Apparatus, method and system for measuring and recording spectra of reactant arrays - Patents.com

Abstract

The apparatus, system, and method include a system including a light source directed at a surface, a spectrometer configured to measure the level of light collected from the surface over time, and a controller in communication with the spectrometer, wherein the controller can be configured to identify a component of a fluid in contact with the surface based on the wavelength levels of light collected from the surface.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to sensing and analytical tools, etc. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to devices and systems for sensing and analyzing chemicals, and methods of making and using such devices. [Background technology]

[0002] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 431,507, filed December 9, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 431,510, filed December 9, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 431,519, filed December 9, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 431,525, filed December 9, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 431,528, filed December 9, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 431,533, filed December 9, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] A wide variety of devices have been developed for sample collection, storage, sensing, and analysis, and these devices can be manufactured by any one of a variety of different methods and used according to any one of a variety of different methods. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 6,368,558 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 6,495,102 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 7,261,857 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 8,852,504 [Patent Document 5] U.S. Patent No. 9,880,137 [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent No. 10,539,508 [Non-patent literature]

[0005] [Non-Patent Document 1] Li, Zheng, et_al, “Ultrasensitive_Monitoring_of_Museum_Airborne_Pollutants_Using_a_Silver_Nanoparticle_Sensor_Array”, ACS_sensors_5.9(2020):2783-2791 [Non-patent document 2] Li, Zheng, and Kenneth S. Suslick, “Chemically_Induced_Sintering_of_Nanoparticles”, Angewandte_Chemie_131.40(2019):14331-14334 [Non-patent document 3] LaGasse, Maria_K., et_al., “Colorimetric_sensor_array:Development_and_application_to_art_conservation”, Journal_of_the_American_Institute_for_Conservation_57.3(2018): 127-140 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Of the known medical devices and methods, each has certain advantages and disadvantages. The present disclosure provides alternatives for the design, materials, manufacturing methods, and use of sensing and analysis devices. It is noted that collection, storage, sensing, and analysis approaches and systems are known, but there exists a need for improvements to those approaches and systems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An exemplary system can include a spectrometer, a light source, and one or more fiber optic cables in communication with the spectrometer and configured to capture light reflected from the surface in response to illumination of the surface by the light source and deliver the captured light to the spectrometer. The spectrometer can be configured to measure photon counts versus wavelength from the captured light for each wavelength bin of an array of wavelength bins covering a light spectrum of interest.

[0008] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the "surface" may be the surface of a color sensing array, and the captured light comprises light reflected from a color bar of the color sensing array.

[0009] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the "surface" may be the surface of the color sensing array. The captured light may include light reflected from each color bar of the color sensing array. The spectrometer may be configured to accurately measure and record the reflectance spectrum of each color bar of the color sensing array, regardless of the spectral distribution of the illumination intensity from the light source.

[0010] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the array of wavelength bins may be a continuous linear array of wavelength bins. In another example, a system may include a light source directed at a surface, a spectrometer configured to measure wavelength levels of light collected from the surface over time, and a controller in communication with the spectrometer, which may be configured to identify a component of a fluid in contact with the surface based on the wavelength levels of light collected from the surface.

[0011] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the light source may comprise a broadband white light emitting diode (LED). Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the light source may be configured with a lens having a diameter and a focal length, where the ratio of the diameter to the focal length is "1."

[0012] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the light source may be configured with light having a wavelength ranging from 400 nanometers (nm) to 725 nm.

[0013] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the system may further include one or more optical fibers in communication with the spectrometer and configured to not only collect light from the surface but also direct the collected light to the spectrometer.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the system may further include a light collection component configured to collect light from the surface, and an adjustable stage configured to move relative to the light collection component, and the adjustable stage may be configured to support a component having the surface.

[0015] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the system may further comprise a motor in communication with the adjustable stage and configured to move the adjustable stage relative to the light collecting element.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the controller being configured to identify components of a fluid contacting the surface based on wavelength levels of light collected from the surface may include a step in which the controller is configured to identify components of a fluid contacting the surface based on one or more of: (a) the timing of the wavelength levels of light reflected from the surface; and (b) the absolute change between the wavelength levels of light collected from the surface at a time before applying the fluid to the surface and a predetermined time after the fluid is first applied to the surface.

[0017] In another example, a method may include adjusting a substrate along with light collecting elements in communication with a controller, the substrate supporting one or more reactants configured to change color in response to exposure to one or more fluids of interest; exposing the one or more reactants to the fluids; determining, using the controller, wavelength levels of light collected by the light collecting elements over time; and determining components of the fluid based on the wavelength levels of light collected.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the method can further comprise applying light to the substrate, the light comprising light from a broadband white light emitting diode (broadband white LED).

[0019] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, applying light to the substrate may include applying light from a first angle and a first location relative to the substrate, and applying light from a second angle and a second location relative to the substrate, where the second angle is the same as the first angle and the second location is different from the first location.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, conditioning the substrate along the light collecting element may include passing the substrate along the light collecting element in multiple passes, each pass of the multiple passes comprising passing a predetermined number of one or more reactants on the substrate along the light collecting element.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the method may further comprise associating wavelength levels of the light collected by the light collecting component with one or more reactants.

[0022] Alternatively or additionally, any of the embodiments in this section include the following method: Determining the composition of the fluid based on the collected wavelength levels of light can include determining the composition of the fluid based on one or both of: (a) the timing of the collected wavelength levels of light associated with one or more reactants; and (b) the absolute change between the collected wavelength levels of light associated with one or more reactants before initiation of application of the fluid to the one or more reactants and a predetermined time after initial application of the fluid to the one or more reactants.

[0023] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, determining the wavelength levels of light collected by the light collecting components over time using the controller can include determining the spectral levels of collected light spanning wavelengths in the range of 425 nm to 725 nm.

[0024] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, determining the composition of the fluid based on the collected wavelength levels of light may include determining statistical data of the collected wavelength levels of light at multiple time instances and comparing the determined statistical data with predetermined composition statistical data.

[0025] In another embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having program code stored thereon for use by a computing device is provided. The program code causes the computing device to perform a method for determining a component of a fluid, the method comprising: determining wavelength levels of light collected by a light collecting element at one or more intervals, wherein the collected light during at least one interval is at least partially from one or more reactants; associating one or more of the wavelength levels of the collected light with one of the one or more reactants; comparing the wavelength levels associated with the one or more reactants with predetermined wavelength level sets for the one or more reactants, each predetermined wavelength level set associated with a component of the fluid; and identifying a component of the fluid associated with the predetermined wavelength level sets for the one or more reactants when the wavelength levels associated with the one or more reactants match the predetermined wavelength level sets for the one or more reactants.

[0026] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, associating one or more of the wavelength levels of the collected light with one of the one or more reactants may include determining a time at which a minimum value of the wavelength level of the collected light occurred, and associating the reactant(s) of the one or more reactants with the wavelength level of the collected light at that time.

[0027] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the steps of determining the time at which a minimum value of the collected wavelength level of light occurs and associating one or more reactants with the wavelength level of light collected at that time may be repeated until all of the wavelength levels of light collected at the time associated with the level minimum are either associated with one or more reactants or are discarded as being an invalid minimum.

[0028] Alternatively or additionally to any of the embodiments in this section, the minimum wavelength level of the collected light is the minimum average level of light across the entire spectrum of the collected light. The above summary of some embodiments is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every embodiment of the present disclosure, and the figures and detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify these embodiments.

[0029] The present disclosure may be more fully understood from the following detailed description considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary sensing system. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary sensing system. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary computing system. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary sensing system. [Figure 5] 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary sensing system of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary sensing system. [Figure 7A] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary lens set for use in focusing light, taken along a first plane; [Figure 7B] 7B is a schematic view of the exemplary lens set depicted in FIG. 7A along a second plane, where the second plane is perpendicular to the first plane. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary technique for analyzing a sensed fluid. [Figure 9] 1 is a schematic graph of sensed wavelengths of light from different reactants of an array of reactants exposed to a fluid during a fluid analytical test. [Figure 10] 1 is a schematic graph of sensed wavelengths of light from different reactants of an array of reactants exposed to a fluid during a fluid analytical test. [Figure 11] 1 is a schematic graph of sensed wavelengths of light from different reactants of an array of reactants exposed to a fluid during a fluid analytical test. [Figure 12] Schematic of an exemplary technique for analyzing reactants. [Figure 13] 10 is a schematic graph of wavelength levels of light collected at multiple repetitions or intervals during a fluid analysis test. [Figure 14] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary technique for associating wavelength data with reactants in an array of sensed reactants. [Figure 15] 10 is a schematic graph of the average levels of wavelengths of light collected at multiple intervals during a fluid analysis test. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] While the present disclosure is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specific aspects thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that it is not the intention to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0032] For the following defined terms, these definitions shall be applied, unless a different definition is given in the claims or elsewhere in this specification. The term "fluid" encompasses both "liquids" and "gases."

[0033] As used herein, all numerical values, whether explicitly stated or not, are intended to be modified by the term "about." The term "about" generally refers to a range of numerical values ​​that one of ordinary skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited value (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances, the term "about" may include numerical values ​​that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.

[0034] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers within that range (e.g., "1" to "5" includes "1", "1.5", "2", "2.75", "3", "3.80", "4", and "5").

[0035] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally used in its sense including "and / or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0036] It should be noted that references herein to "a configuration," "some configurations," "other configurations," etc., indicate that the described configurations may include one or more particular features, structures, and / or characteristics. However, such descriptions do not necessarily imply that all embodiments include the particular feature, structure, and / or characteristic. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, and / or characteristic is described in connection with one configuration, it should be understood that such feature, structure, and / or characteristic is also enabled for use in connection with other configurations, whether or not explicitly described, unless expressly stated to the contrary.

[0037] The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings, in which like structures in different drawings are numbered the same. The drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, depict illustrative embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it should be noted that in any given figure, some features may not be shown or may be shown in schematic form for clarity and / or simplicity. Additional details regarding some components and / or method steps may be illustrated in more detail in other figures. The apparatus and / or methods disclosed herein may provide many desirable features and advantages, as described in further detail below.

[0038] Fluids having concentrations of volatile compounds (e.g., volatile organic compounds (VOCs)) and / or gases, which may or may not be harmful, may be sensed, analyzed, and / or monitored. Sensing, analysis, and / or monitoring of fluids containing analytes (e.g., non-volatile and / or volatile compounds, gases, liquids, and / or other fluids) may be enabled using absorption measurements of reactants (e.g., analyte-sensitive materials) exposed to such fluids for any purpose, including, but not limited to, diagnostic hazard warning, manufacturing process or quality control, record-keeping purposes, product development, product-consumer matching, etc.

[0039] In some cases, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and / or gases may be present in ambient fluids (e.g., ambient air, etc.) and may be sensed, analyzed, and / or monitored using reactants to provide real-time alerts, treat subjects, or collect and / or store data for health records, regulatory compliance records, etc. Additionally, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and / or gases exhaled, emitted, excreted, given off, released, and / or secreted from a subject (e.g., a human, a non-human animal, food, produce, meat, pathogens, bacteria (e.g., good and / or bad bacteria), plants, a wound, an ulcer, a surgical site, a subject's skin, a subject's mouth, a subject's nasal passages, a subject's sinuses, a subject's rectal region, a subject's vaginal region, a subject's genital region, a subject's ear canal, a subject's pores, etc.) can be sensed, analyzed, and / or monitored to enable assessment of harmful, hazardous, or illegal substances, a subject's pulmonary condition, a blood disorder condition, an infectious disease condition, a condition related to a disease or biological condition, a condition related to general health, a condition related to the flavor of food, a condition related to perfumes or odors, and / or other suitable conditions in or at a subject or at a subject.

[0040] Systems for sensing, analyzing, and / or monitoring fluids (e.g., analytes of interest) discussed herein can be configured to accurately detect and record colorimetric sensor array (CSA) spectral responses to exposure to the fluid. By utilizing techniques for noninvasively detecting one or more analytes of interest from the fluid using the colorimetric sensor array CSA (e.g., one or more pathogens responsible for certain human skin infections, including, but not limited to, skin infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), vaginitis, wound infections, ulcers, etc., and / or other suitable analytes), the systems are enabled to enable early detection and implementation of protocols to address one or more conditions associated with any sensed analytes of interest. In one example, enhanced classification of one or more analytes using the systems described herein may enable detection and identification of causative pathogens at the very earliest stages of dangerous skin infections, potentially resulting in a higher level of subject protection and a higher probability of a successful outcome.

