Device for detecting underwater fine matter

Abstract

This device for detecting underwater fine matter comprises: a channel unit configured to transport a solution; an external light blocking unit configured to surround the channel and block external light; a light source unit disposed on one side of the external light blocking unit and configured to irradiate light into the interior of the external light blocking unit; a stray light prevention unit disposed on the other side of the external light blocking unit and configured to remove light irradiated from the light source unit and passing through the channel unit; and a scattering detection unit disposed between the light source unit and the stray light prevention unit and configured to detect light scattered when the irradiated light reacts with fine matter.

Description

underwater particulate matter detection device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a device for detecting fine particles in water. More specifically, it relates to a turbidimeter, a device for detecting fine particles in water, used in home appliances such as water purifiers and washing machines.

[0002] Underwater particulate matter detection devices, also known as turbidimeters, measure the scattered light from suspended particles in water. Turbidimeters need to be designed to be compact and affordable enough to be installed in home appliances such as water purifiers, dishwashers, and washing machines. Furthermore, turbidimeters need to be implemented as real-time measurement sensors to enable real-time detection of particulate matter in home appliances.

[0003] When detecting and receiving scattered light, if the light is incident from the bottom of the vial and the detection unit is located on the side of the vial, the liquid sample can be added to the vial's inlet, but there is no outlet, so real-time measurement is not possible. Furthermore, if the light source is incident from the bottom of the vial and the detection unit is located on the side, there are problems in product development such as reduced assembly ease and increased price.

[0004] Additionally, even if there is no scattered light from the particles in the solution inside the vial, light irradiated from the light source is reflected or scattered from the inner surface of the body structure of the device and enters the detection unit, where it acts as stray light. The accuracy of detecting fine substances in solutions such as water is reduced due to stray lights reflected or scattered from the inner surface of the body structure.

[0005] The purpose of this specification is to provide a device for detecting fine particles in water that is implemented in a size and price that can be installed in home appliances such as water purifiers, dishwashers, and washing machines.

[0006] The purpose of this specification is to improve the accuracy of underwater fine matter detection through a light prevention unit that prevents the decrease in accuracy of underwater fine matter detection due to light generated inside the body.

[0007] The purpose of this specification is to provide an underwater fine matter detection device capable of real-time measurement through a tubular flow path having an inlet and an outlet.

[0008] According to the present specification, an underwater fine matter detection device for achieving the above or other purposes includes: a flow path formed to transport a solution; an external light blocking portion configured to surround the flow path and block external light; a light source portion arranged on one side of the external light blocking portion and configured to irradiate light into the interior of the external light blocking portion; a stray light prevention portion arranged on the other side of the external light blocking portion and configured to remove light irradiated from the light source portion and passing through the flow path portion; and a scattering detection portion arranged between the light source portion and the stray light prevention portion and configured to detect light scattered by the irradiated light reacting with fine matter.

[0009] According to an embodiment, a surface normal vector, which is a vector perpendicular to the plane of the entrance end of the light-prevention unit, may be arranged in a direction facing the optical axis of incident light passing through the path portion.

[0010] According to an embodiment, the inlet end may be formed to have a rectangular shape. The area of ​​the inlet end may be formed to be larger than the second area through which light passing through the path portion is irradiated to the other side of the external light blocking portion.

[0011] According to an embodiment, the light-prevention unit may have a wall surface on which light irradiated from the light source unit is reflected and absorbed at least once.

[0012] According to an embodiment, the wall surface of the light-prevention unit may include a first wall surface formed at a first angle with respect to the inlet end and through which a light source is absorbed or reflected; and a second wall surface formed at a second angle with respect to the inlet end and through which a light source is absorbed or reflected.

[0013] According to an embodiment, the first angle of the first wall surface may be formed to have a value between 20 degrees and 45 degrees. The second angle of the second wall surface may be formed to have a value between 0 degrees and 90 degrees.

[0014] According to an embodiment, one end of the first wall surface may be coupled with an upper end on the Y-axis of the other side of the external light blocking portion. One end of the second wall surface may be coupled with a lower end on the Y-axis of the other side of the external light blocking portion. One end of the second wall surface adjacent to the other side of the external light blocking portion may be formed parallel to the Z-axis.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the stray light prevention unit may be formed of the same material as the mechanism of the external light blocking unit. The surface reflectivity of the stray light prevention unit may be formed to be between 0% and 40%.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the wavelength band of the light irradiated from the light source unit can be configured to have a wavelength of 200 nm to 1300 nm.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the euro portion may be formed to have a cylindrical tube or a rectangular tube through which the solution can pass.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the material of the cylindrical tube or square tube of the above-mentioned euro section can be formed to have a transparent glass or plastic material that allows light to pass through.

