Portable spectrometer

Abstract

The invention relates to a portable spectrometer (110) for carrying out at least one optical measurement on at least one measurement object (112). The portable spectrometer (110) comprises:-at least one optical element (116) configured for separating incident light radiation (114) provided by a measurement object (112) into a spectrum having constituent wavelength components; -at least one photosensor (120) comprising at least one photosensitive region (122) configured for receiving the optical radiation (114) from the optical element (116), where the photosensor (116) is configured for generating at least one photosensor signal as a function of an illumination of the photosensitive region (116) by the optical radiation (114); -at least one movement sensor (126) configured for generating at least one movement sensor signal as a function of a movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer (110) and the measurement object (112); and-at least one evaluation device (128), which is configured to determine at least one piece of measurement quality information relating to the optical measurement by using the movement sensor signal, the evaluation device (128) is further configured to determine at least one piece of spectral measurement information about the measurement object (112) by using the photosensor signal. Further, a method for performing at least one optical measurement on at least one measurement object (112) is proposed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a portable spectrometer and a method for performing at least one optical measurement on at least one measurement object. In general, such devices and methods can be used for various applications. They can be used specifically for research or monitoring purposes, specifically in the infrared (IR) spectral region, more specifically in the near infrared (NIR) spectral region. As an example, they can be used to analyze the chemical composition of the measurement object. However, other types of applications may also be possible. Background Art

[0002] Spectroscopy, in particular infrared spectroscopy, allows the optical analysis of the chemical composition of a measurement object. However, in many cases, the composition of the measurement object (e.g., grain, feed or silage) has spatial differences. In order to obtain a representative composition of the measurement object, it may be necessary to measure the measurement object at different locations.

[0003] For fixed devices (such as laboratory spectrometers), a sample holder can be used to hold larger samples and the sample can be moved past the measuring head, for example by rotation. For mobile devices, such additional equipment is usually undesirable, because it usually adds space and weight and requires an additional power supply. Therefore, the portable spectrometer is usually moved along the measurement object by hand, and several measurement results can be recorded at different places at the same time, thereby obtaining, for example, an average measurement result.

[0004] US2017 / 0292908 A1 discloses a spectrometer system for determining one or more spectra of an object. The one or more spectra may be associated with one or more attributes of the object that are relevant to a user. Although the spectrometer system may take many forms, in many cases the system includes a spectrometer and a processing device that communicates with the spectrometer and a remote server, wherein the spectrometer is physically integrated with the device. The function of the device may be different from that of the spectrometer, such as a consumer appliance or device.

[0005] However, depending on the user, varying degrees of accuracy may be achieved. For example, if the spectrometer is moved too slowly or not at all, the measurement accuracy may be significantly reduced because the spectrum may not be representative of the entire inhomogeneous measurement object.

[0006] Problem to be solved

[0007] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a portable spectrometer and a method for performing at least one optical measurement on at least one measurement object, which portable spectrometer and the method at least substantially avoid the disadvantages of known devices and methods of this type. In particular, it is desirable to provide a portable spectrometer and a method for performing at least one optical measurement on at least one measurement object, which portable spectrometer and the method facilitate improving the accuracy and reliability of the optical measurements, in particular by obtaining a sufficiently representative spectrum of the entire measurement object, in particular for use by non-expert users. Summary of the invention

[0008] This problem is solved by a portable spectrometer and a method for performing at least one optical measurement of at least one measurement object having the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are listed in the dependent claims and in the entire description, which can be realized individually or in any arbitrary combination.

[0009] In a first aspect of the present invention, a portable spectrometer for performing at least one optical measurement on at least one measurement object is disclosed. As used herein, the term "spectrometer" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a device or system configured to determine spectral information (such as information about at least one spectrum of at least one measurement object) by recording at least one measurement value of at least one signal intensity associated with at least one corresponding signal wavelength of optical radiation provided by the measurement object and evaluating at least one measurement signal associated with the signal intensity. As used herein, the term "spectrum" (including any grammatical variants thereof) is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a partition of optical radiation, wherein the spectrum is composed of an optical signal, which is defined by at least one signal wavelength and, for example, at least one corresponding signal intensity as a function of the signal wavelength. In particular, the spectrum may include spectral information associated with at least one measurement object, such as the type and composition of at least one material forming at least one measurement object, which spectral information may be determined by recording at least one spectrum associated with the at least one measurement object.

[0010] As used herein, the term "portable spectrometer" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a spectrometer configured to be moved, specifically carried, by at least one user, specifically only by one user. More specifically, the portable spectrometer may be configured to be carried by only one user in his or her hand, specifically due to at least one of the size of the portable spectrometer and the weight of the portable spectrometer. The portable spectrometer may be operable or controllable by only one user. The portable spectrometer may be a handheld spectrometer. The portable spectrometer may be a mobile spectrometer. The portable spectrometer may be a miniaturized spectrometer. As an example, the volume of the portable spectrometer may not exceed 0.001m 3 , and / or the weight of the portable spectrometer may not exceed 5 kg, specifically, the weight of the portable spectrometer may not exceed 1 kg. The portable spectrometer may be a mobile device or a wearable device or may be part of a mobile device or a wearable device. As an example, the portable spectrometer may be part of a smart phone, a tablet computer or a smart watch. Other options may be feasible. The portable spectrometer may specifically promote consumer-friendly applications, specifically for non-expert users.

[0011] As used herein, the term "optical measurement" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, measurements using optical radiation, specifically measurements used to measure or study at least one measurement object. Specifically, optical measurements may include detecting and / or analyzing optical radiation provided by a measurement object, such as optical radiation emitted and / or reflected and / or transmitted by a measurement object. Optical measurements may derive information about at least one optical property of a measurement object, wherein the optical property may indicate at least one additional physical or chemical property of the measurement object. Specifically, optical measurements may be or include at least one spectral measurement. As an example, optical measurements may derive a spectral absorbance of a measurement object, which spectral absorbance may indicate a chemical composition of the measurement object. In addition to spectral measurements or as an alternative to spectral measurements, optical measurements may also include other optical measurements, such as optical position or velocity measurements. Other options may be feasible.

[0012] As used herein, the term "optical radiation" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for those of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, electromagnetic radiation, specifically electromagnetic radiation in at least one spectral range of the visible light spectral range, the ultraviolet spectral range, or the infrared spectral range. The term "ultraviolet light" generally refers to electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength of 1nm to 380nm, preferably 100nm to 380nm. Further, the term "visible light" generally refers to a wavelength of 380nm to 760nm. Further, the term "infrared" ("abbreviated as IR") generally refers to a wavelength of 760nm to 1000μm, wherein a wavelength of 760nm to 3μm is generally referred to as "near infrared" (abbreviated as "NIR"). Preferably, the optical radiation used for the typical purpose of the present invention is IR radiation, more preferably NIR radiation, especially radiation with a wavelength of 760nm to 3μm, preferably 1μm to 3μm. As indicated, optical radiation may be provided by at least one measurement object, wherein the provision may include at least one of reflection, transmission and emission. As will be outlined in further detail below, the optical radiation may be emitted by at least one radiation source before interacting with the measurement object. After interacting with the measurement object, the optical radiation may illuminate the spectrometer, specifically a photoelectric sensor of the spectrometer, more specifically a photosensitive area of ​​the photoelectric sensor. The term "optical radiation" may also be referred to herein as "illumination" or "light".

[0013] As used herein, the term "measurement object" is a broad term and will be given its common and conventional meaning for those of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, any body selected from living and inanimate objects. The measurement object may specifically include at least one material subjected to spectrometer research. The measurement object may specifically be an object to be measured (e.g., an object whose spectrum is to be recorded), wherein the object may have any properties (e.g., any optical properties or any shape). The measurement object may include at least one solid or fluid sample. Other options may be feasible.

[0014] Portable spectrometer includes:

[0015] - at least one optical element configured to separate incident optical radiation provided by the measurement object into a spectrum having constituent wavelength components;

[0016] at least one photosensor, the at least one photosensor comprising at least one photosensitive area configured to receive optical radiation from the optical element, wherein the photosensor is configured to generate at least one photosensor signal in dependence on the illumination of the photosensitive area by the optical radiation;

[0017] - at least one motion sensor configured to generate at least one motion sensor signal in dependence on a movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object; and

[0018] - At least one evaluation device configured for determining at least one measurement quality information about the optical measurement by using the movement sensor signal, wherein the evaluation device is further configured for determining at least one spectral measurement information about the measurement object by using the optoelectronic sensor signal.

[0019] The portable spectrometer includes at least one optical element. The optical element is configured to separate the incident light radiation provided by the measurement object into a spectrum with constituent wavelength components. As used herein, the term "optical element" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to special or custom meanings. The term can specifically refer to but is not limited to any element configured to affect light radiation. Specifically, the optical element can be configured to at least one of the following items: at least partially disperse light radiation, at least partially filter light radiation, at least partially reflect (e.g., diffuse reflection or direct reflection) light radiation, at least partially deflect light radiation, at least partially transmit light radiation, and at least partially absorb light radiation. The optical element can include at least one of a prism, a grating, and a beam splitter. The optical element can be specifically configured for use in mobile applications, such as for use in a handheld spectrometer device and / or a spectrometer device composed of an electronic communication device (such as a smart phone or a tablet). As another example, the optical element can include at least one optical filter element. The optical filter element can be configured to filter light radiation or more specifically at least one selected spectral range of light radiation. The optical filter element may be specifically positioned in front of the photosensor in the light path. As an example, the portable spectrometer may include a plurality of photosensors (e.g. arranged as pixels in an array or matrix) and a plurality of optical filter elements, wherein the optical filter element may be positioned in front of each photosensor in the light beam path. A number of other options may be feasible and are generally known to the skilled person.

[0020] The portable spectrometer includes at least one photoelectric sensor. The photoelectric sensor includes at least one photosensitive area. The photosensitive area is configured to receive optical radiation from an optical element. The photoelectric sensor is configured to generate at least one photoelectric sensor signal according to the illumination of the photosensitive area by the optical radiation. As used herein, the term "sensor" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to special or custom meanings. The term can specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a device configured to detect at least one condition or to measure at least one measurement variable. The sensor can be capable of generating at least one signal (such as a measurement signal), which is a qualitative or quantitative indication of a measurement variable and / or a measurement characteristic (such as illumination of the sensor or a part of the sensor). The signal can be or include an electrical signal, such as a current, specifically a photocurrent. As used herein, the term "photoelectric sensor" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to special or custom meanings. The term can specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a sensor or detector configured to detect or measure optical radiation (such as by using a photoelectric effect), such as detecting illumination and / or a light spot generated by at least one light beam. The photodetector may include at least one substrate. As an example, a single photosensor may be a substrate having at least one single photosensitive region that generates a physical response, such as an electronic response, to illumination of a given wavelength range.

