the second excitation wavelength are captured (step <NUM>) and filtered at step <NUM>. At step <NUM>, the Raman wavelengths are provided to the spectrometer and at step <NUM>, the results of a spectral analysis performed by the spectrometer are stored.

At step <NUM>, the first and second Raman spectral component data are concatenated, or combined together, wherein the first Raman spectral component may be used to determine an identification of a compound of the target object <NUM>, while the second Raman spectral component may be used to determine a concentration of the compound of the target object. Alternatively, the first and second Raman spectral may be processed independently to provide a more detailed analysis of the target object. The selection of the first and second excitation wavelengths in accordance with the principles of the invention provides for enhanced quantitative analysis as the Raman spectrum coincides (or substantially coincides) with a peak of the quantum efficiency of the spectrometer within the fingerprint region. The increased signal-to-noise ratio of the received Raman signals caused by the coincidence of the Raman signal with the peak of quantum efficiency of the spectrometer provides for an increase in the distinguishing features of the target object (or the component under analysis within the target object).

Accordingly, the dual laser Raman probe described herein provides opportunities to monitor, for example, a pharmaceutical bioreactor (i.e., a sealed vessel in which bacteria are grown in an aqueous liquid). An H Stretch band may be used as a calibration standard against which CH and NH Stretch bands and be monitored. For example, the CH and NH Stretch bands may be used to determine changes in proteins within a pharmaceutical bioreactor as proteins are generated by a bacteria and food (carbohydrates) are consumed. In accordance with another application of the dual laser Raman probe disclosed herein, a concentration of an additive may be determined by calibration using the Raman signal of pure water.

<FIG> illustrate a typical silicon detector quantum efficiency curve (<FIG>) and a corresponding table (<FIG>) illustrating the expected quantum efficiency vs. wavenumber for a first Raman pump laser source for a <NUM> wavelength dispersion range.

Referring to <FIG>, which illustrates an exemplary quantum efficiency vs. wavenumber, and the efficiency associated with the wavelength shift associated with a <NUM> pump laser source, a wavelength shift of the <NUM> excitation wavelength associated with a <NUM>-<NUM> wavenumber provides for a quantum efficiency of <NUM> % , whereas a wavelength shift associated with a <NUM><NUM> wavenumber provides for an efficiency of <NUM>%. Hence, an analysis of the Raman shifted wavelength associated with a <NUM> excitation wavelength at a <NUM>-<NUM> is significantly better than an analysis of a Raman shifted wavelength, associated with a <NUM> excitation wavelength, at a <NUM>-<NUM>, as the performance of the spectrometer is significantly greater for the Raman shifted wavelength at <NUM>-<NUM>.

<FIG> tabulates the quantum efficiency for spectrometer efficiency associated with a <NUM> excitation wavelength for different wavelength shifts.

<FIG> illustrate the efficiency improvement and a corresponding table obtained for the selection of excitation wavelengths, in accordance with the principles of the invention.

In accordance with the principles of the invention, selection of the second excitation wavelength (e.g., <NUM>), based on the first wavelength and the spectral efficiency of the spectrometer, provides for a quantum efficiency of <NUM> percent at <NUM>-<NUM> whereas a wavelength shift associated with a <NUM>-<NUM> wavenumber provides a quantum efficiency of <NUM>%. Hence, the selection of the second excitation wavelength in accordance with the principles of the invention provides significant improvement of the analysis of the Raman signals.

Hence, selection of the dual excitation wavelengths through the matching of the peak of the quantum efficiency curve to a particular wavenumber band of interest, in accordance with the principles of the invention, provides for an enhancement in the signal processing capability of the spectrometer.

An example, of the selection of the first and second excitation wavelengths may be determined as follows:.

Accordingly, a selection of a second excitation wavelength of <NUM> in accordance with the principles of the invention provides an improved, enhanced, signal-to-noise ratio in the Raman signal analyzed.

Furthermore, with the enhanced Stretch band signal, the entire enhanced Stretch band may be used for additional data as input for chemometrics algorithms or as orthogonal data to validate of data from the fingerprint region.

For example, the Raman probe excitation wavelength selection method described, herein, may have use in medical diagnostics as fats and proteins may be monitored using the CH and NH bands and water using the OH band water.

Analysis of the CH and NH bands, with the improved or enhanced signal analytical performance described, herein, may help diagnose inflammation or other pathological conditions.

The Raman probe excitation wavelength selection method described, herein, may have use in pharmaceutical process analytics for compound grown in water (H<NUM>O) as analysis of such compounds using near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is not effective.