[0041] A system for sensing, analyzing, and / or monitoring an analyte in a fluid may use an optical system to capture photons that are diffused, reflected, scattered, transmitted, or re-emitted from individual reactants (e.g., color areas, color imprints, color bars, color dots, etc.) applied to a substrate or film of a colorimetric sensor array CSA, transmit the photons via fiber optic cables or free-space optics to a high-resolution spectrometer, or transmit the photons to a high-resolution spectrometer via fiber optic cables or free-space optics. By capturing the scattered, reflected, scattered, transmitted, or re-emitted photons from the colorimetric sensor array (CSA), delivering them via fiber optic cables or free-space optics to a high-resolution spectrometer having photodetectors (e.g., silicon photodetectors and / or other suitable photodetectors) to measure the photon count versus wavelength for each of a continuous array (e.g., linear, multidimensional, and / or other suitable photodetectors), and applying appropriate calibration techniques and algebraic signal processing algorithms to the measurements, it is possible to calculate collected light measurements (e.g., reflectance, photon count, etc.) at individual, continuous wavelengths across the electromagnetic spectrum. This technique is applicable to wavelengths from the ultraviolet through the visible and mid-infrared of the spectrum. In some cases, a movable stage (e.g., an adjustable stage) may be employed to facilitate collecting multiple spectra at discrete locations across the entire reactant array of the colorimetric sensor array (CSA).

[0042] When the entire reactant array or a portion of the reactant array of the colorimetric sensor array CSA is viewed for processing, the system for sensing, analyzing, and / or monitoring a component of a fluid (e.g., an analyte of interest) is enabled to repeatedly or continuously capture and process data on the fly. The captured or obtained data (e.g., spectral data) may then be processed to accurately associate the spectral data with each reactant in the colorimetric sensor array CSA. During a single fluid analysis test, the reactant array or a portion of the reactant array may be viewed for processing multiple times. By performing repeated measurements over time, changes in the reflectance spectra of some or all of the reactants in the reactant array (e.g., the reactant array of the colorimetric sensor array CSA) can be recorded during exposure of the reactant array to a fluid and used to identify the component of the fluid (e.g., the analyte of interest).

[0043] A system for sensing, analyzing, and / or monitoring a fluid is enabled to facilitate accurately recording the reflectance spectra of individual reactants in a reactant array in a manner that is independent of spectral variations in the spectral distribution of the light source intensity illuminating the reactants in the reactant array or the response of a photon intensity measuring device (e.g., a spectrometer). For example, the high wavelength resolution and continuous spectral response of the system's spectrometer are enabled to generate an accurate description of the wavelength content of light from each reactant in the reactant array that is independent of system- and / or environment-related variables. Existing devices use electronic imaging chips that collect values ​​in only a few relatively narrow spectral ranges, such as specific red, blue, and green filter portions of the visible spectrum. In contrast, the systems for sensing, analyzing, and / or monitoring fluids that utilize spectrometers discussed herein are enabled to record over 700 spectral content versus wavelength data points across the continuous visible light spectrum or beyond (e.g., infrared (IR) spectrum, ultraviolet (UV) spectrum, etc.), which can facilitate detecting small changes in the light quantity (e.g., photon count) versus wavelength data points (e.g., measurements) of one or more reactants in response to exposure of the reactants to a fluid having a component of interest (e.g., one or more analytes of the component of interest). By improving the quality and quantity of data describing the physical properties that determine the original color and color change of individual reactants in the reactant array of the colorimetric sensor array CSA, classification of spectral data before, during, and after exposure of the colorimetric sensor array CSA to fluids having various analytes by the systems for sensing, analyzing, and / or monitoring analytes described herein is enhanced over existing systems.

[0044] Turning to the figures, FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an exemplary configuration of a fluid analysis system 10 for determining a component of a fluid. In some examples, the fluid analysis system 10 may include, among other components, an illumination component 12 configured to illuminate one or more reactants (e.g., analyte-sensitive substances) of a reactant array supported on a surface 14 or otherwise; a light collection component 16 configured to receive or collect light from the one or more reactants; and a controller 18 configured to communicate with the illumination component 12 and / or the light collection component 16. In some examples, the illumination component 12 and / or the light collection component 16 may form or be part of an optical system of the fluid analysis system 10. The controller 18 may be configured to analyze or facilitate analysis of data related to the light collected by the light collection component 16.

[0045] One or more reactants of a reactant array on or supported by surface 14 may be exposed to a fluid. In some examples, the one or more reactants may be exposed to a fluid in any suitable manner, including, but not limited to, by pumping a fluid to or through the one or more reactants during a fluid test using fluid analysis system 10, by exposing the one or more reactants to a fluid before being placed in fluid analysis system 10, by placing the one or more reactants in proximity to a region of interest (e.g., a wound) before being placed in the fluid analysis system, and / or by exposing the one or more reactants to a fluid in one or more other suitable manners. As the one or more reactants are exposed to a fluid for analysis of the fluid and light is collected from the one or more reactants during a fluid analysis test, controller 18 may analyze the collected light data to identify one or more components of the fluid (e.g., analytes of interest) to which the one or more reactants were exposed.

[0046] 2 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary configuration of a fluid analysis system 10 including an illumination component 12, a light collecting component 16, and a controller 18. In some examples, the fluid analysis system 10 can further include a motor 20 in communication with the controller 18 and an adjustable stage 22 including or coupled to a detecting component (e.g., a colorimetric sensor array (CSA) 24). When included as a detecting component, the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 can include a reactant array 26 having one or more reactants and a substrate 28 supporting the reactant array 26. In some cases, the substrate 28 can be or include the surface 14 depicted in FIG. 1, although other configurations are contemplated. Optionally, the fluid analysis system 10 may include a housing configured to accommodate one or more of the illumination component 12, the surface 14, the light collecting component 16, the controller 18, the motor 20, the adjustable stage 22, the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24, and / or other suitable components of the fluid analysis system 10.

[0047] The colorimetric sensor array CSA24 can be configured within the fluid analysis system 10 to be adjusted relative to the illumination component 12 and / or the light collecting component 16 to facilitate collection of light from all or a desired amount of the reactants in the reactant array 26. In one embodiment, the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 is adjustable relative to the illumination component 12 and / or the light collecting component 16 in response to actuation of the motor 20 so that different reactants are selectively positioned in target areas of the illumination component 12 and / or the light collecting component 16. In one embodiment, the motor 20 is in communication with the adjustable stage 22 such that actuation of the motor 20 causes the adjustable stage 22 to adjust and move (e.g., translate, rotate, etc.) the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 relative to the illumination component 12 and / or the light collecting component 16 (e.g., relative to the target areas of the illumination component 12 and / or the light collecting component 16). The illumination component 12 and the light collecting component 16 may be fixed relative to each other and to other components of the fluid analysis system 10. Alternatively or additionally, one or both of the illumination component 12 and the light collecting component 16 may be adjusted relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 in response to actuation of the motor 20.

[0048] Motor 20 may be any suitable type of device coupled to adjustable stage 22 and / or colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and configured to adjust the position of adjustable stage 22 and / or colorimetric sensor array CSA24 relative to illumination component 12 and / or light collecting component 16. For example, motor 20 may be a stepper motor, a continuous drive motor, a direct current (DC) motor, a servo motor, a manually operated hand wheel, and / or other suitable device or system configured to generate motion. In some cases, motor 20 may include a drive shaft configured to drive a driven component (e.g., adjustable stage 22 and / or colorimetric sensor array CSA24 or other suitable driven component coupled to adjustable stage 22 and / or colorimetric sensor array CSA24).

[0049] The motor 20 may be coupled to the adjustable stage 22 in any suitable manner to facilitate the desired adjustment (e.g., linear adjustment, rotational adjustment, linear and rotational adjustment, and / or other suitable adjustment) of the adjustable stage 22 in response to actuation of the motor 20. When the adjustable stage 22 and / or the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 are adjusted linearly, the coupling between the motor 20 and the adjustable stage 22 may facilitate transferring the rotational motion of the motor 20 to the linear motion of the adjustable stage 22. When the adjustable stage 22 and / or the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 are adjusted in a rotational manner, the coupling between the motor 20 and the adjustable stage may facilitate transferring the rotational motion of the motor 20 to the rotational motion of the adjustable stage 22. When the adjustable stage 22 and / or the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 are adjusted in a linear and rotational manner, the coupling(s) between the motor 20 and the adjustable stage 22 are enabled to facilitate transferring the rotational motion of the motor 20 to the linear motion of the adjustable stage 22 and the rotational motion of the adjustable stage 22.

[0050] The motor 20 and its coupling to the adjustable stage 22 can be configured to adjust the position of the adjustable stage 22 and / or the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 at any suitable speed or rate. In some examples, the motor 20 can be configured to adjust the adjustable stage 22 and / or the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 at a speed or rate in the range of less than 1 millimeter (mm) / second (s), in the range of about 1 mm / s to about 20 mm / s, or in the range of 20 mm / s or greater, although other suitable ranges are contemplated. In some configurations, the motor 20 can be configured to adjust the adjustable stage 22 and / or the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 continuously at a constant speed or rate and / or to vary the speed or rate during fluid testing. In one example configuration, the motor 20 can be configured to adjust the position of the adjustable stage 22 and / or the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 at a constant speed or rate of 5 mm / s during fluid testing.

[0051] The adjustable stage 22 may be any suitable component configured to support the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and / or the reactant array 26 (e.g., the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 may be the component having the surface 14). In some examples, the adjustable stage 22 may be or include a platform coupled to the motor 20 (e.g., directly or indirectly via a drive shaft of the motor 20 or via a drive shaft extending from the motor 20) and configured to support the one or more colorimetric sensor arrays CSA24 comprising the reactant arrays 26 when the adjustable stage 22 is moved relative to the light collecting element 16. Additionally or alternatively, the adjustable stage 22 may be or include an arm coupled to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and the motor 20 to transfer motion of the motor 20 to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. Further, in some examples, the adjustable stage 22 may be or include the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. For example, the adjustable stage 22 may be or include a substrate 28 on which the reactant array 26 is disposed, which in turn may include the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 .

[0052] The substrate 28 of the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 can have any suitable configuration for supporting and / or receiving the reactant array 26 for exposure to a fluid (e.g., a subject fluid) and / or for analysis of the reactant array using the optical system of the fluid analysis system 10. For example, the substrate 28 can be sized to include all or a portion of the reactant array 26. In some examples, multiple substrates 28 can be utilized to include all or a portion of the reactant array 26. The substrate 28 can have a surface (e.g., surface 14) that is or can be any suitable shape, including, but not limited to, elongated, rectangular, square, rounded, circular, cylindrical, disc-shaped, and / or other suitable shapes. The substrate 28 can be or include a component configured to reside on or within a container or cartridge.

[0053] Substrate 28 can comprise and / or be formed from any suitable material. Examples of suitable materials for use in substrate 28 of colorimetric sensor array CSA24 include, but are not limited to, polymers, plastics, rubber, glass, paper, filter materials, filter paper, fabric, metal, aluminum, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, porous membranes, chromatography plates, other suitable materials, and / or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the material utilized in substrate 28 can be a solid material, a woven material, a hydrophobic material, a gas-permeable material, a gas-impermeable material, other suitable materials, and / or combinations thereof.

[0054] In one exemplary configuration of substrate 28, substrate 28 may be a porous white plastic film having high diffuse reflectance across the entire visible spectrum, at least a portion of the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum, and / or at least a portion of the infrared (IR) spectrum. When substrate 28 is formed from a white plastic film having high diffuse reflectance across at least the entire visible spectrum, light collecting component 16 of fluid analysis system 10 may be configured to collect 100% white light from substrate 28, which may be used for fluid analysis purposes as discussed in more detail herein.

[0055] In another example configuration of the substrate 28, the substrate 28 may be formed from a woven polypropylene material, which may result in a gas-permeable, hydrophobic substrate 28. In an exemplary configuration, the woven substrate may have an average pore size of about 0.2 microns and a diameter of about 25 millimeters (mm), although other pore sizes are contemplated. Additionally or alternatively, exemplary configurations of the substrate 28 may be formed from a hydrophobic, gas-permeable material. The substrate 28 in such a configuration may be constructed from one or more gas-permeable materials that provide a desired set of structural properties and gas permeabilities.

[0056] To enhance fluid component detection by the reactants of reactant array 26, substrate 28 to which reactant array 26 is applied and / or the reactants of reactant array 26 may be textured (e.g., grooves or surface topography, woven patterns, etc.) to increase the effective surface area of ​​the reactants. Such texturing may be applied to substrate 28 using any suitable technique, including, but not limited to, via etching, thermoforming, pressure forming, molding, machining, weaving, three-dimensional printing, and / or other suitable techniques.

[0057] In some embodiments, substrate 28 may be omitted or incorporated into reactant array 26. In such cases, the reactants of reactant array 26 are configured to respond to fluid exposure and are themselves enabled to form structures that can be analyzed by fluid analysis system 10.