[0021] As used herein, the term "photosensitive area" is a broad term and shall be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and shall not be limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a cell of a photosensor, specifically a spatial area or volume as part of a photosensor, which is configured to be irradiated, or in other words, to receive light radiation, and to generate at least one signal, such as an electronic signal, in response to the irradiation. The photosensitive area may be located on the surface of the photosensor. The photosensitive area may specifically be a single, closed, uniform photosensitive area. However, other options may also be feasible.

[0022] As used herein, the term "signal" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to special or custom meanings. The term can specifically refer to but is not limited to an observable change in at least one physical quantity. A signal can be or include a symbol or function that conveys information about at least one physical quantity. A signal can specifically be or include at least one of an electronic signal, an optical signal, or a photoelectric signal. A signal can be a variable signal, specifically a signal that can change over time. A signal can be an analog signal. A signal can be or include at least one of the following items: a variable voltage, a variable current, a variable charge, a variable resistance, or generally a variable electromagnetic wave. A variable electromagnetic wave can include at least one of a variable amplitude, a variable frequency, or a variable phase. A signal can be a digital signal. A signal can include at least one count, such as at least one count generated by an analog-to-digital converter. A signal can be specifically generated by at least one sensor, more specifically in response to at least one measurement. Other options may be feasible.

[0023] Therefore, as used herein, the term "photoelectric sensor signal" is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a signal generated by a photoelectric sensor, specifically in response to at least one optical measurement. The portable spectrometer may be configured, for example, by using at least one of a wire and a trace, for transmitting the photoelectric sensor signal from the photoelectric sensor to an evaluation device, specifically for further processing and / or evaluation, for example for evaluating a physical and / or chemical property of a measurement object.

[0024] Similarly, as used herein, the term "mobile sensor signal" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a signal generated by a mobile sensor, specifically in response to at least one measurement of the movement of at least one object, such as a portable spectrometer and / or a measurement object. The portable spectrometer may be configured, for example, in a wired manner or wirelessly, such as by using at least one of a wire and a trace, for transmitting the mobile sensor signal from the mobile sensor to an evaluation device, specifically for further processing and / or evaluation, such as for evaluating the speed and / or position of the portable spectrometer and / or the measurement object.

[0025] The portable spectrometer includes at least one mobile sensor. The mobile sensor is configured to generate at least one mobile sensor signal according to the movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object. As used herein, the term "movement" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to special or custom meanings. The term can specifically refer to but is not limited to the change of position over time, such as the change of the position of an object (such as a portable spectrometer and / or a measurement object) over time. Movement can include the change of the position of the center of mass of the portable spectrometer over time. Movement can include the change of the position of any point of the portable spectrometer (such as the edge of the portable spectrometer), such as the rotation of the portable spectrometer. Movement can specifically be a change in the relative position of the portable spectrometer relative to the measurement object. Therefore, alternatively or additionally, movement can include the change of the position of the center of mass of the measurement object over time. Movement can include the change of the position of any point of the measurement object (such as the edge of the measurement object) such as during the rotation of the measurement object. Movement can include at least one of the translation of the object, the rotation of the object, and the deformation of the object, wherein the object can include at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object.

[0026] As used herein, the term "mobile sensor" is a broad term and will be given its common and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term can specifically refer to but is not limited to a detector configured to detect or measure the movement of at least one object. The mobile sensor can be configured to detect movement quantitatively. In other words, the mobile sensor can be configured to detect whether there is movement and / or for quantifying movement. Specifically, the mobile sensor can be configured to detect movement qualitatively. The mobile sensor can be configured to measure at least one of the speed and acceleration of a movement or a moving object (such as a portable spectrometer and / or a measurement object), as will be further outlined in detail below. The mobile sensor may include at least one of an acceleration sensor, a speedometer, a position sensor, a gyroscope, and an optical sensor (specifically, an optical speed sensor). For example, in the case where the measurement object moves relative to the spectrometer, the optical speed sensor can, for example, be configured to measure the speed of the measurement object. As the technician will know, acceleration, speed and position are physically directly related to each other, and can therefore be derived from each other, such as by integration over time or by time derivatives, such as by using an evaluation device to derive. As outlined above, the mobile sensor is comprised by the portable spectrometer device, such as by arranging the mobile sensor in a housing of the portable spectrometer, for example by the electronics of the portable spectrometer being comprised in a housing of the portable spectrometer itself.

[0027] The portable spectrometer includes at least one evaluation device. The evaluation device is configured to determine at least one measurement quality information about the optical measurement by using the mobile sensor signal. The evaluation device is further configured to determine at least one spectral measurement information about the measurement object by using the photoelectric sensor signal. As used herein, the term "evaluation device" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to special or custom meanings. The term can specifically refer to but is not limited to a device or system configured to analyze or interpret data, specifically for determining at least one qualitative or quantitative information. The information can be obtained specifically by evaluating at least one signal (such as a photoelectric sensor signal and / or a mobile sensor signal). The evaluation device can be or include at least one of an integrated circuit (especially an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) or a data processing device, especially a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a microcontroller, a microcomputer, a computer or an electronic communication device (especially a smart phone or a tablet). Additional components may be feasible, especially at least one preprocessing device or a data acquisition device. The evaluation device may include at least one interface, especially at least one of a wireless interface or a wired interface. The evaluation device can be designed to perform at least one measurement cycle in which a plurality of measurement signals can be picked up. The evaluation device can be included by the portable spectrometer by having at least one signal connection path (wired or wireless), which is used to exchange signals, specifically mobile sensor signals, between the mobile sensor and the evaluation device. For example, the evaluation device can be or can be included by an electronic communication device (such as a smart phone or a tablet), wherein other components of the portable spectrometer can also be included by the electronic communication device, and wherein at least one signal connection path can be provided between the evaluation device and the mobile sensor. Alternatively or additionally, the evaluation device can be arranged away from other components of the portable spectrometer device, for example by being arranged in a cloud computer network. At least one signal connection path, such as a high-bandwidth signal connection path (for example using a high-bandwidth signal connection path based on the 5G standard) can be provided between the remote evaluation device and the mobile sensor.

[0028] The information as determined by the evaluation device can be provided to at least one of the further devices or users in at least one of an electronic, visual, auditory or tactile manner. The information can be stored in at least one data storage device, in particular in an internal data storage device as comprised by the portable spectrometer (in particular by the at least one evaluation device), or in a separate storage device to which the information can be transmitted via at least one interface. The separate storage device can be comprised by the electronic communication device. The storage device can be particularly configured to store at least one electronic table (such as at least one lookup table).

[0029] The evaluation device can be configured to execute at least one computer program, in particular at least one computer program that executes or supports the information generation step. For example, one or more algorithms can be implemented, which can perform a transformation into information by using at least one measurement signal as at least one input variable. For this purpose, the evaluation device can include at least one data processing device, in particular at least one of an electronic data processing device or an optical data processing device, which at least one data processing device can be designed to generate information by evaluating at least one signal. The evaluation device can be designed to use a signal as at least one input variable and to generate information by processing the input variable. The processing can be performed in a continuous, parallel or combined manner. The evaluation device can use an arbitrary process to generate information, in particular by calculating and / or using at least one stored and / or known relationship to generate information.

[0030] As used herein, the term "measurement quality information" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to special or custom meanings. The term can specifically refer to, but is not limited to, providing knowledge or evidence related to at least one of the quality, accuracy, precision and reliability of a measurement (particularly an optical measurement) of a qualitative and / or quantitative description. The measurement quality information may include at least one indication of the quality of the optical measurement (such as the expected accuracy of the optical measurement). As an example, the measurement quality information may include at least one factor that qualitatively or quantitatively affects the quality of the optical measurement, specifically at least one physical quantity, such as the position and / or speed of the portable spectrometer and / or the measurement object. The quality of the optical measurement can generally depend on several aspects. As already indicated, specifically when analyzing an inhomogeneous measurement object, it may generally be necessary to measure the inhomogeneous measurement object at different positions in order to obtain a representative spectrum related to the entire measurement object. Therefore, as will be understood by the technician, the knowledge related to the quality of the optical measurement can be, for example, knowledge about the position of the portable spectrometer relative to the measurement object, or knowledge about the speed of the portable spectrometer relative to the measurement object. Other options may be feasible. Several specific examples will be further outlined in detail below.

[0031] As used herein, the term "spectral measurement information" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, knowledge or evidence that provides a qualitative and / or quantitative description related to the optical properties of the measurement object (specifically the spectral properties of the measurement object) or the physical and / or chemical properties of the measurement object derived therefrom. The spectral measurement information may include at least one of the physical properties of the measurement object or the chemical composition of at least one measurement object. The physical properties may specifically include optical properties, such as at least one absorbance of the measurement object and / or at least one emissivity of the measurement object. The chemical composition may specifically refer to qualitative and / or quantitative information about at least one material included in the measurement object.

[0032] The motion sensor signal may depend on at least one of the following: the absolute movement of the portable spectrometer, in particular the speed of the portable spectrometer; the absolute movement of the measurement object, in particular the speed of the measurement object; the relative movement of the portable spectrometer relative to the measurement object, in particular the relative speed, or vice versa. As used herein, the term "absolute movement" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a movement observed or measured in an inertial reference frame (i.e., a reference frame that does not experience acceleration, at least in a good approximation (e.g., in a laboratory where gravity is neglected)). As an example, the absolute movement of the portable spectrometer may be a movement of the portable spectrometer performed by a user who does not experience acceleration, at least in a good approximation (e.g., a user standing in a room or outdoors (e.g., on the street) and holding the portable spectrometer in his or her hands). As another example, the absolute movement of the measurement object may be a movement of the measurement object performed using a laboratory table (e.g., a linear translation table).