The Raman probe excitation wavelength selection method described, herein, may have use to analyze petrochemicals as CH bands are important and where water is generally a contaminant.

Generally speaking, this disclosure encompasses the use of a device as described herein in medical diagnostics and in analyses associated with petrochemical processing or bioreactors.

<FIG> and 6B illustrate examples of the enhancement of Raman signal processing using a wavelength laser pump source in the Stretch band region selected in accordance with the principles of the invention for cyclohexane.

Specifically, <FIG> illustrates the spectral analysis associated with the fingerprint region and the Stretch region associated with a target object including cyclohexane. 6B illustrates an expanded version of the Stretch region shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates two Raman spectra <NUM> and <NUM>, wherein spectra <NUM> is obtained using a <NUM> wavelength laser excitation signal and spectra <NUM> is obtained using a <NUM> first excitation wavelength of <NUM> and a second excitation wavelength of <NUM>, wherein the <NUM> wavelength is selected in accordance with the principles of the invention disclosed herein.

Dual-wavelength Raman probe technology disclosed, herein, enables new applications in the process automation market. For example, the use of -H Stretch region vs. fingerprint region may provide for improved quantitative measurement of changes in concentration or predictive quantitation of concentration. For example, the dual-wavelength Raman probe with the wavelength selection as presented, herein, may be directly applicable to enhance the analysis of:.

In summation, a dual-wavelength Raman probe system comprising first and second excitation wavelengths impinge upon a target object and the reflected or scatted wavelength by the target object are collected and analyzed by a spectrometer. In accordance with the principles of the invention, the excitation wavelengths are selected based on the target object and the quantum efficiency (or within a known range) of the spectrometer in order to improve the signal to noise ratio of the Raman signals by having the Raman signals substantially coincide with the peak quantum efficiency of the spectrometer. Collection of the Raman signals substantially coincident with the peak quantum efficiency of the spectrometer provides for an improved signal to noise ratio of the Raman signal.

Although the invention has been described with regard to "a wavelength" emitted by the laser source or operated on by the Raman and Rayleigh scattering it would be recognized that the term "a wavelength" is a term of art and refers to a wavelength or a band of wavelengths around a nominal desired wavelength. The invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments. One of ordinary skill in the art however appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims. Accordingly, the specification is to be regarded in an illustrative manner, rather than with a restrictive view.

For the purposes of this invention, the term "wavelength" is sometimes used as an abbreviation for the expression "light of a (certain) wavelength". The skilled person will be aware, that in these cases, the expressions are interchangeable.

The skilled person will understand that for the purposes of this invention, wavenumbers (v, usually given in cm-<NUM>) and wavelengths (λ, usually given in nm) must be converted into the same dimensions for the purpose of calculations.

As used herein, the terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", "has", "having", or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions. For example, a process, method, article or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. In addition, unless expressly stated to the contrary, the term "or' refers to an inclusive "or" and not to an exclusive "or". For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present); A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present); and both A and B are true (or present).

The terms "a" or "an" as used herein are to describe elements and components of the invention. This is done for convenience to the reader and to provide a general sense of the invention. The use of these terms in the description herein should be read and understood to include one or at least one. In addition, the singular also includes the plural unless indicated to the contrary. For example, reference to a composition containing "a compound" includes one or more compounds.

Claim 1:
A method for determining a first excitation wavelength λp<NUM> and a second excitation wavelength λp<NUM> for use in a dual laser spectrometer system comprising:
- a first laser source (<NUM>) configured to emit a first excitation wavelength (<NUM>) and a second laser source (<NUM>) configured to emit a second excitation wavelength (<NUM>); and
- a spectrometer (<NUM>) configured to receive a first Raman signal and a second Raman signal, wherein said first Raman signal is associated with said first excitation wavelength (<NUM>) and said second Raman signal is associated with said second excitation wavelength (<NUM>),
said method comprising:
- selecting said first excitation wavelength based on at least one characteristic of a target object (<NUM>), wherein said at least one characteristic is associated with a fluorescence generated by an interaction of the first excitation wavelength (<NUM>) with said target object (<NUM>);
- determining a fingerprint region of the first Raman signal associated with said first excitation wavelength (<NUM>);
the method being characterized by further comprising:
- determining a wavelength λQE at which a quantum efficiency of the spectrometer within the fingerprint region assumes a peak value;
- determining a Raman shifted peak of interest vpoi for the target object; and
- determining said second excitation wavelength λp<NUM> based on the peak quantum efficiency value wavelength λQE and the Raman shifted peak of interest vpoi, wherein said second excitation wavelength λp<NUM> is determined as: <MAT>