[0058] The reactants of reactant array 26 can be formed from any suitable material. In some cases, the reactant material can be an optically responsive chemical material (e.g., a chemically responsive material) that changes color in response to the detection of one or more analytes (e.g., non-volatile and / or volatile compounds, gases, liquids, and / or other fluids) in a fluid to which the reactants are exposed. Exemplary suitable materials for the reactants include, but are not limited to, dyes from the following classes: Lewis acid / base dyes (e.g., metal ion-containing dyes), Bronsted acid or base dyes (e.g., pH indicators), dyes having a large permanent dipole (e.g., solvatochromic dyes), redox-reactive dyes (e.g., metal nanoparticle precursors), and / or other suitable classes of dyes. One exemplary material for the reactants can be a silver nanoparticle material. Other suitable materials for the reactants are contemplated, including reactant materials that are not printed dyes.

[0059] In some examples, the reactant material can comprise a reversible or semi-reversible analyte-sensitive material, which can be utilized in a reactant configured for repeated monitoring, such as continuous or periodic sensing of a target location to detect an analyte from the target location. Although other configurations of the reactant array 26 are contemplated, examples of reactant arrays 26 comprising reversible or semi-reversible analyte-sensitive materials are described in U.S. Patent No. 6,233,999, filed March 21, 2000, entitled "COLORIMETRIC_ARTIFICIAL_NOSE_HAVING_AN_ARRAY_OF_DYES_AND_METHOD_FOR_ARTIFICIAL_OLFACTION" and U.S. Patent No. 6,233,999, filed November 11, 2000, entitled "COLORIMETRIC_ARTIFICIAL_NOSE_HAVING_AN_ARRAY_OF_DYES_AND_METHOD_FOR_ARTIFICIAL_OLFACTION." US Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0129999, filed October 24, 2002, entitled "Colorimetric Artificial Nose Having an Array of Dyes and Method for Artificial Olfaction," and US Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0129999, filed October 11, 2007, entitled "Apparatus and Method for Detecting and Identifying Microorganisms," all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for all purposes.

[0060] In some examples, the reactant material can comprise an irreversible analyte-sensitive material. Irreversible analyte-sensitive materials can be utilized in single-use monitors for each analyte material in the fluid, or in reactants configured for single-use monitors when the reactant array 26 is configured to monitor for multiple different analytes, but this is not required. While other configurations of the reactant array 26 are contemplated, examples of reactant arrays 26 comprising irreversible analyte-sensitive materials are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0129999, entitled "COLORIMETRIC SENSOR ARRAYS BASED ON NANOPOROUS PIGMENTS." U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0129999, entitled "PORTABLE DEVICE FOR COLORIMETRIC OR FLUOROMETRIC ANALYSIS AND METHOD OF CONDUCTING COLORIMETRIC OR FLUOROMETRIC ANALYSIS," filed June 9, 2015, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 ...9, entitled "PORTABLE DEVICE FOR COLORIMETRIC OR FLUOROMETRIC ANALYSIS AND METHOD OF CONDUCTING COLORIMETRIC OR all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

[0061] The reactants of reactant array 26 may be applied to substrate 28 in any suitable manner. In one example, the reactants may be applied to substrate 28 by printing the reactants (e.g., reactant materials) onto substrate 28. When printing, any suitable printing technique may be utilized, including, but not limited to, pin transfer, inkjet, silkscreen, and / or other suitable application techniques.

[0062] The reactants can be applied to the substrate 28 randomly and / or in one or more patterns. Examples of reactant configurations in the reactant array 26 applied to the substrate 28 include, but are not limited to, a grid pattern of rows and columns, concentric or spiral rings, a color match between the color of the printed dye material and the color of the substrate material prior to interaction with the analyte, a pattern in which the analyte-sensitive material forms a distinguishable shape upon reaction with a particular analyte, other suitable configurations, and / or combinations thereof.

[0063] Fluid analysis system 10 may include an optical system configured to facilitate collecting photons to calculate light collection measurements (e.g., reflectance, photon count, etc.) of individual reactants in reactant array 26. As mentioned above, the optical system may include illumination component 12 and / or light collection component 16, among other suitable components.

[0064] In some embodiments, the optical system, or portions thereof, may be configured to be stationary relative to the adjustable stage 22 and / or the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. Alternatively or additionally, the optical system, or portions thereof, may be configured to move or otherwise adjust relative to the adjustable stage 22 and / or the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. Depending on the configuration of the fluid analysis system, the adjustable stage 22 may be omitted, or the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 may be stationary while the optical system, or portions thereof, are adjusted. Alternatively, the optical system, or portions thereof, and the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 may be stationary (e.g., fixed) relative to one another.

[0065] When included in fluid analysis system 10, illumination component 12 may include one or more light sources 30, an illumination lens system 32 (e.g., an illumination lens subsystem), and / or other suitable components. Illumination component 12 may be configured to provide sufficient photons to reactants in reactant array 26 having a uniform spatial and spectral distribution across the wavelength range of interest to colorimetric sensor array CSA24.

[0066] To maximize the signal-to-noise ratio for collecting light from the reactants in the reactant array 26 while minimizing power consumption, the electron-to-photon conversion efficiency of the one or more light sources 30 may be considered. Efficiency in maximizing the ratio of collected to illuminating photons may also be considered. To facilitate maximizing the ratio of collected to illuminating photons, the distribution of photons from the light source 30 across the wavelength range of interest may be uniform. Thus, utilizing an energy-efficient light source that provides a uniform distribution of photons across the wavelength range of interest facilitates obtaining or calculating accurate, low-noise light collection measurements (e.g., reflectance, photon count, etc.) at all wavelength bins of the light collection component 16.

[0067] The one or more light sources 30 can be configured to provide light of any suitable wavelength to the one or more reactants. In some examples, the one or more light sources 30 are capable of providing a uniform spatial and spectral distribution of wavelengths of light over one or more ranges, such as about 300 nanometers (nm) to about 1000 nm, about 360 nm to about 900 nm, about 300 nm to about 600 nm, about 350 nm to about 500 nm, about 400 nm to about 725 nm, about 425 nm to about 725 nm, about 700 nm to about 1000 nm, about 800 nm to about 1000 nm, and / or other suitable ranges. In one example, the one or more light sources 30 are capable of providing wavelengths of light over a range of about 400 nm to about 725 nm.

[0068] The optical system may be configured to provide illumination in two or more distinct discrete ranges of wavelengths. For example, one or more light sources 30 may be enabled to provide light in a first wavelength range (e.g., about 300 nm to about 600 nm) and light in a second wavelength range (e.g., about 800 nm to about 1000 nm). The optical system may be enabled to provide illumination in such two discrete ranges of wavelengths by utilizing two or more light sources 30, by using filters, and / or by one or more other suitable methods. Having the ability to provide light in one or more discrete wavelength ranges may facilitate using the fluid analysis system 10 for different applications that may require the use of different wavelength ranges for optimal performance (e.g., optical detection of fluid components and / or other analytes).

[0069] In some configurations, one or more light sources 30 can be configured to provide at least a uniform spatial and spectral distribution of broadband white light (e.g., continuous broadband white light) to one or more reactants in reactant array 26. In one example, a light source 30 providing a uniform spatial and spectral distribution of broadband white light can be configured to provide light wavelengths ranging from about 360 nm to about 900 nm. In another example, a light source 30 providing a uniform spatial and spectral distribution of broadband white light can be configured to provide light wavelengths ranging from about 400 nm to about 725 nm. A light source 30 configured in this manner can have a desired (e.g., high) color rendering index (CRI) with a uniform distribution of photon wavelengths throughout the visible spectrum.

[0070] The one or more light sources 30 may be any suitable type of light source. For example, the light source 30 may be a light-emitting diode (LED), an indium-based blue LED doped with multiple phosphors to combine an LED with an electroluminescent semiconductor junction light source, a blackbody radiation source, a tungsten lamp, a halogen lamp, and / or other suitable types of light sources 30. In one example, the light source 30 may be a true-color white LED configured to provide light wavelengths in the range of about 400 nm to about 725 nm, although other suitable configurations are contemplated. Utilizing a white LED rather than a blackbody radiation source (e.g., a tungsten lamp, a halogen lamp, etc.) reduces inefficiencies in electron-to-photon conversion and allows the fluid analysis system 10 to use less power (e.g., have a higher electron-to-photon conversion ratio) than if other types of light sources 30 (e.g., a tungsten lamp, a halogen lamp, etc.) were used.

[0071] The light source 30 can be disposed at any suitable angle and in any suitable position relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., the reactant array 26 of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24) and / or the light collecting component 16. For example, the light source 30 can be disposed at an angle ranging from about 15 degrees to about 75 degrees relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24, an angle ranging from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24, an angle ranging from about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24, and / or one or more other suitable angles. In one example, the light source 30 can be disposed at a 45-degree angle relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24, although other suitable configurations are contemplated. Providing a light source 30 that projects light onto the reactants of the reactant array 26 from an acute angle and from a position laterally spaced from the target area (e.g., the illuminated area) on the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 can facilitate providing dual overlapping ellipsoids that effectively form the target area to be analyzed (e.g., form a target area sized to cover one or more reactants or a portion of one or more reactants) while minimizing the collection of spectrally or specularly reflected light and allowing for the collection of maximum diffuse light.

[0072] The one or more light sources 30 may be configured in any suitable manner relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. In some examples, and as discussed, the one or more light sources 30 may be configured relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 such that illumination can be projected onto the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 in a manner that prevents or reduces spectral or specular reflections captured by the light collecting component 16 and maximizes capture of diffuse light from the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., reflections from the reactants of the reactant array 26). In one example, the one or more light sources 30 may include a first light source 30 a and a second light source 30 b, which may be the same as or different from one another and configured to illuminate the same target area on the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., the target area may be formed to cover one or more reactants or a portion of one or more reactants of the reactant array 26). In some examples, the first light source 30a and the second light source 30b and / or other light sources 30 may be positioned at the same angle relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and at different positions relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24, although other suitable configurations are contemplated.

[0073] In one example configuration of the light source 30, including a first light source 30a and a second light source 30b, the first light source 30a may be at a first position and a first angle relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24, and the second light source 30b may be at a second angle and a second position relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. The first and second angles may be the same or different. In one example, the first and second angles may be the same and may be approximately 45 degrees relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., relative to the reactant array 26 or the surface supporting the reactant array 26). The first and second positions may be different positions, and in one example, the first and second positions may face each other such that light is applied to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 at the same angle but from opposite directions to form a target area on the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. Other suitable configurations are also contemplated.

[0074] If included, illumination lens system 32 can be configured to illuminate and focus light from light source 30 onto a desired target area on colorimetric sensor array CSA 24. In some examples, the target area on colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 is one or more reactants of reactant array 26, although other suitable target areas are contemplated. Illumination lens system 32 can comprise any suitable components, including, but not limited to, one or more lenses, one or more optical fibers, and / or one or more other suitable components.

[0075] When illumination lens system 32 includes one or more optical fibers (e.g., one or more optical fibers), the optical fibers may be configured (e.g., adjusted and positioned) to provide light from light source(s) 30 to one or more reactants in reactant array 26 or to focus light onto one or more reactants in reactant array 26. The optical fibers may be single-mode and / or multi-mode fibers, as desired.

[0076] When included in the illumination lens system 32, one or more lenses may be configured (e.g., adjusted and positioned) to illuminate or focus light from the light source(s) 30 onto a target area (e.g., one or more reactants of the reactant array 26). The one or more lenses may comprise a configuration having a single lens or a configuration having two or more lenses, which may be similar or different from one another. In some examples, the illumination lens configuration may include a first lens and a second lens that may operate together to provide light to or focus light onto the target area. In one example, the first lens may be a convex lens (e.g., a spherical lens) located between the light source 30 and the second lens and configured to collimate light from the light source 30, and the second lens may be a convex lens or other suitable lens located between the first lens and the target area on the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and configured to focus light from the light source 30 onto the target area of ​​the colorimetric sensor array CSA24.

[0077] In some examples, one or more lenses of illumination lens system 32 may have a diameter and focal length, where the ratio of the diameter to the focal length (e.g., lens F-number) may be within a range of about 0.5 to about 2.0, a range of about 0.75 to about 1.5, a range of about 0.8 to about 1.2, a range of about 0.9 to about 1.1, and / or one or more other suitable ranges. In one example, one or more lenses of illumination lens system 32 may have a diameter relative to a focal length of about 1.0. Further, although not required, one or more lenses may include a short focal length convex lens that can be configured to match the spot size on colorimetric sensor array CSA24 from light source 30 to the size of a target area (e.g., one or more reactants) on colorimetric sensor array CSA24.

