External spectral data online acquisition system and application

Abstract

The present application relates to external spectral data online acquisition system and application, the system includes sample window frame, optical window piece, external frame, infrared probe and optical fiber, wherein the sample window frame is installed on the window of the monitored object, the infrared probe is inserted into the outer cavity from the end and is intersected with the optical window piece, and the external frame can set or adjust the angle and / or distance between the infrared probe and the optical window piece. The present application is assembled quickly through the external and based on the window of the tank or the kettle body, the infrared spectrum of the material in the tank or the kettle body is obtained at the required angle and distance, which is convenient for the implementation of the material online monitoring in the drug production. On the other hand, the angle of the infrared radiation and the distance between the probe and the window piece can be set or adjusted, which has high practicability, and the change of the inner diameter of the inner cavity can also effectively avoid the adhesion of the material on the inner side of the window piece affecting the entry of the infrared light.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of spectral detection technology, specifically relating to an external online spectral data acquisition system, and also to the application of the external online spectral data acquisition system. Background Technology

[0002] Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is electromagnetic radiation that lies between visible light (Vis) and mid-infrared light (MIR). It is mainly generated by the transition from the ground state to a higher energy state of molecular vibrations and reflects the combination frequency and overtones of the vibrations of hydrogen-containing groups (OH, NH, CH) in organic molecules.

[0003] Therefore, near-infrared spectroscopy has the following advantages:

[0004] 1) It not only carries the characteristic information of the molecule itself, such as its structure and functional groups, but also contains information about intramolecular and intermolecular forces, such as hydrogen bonds.

[0005] 2) Near-infrared spectroscopy has advantages such as convenience, speed, efficiency, accuracy, low cost, non-destructive to samples, no consumption of chemical reagents, and no environmental pollution. Therefore, this technology is increasingly favored and has been widely used in petrochemical, food, tobacco, feed and other fields. At the same time, it has also been increasingly used in pharmaceutical quality control in recent years.

[0006] However, in the pharmaceutical field, near-infrared spectrometers are mainly categorized into contact and non-contact types based on whether they come into contact with materials. Contact spectrometers generally have high requirements for material condition and operating conditions, and subsequent cleaning and maintenance are quite cumbersome. Furthermore, they may introduce the risk of drug contamination in pharmaceutical production, significantly limiting their application scenarios. In contrast, non-contact near-infrared spectrometers are not subject to these limitations and have broad application prospects.

[0007] Currently, non-contact near-infrared spectrometers on the market are mainly divided into two types: integrated and modular. Integrated spectrometers integrate the light source, dispersive system, sample measuring device, detection system, and data processing system into one unit, resulting in a small size; typically, only one unit can be installed on a single instrument. Modular spectrometers include optical fiber, near-infrared probe, and main unit; generally, multiple units can be installed on a single instrument, leading to lower operating costs.

[0008] However, most instrument manufacturers focus primarily on instrument performance and structural layout design, without considering the installation methods of fiber optic and near-infrared probes for specific application scenarios. This often requires distributors to commission third-party design firms to create installation solutions on short notice, resulting in inconsistent designs and numerous problems during use. Consequently, the actual application effect for customers is significantly reduced, or even the application fails.

[0009] In summary, the installation method of non-contact mode and block-type near-infrared spectrometers with fiber optic and near-infrared probe components is crucial to the application effect of near-infrared spectroscopy technology. However, instrument suppliers lack mature installation technology solutions, resulting in delays in instrument installation, inability to guarantee the application effect of the instrument, and failure to meet the online monitoring needs of near-infrared spectroscopy technology. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a brand-new external online spectral data acquisition system.

[0011] This invention also relates to the application of an external online spectral data acquisition system.

[0012] To solve the above technical problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0013] An external online spectral data acquisition system includes a sample measurement window frame with a window extending through itself in the thickness direction, an optical window plate positioned within the window and dividing the window into an inner cavity and an outer cavity, an external frame mounted on the outside of the sample measurement window frame, an infrared probe and an optical fiber mounted on the external frame. The sample measurement window frame is installed in the viewing window of the monitored object. The inner cavity communicates with the internal space of the monitored object and its inner diameter gradually decreases from the inside to the outside. The outer cavity communicates with the outside of the monitored object. The end of the infrared probe is inserted into the outer cavity and intersects with the optical window plate. The external frame can set or adjust the angle and / or distance between the infrared probe and the optical window plate.

