Optical sensor apparatus for far-field viewing and making optical analytical measurements at remote locations

摘要

The present invention is an optical sensor apparatus for far- field viewing and imaging as well as for the optical detection and analytical measurement of at least one species of analyte in a remotely- positioned fluid sample. The apparatus employs an imaging fiber comprising a fiber optic array and a Gradient Index lens; and utilizes a remotely- positioned solid substrate having light energy absorbing indicator ligands on an external surface for reactive contact with individual species of analytes when present in a fluid sample. The optical sensor apparatus is able to view an object and provide an image of the object located at a pre-set optical distance remote from the imaging fiber. The apparatus is also able to detect and identify, qualitatively and quantitatively, one or more analytes of interest in a flowing solid, gaseous, or liquid sample at remote locations distanced from the imaging fiber itself.