[0033] As used herein, the term "speed" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, the rate of change of position over time (such as during translation or rotation of at least one of an object, specifically a portable spectrometer and a measurement object). Speed ​​may include at least one of a rate and an angular rate. Unless otherwise indicated, the term "speed" may generally refer to an absolute speed, that is, the rate of change of position over time relative to an inertial reference frame. Therefore, the term "speed" may specifically refer to a speed perceived by a user who does not experience acceleration, at least in a good approximation, such as a user standing in a room.

[0034] As used herein, the term "relative movement" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, the movement of an object observed or measured relative to another object, wherein the other object may optionally also be moving. Relative movement may refer to the superposition of the absolute movement of an object with the absolute movement of another object. As an example, the measurement object may move in one direction, and the portable spectrometer may move in the same direction at the same speed, so that the portable spectrometer may not move relative to the measurement object.

[0035] As used herein, the term "relative speed" is a broad term and will be given its common and conventional meaning for those of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, the speed of an object observed or measured relative to another object, wherein the other object may also be moving at another speed, optionally. The relative speed may be a superposition, specifically a vector sum, of the speed of the object and the other speed of the other object. As an example, the measurement object may move in one direction, and the portable spectrometer may move in the same direction at the same speed, so that there may be no relative speed. The basic dynamic principles and other possible scenarios will be clear to the technician.

[0036] The measurement quality information about the optical measurement may include the following information: the information indicates whether at least one predetermined measurement condition for accurate optical measurement of the measurement object is met, specifically at least one measurement condition about at least one of the following items: the movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object; the position of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object. As used herein, the term "predetermined measurement condition" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a standard for at least one measurement parameter as specified before or at the beginning of the optical measurement. As an example, the measurement object may be of a certain type, which typically has high inhomogeneity and therefore requires the portable spectrometer to move at a faster speed in order to perform accurate optical measurements, as already pointed out above. Therefore, the predetermined measurement condition may include a minimum speed of the portable spectrometer, which minimum speed may be predetermined by specifying the type of the measurement object, as will be described in further detail below.

[0037] As used herein, the term "accuracy" (including any grammatical variations thereof) is a broad term and will be given its common and conventional meaning for those of ordinary skill in the art and will not be limited to special or custom meanings. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, an indication of at least one of accuracy and reliability (specifically accuracy and reliability of optical measurements). Additionally or alternatively, accuracy may include an indication of at least one of measurement uncertainty and measurement error (specifically uncertainty and measurement error of optical measurements). As an example, accuracy may be determined by performing a series of measurements and tracking fluctuations in the measurement results. Accuracy may include an indication of the reproducibility of the measurement results. As another example, accuracy may be determined by comparing the measurement results with theoretical calculation data (e.g., simulation data). As used herein, the term "accurate optical measurement" is a broad term and will be given its common and conventional meaning for those of ordinary skill in the art and will not be limited to special or custom meanings. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, an optical measurement that meets at least one minimum requirement for at least one of accuracy, reliability, and reproducibility. Minimum requirements, such as minimum requirements for accuracy, such as accuracy of, for example, at least 95%, can be predetermined, for example, by a user or by a manufacturer of a portable spectrometer or by a technical standard. An accurate optical measurement can be at least one of a sufficiently accurate optical measurement, a sufficiently reliable optical measurement, and a sufficiently reproducible optical measurement. An accurate optical measurement can be an optical measurement that produces a strong signal (such as a measurement signal of high signal intensity). An accurate optical measurement can be an optical measurement that produces a spectrum that matches a reference spectrum (such as a reference spectrum of another measurement object of the same type) at least in a good approximation. As the technician will understand, generally, for a real experiment, perfect accuracy, reliability and / or reproducibility is actually impossible. However, high accuracy, high reliability and / or high reproducibility (such as, for example, 95% accuracy) may be sufficient for many applications.

[0038] The measurement quality information about the optical measurement may include the expected accuracy of the optical measurement. The expected accuracy is that which can be derived using the mobile sensor signal. As used herein, the term "expected accuracy" is a broad term and will be given its common and conventional meaning for those of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, the accuracy determined or at least estimated by using at least one measurement parameter, specifically a measurement parameter optically measured that is related to the movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object (such as the speed of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object). As already indicated, the lower the speed of the portable spectrometer and / or the measurement object, the lower the accuracy of the optical measurement may be. Therefore, the expected accuracy can be determined by using the speed and / or position of the portable spectrometer and / or the measurement object. The expected accuracy can be determined by using at least one of a physical formula, a mathematical function, an algorithm, a simulation, a model, and a lookup table. Other options may be feasible.

[0039] The expected accuracy can be determined by using the motion sensor signal and at least one threshold, wherein the threshold is determined before the portable spectrometer is used in the field, such as in a laboratory under controlled conditions by different movements and / or accelerations of the portable spectrometer. For example, the measurement object may include whole grains, wherein each grain may have a slightly different chemical composition, such as slightly different in terms of moisture, protein, starch, fat, sugar, etc. Therefore, by moving only a limited amount of grains or not moving the measurement object at all, the photoelectric sensor signal and therefore the spectral measurement information (e.g., stoichiometric concentration prediction) may not be representative of the entire measurement object. For example, a locally higher concentration of, for example, protein may occur, which may not be representative of the entire measurement object. Therefore, measurements limited to a specific point may be considered unrepresentative. Accuracy can be determined by repeating multiple measurements with the measurement object moving, wherein a high accuracy can be assigned to a measurement that moves a representative portion of the measurement object on the spectrometer, wherein a high accuracy can imply a low degree of dispersion in the stoichiometric concentration prediction. This will then define the minimum amount of movement required to assign a high measurement accuracy, wherein the minimum amount of movement can define a threshold for determining the expected accuracy. The corresponding threshold value can be determined before field measurement (such as in a factory calibration for a specific application in a laboratory) and then used as a reference for any subsequent field measurement. Thus, it may not be necessary to evaluate the accuracy every time a measurement is performed, but it can be assumed that the accuracy is given once a certain speed is exceeded. In particular, the threshold value can be determined in the laboratory for a representative sample, and the minimum required speed and / or distance per integration time can be stored for access by the evaluation device.

[0040] The evaluation device may be configured to automatically use the measurement quality information about the optical measurement as a trigger for determining the spectral measurement information about the measurement object, specifically by automatically triggering the determination of the spectral measurement information about the measurement object when the measurement quality information indicates that at least one predetermined measurement condition for accurate optical measurement of the measurement object is met. As used herein, the term "automatically" (including any grammatical variations thereof) is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a process performed without the need for human interaction, specifically entirely with the aid of at least one device and / or system (specifically, a portable spectrometer, more specifically an evaluation device), in particular without the need for manual action and / or interaction with a user. Specifically, the decision whether to determine the spectral measurement information about the measurement object based on the determined measurement quality information about the optical measurement may be performed by the portable spectrometer, specifically by the evaluation device, in particular without performing a user query or any other user interaction.

[0041] As used herein, the term "trigger" (including any grammatical variations thereof) is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, an enabler of at least one event or a releaser of the event, specifically an enabler of determining spectral measurement information about a measurement object in an optical measurement or a releaser of determining spectral measurement information about a measurement object in an optical measurement. A trigger may be or may include at least one decision maker or decision criterion, wherein, for example, a decision may be made according to at least one predetermined classification, for example, according to at least one range of at least one physical quantity (e.g., a range above or below a predetermined threshold). A trigger may specifically make or cause a decision on whether to determine spectral measurement information about a measurement object based on the determined measurement quality information about the optical measurement. A trigger may be configured to at least partially control optical measurements, specifically data collection during optical measurements. Specifically, a trigger may be configured to control when spectral measurement information about a measurement object is determined during an optical measurement. At least in some cases, determining spectral measurement information about the measurement object during the optical measurement may produce unreliable results and may therefore be misleading to the user, for example because only a small part of the inhomogeneous measurement object is observed as already indicated. The trigger can be configured to prevent the collection of unnecessary and / or misleading measurement data. Several examples will be outlined below, and additional options may also be feasible. The trigger can be technically implemented by using at least one electronic circuit, which is configured to generate at least one of a switching operation and a trigger signal (e.g., a binary digital signal) during at least one decision process (e.g., comparison). Therefore, the electronic circuit may include at least one of a switch (specifically a transistor) and an operational amplifier (specifically a comparator, such as a Schmitt trigger). Other options may be feasible.

[0042] The measurement quality information about the optical measurement may include at least one of the speed of the portable spectrometer, the speed of the measurement object, and the relative speed of the portable spectrometer relative to the measurement object. The measurement quality information about the optical measurement may include at least one entity (e.g., a physical quantity) derived from the speed and / or at least one information related to the speed (e.g., a comparison with at least one other entity). The measurement quality information about the optical measurement may indicate whether the speed exceeds a predetermined threshold. As used herein, the term "predetermined threshold" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for those of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a predetermined limit that triggers at least one event when exceeded, such as a predetermined minimum value or a predetermined maximum value of a physical quantity. The predetermined threshold may specifically depend on the type of the measurement object. Specifically, as will be outlined below, the predetermined threshold may be or may include the minimum value of at least one of the following items: the speed of the portable spectrometer, the speed of the measurement object, and the relative speed of the portable spectrometer relative to the measurement object. As already indicated, the more uneven the measurement object is, the higher the speed required to perform a reliable optical measurement may be. Therefore, as an example, the predetermined threshold may be predetermined by specifying the type of the measurement object before performing the optical measurement or at the beginning of the optical measurement. The predetermined threshold value may be inclusive or exclusive. Thus, the event may have been triggered when the amount is equal to the predetermined threshold value or only when the amount is greater or less than the threshold value, respectively. As an example, the threshold value is empirically predetermined by observing the functional relationship between the measurement uncertainty of the portable spectrometer and the mobile sensor signal and by providing a maximum admissible measurement uncertainty. The predetermined threshold value may be the mobile sensor signal when the measurement uncertainty is equal to the maximum admissible measurement uncertainty. However, other options for determining the predetermined threshold value are feasible.

[0043] The evaluation device may be configured to automatically determine spectral measurement information about the measurement object only when the speed exceeds a predetermined threshold. The evaluation device may be configured to automatically determine spectral measurement information about the measurement object only when the speed is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The evaluation device may be configured to automatically determine spectral measurement information about the measurement object only when the speed is greater than a predetermined threshold. The evaluation device may be configured to automatically discard the photoelectric sensor signal when the speed is below a predetermined threshold. The evaluation device may be configured to automatically discard the photoelectric sensor signal when the speed is equal to or below a predetermined threshold. Thus, unreliable and potentially misleading measurement data may be automatically not collected.