[0014] Preferably, the optical window is a sapphire window, and the angle formed between the infrared probe and the sapphire window is an acute angle. This avoids the influence of the mirror effect on the near-infrared spectrum.

[0015] Specifically, the acute angle is between 30° and 60°, with 45° being the optimal angle.

[0016] According to a specific embodiment and preferred aspect of the present invention, a mounting groove is provided within the window, and the optical window is mounted in the mounting groove. The online spectral data acquisition system further includes a sealing ring for sealing the optical window and the sample frame, and a window mounting ring for fixing the optical window and the sample frame together. The inner ring of the window mounting ring and the outer surface of the optical window constitute an external viewing cavity, and the end of the infrared probe extends into the external viewing cavity. Under the action of the sealing ring and the window mounting ring, the optical window is positioned and assembled, ensuring airtightness after connection.

[0017] Preferably, the inner diameter of the outer viewing cavity is equal to the minimum inner diameter of the inner cavity. This arrangement prevents fiber optic interference between the outer and inner cavities, which is beneficial for acquiring infrared data.

[0018] Preferably, the sealing ring is a silicone sealing ring. It has good airtightness and is easy to implement.

[0019] Preferably, the external frame is made of stainless steel and is assembled from various components.

[0020] According to a specific embodiment and preferred aspect of the present invention, an external frame is located below the optical window. The external frame is capable of setting the angle between the infrared probe and the optical window, and maintaining the set angle unchanged while adjusting the distance between the infrared probe and the optical window. That is, by setting the angle, and then adjusting the distance according to actual needs, the actual requirements can be met.

[0021] Specifically, the external frame includes a fixed base extending outward from the outer side of the self-testing sample window frame, a fixed support plate mounted on the fixed base, and a fixed clamp mounted on the fixed support plate. The fixed clamp is used for fixing the infrared probe. The fixed base includes a first arm mounted on the sample window frame and a second arm extending upward at an angle from the end of the first arm away from the sample window frame. The first arm is fixedly connected to the sample window frame perpendicularly. The included angle between the first arm and the second arm is ∠1, and the included angle between the infrared probe and the optical window is ∠2, where ∠1 + ∠2 = 180°. The fixed support plate is slidably mounted on the second arm along its length. In other words, after setting the angle, selecting the fixed base corresponding to the included angle completes the assembly for the angle setting. Furthermore, the fixed support plate moves closer to or further away from the optical window as it moves up and down to adjust the spacing.

[0022] Furthermore, the external frame also includes a protective sleeve extending along the length of the infrared probe and a bracket mounted on a fixed plate. The protective sleeve is adjustable along its length and mounted on the bracket. The infrared probe is installed in the protective sleeve from the end furthest from the insertion point, and the optical fiber is installed inside the protective sleeve. The protective sleeve extends the lifespan of both the optical fiber and the infrared probe. Simultaneously, by shifting the protective sleeve, the distance between the infrared probe and the optical window can be adjusted without changing the angle.

[0023] Alternatively, an external mount can be positioned below the optical window, allowing adjustment of the angle and / or distance between the infrared sensor and the optical window. In other words, not only the angle but also the spacing can be adjusted, increasing the practicality of the application.

[0024] Specifically, the external frame includes a fixed base extending outward from the outer side of the sample measuring window frame, a fixed support plate mounted on the fixed base, and a fixed clamp mounted on the fixed support plate. The fixed clamp is used for fixing the infrared probe. The fixed base includes a first arm mounted on the sample measuring window frame and a second arm extending upward at an angle from the end of the first arm away from the sample measuring window frame. The first arm is adjusted on the sample measuring window frame by rotating up and down around its mating end. The included angle between the first arm and the second arm is ∠1, and the included angle between the infrared probe and the optical window is ∠2, where ∠1 + ∠2 = 180°. The fixed support plate is slidably mounted on the second arm along its length. In other words, the angle is adjusted during the up-and-down rotation to meet actual needs, and the distance is adjusted by the relative up-and-down movement of the fixed support plate towards or away from the optical window.

[0025] Preferably, the external frame further includes a protective sleeve extending along the length of the infrared probe and a bracket mounted on a fixed support plate. The protective sleeve is adjustable along its length and mounted on the bracket. The infrared probe is installed in the protective sleeve from the end furthest from the insertion point, and the optical fiber is installed inside the protective sleeve. The protective sleeve extends the service life of the optical fiber and the infrared probe. Furthermore, by shifting the protective sleeve, the distance between the infrared probe and the optical window can be adjusted without changing the angle.