[0078] The light collecting elements 16 (e.g., diffuse reflectance capture optics, etc.) may be configured to collect and measure wavelength levels of light collected from the surface 14 (e.g., measuring photons of wavelengths of light from individual reactants in the reactant array 26) and may include one or more light collectors, a collection lens system 36 (e.g., a collection lens subsystem), and / or other suitable components. The light collecting elements 16 are configured to focus light on a target area (e.g., a reactant in the reactant array 26) and can avoid or reduce collection of light from spaces (e.g., white space) between reactants and / or from multiple reactants. Furthermore, focusing the light collecting elements on a single reactant facilitates obtaining light from all or at least a majority of a single reactant, minimizing the possibility of obtaining distorted light measurements from the reactant due to printing defects, graininess of the materials used for the reactant, imperfections in the substrate 28, and / or other irregularities. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the light collecting element 16 (e.g., a portion of the light collecting element 16 adjacent to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24) is oriented perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the surface of the substrate 28 and / or the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 to minimize collection or reception of light from spectral or specular reflections and enable maximization of collection of light from the target area.

[0079] If included, collection lens system 36 may be configured to receive or collect light from a target area of ​​colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and to focus an aperture onto the target area (e.g., the aperture focus may be slightly smaller than the illumination spot from illumination component 12). Collection lens system 36 may comprise any suitable components, including, but not limited to, one or more lenses, one or more optical fibers, and / or one or more other suitable components.

[0080] When one or more optical fibers (e.g., one or more optical fibers) are included in collection lens system 36, the optical fibers can be configured (e.g., adjusted and positioned) to receive light from one or more reactants in reactant array 26 or to collect light from one or more reactants in reactant array 26. The one or more optical fibers can be or include single-mode and / or multimode fiber optics, as desired. The one or more optical fibers can have a first end configured to receive or collect light from the target region and a second end in optical communication with a light collector.

[0081] When included in collection lens system 36, the one or more lenses may be configured (e.g., adjusted and positioned) to receive or collect light from a target area (e.g., one or more reactants of reactant array 26) and direct the light to an image sensor or waveguide that is in optical communication with a sensor or other component of the collection device. The one or more lenses may comprise a configuration having a single lens or a configuration having two or more lenses that may be similar or different from one another. In some examples, collection lens system 36 may include a first lens and a second lens that may operate together to obtain light from the target area (e.g., light from substantially only the target area) and deliver or collect the light to a sensor of the collection device.

[0082] In one exemplary configuration of collection lens system 36 having two lenses and a fiber optic waveguide in communication with the collector, the first lens may be located between the collector or a waveguide (e.g., an optical fiber) in optical communication with the collector's sensor, and may be a convex lens (e.g., an aspheric lens) configured to focus light from a target area on colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., via the second lens) onto the inner core of the sensor and / or waveguide. The second lens may be a cylindrical lens or other suitable lens located between the first lens and the target area on colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and configured to collect light from all or substantially all of the target area on colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., the reactants of reactant array 26).

[0083] The focal lengths of the first and second lens combination, the distance from the second lens to the target area, and the distance to the inner core of the fiber optic waveguide are selected or can be selected to provide the precise magnification and dimensions required for an acceptance aperture configured to generally optimize photon utilization efficiency from the illuminator to the light collector, minimize the power required to sense light from the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24, and ensure minimal integration time for the light collector, thereby enabling an increased sample rate for the light collector and reducing the time required to capture all of the individual spectra needed to fully characterize the response of all reactants, or at least a desired subset of reactants, in the reactant array 26 for use in analyzing the fluid sensed by the reactant array 26.

[0084] The one or more light collectors may be any suitable type of light collector. Exemplary suitable types of collectors include, but are not limited to, an image sensor, a spectrometer 34, a charge-coupled device (CCD) image sensor, a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor, a color contact image sensor (CCIS), other suitable light collectors, and / or combinations of light collectors. In one example, the light collecting component 16 may include a spectrometer 34 configured to measure photons collected (e.g., reflected, transmitted, and / or otherwise received) from the target area. Utilizing the spectrometer 34 facilitates sensing wavelengths of light with high resolution in the nanometer range and can provide a continuous data set across a range of wavelengths, enabling more sensitive analysis of the data to identify components of the fluid to which the reactant array 26 is exposed than would be possible if other light collectors were used. In some embodiments, the spectrometer 34 may be adjusted or otherwise configured to have a bin width of 1 nm or greater, such that measurements or data from the spectrometer 34 may have a desired resolution that contributes to the detection sensitivity of the fluid analysis system 10.

[0085] Any suitable type of spectrometer 34 configured to measure (e.g., measure over time) wavelength levels of light collected from the surface 14 (e.g., from the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24) may be utilized as the light collector. In some examples, the spectrometer 34 may have compact, folded optics including a diffraction grating and a linear imager (e.g., a linear array photodetector, a CCD linear imager, and / or other suitable types of linear imager). A spectrometer 34 utilizing folded optics may facilitate the creation of an overall compact fluid analysis system 10. In some configurations, the spectrometer 34 may further include optics (an optical system, e.g., one or more lenses) for collimating light from the surface 14 and / or other suitable optics. In some exemplary spectrometers 34, the spectrometer 34 may be configured to sense wavelengths ranging from about 390 nm to about 950 nm. Other suitable configurations of the spectrometer 34 are also contemplated.

[0086] The controller 18 is enabled to be coupled to one or more other electronic components of the fluid analysis system 10. For example, the controller 18 may be communicatively coupled to one or more of the illumination component 12, the light collecting component 16 (e.g., the spectrometer 34 and / or other components of the light collecting component 16), the motor 20, and / or one or more other suitable components of the fluid analysis system 10, and / or remote components (e.g., a server, a mobile device, etc.) that may or may not be part of the fluid analysis system 10. In some examples, the controller 18 may be configured to receive instructions (e.g., from a user via or within a user interface) to initiate a fluid analysis test and send coordinated control signals to the motor 20, one or more light sources 30, and the spectrometer 34 or other collector to initiate movement of the motor 20 to adjust the position of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 relative to the illumination component 12 and the collecting lens system 36, to initiate illumination of a target area on the colorimetric sensor array CSA24, and to initiate sensing of wavelengths of light from the reactant array 26 or other suitable target area of ​​the colorimetric sensor array CSA24.

[0087] The controller 18 may be configured to identify or facilitate the identification of components of a fluid in contact with the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., comprising the surface 14) based on measurements (e.g., sensed and / or calculated) of wavelength levels of light collected from the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 by the light collecting element 16 (e.g., via the spectrometer 34 and / or other suitable light collector). In some examples, the controller 18 may be configured to identify components of a fluid in contact with the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 based on one or both of: (a) the timing of the wavelength levels of light reflected from the colorimetric sensor array CSA24; and (b) the absolute change between the wavelength levels of light collected from the surface at or before application of the fluid to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and a predetermined time after the initial application of the fluid to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. The controller 18 may be configured to identify components of a fluid in contact with the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 in one or more additional or alternative ways.

[0088] The controller 18 and / or other components of the fluid analysis system 10 may be or include one or more computing devices equipped with or coupled to one or more user interfaces. FIG. 3 depicts a schematic diagram of an exemplary computing device 38 and user interface 40. The computing device 38 and / or user interface 40 may be housed, in whole or in part, in one or more housings 42 (e.g., housings that may or may not house other components of the fluid analysis system 10). The housing 42 may be an optional component, as represented by the dashed line defining the housing 42 depicted in FIG. 3. While various components are depicted as being included in the computing device 38 and user interface 40, one or more of the depicted components may be omitted and / or one or more additional or alternative components may be utilized.

[0089] The computing device 38 may be any suitable computing device configured to process data of or for the fluid analysis system 10 and may be configured to facilitate operation of the fluid analysis system 10. The computing device 38 may be configured to control operation of the fluid analysis system 10 by establishing and / or outputting control signals to the illumination components 12, the light collecting components 16, the motor 20, and / or other electronic components of the fluid analysis system 10, in some cases to perform fluid analysis tests and / or monitor the results of fluid analysis tests. In some examples, the computing device 38 may be part of the controller 18 or may communicate with other components via a wired or wireless connection, although other suitable configurations are contemplated. If the computing device 38, or at least a portion of the computing device 38, is a component separate from the structure of the controller 18, the computing device 38 is enabled to communicate with electronic components of the fluid analysis system 10 via one or more wired or wireless connections or networks (e.g., a LAN and / or a WAN). In some cases, the computing device 38 is enabled to communicate with a remote server or other suitable computing device.

[0090] An exemplary computing device 38 may include, among other suitable components, one or more processors 44, memory 46, and / or one or more I / O units (input / output devices) 48. Other exemplary suitable components of computing device 38 not specifically depicted in FIG. 3 may include, but are not limited to, communication components, a touchscreen, selectable buttons, and / or other suitable components of a controller. As described, one or more components of computing device 38 may be separate from and / or incorporated into components of controller 18.

[0091] The processor 44 of the computing device 38 may include a single processor or multiple processors operating individually or together. The processor 44 may be configured to receive and execute instructions, comprising instructions that may be loaded into the memory 46 and / or other suitable memory. Examples of components of the processor 44 include, but are not limited to, a central processing unit, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a multi-core processor, a graphical processing unit, a digital signal processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an artificial intelligence accelerator, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a discrete circuit, and / or other suitable types of data processing devices.

[0092] The memory 46 of the computing device 38 may include a single memory component or multiple memory components that operate independently or in conjunction with one another. Example types of memory 46 may include random access memory (RAM), EEPROM, flash, suitable volatile storage, suitable non-volatile storage, persistent memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), hard drive, flash memory, optical disk memory, and / or other suitable persistent memory), and / or other suitable types of memory. The memory 46 may be or may include a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The memory 46 may include instructions stored in a transient and / or non-transitory state on a computer-readable storage medium that may be executable by the processor 44 to cause the processor 44 to perform one or more of the methods and / or techniques described herein. Additionally, in some cases, the memory 46 and / or other suitable memory may be enabled to store data received from the spectrometer 34, the motor 20, the light source 30, and / or other components of the fluid analysis system 10, or other components in communication with the fluid analysis system 10.

[0093] The I / O unit 48 of the computing device 38 can comprise a single I / O component or multiple I / O components that each operate individually or together. The exemplary I / O unit 48 can be or include any suitable type of communications hardware and / or software, including, but not limited to, communications components or ports configured to communicate with electronic components of the fluid analysis system 10 and / or other suitable computing devices or systems. Examples of types of I / O units 48 include, but are not limited to, wired communication components (e.g., HDMI® components, Ethernet components, VGA components, serial communication components, parallel communication components, component video ports, S-Video components, composite audio / video components, DVI components, USB components, optical communication components, and / or other suitable wired communication components), wireless communication components (e.g., radio frequency (RF) components, low energy BLUETOOTH® protocol components, BLUETOOTH® protocol components, near field communication (NFC) protocol components, WI-FI® protocol components, optical communication components, ZIGBEE® protocol components, and / or other suitable wireless communication components), and / or other suitable I / O units 48.

[0094] The user interface 40 may be configured to communicate with the computing device 38 via one or more wired or wireless connections. The user interface 40 may include one or more displays 50, one or more input devices 52, one or more output devices 54, and / or one or more other suitable features. In some examples, the user interface 40 may be part of or include the computing device 38.

[0095] Display 50 may be any suitable display. Example suitable displays include, but are not limited to, touchscreen displays, non-touchscreen displays, liquid crystal display (LCD) screens, light-emitting diode (LED) displays, head-mounted displays, virtual reality displays, augmented reality displays, and / or other suitable display types.

[0096] The input device(s) 52 may be and / or include any suitable components and / or functionality for receiving user input via the user interface 40. Exemplary input devices 52 may include, but are not limited to, a touchscreen, a keypad, a mouse, a touchpad, a microphone, a selectable button, a selectable knob, an optical input, a camera, a gesture sensor, an eye tracker, a voice recognition control (e.g., a microphone coupled to an appropriate natural language processing component), and / or other suitable input devices. In one example, the input device 52 may include a touchscreen that allows for setting set points, initiating a fluid analysis test, adjusting between screens (e.g., a test screen, a data analysis screen, a results screen, etc.), and / or taking one or more other suitable actions.

[0097] The output device(s) 54 may be and / or include any suitable components and / or functionality for providing information and / or data to a user and / or other computing components. Exemplary output device(s) 54 include, but are not limited to, a display, a speaker, a vibration system, a haptic feedback system, an optical output, and / or other suitable output device.

[0098] FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a fluid analysis system 10, which may be configured to receive a colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 having a linear reactant array 26. The exemplary configuration of the fluid analysis system 10 depicted in FIG. 4 may further include an illumination component 12, a light collecting component 16, an adjustable stage 22, and / or other suitable components. Additionally, components of the fluid analysis system 10 depicted in FIG. 4 that are not discussed herein may be optionally omitted, and / or other components not depicted in FIG. 4 may be included, as desired. In one example, a controller 18 is not depicted in FIG. 4 as being part of the fluid analysis system 10, but may be included or configured to couple to and / or otherwise communicate with the fluid analysis system 10, as discussed herein and / or in any other suitable manner.