[0044] The evaluation device can be configured to record a velocity profile of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object during the measurement time of the optical measurement. As used herein, the term "velocity profile" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, the progression of the velocity of an object over time. The velocity profile can be used to determine at least one position profile, wherein the position profile may include at least one position of an object over time. Similarly, as used herein, the term "position profile" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, the progression of the position of an object over time. The position profile of the portable spectrometer and / or the measurement object can be determined, for example, by integrating the velocity of the portable spectrometer and / or the measurement object over time.

[0045] The measurement quality information about the optical measurement may include at least one of the position of the portable spectrometer, the position of the measurement object, and the relative position of the portable spectrometer relative to the measurement object. As used herein, the term "position" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to special or custom meanings. The term may specifically refer to but is not limited to the spatial arrangement of the object, specifically the spatial arrangement within a reference system, which may, for example, be represented as a coordinate system, such as a Cartesian coordinate system or a polar coordinate system. The position may include at least one coordinate of the object, or more specifically at least one coordinate of at least one point of the object (e.g., the center of mass of the object). However, other points (e.g., edges) may also be feasible. The position may include the orientation of the object, such as the orientation after the object is rotated. The position, more specifically the spatial displacement of the position, may refer to the deformation of the object or may be caused by the deformation of the object. Additionally or alternatively, the displacement of the position may refer to the translation and / or rotation of the object, or may be caused by the translation and / or rotation of the object.

[0046] The evaluation device can be configured to automatically determine the spectral measurement information about the measurement object only after the position is spatially displaced by at least 10 cm, specifically at least 5 cm, more specifically at least 1 cm during the integration time, specifically during the integration time of the photoelectric sensor of the portable spectrometer. The integration time can refer to the time interval during which the photoelectric sensor, specifically the photosensitive area of ​​the photoelectric sensor, receives the light radiation. The photoelectric sensor signal generated by the photoelectric sensor can indicate the amount of light radiation received by the photoelectric sensor, specifically the photosensitive area, during the integration time. As an example, the integration time can be in the range of 0.1s to 10s, preferably 1s. However, shorter and / or longer integration times are also feasible. Further, the spatial displacement to be moved can be a function of the roughness and / or inherent inhomogeneity of the measurement object. Therefore, once a part of the measurement object has been measured, the optical measurement can be stopped and the optical measurement can be restarted only when the portable spectrometer is moved to a different part of the measurement object. In this way, it can be ensured that the measurement object is measured at a sufficiently far distance or far enough from the measurement object. Further, the position information can often help to find the reason why the optical measurement has low accuracy (e.g., weak spectrum or unexpected spectrum). Typical problems may be that the optical measurement is performed outside the confines of the measurement object, so that only the sample holder or air may be measured, or the portable spectrometer is tilted or moved away from the measurement object. When the reason is found, the user can be prompted to repeat the optical measurement and focus on this problem to achieve better results.

[0047] The evaluation device can be configured to determine at least one surface plane of the measurement object by using the position. As used herein, the term "surface plane" is a broad term, and will be given its common and conventional meaning for those of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to special or custom meanings. The term can specifically refer to but is not limited to a plane that at least in good approximation and / or at least partially establishes an object, specifically a model of the surface of the measurement object, or draws an object, specifically a map of the surface of the measurement object. As already indicated, the measurement object can include any shape. The measurement object can specifically include any surface roughness. However, the measurement object can usually be substantially flat or spherical at least in the restricted area subjected to the study. As an example, the measurement object can be a cube or a sphere at least in a good approximation ignoring the surface roughness. Therefore, a model of the surface of the measurement object can usually be established by using one or more surface planes. The evaluation device can be configured to automatically determine the spectral measurement information about the measurement object only when the normal of the portable spectrometer relative to the surface plane of the measurement object is less than 30°, specifically less than 20°, more specifically less than 10° relative to the normal of the surface plane of the measurement object. Additionally or alternatively, the evaluation device may be configured to automatically determine spectral measurement information about the measurement object only when the portable spectrometer moves no more than 10 cm, specifically no more than 5 cm, more specifically no more than 1 cm away from the surface plane of the measurement object. For example, the evaluation device may be configured to determine the spectral measurement information only when the portable spectrometer does not leave the surface plane of the measurement object, specifically so that the portable spectrometer moves no more than a given distance away from the surface plane and no air gap is generated between the portable spectrometer and the measurement object. Preferably, the portable spectrometer and the measurement object may be in contact with each other to determine the spectral measurement information. In this way, it can be ensured that the portable spectrometer does not tilt too much relative to the normal of the surface plane of the measurement object and / or moves too far away from the measurement object when performing optical measurements, which may generally reduce the accuracy and / or signal strength of the optical measurements.

[0048] The evaluation device can be configured to determine at least one user feedback by using the measurement quality information about the optical measurement, wherein the portable spectrometer further includes at least one user interface, which is configured to indicate the user feedback to the user of the portable spectrometer. The user feedback can indicate at least one of the following items to the user of the portable spectrometer: the expected accuracy of the optical measurement, the speed of the portable spectrometer, the speed of the measurement object, the relative speed of the portable spectrometer relative to the measurement object, the position of the portable spectrometer, the position of the measurement object, and the relative position of the portable spectrometer relative to the measurement object. As used herein, the term "user feedback" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to special or custom meanings. The term can specifically refer to but is not limited to information configured to be presented or indicated to at least one user, specifically the user of the portable spectrometer, specifically information about at least one aspect of the optical measurement in any manner in principle. In other words, the user feedback can be configured to notify the user of information about at least one aspect of the optical measurement, such as information about at least one measurement parameter. Several examples are given above, and other options may also be feasible. The user feedback can be at least one of visual feedback, auditory feedback and tactile feedback. Other options may also be feasible. As an example, the user feedback may be, for example, a visual representation of the speed of the portable spectrometer, such as, for example, a written number or a word or sentence on a display of the portable spectrometer.

[0049] As used herein, the term "interface" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a device configured to exchange at least one information (such as one or more of exchange data or commands) unidirectionally or bidirectionally between at least two entities (e.g., between two devices or between a device and a user). The interface may include at least one of an output device configured to transmit information and an input device configured to receive information. The interface may be wireless and / or wired. The interface may be or include at least one web interface. The interface may be configured to provide at least one data transfer connection, such as Bluetooth or NFC. The interface may be or include at least one port, including one or more of a network or Internet port and a USB port. As used herein, the term "user interface" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, an interface configured to interact with a user, specifically a user of a portable spectrometer. The user interface may be configured to exchange at least one information, specifically at least one information about optical measurements, unidirectionally or bidirectionally between a portable spectrometer and a user. The user interface may be configured to share at least one information with the user and / or to receive at least one information by the user. The user interface may include at least one of a display (specifically a touch display), a speaker, a microphone, and a vibrator. Other options may also be feasible. As an example, the user interface may include a touch display, which is configured to display at least one information about optical measurement to the user and / or to receive at least one command (e.g., a command about continuing or canceling optical measurement) input by the user such as via touch. For example, a portable spectrometer may be connected to or included by an electronic communication device (e.g., a smart phone or a tablet computer), wherein the user interface of the portable spectrometer is a touch display of the electronic communication device.

[0050] The user feedback may include at least one action suggestion to the user of the portable spectrometer, specifically an action suggestion for moving the portable spectrometer faster or moving the portable spectrometer to another location. As used herein, the term "action suggestion" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for those of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a proposal or request or suggestion specifically to the user of the portable spectrometer for taking at least one measure or action, specifically at least one measure or action about optical measurement. As indicated, the action suggestion may request or require the user to adjust at least one measurement parameter of the optical measurement, such as the speed of the portable spectrometer, specifically for achieving better optical measurement accuracy. As an example, the user may move the portable spectrometer too slowly, but due to the high inhomogeneity of the measurement object, a faster speed may be more suitable.

[0051] User feedback may include at least one inquiry to a user of the portable spectrometer, specifically an inquiry about whether to use or discard the optical measurement. As used herein, the term "inquiry" is a broad term and will be given its common and conventional meaning for those of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, at least one of the following items: an inquiry to a user, a request to a user, and information retrieval from a user. An inquiry may include at least one option available to a user. Specifically, an inquiry may include at least two options from which a user may select. An inquiry may be a binary inquiry, such as a yes or no inquiry. An inquiry may include presenting at least one available option to a user and receiving input from a user about at least one selected option.

[0052] The photosensor may be configured to detect light radiation having a wavelength of 300 nm to 3000 nm, specifically 500 nm to 2500 nm, more specifically 1400 nm to 2000 nm. The photosensitive region may include at least one photoconductive material. The photoconductive material may be selected from at least one of PbS, PbSe, Ge, InGaAs, InSb, Si, and HgCdTe. Other options such as photodiodes or thermopiles may also be possible.

[0053] The photoelectric sensor may include at least one readout device configured to read out the photosensitive area. As used herein, the term "readout device" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, an electronic circuit configured to quantify and / or process at least one physical quantity and / or a change in at least one physical quantity detected by at least one measuring device (such as a photosensitive area of ​​a photoelectric sensor of a portable spectrometer). The readout device may include at least one of a shunt, a voltage divider, an ammeter, a voltmeter, a resistance meter, and an analog-to-digital converter. Additional options may be feasible.

[0054] The portable spectrometer may further include at least one radiation source, which is configured to emit optical radiation at least partially toward the measurement object. As used herein, the term "radiation source" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to special or custom meanings. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a device configured to emit optical radiation. The radiation source may be configured to emit optical radiation, such as optical radiation in the form of a beam, toward the measurement object. The radiation source may be configured to emit optical radiation isotopically (e.g., uniformly in all spatial directions), wherein only a portion of the emitted optical radiation can illuminate the measurement object. The radiation source may include at least one of a semiconductor-based radiation source (specifically at least one of a light emitting diode and a laser) and a thermal radiator (specifically an incandescent lamp). The radiation source may be modulated, for example, by using a light cutter. Additional options may be feasible.