[0026] Another technical solution of the present invention is: the application of an external spectral data online acquisition system as described above in the production of pharmaceuticals, wherein the external spectral data online acquisition system is installed in the window of the tank or vessel used in production, and infrared light is incident from the optical window into the tank or vessel to collect infrared data inside the tank or vessel to form a spectrum.

[0027] Preferably, the infrared light is near-infrared light, and the incident angle of the near-infrared light is 45±2°. This avoids the influence of the mirror effect on the near-infrared spectrum.

[0028] Due to the implementation of the above technical solutions, the present invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0029] This invention enables rapid assembly via an externally mounted window based on the tank or vessel body, allowing for the acquisition of the infrared spectrum of materials inside the tank or vessel at the required angle and spacing. This facilitates online material monitoring in pharmaceutical production, and this structure has not been previously disclosed in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Furthermore, the angle of infrared light entry and the distance between the probe and the window can be set or adjusted, offering high practicality. The variation in the inner diameter of the formed cavity effectively prevents material adhesion to the inner side of the window from affecting infrared light entry. Additionally, it allows for the replacement of near-infrared probes of different lengths, making it compatible with most commercially available near-infrared probes. It is cost-effective and easy to implement. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the external spectral data online acquisition system in Example 1;

[0031] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Front view diagram;

[0032] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Right view diagram after the external frame, infrared probe and fiber optic cable have been removed;

[0033] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the sectional view along the central AA direction;

[0034] Figure 5 for Figure 3 Right view of the mounting ring for the middle window panel;

[0035] Figure 6 for Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the BB-direction section;

[0036] Among them: 1. Sample measuring window frame;

[0037] 2. Optical window;

[0038] 3. External frame; 30. Fixed base; 301. First boom; 302. Second boom; 31. Fixed support plate; 32. Fixed clamp; 33. Protective sleeve; 34. Bracket;

[0039] 4. Infrared sensor;

[0040] 5. Sealing ring;

[0041] 6. Window mounting ring. Detailed Implementation

[0042] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0043] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0044] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0045] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0046] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" a second feature can mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that they are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of a second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" a second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature. It should be noted that when an element is referred to as "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intermediate element present. When an element is considered to be "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intermediate element present. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "above," "below," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible embodiments. Example 1

[0047] like Figure 1 As shown, the external spectral data online acquisition system involved in this embodiment includes a sample measuring window frame 1 with a window that extends through itself in the thickness direction, an optical window 2 that is installed inside the window and divides the window into an inner cavity and an outer cavity, an external frame 3 installed on the outside of the sample measuring window frame 1, an infrared probe 4 and an optical fiber installed on the external frame 3, wherein the sample measuring window frame is installed in the viewing window of the monitored object (generally such as: a vessel, a tank, etc.).

[0048] Combination Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the inner cavity is connected to the internal space of the vessel or tank, and the inner diameter gradually decreases from the inside to the outside.

[0049] The outer cavity is connected to the outside of the vessel or tank, and the infrared probe 4 is inserted into the outer cavity from the end and intersects with the optical window 2.

[0050] In this example, optical window 2 is a sapphire window, and the angle between the infrared probe 4 and the sapphire window is 45°. This avoids the influence of the mirror effect on the near-infrared spectrum.

[0051] Generally, the diameter of the sapphire window is not less than 80mm and the thickness is not less than 3mm, which is mainly adjusted according to the actual working conditions.

[0052] An installation slot is provided inside the window, and the optical window 2 is installed in the installation slot. The online spectral data acquisition system also includes a sealing ring 5 for sealing between the optical window 2 and the sample window frame 1, and a window mounting ring 6 for fixing the optical window 2 and the sample window frame 1 together.

[0053] Combination Figures 5 to 6 As shown, the window mounting ring 6 is ring-shaped and is assembled with the test window frame 1 by bolt connectors.

[0054] Specifically, the center of the window mounting ring 6, the sapphire window, and the window is aligned, and the inner ring of the window mounting ring 6 and the outer surface of the optical window 2 form an external viewing cavity, into which the end of the infrared probe 4 extends. Under the action of the sealing ring 5 and the window mounting ring 6, the optical window 2 is positioned and assembled to ensure airtightness after connection.