[0099] An exemplary configuration of fluid analysis system 10 can include a motor 20 (e.g., not shown in FIG. 4 but represented by motor housing 55 therein) configured to drive or otherwise translate adjustable stage 22 in opposing directions along first axis B. When reactant array 26 of colorimetric sensor array CSA24 includes multiple rows and columns, motor 20 and associated gearing can be configured to adjust adjustable stage 22, and thus colorimetric sensor array CSA24, in one or more directions orthogonal to first axis B (e.g., perpendicular to first axis B and / or other suitable directions).

[0100] Exemplary configurations of the fluid analysis system 10 may or may not include a housing and may be configured to be handheld fluid analysis systems 10. To facilitate the handheld nature of the fluid analysis system 10 configuration, the housing and / or other components of the fluid analysis system 10 may be made from lightweight materials, and the housing may be configured to house batteries and / or other components that may facilitate powering the fluid analysis system 10. Alternatively, exemplary configurations of the fluid analysis system 10 may or may not include a housing and may be configured to be benchtop fluid analysis systems 10.

[0101] The adjustable stage 22 may have any suitable configuration configured to support the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and may include one or more components. In some examples, the adjustable stage 22 may include a first component 22a, which may be a base configured to mesh with a gear or be driven in one or more suitable manners; a second component 22b, which may be a body configured to receive and / or align the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., within a recess thereof and / or in one or more other suitable manners); and a third component 22c. The third component 22c may be a cover configured to facilitate maintaining the position of the adjustable stage 22 or the position of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 within the adjustable stage 22 (e.g., by engaging a recess in the second component 22b and / or in one or more other suitable manners). One or more of the first component 22a, the second component 22b, and the third component 22c may be subcomponents or portions of a single component or may be components that can engage with each other to form the adjustable stage 22. In some embodiments, first component 22a, second component 22b, third component 22c, and / or other or all components of adjustable stage 22 may be part of colorimetric sensor array CSA24, and / or colorimetric sensor array CSA24 may be part of adjustable stage 22. If two or more of first component 22a, second component 22b, and third component 22c are components that can be engaged together to form at least a portion of adjustable stage 22, two or more of first component 22a, second component 22b, and third component 22c may be coupled together in one or more suitable manners.For example, first component 22a, second component 22b, and third component 22c may be coupled together using one or more threaded components (e.g., screws, etc.), one or more pins, one or more snap connections, one or more friction connections, one or more adhesives, one or more welds, and / or one or more other suitable coupling and / or alignment techniques. In some cases, the coupling technique for coupling second component 22b and third component 22c may be reversible to facilitate separation of second component 22b and third component 22c for inserting and / or removing colorimetric sensor array CSA24 from adjustable stage 22. Other suitable configurations of adjustable stage 22 are also contemplated.

[0102] The illumination component 12 of the exemplary configuration of the fluid analysis system 10 depicted in FIG. 4 can include a first light source 30a and a second light source 30b. As depicted in FIG. 4, the first light source 30a and the second light source 30b can form an angle A with a surface of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 supporting the reactant array 26 (e.g., a surface of the substrate 28 and / or other suitable surface). The angle A can extend between a light source line A′ representing an axis passing through the individual light sources 30 (e.g., the first light source 30a, the second light source 30b, etc.) and a surface line A″ representing a line parallel to the surface of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 supporting the reactants of the reactant array 26. The angle A can be any suitable acute angle, such as 45 degrees.

[0103] As noted, the light sources 30 can be present in any suitable positions relative to each other and relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 that are configured to illuminate a target area of ​​the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. When the light sources 30 are configured to be present in a stationary or fixed position relative to all or at least a portion of the light collecting component 16, the target area of ​​the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 can translate to a location where any portion of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., the location of one or more reactants in the reactant array 26) is illuminated by the light sources 30. As depicted in FIG. 4, the first light source 30a and the second light source 30b can face each other, although other suitable configurations are contemplated.

[0104] Each of the first light source 30a and the second light source 30b may include an illumination lens system 32 (only the second light source 30b is depicted with an illumination lens system 32 in FIG. 4 due to the viewing angle of the fluid analysis system 10). The illumination lens system 32 can be configured to focus illumination from each light source 30 onto a target area (e.g., one or more reactants of the reactant array 26) on the colorimetric sensor array CSA24.

[0105] 4 may further include a lens housing (58) configured to house the spectrometer 34, the optical fiber 56, and a collection lens system 36 (not depicted in FIG. 4) including one or more lenses configured to facilitate collection of light from the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24. In some configurations, the optical fiber 56 may extend from the lens housing (58) to the spectrometer 34 and be configured to direct light collected by the collection lens system 36 (e.g., from the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 and / or other suitable surface 14) to the spectrometer 34.

[0106] 4 may include one or more supports 60. For example, the one or more supports 60 may be configured to support the light sources 30 (e.g., the first light source 30a and the second light source 30b), support the optical fiber 56 between the spectrometer 34 and the collection lens housing 58, support the collection lens housing 58 relative to the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24, and / or support one or more additional and / or alternative components of the fluid analysis system 10 relative to the other components.

[0107] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the exemplary configuration of fluid analysis system 10 depicted in Figure 4 taken along first axis B. In Figure 5, collection lens system 36 within collection lens housing 58, which defines opening 62 and distal end 57 of optical fiber 56, is enabled to be oriented about second axis C, which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the surface of substrate 28 of colorimetric sensor array CSA24 facing collection lens housing 58 and is parallel to first axis B. However, other suitable configurations and / or angles between collection lens system 36 and the surface of colorimetric sensor array CSA24 on which reactant array 26 is supported are contemplated.

[0108] 5, the adjustable stage 22 may be configured to receive the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 between the second component 22b and the third component 22c, and the third component 22c may cover a portion of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and define an opening through which light from a target area on the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 may pass to the light collecting element 16 (e.g., to the collection lens system 36). In operation, the third component 22c may be removed from the second component 22b, and the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 may be placed on the second component 22b. In some embodiments, the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 may include one or more locator pins 64 configured to engage one or more locator openings 66 of the second component 22b to facilitate proper alignment of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 with the adjustable stage 22 and / or the light collecting element 16, although other suitable alignment configurations may be utilized, or the alignment configuration of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 may be omitted. Once the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 is positioned on or within the second component 22b, the third component 22c of the adjustable stage 22 is positioned over the second component 22b to cover a portion of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and is capable of fixing the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 within the adjustable stage 22. At least the second component 22b and the third component 22c may be coupled to each other by one or more connector pins 68 (e.g., two connector pins 68 as depicted in FIG. 5) and / or one or more other suitable components.

[0109] FIG. 6 depicts a schematic perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a fluid analysis system 10. The fluid analysis system 10 may be configured to receive a colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 having an annular reactant array 26. The exemplary configuration of the fluid analysis system 10 depicted in FIG. 6 may further include an illumination component 12, a light collecting component 16, and an adjustable stage 22. The illumination component 12 and the light collecting component 16 may be the same as or similar to the illumination component 12 and the light collecting component 16 of the exemplary configuration of the fluid analysis system 10 depicted in FIG. 4. Additionally, components of the fluid analysis system 10 depicted in FIG. 6 that are not described herein may be optionally omitted, and / or other components not depicted in FIG. 6 may be included, as desired. In one example, controller 18 is not depicted in FIG. 4 as being part of fluid analysis system 10, but may be included or configured to be coupled to and / or otherwise communicate with fluid analysis system 10 as discussed herein and / or in any other suitable manner.

[0110] Although not depicted in FIG. 6 , an exemplary configuration of the fluid analysis system 10 may include a motor 20. The motor 20 may be configured to drive the adjustable stage 22 in one or more rotational directions R about a third axis D that may be offset from a second axis C (see FIG. 5 ) about which the illumination lens configuration may be positioned and that may be orthogonal to the second axis C. Furthermore, the motor 20 may be configured to adjust the adjustable stage 22 in one or more other suitable manners, including, but not limited to, by rotating the adjustable stage 22 about one or more axes in addition to or as an alternative to the third axis D to adjust the adjustable stage 22 laterally (e.g., radially inward or radially outward) and / or by adjusting the adjustable stage 22 relative to the illumination component 12 and / or the light collecting component 16 in one or more other suitable manners. In some examples, when the annular reactant array 26 comprises two or more reactant rings, or in other examples, the motor 20 may be configured to adjust the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 radially outward and / or inward (e.g., in a linear direction toward or away from the second axis C) in addition to rotating the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 about the third axis D. In some examples, when the annular reactant array 26 comprises a spiral pattern of reactants, or in other examples, the motor 20 may be configured to adjust the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 radially outward and / or inward simultaneously or repeatedly with the rotational adjustment of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24.

[0111] The adjustable stage 22 of the fluid analysis system 10 depicted in FIG. 6 can have a cylindrical shape, a shaft shape, a rod shape, an axle shape, and / or any other suitable shape configured to facilitate rotation of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. An exemplary adjustable stage 22 can have a first component 22a, which can be a base configured to mesh with a gear (e.g., a worm gear, etc.) or configured to be driven in one or more suitable manners, and a second component 22b, which can be an extension extending from the first component 22a and configured to support the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. The first component 22a and the second component 22b can be subcomponents or portions of a single component, or can be two components that can be mated to form the adjustable stage 22. Other suitable configurations for the adjustable stage 22 are also contemplated.

[0112] The adjustable stage 22 can be configured to engage the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 with the annular reactant array 26 in any suitable manner. For example, the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 having the annular reactant array 26 can be engaged with the adjustable stage 22 using one or more adhesives, one or more magnetic connections, one or more snap connections, one or more friction-fit connections, and / or one or more other suitable types of connections.

[0113] 7A and 7B depict schematic views of an exemplary collection lens system 36 relative to reactants 70 of reactant array 26 and optical fibers 56 of light collecting element 16. Reactants 70 have an elongated rod-like configuration (e.g., reactants 70 may be target areas or at least portions of target areas of colorimetric sensor array CSA24). FIG. 7A depicts a schematic view of the exemplary collection lens system 36 along a first plane. FIG. 7B depicts a schematic view of the exemplary collection lens system 36 along a second plane perpendicular to the first plane of the view depicted in FIG. 7A.

[0114] In some examples of the illustrative collection lens system 36, the collection lens configuration may include, but is not limited to, a collection lens 72 and an imaging lens 74 that may cooperate to optically direct light from a reactant 70 having a first shape or configuration (e.g., line, rectangle, circle, etc.) to an optical fiber 56 or other light collector component having a second shape or configuration (e.g., line, rectangle, circle, etc.) that may be the same or different from the first shape or configuration. In this manner, the lens(es) of the collection lens system 36 may be configured and / or optimized for the shape and / or size of the target area of ​​the reactant array 26 or the reactants 70, and the shape and / or size of the optical fiber 56 or other suitable light collector component.

[0115] Any suitable focusing lens 72 may be utilized, including, but not limited to, a cylindrical lens (e.g., a lens having different radii in the x-axis and y-axis) and / or other suitable lens selected to focus light from reactant 70. Any suitable imaging lens 74 may be utilized, including, but not limited to, a spherical lens, an aspherical lens, and / or other suitable lens configured to focus light from focusing lens 72 to a desired location (e.g., optical fiber 56 and / or other suitable light collecting component).

[0116] In some embodiments, the collecting lens 72 collects light L from the reactant 70, as can be seen along the first plane perspective of FIG. 7A. R is converted into partially collimated light L C1 The partially collimated light L from the focusing lens 72 can have a focusing power to collimate the light L C1 As such, the imaging lens 74 focuses the partially collimated light L because the focusing lens 72 may not have the focusing power for the light in the second plane, which may result in it not being fully focused. C1 into perfectly or nearly perfectly collimated light L C2 As a result, light L from reactant 70 Rmay be directed toward and / or collected by optical fiber 56 in a configuration in which reactants 70 may have a shape different from the shape of optical fiber 56. Furthermore, such a configuration of collection lens system 36 in which collection lens 72 at least partially collimates light from the entire reactants 70 or target area may result in automatic averaging of collected light from the entire reactants 70 or target area without requiring adjustment of colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 relative to illumination component 12 and / or light collection component 16.

[0117] In one example of the configuration of the focusing lens system 36 for the reactant 70 and the optical fiber 56, the reactant 70 is rectangular, the focusing lens 72 is a cylindrical lens, the imaging lens 74 is an aspheric lens, and the optical fiber 56 has a circular circumference and / or cross section. In this example, the reactant 70 has a width of 0.5 mm and a length of 3.0 mm. Optionally, a transparent intermediate 76 (e.g., a glass slide) can be placed between the reactant 70 and the focusing lens 72. The transparent intermediate 76 can have a thickness of 1 mm, resulting in a gas flow space of 0.5 mm between the reactant 70 and the transparent intermediate 76. An object distance D between the reactant 70 and the focusing lens 72 is 6.5 mm. O The presence of the aperture 72 facilitates separation of the fluids being analyzed near the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 and / or prevents contamination of the reactant array 26. Between the collection lens 72 and the imaging lens 74, there may be an aperture of 3.0 mm diameter (or smaller, e.g., 2.0 mm diameter and / or other suitable size). The diameter of the optical fiber 56 is 0.8 mm. The focal length between the imaging lens 74 and the optical fiber 56 is 11 mm. While exemplary sizes for the setup in the example are provided, other suitable sizes and / or components of the collection lens system 36 are contemplated for various configurations of reactants 70, collection lens components, and / or components of the fluid analysis system 10.