[0055] The evaluation device can be configured to control at least one of a photoelectric sensor, a mobile sensor, and optionally a radiation source. The evaluation device can be configured to control at least a portion of a portable spectrometer or a portable spectrometer. The evaluation device can be at least partially based on the cloud. As used herein, the term "based on the cloud" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and conventional meaning for ordinary technicians in the field and is not limited to special or custom meanings. The term can specifically refer to but is not limited to outsourcing the evaluation device or at least a portion of the evaluation device to an external device that is at least partially interconnected, specifically a computer or computer network with greater computing power and / or data storage capacity. The external device can be arbitrarily distributed in space. The external device can change over time, specifically according to demand changes. The external device can be interconnected by using the Internet and / or at least one intranet. The external device can each include at least one interface, such as a communication interface for transmitting data. As already indicated, the evaluation device can include at least one interface, such as a communication interface for transmitting data.

[0056] In another aspect of the present invention, a method for performing at least one optical measurement on at least one measurement object by using at least one portable spectrometer according to any one of the embodiments relating to a portable spectrometer described above or described in further detail below is disclosed. The method comprises the following steps:

[0057] a) performing movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object;

[0058] b) generating at least one motion sensor signal based on the movement by using a motion sensor of the portable spectrometer;

[0059] c) determining at least one piece of measurement quality information about the optical measurement from the mobile sensor signal by using an evaluation device of the portable spectrometer;

[0060] d) generating at least one photosensor signal based on the illumination of the photosensitive area by using a photosensor of the portable spectrometer; and

[0061] e) determining at least one spectral information about the measurement object from the photosensor signal by using the evaluation device.

[0062] The method steps may be performed in the order indicated. However, it should be noted that a different order is also possible. The method may include additional method steps that are not listed. Further, one or more of the method steps may be performed once or repeatedly. Further, two or more of the method steps may be performed simultaneously or in a time-overlapping manner.

[0063] Step c) may further comprise automatically using the measurement quality information about the optical measurement as a trigger for determining spectral measurement information about the measurement object, specifically by automatically triggering the optical measurement when the measurement quality information indicates that at least one predetermined measurement condition for accurate optical measurement of the measurement object is met. Step c) may further comprise determining at least one user feedback to a user of the portable spectrometer by using the measurement quality information about the optical measurement. Step c) may further comprise suggesting at least one user action, specifically moving the portable spectrometer faster or moving the portable spectrometer to another location before performing step d). Step c) may further comprise performing at least one user query, specifically whether the optical measurement is to continue with step d) or whether the optical measurement is to be aborted. For further definitions and embodiments of the method for performing at least one optical measurement on at least one measurement object, reference may also be made to the above description.

[0064] The method may be at least partially implemented by a computer. Therefore, at least one method step may be at least partially implemented by a computer. With reference to the computer-implemented aspects of the present invention, one or more or even all method steps in the method steps of one or more of the methods in the embodiments disclosed herein may be performed using a computer or a computer network. Therefore, generally, any of the method steps including the provision and / or manipulation of data may be performed using a computer or a computer network. Generally, these method steps may include any method steps, except for method steps that generally require manual work, such as providing samples and / or performing certain aspects of actual measurement.

[0065] In another aspect of the present invention, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is disclosed. The non-transitory computer-readable medium includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform a method according to any of the embodiments related to methods described above or described in further detail below.

[0066] In another aspect of the present invention, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is disclosed, which includes instructions, which, when executed by one or more portable spectrometers according to the present invention (such as according to any of the embodiments described above and / or according to any of the embodiments disclosed in further detail below), cause the one or more portable spectrometers to perform at least one of the methods according to the present invention (such as according to any of the embodiments described above and / or according to any of the embodiments disclosed in further detail below).

[0067] In another aspect of the present invention, there is disclosed the use of a portable spectrometer according to any of the embodiments of a portable spectrometer described above or further in detail below for a purpose of use selected from the group consisting of: infrared detection applications; thermal detection applications; thermometer applications; heat seeking applications; flame detection applications; fire detection applications; smoke detection applications; temperature sensing applications; spectroscopy applications; exhaust gas monitoring applications; combustion process monitoring applications; pollution monitoring applications; industrial process monitoring applications; chemical process monitoring applications; food processing process monitoring applications; water quality monitoring applications; air quality monitoring applications; quality control applications; temperature control applications; motion control applications; emission control applications; gas sensing applications; gas analysis applications; motion sensing applications; chemical sensing applications; mobile applications; medical applications; mobile spectroscopy applications; food analysis applications; agricultural applications; cosmetic applications.

[0068] The device and method as disclosed herein have considerable advantages over the prior art. It may be necessary to measure the measurement object, specifically the non-uniform measurement object, at different positions in order to obtain a representative spectrum of the entire measurement object. This may generally increase the requirements for users, specifically non-expert users. If the measurement is not performed at sufficiently far-apart positions of the measurement object, for example due to too low a moving speed during the measurement, this may produce less accurate measurement results. However, this can be avoided by the device and method disclosed herein. The portable spectrometer of the present invention not only simplifies operation due to its portability, but also specifically facilitates use by non-expert users. Further, specifically by using a mobile sensor, the portable spectrometer can track the movement of itself and / or the measurement object, and based on this, evaluate the accuracy of the optical measurement. Thereupon, the portable spectrometer can automatically decide whether to use optical measurement, so that unnecessary and possibly misleading measurement results are not collected and presented to the user. Additionally or alternatively, the portable spectrometer can interact with the user, for example by indicating the accuracy of the optical measurement, and ask the user about further procedures. The portable spectrometer can even further assist the user during the optical measurement by giving instructions for improving the accuracy of the optical measurement (e.g. instructions for moving the portable spectrometer faster or moving the portable spectrometer to another location). In this way, the apparatus and method as disclosed herein can facilitate improving the accuracy of optical measurements, in particular by obtaining a sufficiently representative spectrum of the entire measurement object, in particular for use by non-expert users.

[0069] As used herein, the terms "having", "including" or "comprising" or any arbitrary grammatical variant thereof are used in a non-exclusive manner. Thus, these terms may refer to the absence of additional features in the entity described in this context in addition to the features introduced by these terms, or the presence of one or more additional features. As an example, the expressions "A has B", "A includes B" and "A contains B" may refer to the absence of other elements in A in addition to B (i.e., A consists only and solely of B), or the presence of one or more additional elements in entity A in addition to B (such as element C, elements C and D or even additional elements).

[0070] Further, it should be noted that the terms "at least one", "one or more", or similar expressions indicating that a feature or element may occur once or more than once are typically used only once when introducing the corresponding feature or element. In most cases, when referring to the corresponding feature or element, the expression "at least one" or "one or more" is not repeated, although the corresponding feature or element may occur once or more than once.

[0071] Further, as used herein, the terms "preferably", "more preferably", "particularly", "more particularly", "specifically", "more specifically" or similar terms are used in conjunction with optional features without limiting the possibilities of alternatives. Therefore, the features introduced by these terms are optional features and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way. As the skilled person will recognize, the present invention can be implemented by using alternative features. Similarly, the features introduced by "in an embodiment of the present invention" or similar expressions are intended to be optional features, without any limitation on alternative embodiments of the present invention, without any limitation on the scope of the present invention, and without any limitation on the possibility of combining the features introduced in this manner with other optional or non-optional features of the present invention.

[0072] Summarizing and without excluding further possible embodiments, the following embodiments may be envisaged:

[0073] Embodiment 1: A portable spectrometer for performing at least one optical measurement on at least one measurement object, the portable spectrometer comprising:

[0074] - at least one optical element configured to separate incident optical radiation provided by the measurement object into a spectrum having constituent wavelength components;

[0075] at least one photosensor, the at least one photosensor comprising at least one photosensitive area configured to receive the optical radiation from the optical element, wherein the photosensor is configured to generate at least one photosensor signal in dependence on the illumination of the photosensitive area by the optical radiation;

[0076] - at least one motion sensor configured to generate at least one motion sensor signal in dependence on a movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object; and

[0077] - at least one evaluation device configured for determining at least one measurement quality information about the optical measurement by using the movement sensor signal, wherein the evaluation device is further configured for determining at least one spectral measurement information about the measurement object by using the photosensor signal.

[0078] Embodiment 2: A portable spectrometer according to the previous embodiment, wherein the motion sensor signal depends on at least one of the following items: the absolute movement of the portable spectrometer, specifically the speed of the portable spectrometer; the absolute movement of the measurement object, specifically the speed of the measurement object; the relative movement of the portable spectrometer with respect to the measurement object, specifically the relative speed, or vice versa.

[0079] Embodiment 3: A portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the measurement quality information about the optical measurement includes the following information: the information indicates whether at least one predetermined measurement condition for accurate optical measurement of the measurement object is met, specifically at least one measurement condition about at least one of the following items: movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object; position of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object.

[0080] Embodiment 4: The portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the measurement quality information about the optical measurement comprises an expected accuracy of the optical measurement, the expected accuracy being derived by using the motion sensor signal.

[0081] Embodiment 5: A portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the evaluation device is configured to automatically use the measurement quality information about the optical measurement as a trigger for determining spectral measurement information about the measurement object, specifically by automatically triggering the determination of spectral measurement information about the measurement object when the measurement quality information indicates that at least one predetermined measurement condition for accurate optical measurement of the measurement object is met.

[0082] Embodiment 6: The portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the measurement quality information about the optical measurement comprises at least one of a speed of the portable spectrometer, a speed of the measurement object, and a relative speed of the portable spectrometer with respect to the measurement object.

[0083] Embodiment 7: The portable spectrometer according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the measurement quality information about the optical measurement indicates whether the speed exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0084] Embodiment 8: The portable spectrometer according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the evaluation device is configured to automatically determine the spectral measurement information about the measurement object only when the speed exceeds the predetermined threshold value.

[0085] Embodiment 9: The portable spectrometer according to any one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the evaluation device is configured to automatically discard the photosensor signal when the speed is below the predetermined threshold.

[0086] Embodiment 10: The portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the movement sensor comprises at least one of an acceleration sensor, a speedometer, a position sensor, a gyroscope, and an optical sensor (specifically, an optical speed sensor).

[0087] Embodiment 11 The portable spectrometer according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the evaluation device is configured to record a speed profile of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object during a measurement time of the optical measurement.