[0055] The inner diameter of the external viewing cavity is equal to the minimum inner diameter of the internal cavity. This arrangement prevents fiber optic interference between the external and internal cavities, which is beneficial for acquiring infrared data.

[0056] Sealing ring 5 is a silicone sealing ring. It has good airtightness and is easy to implement.

[0057] The external frame 3 is made of stainless steel and is assembled from various components.

[0058] Specifically, the external bracket 3 is located below the optical window 2. The external bracket 3 can set the angle between the infrared probe 4 and the optical window 2, and maintain the set angle while adjusting the distance between the infrared probe 4 and the optical window 2. In other words, by setting the angle and then adjusting the distance according to actual needs, the actual requirements can be met.

[0059] In this example, the external frame 3 includes a fixed base 30 extending outward from the outside of the self-test sample window frame 1, a fixed support plate 31 installed on the fixed base 30, and a fixed clip 32 installed on the fixed support plate 31, wherein the fixed clip 32 is used for fixing and clamping the infrared probe 4.

[0060] The mounting base 30 includes a first arm 301 mounted on the sample measuring window frame 1 and a second arm 302 extending upwardly from the end of the first arm 301 away from the sample measuring window frame 1. The first arm 301 is fixedly connected to the sample measuring window frame 1 perpendicularly. The included angle between the first arm 301 and the second arm 302 is ∠1, and the included angle between the infrared probe 4 and the optical window 2 is ∠2, where ∠1+∠2=180°.

[0061] The fixed support plate 31 is slidably mounted on the second arm 302 along the length of the second arm 302. That is, after setting the angle, the assembly of the angle setting can be completed by selecting the fixed seat with the corresponding angle, and the fixed support plate can move closer to or further away from the optical window to complete the spacing adjustment as it moves up and down relative to the optical window.

[0062] The external frame 3 also includes a protective sleeve 33 extending along the length of the infrared probe 4 and a bracket 34 mounted on the fixed support plate 31. The protective sleeve 33 is adjustablely mounted on the bracket 34 along its own length. The infrared probe 4 is installed in the protective sleeve 33 from the end furthest from the insertion end, and the optical fiber is installed inside the protective sleeve 33. The protective sleeve extends the service life of the optical fiber and the infrared probe. Furthermore, by shifting the protective sleeve, the distance between the infrared probe and the optical window can be adjusted without changing the angle. Example 2

[0063] The external spectral data online acquisition system involved in this embodiment has a structure that is basically the same as that in Embodiment 1. The differences are as follows.

[0064] The external bracket 3 can adjust the angle and distance between the infrared probe 4 and the optical window 2. In other words, it allows for both angle and spacing adjustment, increasing its practicality in various operating conditions.

[0065] Specifically, the first arm 301 is adjusted by rotating up and down around the docking end on the sample measuring window frame 1. At this time, the corresponding angle adjustment can be completed. As for the spacing adjustment method, the two are the same. Example 3

[0066] The online spectral data acquisition systems of Examples 1 and 2 described above are installed outside the viewing window of the fluidized bed dryer. Near-infrared spectra of the materials inside the equipment are acquired using a near-infrared probe, with the incident angle of the near-infrared light being 45±2° to avoid the influence of the mirror effect on the near-infrared spectrum.

[0067] Meanwhile, there are three viewing windows on the tank from top to bottom. The viewing windows are fitted with transparent glass and fixed to the equipment tank by flanges. The glass of the middle viewing window is removed, and the acquisition system is installed in the middle viewing window, replacing the original glass, and fixed to the equipment tank by flanges.

[0068] Alternatively, a separate acquisition system can be installed for each window.

[0069] In summary, this application has the following advantages:

[0070] 1. Rapid assembly via an externally mounted window based on the tank or vessel allows for the acquisition of the infrared spectrum of materials inside the tank or vessel at the required angle and spacing, facilitating online material monitoring in pharmaceutical production. This structure has not been previously disclosed in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Furthermore, the angle of infrared light entry and the distance between the probe and the window can be set or adjusted to avoid the influence of mirror effects on the near-infrared spectrum, demonstrating high practicality. Additionally, variations in the inner diameter of the formed cavity effectively prevent material adhesion to the inner side of the window from affecting infrared light entry.