[0118] To focus light from the light source 30 onto one or more reactants in the reactant array 26, the fluid analysis system 10 can include an illumination lens system 32. The illumination lens configuration can include any suitable set of one or more lenses. In some exemplary configurations of the illumination lens system 32, the lens configuration of the illumination lens system 32 can be the same as or similar to the collection lens system 36 or can utilize a collection lens 72 and an imaging lens 74. For example, the imaging lens 74 (e.g., a spherical lens, an aspherical lens, and / or other suitable imaging lens 74) can be positioned near the light source 30. The light source 30 can provide light from an area having a first shape or configuration (e.g., a circular spot area of ​​an LED, or a circular spot area of ​​an optical fiber that delivers light to the reactants, and / or other shape or configuration). The light can then be directed to the collection lens 72 (e.g., a cylindrical lens and / or other suitable collection lens 72). The focusing lens 72 may be positioned between the imaging lens 74 and the target area of ​​the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. The target area may be or include one or more reactants of the reactant array 26. The target area may have a second shape or configuration (e.g., a line, a rectangle, a circle, etc.) that is the same or different from the first shape or configuration. Matching the shape of the light provided from the light source 30 to the target area of ​​the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 may result in natural averaging of the light along the reactants in the target area of ​​the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. This facilitates analyzing a single reactant of the reactant array 26 without moving the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 relative to the illumination component 12 and / or the light collection component 16. Other suitable sizes and / or components of the illumination lens system 32 are contemplated for various configurations of the reactants 70, the light source 30, and / or other components of the fluid analysis system 10.

[0119] Other suitable lens configurations are contemplated. For example, one or more lens configurations can be configured with an adjustable focal length and / or a zoom lens configuration. A lens configuration with an adjustable focal length and / or zoom configuration can facilitate intentionally blurring the sensed or collected light from a target area, focusing on a different plane when the target surface is not horizontal and / or at a predetermined depth, and / or capturing light in one or more other suitable manners.

[0120] 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary method 100 for analyzing a fluid (e.g., an exemplary method for performing a fluid analysis test) using fluid analysis system 10 and / or other suitable systems. Method 100 can be used to determine a fluid and / or one or more components of a fluid. The fluid and / or component of the fluid to be determined may be an analyte of interest, and therefore one or more reactants of reactant array 26 may be configured to be sensitive to the analyte.

[0121] 8 , the method 100 may include exposing one or more reactants 102 of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., one or more reactants of the reactant array 26 on the substrate 28 and / or other suitable reactants) to one or more fluids. The reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 may be exposed to the fluid in any suitable manner. For example, exposing the reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 to the fluid may include pumping a fluid along the reactant array 26, e.g., along the reactant array 26 and a cover (e.g., within the housing of the fluid analysis system 10 or through an at least partially transparent intermediate 76 and / or other suitable cover of the housing), pumping a fluid along the reactant array 26 within a cartridge, passively applying a fluid to the reactant array 26 (e.g., without actively pumping a fluid along the reactant array 26), and / or exposing one or more of the reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 to the fluid in one or more other suitable manners.

[0122] Method 100 can include adjusting one or more of colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., substrate 28 of colorimetric sensor array CSA24), illumination component 12, light collecting component 16, and / or one or more other suitable components relative to one another to facilitate collection of light from one or more reactants of colorimetric sensor array CSA24. In some examples, actuation of motor 20 can adjust the relative position of adjustable stage 22 and substrate 28 with respect to light collecting component 16 (e.g., relative position with respect to collection lens system 36 and / or optical fiber 56 that collect light from the reactants). Adjusting substrate 28 relative to light collecting component 16 can facilitate light collecting component 16 individually collecting light from one or more reactants of reactant array 26 as each reactant passes through a target area where light from illumination component 12 is collected and light from colorimetric sensor array CSA24 is collected. In some embodiments, the target area can be positioned, sized, and / or shaped to align with the reactant when substrate 28 is prepared.

[0123] Adjustment of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 relative to the light collecting element 16 can occur before, during, and / or after exposing one or more reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 to a fluid, as desired. In some examples, adjustment of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 relative to the light collecting element 16 can occur during and / or after exposing one or more reactants to a fluid. Adjustment of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 relative to the light collecting element 16 can occur continuously during a fluid analysis test and / or at one or more suitable intervals during a fluid analysis test.

[0124] The colorimetric sensor array CSA24 can be adjusted relative to the target area during a fluid analysis test so that one or more reactants of the reactant array 26 pass through the target area one or more times during the fluid analysis test. For example, during a fluid analysis test, the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 can be adjusted so that one or more reactants of the reactant array 26 pass through the target area one, two, three, five, ten, twenty, and / or one or more other suitable number of times during the fluid analysis test. In one example, during a fluid analysis test, the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 can be adjusted relative to the target area so that all reactants of the reactant array 26 pass through the target area ten times. In another example, during a fluid analysis test, the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 can be adjusted relative to the target area so that a predetermined subset (e.g., a predetermined number) of reactants of the reactant array 26 pass through the target area multiple times. Other suitable adjustments of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 during a fluid analysis test are also contemplated.

[0125] Light may be applied from the illumination component 12 to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., to the substrate 28 of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24) to facilitate collection of light from the reactants in the reactant array 26 during a fluid analysis test. In some examples, and as discussed, the light applied to the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 forms, or at least partially forms, a target area on the substrate 28 onto which the light collecting component 16 is focused to collect light.

[0126] Any suitable configuration of light sources, as discussed herein or otherwise, may be utilized to apply light to the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24. In some examples, as discussed herein, light may be applied to the substrate 28 of the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 from a first light source at a first angle and a first position relative to the substrate 28, and light may be applied to the substrate from a second light source at a second angle and a second position relative to the substrate 28, where the first and second angles may be the same and the second position may be different from the first position. Other suitable configurations of light sources for the illumination component 12 are contemplated.

[0127] Light from the reactant array 26 may travel to a collector of the light collecting component 16, such as a spectrometer 34, which may determine the amount of each wavelength of light collected by the light collecting component 16 over a predetermined wavelength range (e.g., over wavelengths in the visible light spectrum, over wavelengths in the spectrum from about 425 nm to about 725 nm, and / or over other suitable ranges or spectra). Light from the reactant array 26 and / or light from other suitable locations on the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 may be collected and measured continuously during the fluid analysis test and / or at one or more suitable intervals (e.g., when reactants of the reactant array are placed in target areas of the illumination component 12 and / or light collecting component 16). Data associated with the collection and measurement of light from the reactant array 26 may be time-stamped and / or location-stamped (e.g., relative to the fluid analysis test), used in analysis, and / or stored for later analysis.

[0128] The amount of each wavelength of light collected by light collection component 16 from reactant array 26 may be a photon count, a quantity of light intensity (e.g., candelas / steradians), and / or other suitable measure of the amount of light at different associated wavelengths. In some cases, the number of collected data points may be reduced to a manageable amount by grouping or binning wavelengths across the spectrum of interest by adjacent wavelengths (e.g., each bin may have 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, etc.) or averaging the amount of light for each bin wavelength, although this is not required.

[0129] The light collector (e.g., spectrometer 34 and / or other suitable light collector) and / or controller 18 are enabled to determine (106) the wavelength level of light collected by light collecting components 16 from each reactant of reactant array 26 passing through the target region. In some embodiments, determining (106) the wavelength level of light collected by light collecting components 16 may comprise determining the wavelength level of light collected from each reactant of reactant array 26 over time at multiple instances or intervals during the fluid analytical test.

[0130] The determined levels of collected wavelengths of light may be any suitable measurement or value related to collected light. In some examples, the levels of wavelengths of light collected by light collecting components 16 may be the amount or quantity of wavelengths of light measured by the light collector for each of one or more reactants in reactant array 26 (e.g., the number of photons of each wavelength collected, the intensity of each wavelength detected, etc.). Alternatively or additionally, in some examples, the levels of wavelengths of light collected by light collecting components 16 may be a normalized value of the amount of wavelengths of light collected by the light collector for each of one or more reactants in reactant array 26, and / or one or more other suitable values, as desired. The normalized value of the amount of wavelengths of light collected may be, but is not required to be, referred to as a calculation, level, value, or measurement of “reflectance.”

[0131] The amount or normalized value of the amount of wavelengths of light collected may be determined based on a calculation of the amount of wavelengths of light relative to one or more reference spectra. In some examples, one of the reference spectra may be a dark reference spectrum and another of the reference spectra may be a light reference spectrum (e.g., a "100% white" reference spectrum). The following equation represents an exemplary normalized value of the amount of wavelengths of light collected by light collecting component 16:

[0132] "Wavelength of light nNormalized value of the amount of photon counts = ((sampled photon counts) n −(dark photon count)) / ((bright photon count)−(dark photon count))…Equation (1). where n is the wavelength, or wavelength bin, or wavelength spectrum, at which the sampled photon counts were taken. When such normalization is applied to each wavelength amount data, the resulting value may be independent of variations in the spectral response of the fluid analysis system 10 or intentional or unintentional spectral filtering by the illumination lens system 32, the collection lens system 36, and / or other components of the fluid analysis system 10. Other suitable techniques for normalizing the collected data are contemplated. In some cases, the normalized value for the amount of wavelength (or spectrum of wavelengths) of light may be considered a reflectance value and expressed as a percentage of the total amount of light that can be sensed or collected at the light collection component 16.

[0133] The dark reference spectrum (e.g., the dark photon count in equation (1)) may be or may include the amount of wavelengths of light collected by light collecting element 16 from colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and measured by spectrometer 34 or other suitable light collector when the illumination of colorimetric sensor array CSA24 is completely turned off and ambient light is blocked. Alternatively or additionally, the dark reference spectrum may be collected when ambient light is present, so long as the light from light collecting element 16 is not saturating and meets an acceptable range of amounts for the sensor elements of light collecting element 16 (e.g., less than 25% of the full dynamic range for the sensor elements and / or other suitable range of amounts for the sensor elements).

[0134] If the substrate 28 of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 is formed from one or more materials having a white surface (e.g., a porous white plastic material having high (e.g., 100% or high, such as about 100%) diffuse reflectance across the visible spectrum), the illumination component 12 may begin to illuminate the white, non-reactive portions of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24, and the light collection component 16 may capture light from the illuminated white, non-reactive portions of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. The light from the white, non-reactive portions of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 that has been captured by the light collection component 16 may be measured by a spectrometer 34 or other suitable light collection device and stored as a light reference spectrum (e.g., the number of bright photons in equation (1)).

[0135] The sample spectral measurements from the reactants on the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 (e.g., the sampled photon count in equation (1)) may be or include the amount of wavelengths of light collected by the light collecting element 16 from the reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. In some examples, the sample spectral measurements from the reactants may comprise the amount of wavelengths of light collected when the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 is positioned such that illumination from the illumination element 12 is illuminating the reactants of the reactant array 26 and the light collecting element 16 is collecting light from the illuminated reactants.

[0136] If the surface of substrate 28 of colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 is not a perfect 100% diffuse reflector, a correction can be applied to the optical reference spectrum before using it in equation (1). Furthermore, if the response of spectrometer 34 and / or other suitable light collection device is nonlinear with respect to amplitude, mathematical corrections can be applied to the sample spectrum, the dark reference spectrum, and / or the optical reference spectrum, as desired.

[0137] In some cases, the wavelength levels of light collected by the light collecting components 16 may not be directly associated with the reactants of the reactant array 26. As a result, the wavelength levels of light collected by the light collecting components 16 may be associated with one or more reactants of the reactant array 26 based on, for example, a known time when the test was initiated, a known rate at which the colorimetric sensor array CSA was adjusted, and the time at which light was collected from the colorimetric sensor array CSA 24. In another example, the wavelength levels of light collected by the light collecting components 16 may be associated with the reactants of the reactant array 26 by performing data analysis (e.g., one or more algorithms) on data associated with the collected light and assigning or associating the wavelength levels of light collected by the light collecting components 16 with one or more reactants of the reactant array 26 based on the data analysis. Additional and / or alternative configurations for assigning or associating the collected light and associated data with one or more reactants of the reactant array 26 may be utilized. Assigning or associating wavelength levels of light with one or more reactants is further discussed with respect to FIGS. 12-15.