[0019] According to an embodiment, a first distance from the euro section to one side of the external light blocking part where the light source part is arranged may be formed longer than a second distance from the euro section to the other side of the external light blocking part where the stray light prevention part is arranged.

[0020] According to an embodiment, a third distance from the scattering detection unit to one side of the external light blocking unit where the light source unit is arranged may be formed longer than a fourth distance from the scattering detection unit to the other side of the external light blocking unit where the stray light prevention unit is arranged. The center of the flow path part on the Z-axis may be formed to coincide with the center of the scattering detection unit on the Z-axis. A second length of the scattering detection unit on the Z-axis may be formed longer than the first length of the flow path part on the Z-axis.

[0021] According to an embodiment, the external light blocking member may be formed in a hexahedral shape. The light source member may be formed to be inserted into the first surface, which is one side of the external light blocking member, by a first length and exposed to the outside of the first surface by a second length. The stray light prevention member may be formed on the second surface, which is the other side of the external light blocking member.

[0022] According to an embodiment, the light source portion may be formed with a first diameter on the XY plane and YZ plane of the first surface. The outer diameter of the flow path portion may be formed with a second diameter larger than the first diameter on the YZ plane.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the end of the first wall surface may be formed to protrude more than the scattering detection portion so that light passing through the euro portion is reflected at least 10 times from the first wall surface and the second wall surface.

[0024] According to an embodiment, the scattering detection unit may be formed on a third surface between the first surface and the second surface. The scattering detection unit may be formed to be inserted into the third surface by a third length and exposed to the outside of the third surface by a fourth length.

[0025] According to an embodiment, the flow path portion may be formed in a first cylindrical shape. The external light blocking portion may be formed in a second cylindrical shape surrounding the flow path portion. A first slot area having a first slot length may be formed on one side of the external light blocking portion. A second slot area having a second slot length may be formed on the other side of the external light blocking portion. The second slot length may be formed to be greater than the first slot length.

[0026] According to at least one of the embodiments, a high detection rate of fine substances can be provided by removing light acting as stray light among the lights irradiated from the light source through a stray light prevention unit.

[0027] According to at least one of the embodiments, real-time measurement of suspended fine particles in water is possible by continuously providing the measurement solution through a flow tube while measuring fine substances in a new solution.

[0028] According to at least one of the embodiments, since the euro portion is positioned adjacent to the stray light prevention portion at the center of the external light blocking portion, light passing through the euro portion is effectively collected by the stray light prevention portion, so that stray light generation can be effectively suppressed.

[0029] According to at least one of the embodiments, the light source portion is positioned at a predetermined distance from the center of the external light blocking portion, so that light emitted from the light source portion can pass through the entire area of ​​the light source portion. Accordingly, detection of fine substances within the light source portion can be effectively performed.

[0030] According to at least one of the embodiments, the shape and size of each component of the underwater fine matter detection device can be determined by considering the spectral distribution of the incident light and the emitted light.

[0031] According to at least one of the embodiments, a lightweight, compact, low-cost, and highly productive underwater fine material detector can be provided, which comprises a light source, a scattering detection unit, a stray light prevention unit, and an external light blocking unit, and provides a high detection rate.

[0032] Figure 1 shows a side view of an underwater fine matter detection device according to the present specification.

[0033] Figure 2 shows a plan view of an underwater fine matter detection device according to the present specification.

[0034] Figure 3 shows a conceptual diagram of how light passing through the flow path of an underwater fine matter detection device can be reflected inside an external light blocking section, thereby generating stray light.

[0035] Figures 4 and 5 show plan views of an underwater fine substance detection device having a stray light prevention section formed at a predetermined angle on the other side of an external light blocking section.

[0036] Figure 6 shows a plan view of an underwater fine substance detection device having a hexahedral-shaped external light blocking portion, a light source portion partially inserted into the inner region of the external light blocking portion, and a scattering detection portion.

[0037] Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of an underwater fine matter detection device according to the present specification.

[0038] Figure 8 shows the illuminance distribution on the first plane on one side of the euro section. Figure 9 shows the illuminance distribution on the second plane on the other side of the euro section.