[0088] Embodiment 12: The portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the measurement quality information about the optical measurement comprises at least one of a position of the portable spectrometer, a position of the measurement object, and a relative position of the portable spectrometer with respect to the measurement object.

[0089] Embodiment 13: The portable spectrometer according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the evaluation device is configured for automatically determining spectral measurement information about the measurement object only after a spatial displacement of the position by at least 10 cm, particularly at least 5 cm, more particularly at least 1 cm during the integration time.

[0090] Embodiment 14: The portable spectrometer according to any of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the evaluation device is configured for determining at least one surface plane of the measurement object by using the position.

[0091] Embodiment 15: A portable spectrometer according to the previous embodiment, wherein the evaluation device is configured to automatically determine spectral measurement information about the measurement object only when the portable spectrometer is tilted less than 30° relative to the normal of the surface plane of the measurement object, specifically less than 20° relative to the normal of the surface plane of the measurement object, and more specifically less than 10° relative to the normal of the surface plane of the measurement object.

[0092] Embodiment 16: A portable spectrometer according to any of the two preceding claims, wherein the evaluation device is configured to automatically determine spectral measurement information about the measurement object only when the portable spectrometer moves away from the surface plane of the measurement object by no more than 10 cm, specifically no more than 5 cm, more specifically no more than 1 cm.

[0093] Embodiment 17: A portable spectrometer according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the evaluation device is configured to determine at least one user feedback by using measurement quality information about the optical measurement, wherein the portable spectrometer further comprises at least one user interface, which is configured to indicate the user feedback to a user of the portable spectrometer.

[0094] Embodiment 18: A portable spectrometer according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the user feedback indicates to the user of the portable spectrometer at least one of the following items: the expected accuracy of the optical measurement, the speed of the portable spectrometer, the speed of the measurement object, the relative speed of the portable spectrometer with respect to the measurement object, the position of the portable spectrometer, the position of the measurement object, and the relative position of the portable spectrometer with respect to the measurement object.

[0095] Embodiment 19: A portable spectrometer according to any one of the first two embodiments, wherein the user feedback comprises at least one action suggestion for a user of the portable spectrometer, specifically an action suggestion for moving the portable spectrometer faster or moving the portable spectrometer to another location.

[0096] Embodiment 20 The portable spectrometer according to any of the three preceding embodiments, wherein the user feedback comprises at least one query to a user of the portable spectrometer, in particular a query as to whether the optical measurement is to be used or discarded.

[0097] Embodiment 21: The portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the photosensor is configured to detect light radiation with a wavelength of 300 nm to 3000 nm, specifically 500 nm to 2500 nm, more specifically 1400 nm to 2000 nm.

[0098] Embodiment 22: The portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the photosensitive region comprises at least one photoconductive material.

[0099] Embodiment 23: The portable spectrometer according to the previous embodiment, wherein the photoconductive material is selected from at least one of PbS, PbSe, Ge, InGaAs, InSb, Si and HgCdTe.

[0100] Embodiment 24: The portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the photosensor comprises at least one readout device configured to read out the photosensitive area.

[0101] Embodiment 25: The portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising at least one radiation source configured to emit optical radiation at least partially towards the measurement object.

[0102] Embodiment 26: The portable spectrometer according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the radiation source comprises at least one of a semiconductor-based radiation source (specifically at least one of a light emitting diode and a laser) and a thermal radiator (specifically an incandescent lamp).

[0103] Embodiment 27 The portable spectrometer according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the evaluation device is configured for controlling at least one of the optoelectronic sensor, the movement sensor and optionally the radiation source.

[0104] Embodiment 28 The portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the evaluation device is at least partially cloud-based.

[0105] Embodiment 29: The portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical element comprises at least one optical filter element.

[0106] Embodiment 30: A method for performing at least one optical measurement on at least one measurement object by using at least one portable spectrometer according to any one of the preceding embodiments, the method comprising the following steps:

[0107] a) performing movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer and the measurement object;

[0108] b) generating at least one motion sensor signal based on the movement by using a motion sensor of the portable spectrometer;

[0109] c) determining at least one measurement quality information about the optical measurement from the motion sensor signal by using an evaluation device of the portable spectrometer;

[0110] d) generating at least one photosensor signal in response to irradiation of the photosensitive area by using a photosensor of the portable spectrometer; and

[0111] e) determining at least one spectral information about the measurement object from the photosensor signal by using the evaluation device.

[0112] Embodiment 31: A method according to the previous embodiment, wherein step c) further includes automatically using measurement quality information about the optical measurement as a trigger for determining spectral measurement information about the measurement object, specifically by automatically triggering the optical measurement when the measurement quality information indicates that at least one predetermined measurement condition for accurate optical measurement of the measurement object is met.

[0113] Embodiment 32: The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein step c) further comprises determining at least one user feedback to a user of the portable spectrometer by using the measurement quality information about the optical measurement.

[0114] Embodiment 33: The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein step c) further comprises suggesting at least one user action, specifically moving the portable spectrometer faster or moving the portable spectrometer to another location before performing step d).

[0115] Embodiment 34: The method according to any one of the two preceding embodiments, wherein step c) further comprises executing at least one user query, specifically whether the optical measurement should continue to execute step d) or whether the optical measurement should be aborted.

[0116] Embodiment 35: A method according to any one of the foregoing method embodiments, wherein the method is at least partially implemented by a computer.

[0117] Embodiment 36: A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform at least one of the methods described in any one of the foregoing method embodiments.

[0118] Embodiment 37: A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more portable spectrometers according to any of the aforementioned embodiments involving portable spectrometers, cause the one or more portable spectrometers to perform at least one of the methods described in any of the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0119] Embodiment 38: Use of a portable spectrometer according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments involving portable spectrometers for a purpose of use selected from the group consisting of: infrared detection applications; thermal detection applications; thermometer applications; heat seeking applications; flame detection applications; fire detection applications; smoke detection applications; temperature sensing applications; spectroscopy applications; exhaust gas monitoring applications; combustion process monitoring applications; pollution monitoring applications; industrial process monitoring applications; chemical process monitoring applications; food processing process monitoring applications; water quality monitoring applications; air quality monitoring applications; quality control applications; temperature control applications; motion control applications; emission control applications; gas sensing applications; gas analysis applications; motion sensing applications; chemical sensing applications; mobile applications; medical applications; mobile spectroscopy applications; food analysis applications; agricultural applications; cosmetic applications. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0120] Other optional features and embodiments are preferably disclosed in more detail in the subsequent description of the embodiments in conjunction with the dependent claims. Wherein, as the skilled person will recognize, the corresponding optional features can be implemented in an independent manner and in any arbitrary feasible combination. The scope of the present invention is not limited by the preferred embodiments. The embodiments are schematically depicted in the accompanying drawings. Wherein, the same reference numerals in these drawings represent the same or functionally equivalent elements.

[0121] In the attached picture:

[0122] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a portable spectrometer is schematically shown;

[0123] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B schematically illustrates an example of user interaction of a portable spectrometer with a user; and

[0124] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C A flow chart of an exemplary embodiment of a method for performing at least one optical measurement of at least one measurement object by using a portable spectrometer is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0125] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a portable spectrometer 110 is schematically shown. The portable spectrometer 110 is configured to perform at least one optical measurement on at least one measurement object 112. The measurement object 112 may have any shape and / or composition. The measurement object 112 may be a solid and / or fluid sample. The measurement object 112 may include at least one surface with any surface roughness. The measurement object 112 may be configured to provide optical radiation 114, such as at least one of emitted, transmitted, and reflected (e.g., diffusely reflected) optical radiation 114. The optical radiation 114 provided by the measurement object 112 may include a wavelength of 300nm to 3000nm, specifically 500nm to 2500nm, more specifically 1400nm to 2000nm. Therefore, the optical radiation 114 provided by the measurement object 112 may be specifically IR radiation, more specifically NIR radiation.

[0126] The portable spectrometer 110 comprises at least one optical element 116 configured to separate incident optical radiation 114 provided by the measurement object 112 into a spectrum having constituent wavelength components. The optical element 116 may comprise at least one optical filter element 118. The optical filter element 118 may be configured to filter the optical radiation 114 or more specifically at least one selected spectral range of the optical radiation 114. The optical filter element 118 may be specifically positioned before the photosensor 120 of the portable spectrometer 110 in the beam path.

[0127] The portable spectrometer 110 includes at least one photosensor 120. The photosensor 120 includes at least one photosensitive region 122 configured to receive optical radiation 114 from the optical element 116. The photosensor 120 is configured to generate at least one photosensor signal based on the illumination of the photosensitive region 122 by the optical radiation 114. The photosensor 120 may be configured to detect the optical radiation 114 having a wavelength of 300 nm to 3000 nm, specifically 500 nm to 2500 nm, more specifically 1400 nm to 2000 nm. The photosensitive region 122 may include at least one photoconductive material. The photoconductive material may be selected from at least one of PbS, PbSe, Ge, InGaAs, InSb, and HgCdTe. The photosensor 120 may further include at least one readout device 124 configured to read out the photosensitive region 122, for example for measuring photocurrent and / or for generating digital counts.

[0128] The portable spectrometer 110 includes at least one motion sensor 126 configured to generate at least one motion sensor signal according to the movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer 110 and the measurement object 112. The motion sensor 126 may include at least one of an accelerometer, a speedometer, a position sensor, a gyroscope, an optical sensor (particularly, an optical speed sensor). The motion sensor signal may depend on at least one of the following items: an absolute movement of the portable spectrometer 110, particularly a speed of the portable spectrometer 110; an absolute movement of the measurement object 112, particularly a speed of the measurement object 112; a relative movement of the portable spectrometer 110 relative to the measurement object 112, particularly a relative speed, or vice versa.

[0129] The portable spectrometer 110 comprises at least one evaluation device 128, which is configured to determine at least one measurement quality information about the optical measurement by using the mobile sensor signal. The evaluation device 128 is further configured to determine at least one spectral measurement information about the measurement object 112 by using the photoelectric sensor signal. The evaluation device 128 can be connected to at least one of the photoelectric sensor 120 and the mobile sensor 126, such as by using at least one of the wire 130 and the trace 132. The portable spectrometer 110 can further include at least one radiation source 134, which is configured to emit the optical radiation 114 at least partially toward the measurement object 112. The radiation source 134 can include at least one of a semiconductor-based radiation source (specifically at least one of a light emitting diode and a laser) and a thermal radiator (specifically an incandescent lamp). The evaluation device 128 can be configured to control at least one of the photoelectric sensor 120, the mobile sensor 126 and the radiation source 134.