[0071] 2. This system structure is designed to be used in conjunction with pharmaceutical equipment. It provides an installation solution for non-contact, modular near-infrared spectrometers with fiber optic and near-infrared probe components. It is applicable to the vast majority of near-infrared probes on the market, enabling the near-infrared spectrometer to be installed and deployed quickly, filling a gap in this field.

[0072] 3. It can safely and securely install the near-infrared probe and optical fiber on production equipment, providing protection for them. The hand-tightened mechanical screws used in the fixing clamp allow for quick installation and removal of the near-infrared probe and optical fiber without restricting the movement of the production equipment. The adjustable fixing clamp can adjust the distance between the near-infrared probe and the sapphire window, and can also accommodate near-infrared probes of different lengths, thus being compatible with most near-infrared probes on the market. The near-infrared probe installation position is relatively fixed and the connection is firm, reducing random errors introduced by positional deviations after each removal and reinstallation of the near-infrared probe. The complete near-infrared probe and optical fiber installation solution enables rapid installation and deployment of the near-infrared spectrometer, protecting the near-infrared probe and optical fiber and extending their service life.

[0073] The present invention has been described in detail above, with the aim of enabling those skilled in the art to understand and implement the invention. However, this description should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the invention. All equivalent changes or modifications made in accordance with the spirit and essence of the invention should be included within the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

1. An external online spectral data acquisition system, characterized in that: It includes a sample-measuring window frame with a window extending through itself in the thickness direction, an optical window plate installed inside the window and dividing the window into an inner cavity and an outer cavity, an external frame installed on the outside of the sample-measuring window frame, an infrared probe and an optical fiber installed on the external frame. The sample-measuring window frame is installed in the viewing window of the monitored object. The inner cavity communicates with the internal space of the monitored object and its inner diameter gradually decreases from the inside to the outside. The outer cavity communicates with the outside of the monitored object. The end of the infrared probe is inserted into the outer cavity and intersects with the optical window plate. The external frame can set or adjust the angle and / or distance between the infrared probe and the optical window plate. The online spectral data acquisition system also includes a sealing ring for sealing between the optical window plate and the sample-measuring window frame, and a window plate mounting ring for fixing the optical window plate and the sample-measuring window frame together. The inner ring of the optical window plate mounting ring and the outer surface of the optical window plate constitute an external viewing cavity, the inner diameter of which is equal to the minimum inner diameter of the inner cavity. The external frame is located at the optical... Below the optical window, the external frame includes a fixed base extending outward from the outer side of the test window frame, a fixed support plate mounted on the fixed base, a fixed clamp mounted on the fixed support plate, a protective sleeve extending along the length of the infrared probe, and a bracket set on the fixed support plate. The fixed clamp is used for fixing the infrared probe. The protective sleeve is adjustable along its own length and mounted on the bracket. The infrared probe is installed in the protective sleeve from the end furthest from the insertion end, and the optical fiber is installed inside the protective sleeve. The fixed base includes a first arm mounted on the test window frame and a second arm extending upward at an angle from the end of the first arm furthest from the test window frame. The first arm is fixedly connected to the test window frame perpendicularly. The included angle between the first arm and the second arm is ∠1, and the included angle between the infrared probe and the optical window is ∠2, where ∠1 + ∠2 = 180°. The fixed support plate is slidably mounted on the second arm along its length.

2. The external online spectral data acquisition system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The optical window is a sapphire window, and the angle formed between the infrared probe and the sapphire window is an acute angle.

3. The external online spectral data acquisition system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The acute angle is 30° to 60°.

4. The external online spectral data acquisition system according to claim 1, characterized in that: An mounting slot is provided inside the window, the optical window is mounted in the mounting slot, and the end of the infrared probe extends into the external viewing cavity.

5. The external online spectral data acquisition system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sealing ring is a silicone sealing ring.

6. The external online spectral data acquisition system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The external frame is made of stainless steel and is assembled from various components.

7. The external online spectral data acquisition system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The external frame maintains a fixed angle while adjusting the distance between the infrared probe and the optical window.

8. The application of an external spectral data online acquisition system as described in any one of claims 1 to 7 in the production of pharmaceuticals, wherein the external spectral data online acquisition system is installed in the window of the tank or vessel used in production, and infrared light is incident from the optical window into the tank or vessel to collect infrared data inside the tank or vessel to form a spectrum.

9. The application of the external spectral data online acquisition system according to claim 8 in pharmaceutical production, characterized in that: The infrared light is near-infrared light, and the incident angle of the near-infrared light is 45±2°.

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