[0039] Figure 9 shows a plan view of an underwater fine matter detection device having an external light blocking portion formed to correspond to the shape of a euro section.

[0040] Figure 10 shows a plan view of an underwater fine matter detection device having an external light blocking portion formed to correspond to the shape of a euro section.

[0041] It should be noted that the technical terms used herein are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, singular expressions used herein include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The suffixes "module" and "part" used in the following description for components are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the convenience of writing the specification, and do not in themselves have distinct meanings or roles.

[0042] In this specification, the terms “comprises” or “includes” should not be construed to necessarily include all of the components or steps described in the specification, and some of the components or steps may not be included, or additional components or steps may be included.

[0043] In addition, when describing the technology disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the technology disclosed in this specification, the detailed description is omitted.

[0044] In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention. In addition, not only each embodiment described below, but also a combination of embodiments may correspond to the spirit and technical scope of the present invention as modifications, equivalents, or substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

[0045] Hereinafter, a device for detecting underwater micro-particles according to the present specification will be described. In this regard, when detecting and receiving scattered light, if light is incident from the bottom of the vial and the detection unit is positioned on the side of the vial, a liquid sample can be introduced into the vial's inlet, but real-time measurement is not possible due to the lack of an outlet. Furthermore, if the light source is incident from the bottom of the tube and the detection unit is positioned on the side, there are problems in product development such as reduced assembly ease and increased price.

[0046] In addition, even if there is no scattered light from the particles in the solution inside, light irradiated from the light source is reflected or scattered from the inner surface of the body structure of the device and enters the detection unit, acting as stray light. The accuracy of detecting fine substances in a solution such as water is reduced due to stray lights reflected or scattered from the inner surface of the body structure.

[0047] The purpose of this specification is to provide an underwater fine matter detection device that is implemented at a size and price that can be installed in home appliances such as water purifiers, dishwashers, and washing machines. The purpose of this specification is to improve the accuracy of underwater fine matter detection through a stray light prevention unit that prevents the decrease in accuracy of underwater fine matter detection due to stray light generated inside the body. The purpose of this specification is to provide an underwater fine matter detection device that can perform real-time measurement through a tubular flow path having an inlet and an outlet.

[0048] To achieve the aforementioned objectives, an underwater fine matter detection device according to the present specification will be described with reference to the drawings. In this regard, Fig. 1 illustrates a side view of an underwater fine matter detection device according to the present specification. Fig. 2 illustrates a plan view of an underwater fine matter detection device according to the present specification.

[0049] Referring to Fig. 1, the cross-section of the flow path (100) on the XZ plane can be formed into a rectangular shape. A solution such as water can be transported in the X-axis direction of the flow path (100) through the internal region of the flow path (100). Therefore, the underwater fine matter detection device according to the present specification can be configured to detect fine matter in a solution such as water in a flow path of a water purifier, washing machine, etc.

[0050] An external light blocking unit (200) may be formed to block external light so as to accurately detect fine substances inside the flow path (100). A light source unit (300) may be arranged on one side of the external light blocking unit (200). Light irradiated from the light source unit (300) passes through the flow path (100) while forming a predetermined wide-angle range in the X-axis direction, so that fine substances inside the flow path (100) can be detected.

[0051] A stray light prevention unit (400) may be arranged on the other side of the external light blocking unit (200) to prevent the generation of stray light by removing light that passes through the flow path (100) and is reflected inside the external light blocking unit (200). Light may be irradiated from a light source unit (300) at a specific location on the X-axis of the flow path (100). As the light is irradiated to a specific location on the flow path (100), scattered light may be generated by fine substances or the like inside the flow path (100). A scattering detection unit (500) may be arranged to detect the scattered light at a specific location on the X-axis of the flow path (100).

[0052] Referring to FIG. 2, the cross-section of the flow path (100) on the YZ plane can be formed into a circular shape. Light irradiated from the light source (300) passes through the flow path (100) in the Z-axis direction, so that fine substances inside the flow path (100) can be detected. In addition, the light source can be irradiated to the entire area inside the flow path (100) in the Y-axis direction of the flow path (100). Therefore, the underwater fine substance detection device according to the present specification can be configured to detect fine substances in a solution such as water in a flow path of a water purifier, a washing machine, etc.