[0138] 8, method 100 may include determining components 108 of a fluid sample to which colorimetric sensor array CSA 24 is exposed based on the wavelength levels (e.g., amount) of light collected by light collecting components 16. In some examples, one or more data sets based on the wavelength levels of light collected by light collecting components 16 for one or more reactants of reactant array 26 may be determined and compared to known data associated with one or more fluids or fluid components (e.g., predetermined sets of data of or related to wavelength levels of light for one or more reactants of reactant array 26, each predetermined set of data associated with a fluid or fluid component, such as a fluid or one or more fluids of interest in a database). If a known or predetermined data set associated with one or more fluids or fluid components in the database matches one or more determined data sets (e.g., wavelength levels associated with one or more reactants) for one or more reactants of the reactant array 26, the fluid or fluid component associated with the known or predetermined data set may be identified and displayed as being part of, or part of, the fluid sample to which the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 was exposed before or during the fluid analysis test. A predetermined data set is considered to match a determined data set when the respective data are the same, when portions of the respective data are the same, when the pattern of the data is the same, and / or in other suitable cases. The controller 18 and / or other suitable components of or in communication with the fluid analysis system 10 may be configured to compare data from the determined data set of wavelength levels of light or data associated with wavelength levels of light with similar data from a known or predetermined data set of wavelength levels of light associated with possible components of the fluid and / or to identify components of the fluid to which the reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 were exposed based on the comparison.

[0139] Any suitable data related to the wavelength levels of light collected by the light collecting components 16 may be determined and / or utilized to determine the fluid or components of the fluid sample. Exemplary suitable factors include, but are not limited to, the wavelength levels of light in one or more reactants (e.g., an amount of light such as a photon count, a normalized amount of light, or other suitable level), a change in the wavelength levels of light in one or more reactants (e.g., an absolute change and / or other suitable change), a first predetermined time (e.g., before exposure to the fluid, a predetermined time after exposure to the fluid, etc.) and a second predetermined time (e.g., at or after the end of the test, a predetermined time after exposure to the fluid, etc.), a statistical analysis of the wavelength levels of light in one or more reactants (e.g., average, minimum, maximum, etc.), the timing of the wavelength levels of light in one or more reactants, the timing of the change in the wavelength levels of light in one or more reactants (e.g., the timing of a change in color of a reactant during a fluid analysis test), a combination of one or more determined data related to one or more reactants, and / or other suitable data. In one example, components of a fluid sample to which the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 is exposed before or during a fluid analysis test using the fluid analysis system 10 can be determined based on one or both of the timing of the wavelength levels of light collected from one or more reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and the absolute change between the wavelength levels of light collected from one or more reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. This change occurred from a time before the start of application of fluid to the reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 to a predetermined time after the initial application of fluid to the reactants. Other suitable techniques for identifying component fluids using the fluid analysis system 10 are contemplated.

[0140] In some examples, determining the fluid components 108 to which one or more reactants of the reactant array 26 are exposed during a fluid analysis test may comprise identifying or calculating statistical data (e.g., minimum, maximum, average, etc.) related to the collected wavelength levels of light. For example, statistical data related to the wavelength levels of light collected by the light collecting components 16 at multiple time instances before, during, or after a fluid analysis test may be calculated or otherwise determined, and the determined statistical data may be compared to a predetermined set of statistical data related to one or more fluids or fluid components in a database of fluids and / or fluid components to identify the fluid or fluid components therein.

[0141] 9-11 show graphs 78 that summarize the wavelength levels of light captured from three different reactants as the reactants are successively exposed to a fluid (e.g., a sample fluid) during a fluid analysis test using fluid analysis system 10 and pass through the target area of ​​illumination element 12 and light collection element 16 ten times during exposure to the fluid. Each of the ten passes of the reactants through the target area is represented by a "0" (zero) through a "9" in plot 80, as shown in key 82 (e.g., color-coding the different plots) adjacent to graph 78. The data collected from one or more reactants can be used individually or together to identify one or more components of the fluid to which the reactants were exposed, as discussed herein and elsewhere.

[0142] Graphs 78 of Figures 9-11 have a spectrum of wavelengths of interest (nm) for a light collector (e.g., spectrometer 34) on the X-axis and reflectance measured as a percent (%) on the Y-axis. Reflectance is a measure of or related to the wavelength levels of light collected by light collecting element 16 from the reactant and can be calculated using equation (1).

[0143] 9-11 depict changes in reactants during a fluid analysis test in which the reactants are continuously exposed to fluid during the fluid analysis test and data collection, although it is contemplated that fluid may be removed from the reactants before or during the fluid analysis test and data collection. Additionally, although graph 78 depicts light collected from only three of the reactants, values ​​for each reactant may be calculated and graphed.

[0144] 9 depicts a graph 78 having ten plots 80 of wavelength levels of light collected from a first reactant (e.g., reflectance of light collected from the first reactant) across a spectrum of wavelengths observed by a light collection device (e.g., spectrometer 34). An indication that graph 78 shows reflectance values ​​for the first reactant may be displayed in an on-screen reactant indicator box 84 along with graph 78, although other suitable configurations are contemplated. Because the reflectance plots 80 at each wavelength closely follow each other over the duration of a fluid analysis test (e.g., plots 0 through 9), the first reactant in reactant array 26 may have minimal sensitivity to components of the fluid to which reactant array 26 is exposed.

[0145] 10 depicts a graph 78 having ten plots 80 of wavelength levels of light collected from the third reactant (e.g., reflectance of light collected from the third reactant) across a spectrum of wavelengths observed by a light collection device (e.g., spectrometer 34). An indication that graph 78 shows reflectance values ​​for the third reactant may be displayed on-screen in a reactant display box 84 along with graph 78, although other suitable configurations are contemplated. Because the reflectance plots 80 at each wavelength abruptly change paths after the second plot (80) in the wavelength range from about 490 nm to about 700 nm (e.g., plots 2 through 9 of 80 generally follow a first path 86, while plots 2 through 9 of 80 generally follow a second path 88), the third reactant is sensitive to at least one component of the fluid to which reactant array 26 is exposed after the exposure reaches or exceeds a threshold exposure dose to the fluid.

[0146] 11 depicts a graph 78 having ten plots 80 of wavelength levels of light collected from the fifteenth reactant (e.g., reflectance of light collected from the fifteenth reactant) across the spectrum of wavelengths observed by a light collection device (e.g., spectrometer 34). An indication that the graph 78 shows reflectance values ​​for the fifteenth reactant may be displayed on-screen in a reactant display box 84 along with the graph 78, although other suitable configurations are contemplated. Because the reflectance plots 80 at each wavelength abruptly change paths in the range of about 530 nm to about 710 nm after the first two plots 80, and then change paths again after the next two plots 80 (e.g., the zero and first plots (80) generally follow a first path 86, the second and third plots (80) generally follow a second path 88, and the fourth through ninth plots (80) generally follow a third path 90 between the first path 86 and the second path 88), the fifteenth reactant has sensitivity to at least one component of the fluid to which the reactant array 26 was exposed after the exposure amount reaches or exceeds a first threshold amount of exposure to the fluid. The sensitivity to the at least one component of the fluid then decreases after the exposure amount reaches or exceeds a second threshold amount of exposure to the fluid or after a set period of exposure to the at least one component of the fluid. It should be noted that the first path 86 and the second path 88 depicted in FIG. 11 are not necessarily the same paths as depicted in FIG.

[0147] To ensure accurate results from the fluid analysis system 10, it may be desirable to have the light collecting element 16 centered on the reactants when collecting light from them. However, it may be difficult and time-consuming to iteratively adjust the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 or adjust components of the fluid analysis system 10 so that the center (e.g., two dimensions) of each reactant in the reactant array 26 is centered on the target area (e.g., focal point) of the light collecting element 16. The fluid analysis system 10 is configured so that the center (e.g., focal point) of the light collecting element 16 is aligned with the target area (e.g., two dimensions) of each reactant in the reactant array 26 so that a sufficient amount of light is collected from the reactants to enable accurate determinations about the reactants (e.g., whether, to what extent, and at what time) to be made regarding the reactants (e.g., whether, to what extent, and at what time). To address this tedious process, it may be advantageous to one-dimensionally align the reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 with the target areas of the light collecting component 16 and continuously adjust the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 at a constant rate along the one dimension during the fluid analysis test, while simultaneously continuously collecting light from the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 at a constant rate, thereby storing data related to the collected light. The collected light may comprise light collected from reactant and non-reactant locations of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24.

[0148] In some embodiments, as discussed, the light collector of the fluid analysis system 10 may be a spectrometer 34 equipped with a linear array photodetector. When used, the spectrometer 34 may be most accurate when continuously collecting (or sampling) light at a constant rate due to the way the linear array photodetector is serially read out by an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). In this manner, by adjusting the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 relative to the light collecting element 16 at a constant rate and continuously collecting light from the colorimetric sensor array CSA24, particularly when the light collecting element is a spectrometer 34, the most accurate data possible from the light collecting element 16 can be obtained.

[0149] However, when light data is collected continuously (e.g., continuously at a constant rate that may or may not be repetitive), the location on the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 from which light data originates may not necessarily be known at the time of light collection. Thus, it may not be clear which light data from the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 is associated with which reactant and / or reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24.

[0150] In some cases, an algorithm implemented by a computing device (e.g., the controller 18 and / or other suitable computing device 38) can be used to convert the amplitude (e.g., photon count) versus wavelength data from the spectrometer 34 into a reflectance spectrum graph (e.g., a graph of normalized levels of wavelength of light) for each replicate sample of collected light for a fluid analysis test. The average reflectance across the spectrum of the collected light samples (e.g., the average percentage of the total potential light that can be collected) can then be calculated and graphed versus sample number. A local minimum on this graph may occur at the optimal sample number for each reactant. A further algorithm can perform another pass through the sample number data comparing the differences between sample numbers to assign a particular optimal sample number to a particular reactant. The entire process can also be repeated, with the linear stage translating alternately between forward and reverse scan directions while adjusting a fixed delay between mechanical scans. The data can then be sorted to present a graph that accurately depicts how the spectrum changes over a sequence of predetermined time intervals, for example, as the colorimetric sensor array CSA is exposed to a given fluid. 12-15 illustrate schematic diagrams of exemplary configurations for assigning or associating data with reactants to identify fluids and / or components of fluids tested in a fluid analysis test.

[0151] 12 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary method 200 for matching or associating one or more reactants of a reactant array 26 for a fluid analytical test with collected wavelength light data across a spectrum of collected light. The collected wavelength data associated with one or more reactants may be or include determined wavelength levels of light and / or other data determined or calculated from the collected wavelength light data, such as discussed herein.

[0152] The method 200 may include sensing (202, sensing) light from the surface (e.g., reflected light, transmitted light, etc., from a surface of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 facing the light collecting element 16). The light from the surface may be sensed in any suitable manner, such as discussed herein. In some examples, the light from the surface may be sensed continuously while scanning the surface during the fluid analysis test. The fluid analysis test may include scanning a predetermined length of the surface (e.g., the entire length or a portion of the entire length of the surface) multiple times during the fluid analysis test.

[0153] In one example of scanning the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and sensing light from the colorimetric sensor array CSA24, the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 can be positioned relative to the light collecting element 16 so that an initial end of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 is positioned at a target area of ​​the light collecting element. The colorimetric sensor array CSA24 can then be adjusted so that reactants in the reactant array 26 on the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 pass through the target area multiple times. If the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 is in a linear configuration, the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 can be translated back and forth at a constant speed along its length. If the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 is in an annular configuration, the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 can be continuously rotated at a constant speed. Sensed or collected light may be continuously sensed or collected every 0.1 mm of adjustment of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and / or at other suitable intervals to obtain a wavelength data set of a predetermined spectrum (e.g., a spectrum of wavelengths from about 400 nm to about 700 nm). In one non-limiting example, 20 scans of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 are performed and 300 data sets are identified per scan.

[0154] Wavelength data may be determined (204) from the sensed light. The determined wavelength data may be any suitable wavelength data discussed herein, including, but not limited to, sensed (e.g., collected) wavelength levels of light, normalized levels of the sensed wavelengths of light, timing of the sensed wavelength levels of light, and / or other suitable wavelength-related data. The determined wavelength data may comprise wavelength data of reactant portions of the surface of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and non-reactant portions of the surface of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24. The wavelength data may include or be based on (e.g., a function of) wavelength levels of light relative to a complete predetermined spectrum of light (e.g., the predetermined spectrum may be established by a light collection device and / or in one or more other suitable manners). In some examples, the identifying step 204 may be performed separately from the sensing step 202, or in some examples, the identifying step 204 may be performed together with the sensing step 202 as a single step.

[0155] In one embodiment, identifying wavelength data (204) may include calculating a normalized level of the sensed wavelength of light for each collected data set. FIG. 13 schematically illustrates an exemplary plot 92 of 300 data sets of the normalized level of wavelength of the collected light across the entire spectrum (e.g., from about 400 nm to about 700 nm). Wavelength in nanometers is on the X-axis, and the normalized level of wavelength (e.g., reflectance in percent) is on the Y-axis. Once the normalized level of wavelength of light is determined for each data set, an average of the normalized level of wavelength of light for each data set is calculated (e.g., if there are 300 data sets, to determine the 300 averages), as described further herein. Other suitable techniques may be used to identify wavelength data, as desired.