[0130] The evaluation device 128 may be at least partially cloud-based. In other words, the evaluation device 128 may be at least partially distributed in at least one cloud 136 configured for at least one of cloud computing and cloud storage. The cloud 136 may specifically include at least one external device 138, such as a computer or a computer network. The external device 138 may specifically include a larger data storage capacity and / or a larger computing power, for example for further processing and / or evaluating the photoelectric sensor signal and / or the motion sensor signal. The cloud 136, specifically at least one of the evaluation device 128 and the external device 138, may include at least one communication interface 140 configured for transmitting data. Different parts of the cloud 136, specifically the evaluation device 128 and the external device 138 may be interconnected at least partially via the communication interface 140. The communication interface 140 may be at least one of a wireless communication interface and a wired communication interface.

[0131] As described above, the portable spectrometer 110 is only Figure 1 Schematically shown in , specifically for giving an advantageous overview of the various indicated components of the portable spectrometer 110. Nevertheless, the portable spectrometer 110 can be specifically configured to be moved, specifically carried, by at least one user, specifically only by one user. More specifically, the portable spectrometer 110 can be specifically configured to be carried by only one user with his or her hand due to at least one of the size of the portable spectrometer 110 and the weight of the portable spectrometer 110. Specifically, the portable spectrometer 110 can be a mobile device or a wearable device or can be a part of a mobile device or a wearable device. As an example, the portable spectrometer 110 can be a part of a smart phone, a tablet computer or a smart watch. The spectrometer 110 can include at least one housing 142 surrounding at least part of the portable spectrometer 110. Specifically, the external device 138 of the cloud 136 can be arranged outside the housing 142. The housing 142 can be configured to be moved, specifically carried, by at least one user, specifically only by one user. More specifically, the housing 142 can be configured to be carried by only one user with his or her hand. The housing 142 may include at least one window 144. The window 144 may be at least partially transparent to the optical radiation 114.

[0132] In the following, about Figure 1An exemplary operating principle of a portable spectrometer 110 is described. A radiation source 134 may emit optical radiation 114 through a window 144 toward a measurement object 112 as emitted optical radiation 146. The measurement object 112 may at least partially reflect, in particular diffusely reflect, the emitted optical radiation 146 toward a photosensitive region 122 of a photosensor 120 as reflected optical radiation 148. Further, the measurement object 112 may at least partially absorb the emitted optical radiation 146, which may indicate at least one physical property or chemical composition of the measurement object 112. The reflected optical radiation 148 may pass through the window 144 and the optical filter element 118 before reaching the photosensitive region 122. The photosensitive region 122 may generate a corresponding optical signal, which may be read out using a readout device 124. In this way, the photosensor 120 may generate a photosensor signal and subsequently transmit the photosensor signal to an evaluation device 128 for further processing and / or evaluation. In parallel or slightly later in time, the motion sensor 126 may detect a movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer 110 and the measurement object 112, generate a corresponding motion sensor signal, and also transmit the motion sensor signal to the evaluation device 128. The evaluation device 128 may then determine corresponding spectral measurement information and corresponding measurement quality information, respectively.

[0133] The measurement quality information about the optical measurement may include the following information: the information indicates whether at least one predetermined measurement condition for accurate optical measurement of the measurement object is met, specifically at least one measurement condition about at least one of the following items: the movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer 110 and the measurement object 112; the position of at least one of the portable spectrometer 110 and the measurement object 112. The measurement quality information about the optical measurement may include the expected accuracy of the optical measurement. The expected accuracy may be derived by using the motion sensor signal. An example of determining and evaluating the expected accuracy is given in the above description, and thus reference may be made to the example in the description. The evaluation device 128 may be configured to automatically use the measurement quality information about the optical measurement as a trigger for determining the spectral measurement information about the measurement object 112, specifically by automatically triggering the determination of the spectral measurement information about the measurement object 112 when the measurement quality information indicates that at least one predetermined measurement condition for accurate optical measurement of the measurement object 112 is met.

[0134] The measurement quality information about the optical measurement may include at least one of the speed of the portable spectrometer 110, the speed of the measurement object 112, and the relative speed of the portable spectrometer 110 relative to the measurement object 112. The measurement quality information about the optical measurement may indicate whether the speed exceeds a predetermined threshold. The evaluation device 128 may be configured to automatically determine the spectral measurement information about the measurement object 112 only when the speed exceeds the predetermined threshold. The evaluation device 128 may be configured to automatically discard the photosensor signal when the speed is below the predetermined threshold.

[0135] The evaluation device 128 may be configured to record a velocity profile of at least one of the portable spectrometer 110 and the measurement object 112 during the measurement time of the optical measurement. By evaluating the velocity profile, in particular evaluating the velocity profile via integration over time, position information may be derived. The measurement quality information about the optical measurement may include at least one of the position of the portable spectrometer 110, the position of the measurement object 112, and the relative position of the portable spectrometer 110 relative to the measurement object 112. The evaluation device 128 may be configured to automatically determine the spectral measurement information about the measurement object 112 only after a spatial displacement of the position by at least 10 cm, in particular by at least 5 cm, more particularly by at least 1 cm during the integration time.

[0136] The evaluation device 128 may be configured to determine at least one surface plane 150 of the measurement object 112 by using the position. As already indicated, the measurement object 112 may include at least one surface with any surface roughness. The surface plane 150 may indicate a basic orientation or basic alignment of the surface of the measurement object 112. In the ideal case where the surface of the measurement object 112 is completely flat, the surface plane 150 may exactly match the surface of the measurement object 112 at each spatial point. Typically, the surface plane 150 may be determined by smoothing the surface of the measurement object 112 or by using standard statistical methods (particularly averaging). The evaluation device 128 may be configured to automatically determine the spectral measurement information about the measurement object 112 only when the portable spectrometer 110 is tilted less than 30° relative to the normal 152 of the surface plane 150 of the measurement object 112, specifically less than 20° relative to the normal 152 of the surface plane 150 of the measurement object 112, more specifically less than 10° relative to the normal 152 of the surface plane 150 of the measurement object 112.

[0137] Figure 2A and Figure 2BAn example of a user interaction of the portable spectrometer 110 with a user of the portable spectrometer is schematically shown. The evaluation device 128 may be configured to determine at least one user feedback by using the measurement quality information about the optical measurement. The portable spectrometer 110 may further include at least one user interface 154, which is configured to indicate the user feedback to the user of the portable spectrometer 110. In particular, the portable spectrometer 110 may include at least one display 156. The display 156 may be specifically arranged on at least one outer surface of the housing 142 of the portable spectrometer 110. Additionally or alternatively, the portable spectrometer 110 may be configured to transmit the user feedback to at least one external device 138, such as to at least one of a smart phone, a tablet computer, and a smart watch, wherein the external device 138 may include a user interface 154, in particular a display 156.

[0138] The user feedback may indicate to the user of the portable spectrometer 110 at least one of the following: the expected accuracy of the optical measurement, the speed of the portable spectrometer 110, the speed of the measurement object 112, the relative speed of the portable spectrometer 110 with respect to the measurement object 112, the position of the portable spectrometer 110, the position of the measurement object 112, the relative position of the portable spectrometer 110 with respect to the measurement object 112. Figure 2A and Figure 2B Indicating that the display 156 may be configured to display, for example, the speed of the portable spectrometer 110 when being moved by the user relative to the measurement object 112. Thus, the display 156 may include at least one speed display 158. Figure 2A and Figure 2B As further shown, the display 156 may include a scale 160 that indicates to the user whether the speed is suitable for accurate optical measurement. The scale 160 may be divided into three segments: a segment 162 indicating low suitability, a segment 164 indicating medium suitability, and a segment 166 indicating high suitability. Specifically, the segment 162 indicating low suitability and the segment 164 indicating medium suitability may indicate to the user that the optical measurement should be discarded.

[0139] The user feedback may include at least one action suggestion for the user of the portable spectrometer 110, specifically an action suggestion for moving the portable spectrometer 110 faster or moving the portable spectrometer to another location. Figure 2AAs shown, the display 156 may include at least one action suggestion display 168 configured to display action suggestions to a user of the portable spectrometer 110. As an example, the action suggestion display 168 may display a text message "Move faster to trigger a measurement" to the user. Thus, the optical measurement may be automatically discarded until the user moves the portable spectrometer 110 fast enough.

[0140] The user feedback may include at least one query to the user of the portable spectrometer 110, specifically a query as to whether the optical measurement should be used or discarded. Figure 2B As shown, the display 156 may include at least one accuracy display 170 configured to display the expected accuracy of the optical measurement to a user of the portable spectrometer 110. Figure 2B As further shown, the display 156 may include at least one query display 172, which is configured to display a query to the user. The display 156 may specifically be a touch display 174. Therefore, the user may input a response to the query, for example, via touching a specific area of ​​the touch display. As an example, the query display 172 may display a text message "Start measuring?", and the user may touch a selected area of ​​the touch display 174, for example, marked by "yes" or "no", to respond with yes or no.

[0141] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C A flow chart of an exemplary embodiment of a method for performing at least one optical measurement of a measurement object 112 by using a portable spectrometer 110 according to any of the embodiments relating to a portable spectrometer 110 described above or in further detail below is shown.

[0142] Specifically, Figure 3A The basic embodiment of the method comprises the following steps:

[0143] a) (indicated by reference numeral 176) performing a movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer 110 and the measurement object 112;

[0144] b) (denoted by reference numeral 178) generating at least one motion sensor signal based on the movement by using the motion sensor 126 of the portable spectrometer 110;

[0145] c) (denoted by reference numeral 180 ) determining at least one piece of measurement quality information about the optical measurement from the mobile sensor signal by using the evaluation device 128 of the portable spectrometer 110 ;

[0146] d) (indicated by reference numeral 182) generating at least one photosensor signal based on the illumination of the photosensitive area 122 by using the photosensor 120 of the portable spectrometer 110; and

[0147] e) (denoted by reference numeral 184 ) determining at least one spectral information item about the measurement object 112 from the photosensor signal by using the evaluation device 128 .