[0156] 12 , method 200 can include associating or matching (206) portions of the identified wavelength data with one or more reactants of reactant array 26 on the surface of colorimetric sensor array CSA 24. Associating or matching portions of the identified wavelength data with one or more reactants can be accomplished in any suitable manner, using determined data from fluid analysis system 10 and / or user input (e.g., a user can input which reactants are being scanned by light collecting elements 16, etc., when the reactants are being scanned by light collecting elements 16). In some examples, similar to those described above, the determined wavelength data can be associated with one or more reactants of reactant array 26 by, for example, a combination of a known time when a test was initiated, a known rate at which colorimetric sensor array CSA is adjusted, and the time when light was collected from colorimetric sensor array CSA 24, performing data analysis (e.g., one or more algorithms) on the wavelength data, and / or one or more other suitable methods to associate or match the wavelength data with one or more reactants.

[0157] 14 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary technique 300 for matching or associating wavelength data (e.g., wavelength levels of light determined over time and / or other suitable sets of data determined based on the wavelength levels of light) to one or more reactants as part of a fluid analytical test. While technique 300 for matching or associating wavelength data with one or more reactants can be utilized in one or more other scenarios, the steps of technique 300 will be discussed here in relation to the example discussed above in sensing step 202 and identifying step 204 of method 200, in which 300 wavelength data sets were identified with each data set comprising normalized levels of wavelength relative to the full spectrum of light.

[0158] The technique 300 may include determining (302) an average measurement of the wavelength levels of collected light (e.g., light across the entire spectrum of collected light) at one or more intervals during one or more scans of the surface of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 during or after the fluid analysis test. In the example fluid analysis test described above in which 300 wavelength data sets were identified, an average normalized level of the wavelengths of light for each of the 300 data sets may be determined. Optionally, once the average measurement of the wavelength levels (e.g., normalized levels) of light for each data set is determined, these values ​​may be stored as part of and / or separately from each data set on which the average measurements are based.

[0159] Once the average values ​​of the collected wavelength levels of light are determined, each minimum of the average values ​​from the data set may be determined (304). In some examples, the minimum of the average values ​​of the data set may be identified when the average values ​​of the data set are sequentially organized by identifying average values ​​that are less than the average values ​​immediately before and after the average value. However, other suitable algorithms may be specified (e.g., second derivative functions). The minimum average values ​​of the collected wavelength levels of light may be determined to be associated with reactants of the reactant array because reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 may be separated by lighter colored surfaces (e.g., white colored surfaces), resulting in a data set with higher average levels of collected wavelengths of light than a data set collected from reactants that are not white.

[0160] To facilitate identification of the minimum average value, all of the average values ​​of the collected light wavelength level data sets may be plotted on a graph. In the illustrated example, all 300 average values ​​from the 300 data sets may be plotted, and the minimum value may be identified from the plot by highlighting and / or otherwise noting the collected light wavelength level data set or sample number and value associated with the valley in the plot.

[0161] FIG. 15 schematically illustrates a plot 94 of 300 average values ​​ordered sequentially with respect to when the associated light was collected during a fluid analysis test. The minimum average value and the data set number associated with the minimum average value are highlighted with a circle 96 (only some circles are labeled 96 for clarity). In FIG. 15, the sample or data set number is located on the X-axis, while the average normalized level of the collected wavelength of light is located on the Y-axis. In some examples, rather than listing the sample or data set number on the X-axis, the X-axis may provide the time at which the light associated with the data set was collected, the cumulative distance traveled by the substrate while the light associated with the data set was collected, and / or other suitable continuous value associated with when the light associated with the data set was collected. Software and / or user observation may be utilized to identify the minimum average value from the data set.

[0162] An indication of the minimum average wavelength level, along with measurements of the average wavelength levels of the collected light, may be stored with or in association with the associated data set. Additionally, additional information may be identified and / or stored with or in association with each data set at controller 18 or at one or more locations in communication with controller 18. This may include the time the data set has been acquired (for example, but not limited to, the elapsed time since the start of the fluid analysis test), the speed or rate at which the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 is adjusted relative to the light collecting element 16, the length (distance, mm) of one scan during the fluid analysis test, the length (distance, mm) of all scans during the fluid analysis test, the spacing (distance, mm) between adjacent reactants, the data set number and reactant number associated with the first smallest average value of the data sets for each of the first two scans and the last scan, the data set number for the last valid smallest average value of all data sets, a tolerance for the maximum variation in spacing between adjacent reactants d of the reactant array 26, and / or the reactants of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24, the sizing of the colorimetric sensor array CSA24, the collected or determined data sets, and / or other suitable data related to the operation of the fluid analysis system 10. Information stored in or communicated to the controller 18 may be obtained automatically from the fluid analysis system 10 and / or in response to user input.

[0163] Data set numbers may be assigned sequentially, starting with n and incrementing by 1, for each successive data set obtained throughout a fluid analysis test. Reactant numbers may be assigned sequentially along the colorimetric sensor array CSA24 in any suitable manner.

[0164] 14 , technique 300 can include assigning (306) a first identified minimum average value of collected wavelength levels of light to a first reactant on colorimetric sensor array CSA24. Next, the elapsed length (e.g., time or distance) to the next minimum average value of collected wavelength levels of light is determined (308), and a verification step 310 determines whether the elapsed length indicates that the next identified minimum average value is associated with a reactant on colorimetric sensor array CSA24. A valid minimum average value can be identified when (a) the length in distance is within a maximum allowable range of distance between two adjacent reactants, (b) the length in time is within an expected elapsed time between data collected from adjacent reactants, and / or (c) based on other information related to the operation of colorimetric sensor array CSA24 and / or fluid analysis system 10. In some examples, determining the elapsed distance to the next minimum average value may include determining the time at which each minimum average value occurred and / or determining the location at which each minimum average value occurred (e.g., the elapsed time or distance at which each minimum average value occurred since the start of the fluid analysis test).

[0165] If the verification step 310 indicates that the minimum average value is not a valid minimum associated with the reactant, the technique 300 can proceed by returning to determining (308) the elapsed length to the next minimum average value, as discussed. In some examples, a minimum average value that is not a valid minimum may be discarded or ignored. If the verification step 310 indicates that the minimum average value is a valid minimum associated with the reactant, the technique 300 can proceed by returning to the step of assigning (306) a valid average minimum and / or associated data set to the next reactant. The technique 300 may proceed in a loop until all reactants in each scan have been associated with a minimum average value and / or associated data set.

[0166] This specification has primarily referred to photons resulting from diffuse reflection of light directed from the illumination component 12 toward the colorimetric sensor array CSA. However, the fluid analysis system 10 can be adapted for applications that measure the spectrum of emitted photons resulting from the conversion of fluorescence decay to lower-energy photons through the absorption-reemission process. There are many possible variations in the implementation of fluorescence spectroscopy. The excitation (often called pump) illumination can be constant wave or pulsed, broadband or narrowband, at wavelengths selected to suit the dye employed in a particular color bar or the particular compound or gas being analyzed. In addition to detecting specific wavelengths or multiple wavelengths of fluorescence-emitted discharge photons, it has also been possible to measure the time-based waveform of emitted photon pulses from short-duration, high-peak-power excitation sources such as gas flash lamps, electron discharge X-ray sources, and pulsed ultraviolet or blue-shifted visible lasers using high-speed photodetectors, with or without Fabry-Perot or other types of wavelength filters. It has also been possible to detect phase shifts and time-based spectral changes of amplitude-modulated constant-wavelength light sources. Variations on these concepts are also contemplated.

[0167] Although the present subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

[0168] Unless expressly stated otherwise, the methods or techniques described herein are in no way intended to be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a particular order. This applies to all possible implicit bases for interpretation, including matters of logic regarding the arrangement of steps or operational flow, the plain meaning derived from grammatical construction or punctuation, and the number or type of embodiments described in the specification.

[0169] It should be understood that this disclosure is, in many respects, merely illustrative. Changes may be made in details, particularly in matters of shape, size, and arrangement of steps, without exceeding the scope of the disclosure. This may include, to the extent appropriate, using any of the features of one illustrative embodiment in other embodiments. The scope of the invention is, of course, defined in the language of the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A system comprising: a light source directed at the surface; a spectrometer configured to measure wavelength levels of light collected from the surface over time; a controller in communication with the spectrometer; It is equipped with the controller is configured to identify a component of a fluid in contact with the surface based on the wavelength levels of light collected from the surface. system.

2. the light source comprises a broadband white light emitting diode (LED); The system of claim 1 .

3. the light source comprises a lens having a diameter and a focal length; The ratio of the diameter to the focal length is "1".

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the light source providing light having a wavelength ranging from 400 nanometers (nm) to 725 nm; The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. the system further comprising one or more optical fibers in communication with the spectrometer; the one or more optical fibers are configured to collect light from the surface and direct the collected light to the spectrometer. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The system further comprises: a light collecting element configured to collect light from the surface; an adjustable stage configured to move relative to the light collecting element; It is equipped with the adjustable stage is configured to support a part having the surface. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The system further includes a motor in communication with the adjustable stage and configured to move the adjustable stage relative to the light collecting element. The system of claim 6.

8. the controller being configured to identify the component of the fluid in contact with the surface based on the wavelength levels of light collected from the surface; The controller: timing of the wavelength levels of light reflected from the surface; and an absolute change between the wavelength levels of light collected from the surface before the fluid is applied to the surface and a predetermined time after the fluid is first applied to the surface; based on one or more of configured to identify the component of the fluid in contact with the surface. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. 1. A method, comprising: adjusting a substrate along with a light collecting element in communication with a controller, the substrate supporting one or more reactants configured to change color in response to exposure to one or more fluids of interest; exposing one or more of said reactants to said fluid; using the controller to determine wavelength levels of light collected by the light collecting elements over time; determining a composition of the fluid based on the wavelength levels of the collected light; The method comprises:

10. The method further comprises applying light to the substrate; the light comprising light from a broadband white light emitting diode; 10. The method of claim 9.

11. The step of applying light to the substrate comprises: applying light to the substrate at a first angle and from a first position; applying light to the substrate at a second angle and from a second position; It is equipped with the second angle is the same as the first angle, the second position is different from the first position; The method of claim 10.

12. adjusting the substrate along the light collecting element comprises passing the substrate along the light collecting element in multiple passes; each pass of the plurality of passes comprising passing a predetermined number of one or more of the reactants on the substrate along the light collecting element. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

13. The method further comprises associating the wavelength levels of the light collected by the light collecting component with one or more of the reactants. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

14. determining the components of the fluid based on the wavelength levels of collected light, timing the wavelength levels of collected light as associated with one or more of the reactants; an absolute change between the wavelength levels of collected light associated with one or more of the reactants before the start of application of the fluid to one or more of the reactants and a predetermined time after initial application of the fluid to one or more of the reactants; determining the components of the fluid based on one or both of: The method of claim 13.

15. determining the wavelength levels of light collected by the light collecting components over time using the controller comprises determining spectral levels of collected light across a wavelength range of 425 nm to 725 nm; The method according to any one of claims 9 to 14.

16. determining the components of the fluid based on the wavelength levels of collected light, determining statistical data of the wavelength levels of collected light at a plurality of time instances; comparing the determined statistical data with predetermined component statistical data; Equipped with The method according to any one of claims 9 to 15.

17. 1. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium having stored thereon program code for use by a computing device, the program code causing the computing device to perform a method for determining a composition of a fluid, the method comprising: determining a wavelength level of light collected by the light collecting element at one or more intervals, wherein the light collected during at least one interval is at least partially light from one or more reactants; associating one or more of the wavelength levels of the collected light with one of one or more of the reactants; comparing the wavelength levels associated with one or more of the reactants with a set of predetermined wavelength levels for one or more of the reactants, each of the set of predetermined wavelength levels associated with a component of the fluid; identifying the components of the fluid associated with the predetermined wavelength level set for one or more of the reactants when the wavelength levels associated with one or more of the reactants match the predetermined wavelength level set for one or more of the reactants; Equipped with A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

18. Associating one or more of the wavelength levels of collected light with one of the one or more reactants includes: determining the time when the minimum wavelength level of the collected light occurred; associating the reactants of one or more of the reactants with the wavelength levels of light collected at the times; Equipped with 20. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 17.

19. determining the time when the minimum in the wavelength level of the collected light occurred; associating one or more of the reactants with the wavelength level of light collected at the time; is repeated until all of the wavelength levels of light collected at the time associated with the minimum of the wavelength levels are associated with one or more of the reactants or are discarded as being an invalid minimum.

20. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 18.

20. the minimum wavelength level of collected light is the minimum average level of light across the spectrum of collected light.

20. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 18 or 19.

Images