[0148] The method steps may be performed in the order indicated. However, it should be noted that a different order is also possible. The method may include additional method steps that are not listed. Further, one or more of the method steps may be performed once or repeatedly. Further, two or more of the method steps may be performed simultaneously or in a time-overlapping manner.

[0149] Step c) may further comprise automatically using the measurement quality information about the optical measurement as a trigger for determining spectral measurement information about the measurement object 112, in particular by automatically triggering the optical measurement when the measurement quality information indicates that at least one predetermined measurement condition for accurate optical measurement of the measurement object 112 is met. Step c) may further comprise determining at least one user feedback to a user of the portable spectrometer 110 by using the measurement quality information about the optical measurement. Step c) may further comprise suggesting at least one user action, in particular moving the portable spectrometer 110 faster or moving the portable spectrometer 110 to another location before performing step d). Step c) may further comprise performing at least one user query, in particular whether the optical measurement is to continue with step d) or whether the optical measurement is to be aborted.

[0150] Figure 3B and Figure 3C Concrete possible embodiments of the method are described. Figure 3B Regarding a specific possible embodiment of the method, the method may include the following steps:

[0151] i) (indicated by reference numeral 186) sending a measurement request to perform an optical measurement;

[0152] ii) (indicated by reference numeral 188) generating at least one associated motion sensor signal by using the motion sensor 126 of the portable spectrometer 110;

[0153] iii) (denoted by reference numeral 190) determining a velocity of at least one of the portable spectrometer 110 and the measurement object 112 by using the motion sensor signal;

[0154] iv) (indicated by reference numeral 192) determining whether the speed exceeds a predetermined threshold;

[0155] v) (indicated by reference numeral 194) triggering optical measurement if the speed exceeds a predetermined threshold; and

[0156] vi) (indicated by reference numeral 196) if the speed does not exceed the predetermined threshold, the user is asked to move the portable spectrometer 110 faster and return to step ii).

[0157] Figure 3C Regarding a specific possible embodiment of the method, the method may include the following steps:

[0158] A) (denoted by reference numeral 198) sending a measurement request to perform an optical measurement;

[0159] B) (denoted by reference numeral 200) generating at least one associated motion sensor signal by using the motion sensor 126 of the portable spectrometer 110;

[0160] C) (denoted by reference numeral 202) determining a velocity of at least one of the portable spectrometer 110 and the measurement object 112 by using the motion sensor signal;

[0161] D) (indicated by reference numeral 204) determining whether the speed exceeds a predetermined threshold;

[0162] E) (indicated by reference numeral 206) triggering optical measurement if the speed exceeds a predetermined threshold; and

[0163] F) (indicated by reference numeral 208) if the speed does not exceed the predetermined threshold, the user is asked whether the optical measurement should still be performed, if the user indicates no, return to step B), and if the user indicates yes, continue with step E).

[0164] The method may be at least partially implemented by a computer. Therefore, at least one method step may be at least partially implemented by a computer. With reference to the computer-implemented aspects of the present invention, one or more or even all method steps in the method steps of one or more of the methods in the embodiments disclosed herein may be performed using a computer or a computer network. Therefore, generally, any of the method steps including the provision and / or manipulation of data may be performed using a computer or a computer network. Generally, these method steps may include any method steps, except for method steps that generally require manual work, such as providing samples and / or performing certain aspects of actual measurement.

[0165] List of Reference Numerals

[0166] 110 Portable Spectrometer

[0167] 112 Measurement Objects

[0168] 114 Light Radiation

[0169] 116 Optical Components

[0170] 118 Optical filter element

[0171] 120 Photoelectric sensor

[0172] 122 Photosensitive area

[0173] 124 Readout device

[0174] 126 Motion Sensor

[0175] 128 Evaluation Device

[0176] 130 Wire

[0177] 132 traces

[0178] 134 Radiation Source

[0179] 136 Cloud

[0180] 138 External Devices

[0181] 140 Communication interface

[0182] 142 Housing

[0183] 144 Window

[0184] 146 Emitted optical radiation

[0185] 148 Reflected radiation

[0186] 150 Surface Plane

[0187] 152 Normal to surface plane

[0188] 154 User Interface

[0189] 156 Display

[0190] 158 Speed ​​display

[0191] 160 scale

[0192] 162 Segments indicating low fitness

[0193] 164 Paragraphs indicating suitability

[0194] 166 Segments indicating high fitness

[0195] 168 Action Suggestion Display

[0196] 170 Accuracy Display

[0197] 172 Inquiry Display

[0198] 174 Touch Display

[0199] 176 Step a)

[0200] 178 Step b)

[0201] 180 Step c)

[0202] 182 Step d)

[0203] 184 Step e)

[0204] 186 Step i)

[0205] 188 Step ii)

[0206] 190 Step iii)

[0207] 192 Step iv)

[0208] 194 Step v)

[0209] 196 Step vi)

[0210] 198 Step A)

[0211] 200 Step B)

[0212] 202 Step C)

[0213] 204 Step D)

[0214] 206 Step E)

[0215] 208 Step F)

Claims

1. A portable spectrometer (110) for performing at least one optical measurement on at least one measurement object (112), the portable spectrometer (110) comprising: at least one optical element (116) configured to separate incident optical radiation (114) provided by the measurement object (112) into a spectrum having constituent wavelength components; at least one photosensor (120), the at least one photosensor comprising at least one photosensitive area (122), the at least one photosensitive area being configured to receive the optical radiation (114) from the optical element (116), wherein the photosensor (116) is configured to generate at least one photosensor signal in dependence on the illumination of the photosensitive area (116) by the optical radiation (114); - at least one motion sensor (126) configured to generate at least one motion sensor signal in dependence on a movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer (110) and the measurement object (112); and - at least one evaluation device (128) configured to determine at least one piece of measurement quality information about the optical measurement by using the motion sensor signal, wherein the evaluation device (128) is further configured to determine at least one piece of spectral measurement information about the measurement object (112) by using the photosensor signal, wherein the measurement quality information about the optical measurement comprises at least one of a speed of the portable spectrometer (110), a speed of the measurement object (112), and a relative speed of the portable spectrometer (110) relative to the measurement object (110), wherein the measurement quality information about the optical measurement indicates whether the speed exceeds a predetermined threshold, wherein the evaluation device (128) is configured to automatically determine the spectral measurement information about the measurement object (112) only when the speed exceeds the predetermined threshold.

2. The portable spectrometer (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein The motion sensor signal depends on at least one of: an absolute motion of the portable spectrometer (110); an absolute motion of the measurement object (112); a relative motion of the portable spectrometer (110) with respect to the measurement object (112), or vice versa.

3. The portable spectrometer (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The measurement quality information about the optical measurement includes information indicating whether at least one predetermined measurement condition for accurate optical measurement of the measurement object (112) is satisfied.

4. The portable spectrometer (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The measurement quality information about the optical measurement includes an expected accuracy of the optical measurement, the expected accuracy being derived from using the motion sensor signal.

5. The portable spectrometer (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The evaluation device (128) is configured to automatically use measurement quality information about the optical measurement as a trigger for determining spectral measurement information about the measurement object (112).

6. The portable spectrometer (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The motion sensor (126) includes at least one of an acceleration sensor, a speedometer, a position sensor, a gyroscope, and an optical sensor.

7. The portable spectrometer (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The measurement quality information about the optical measurement comprises at least one of the position of the portable spectrometer (110), the position of the measurement object (112), and the relative position of the portable spectrometer (110) with respect to the measurement object (112), wherein the evaluation device (128) is configured to automatically determine the spectral measurement information about the measurement object (112) only after a spatial displacement of the position by at least 10 cm during an integration time.

8. The portable spectrometer (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein The evaluation device (128) is configured to determine at least one surface plane (150) of the measurement object (112) by using the position, wherein the evaluation device (128) is configured to automatically determine spectral measurement information about the measurement object (112) only when the portable spectrometer (110) is tilted less than 30° relative to a normal (152) to the surface plane (150) of the measurement object (112), and / or wherein the evaluation device (128) is configured to automatically determine spectral measurement information about the measurement object (112) only when the portable spectrometer (110) moves away from the surface plane (150) of the measurement object (112) by no more than 10 cm.

9. The portable spectrometer (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The evaluation device (128) is configured to determine at least one user feedback by using measurement quality information about the optical measurement, wherein the portable spectrometer (110) further comprises at least one user interface (154) configured to indicate the user feedback to a user of the portable spectrometer (110).

10. The portable spectrometer (110) according to the preceding claim, wherein The user feedback indicates to a user of the portable spectrometer (110) at least one of the following: an expected accuracy of the optical measurement, a speed of the portable spectrometer (110), a speed of the measurement object (112), a relative speed of the portable spectrometer (110) relative to the measurement object (112), a position of the portable spectrometer (110), a position of the measurement object (112), and a relative position of the portable spectrometer (110) relative to the measurement object (112).

11. A method for performing at least one optical measurement of at least one measurement object (112) by using at least one portable spectrometer (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising the following steps: a) performing movement of at least one of the portable spectrometer (110) and the measurement object (112); b) generating at least one motion sensor signal based on the movement by using a motion sensor (126) of the portable spectrometer (110); c) determining at least one piece of measurement quality information about the optical measurement from the motion sensor signal by using an evaluation device (128) of the portable spectrometer (110); d) generating at least one photosensor signal based on illumination of the photosensitive area (122) by using a photosensor (120) of the portable spectrometer (110); and e) determining at least one spectral information about the measurement object (112) from the photosensor signal by using the evaluation device (128).

12. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform the method according to the preceding method claim.

13. Use of the portable spectrometer (110) according to any of the preceding claims relating to portable spectrometers for a purpose of use selected from the group consisting of: infrared detection applications; thermal detection applications; thermometer applications; heat seeking applications; flame detection applications; fire detection applications; smoke detection applications; temperature sensing applications; spectroscopy applications; exhaust gas monitoring applications; combustion process monitoring applications; pollution monitoring applications; industrial process monitoring applications; chemical process monitoring applications; food processing process monitoring applications; water quality monitoring applications; air quality monitoring applications; Quality control applications; temperature control applications; motion control applications; emission control applications; gas sensing applications; gas analysis applications; motion sensing applications; chemical sensing applications; mobile applications; medical applications; mobile spectroscopy applications; food analysis applications; agricultural applications; cosmetic applications.

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