[0053] An external light blocking unit (200) may be formed to block external light so as to accurately detect fine substances inside the flow path (100). A light source unit (300) may be arranged on one side of the external light blocking unit (200). Light irradiated from the light source unit (300) passes through the flow path (100) while forming a predetermined wide-angle range in the Y-axis direction, so that fine substances inside the flow path (100) can be detected.

[0054] A stray light prevention unit (400) that prevents the generation of stray light by removing light reflected from the inside of the external light blocking unit (200) through the flow path (100) may be placed on the other side of the external light blocking unit (200). A scattering detection unit (500) may be placed on the lower part of the external light blocking unit (200) to detect scattered lights (SL) generated by fine substances or the like inside the flow path (100).

[0055] In this regard, the position of the scattering detection unit (500) is not limited to the lower part of the external light blocking unit (200). The position of the scattering detection unit (500) may be placed at any position of the external light blocking unit (200) other than the positions of the light source unit (300) and the stray light prevention unit (400). The scattering detection unit (500b) may be placed at the upper part of the external light blocking unit (200).

[0056] Meanwhile, a plurality of scattering detection units (500, 500b) may be arranged at the lower and upper portions of the external light blocking unit (200). By comparing the fine substances detected through the scattering detection units (500, 500b), the distribution of fine substances in the lower and upper regions of the flow path unit (100) may be obtained.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an underwater fine matter detection device (1000) according to the present specification will be described. The underwater fine matter detection device (1000) according to the present specification may include a flow path section (100) in the form of a flow tube and an external light blocking section (200) surrounding the flow path section (100). The underwater fine matter detection device (1000) according to the present specification may include a light source section (300) that uses a semiconductor light source such as an LED or LD with a wavelength of 200 nm to 1300 nm.

[0058] The underwater fine matter detection device (1000) according to the present specification may be equipped with a stray light prevention unit (400) arranged on the opposite side of the light source unit (300) from the center of the flow path unit (100). The scattering detection unit (500) of the underwater fine matter detection device (1000) according to the present specification may be arranged at any position in a radial shape from the center of the flow path unit (100) excluding the area where the light source unit (300) and the stray light prevention unit (400) are arranged.

[0059] Meanwhile, the underwater fine matter detection device (1000) according to the present specification can be composed of a minimum of parts, namely a flow path (100), an external light blocking unit (200), a light source unit (300), a stray light prevention unit (400), and a scattering detection unit (500). The underwater fine matter detection device (1000) according to the present specification is very advantageous in manufacturing and assembling processes, and is advantageous in miniaturization and low cost. In addition, the underwater fine matter detection device (1000) according to the present specification is structured to enable real-time measurement of underwater floating fine particles by allowing a solution to be measured to flow through a flow path unit (100) in the shape of a flow tube. In addition, the underwater fine matter detection device (1000) according to the present specification provides a high fine matter detection rate by arranging a stray light prevention unit (500).

[0060] As described above, the underwater fine matter detection device (1000) may be configured to include a flow path (100), an external light blocking unit (200), a light source unit (300), a stray light prevention unit (400), and a scattering detection unit (500). The flow path (100) may be configured to transport a solution through an internal region. The flow path (100) may be formed as a flow pipe having a predetermined diameter, but is not limited thereto. The external light blocking unit (200) may be formed to surround the flow path (100). The external light blocking unit (200) may be configured to block external light.

[0061] A light source unit (300) may be placed on one side of the external light blocking unit (200). The light source unit (300) may be configured to irradiate light into the interior of the external light blocking unit (200). The wavelength band of the light irradiated from the light source unit (300) may be formed to have a wavelength of 200 nm to 1300 nm.

[0062] A stray light prevention unit (400) may be placed on the other side of the external light blocking unit (200). The stray light prevention unit (400) may be configured to remove light irradiated from the light source unit (300) and passing through the flow path unit (100). In this regard, Fig. 3 illustrates a conceptual diagram in which light passing through the flow path unit in an underwater fine matter detection device may be reflected inside the external light blocking unit, thereby generating stray light.

[0063] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the light prevention unit (400) and the scattering detection unit (500) of the underwater fine matter detection device (1000) according to the present specification will be described. The light prevention unit (400) can be configured to remove light irradiated from the light source unit (300) and passed through the path unit (100).

[0064] The stray light prevention unit (400) can be formed to absorb the first light beam (LB1) passing through the first point (P1) inside the upper region on the YZ plane of the filament section (100) or guide it to the outer region of the external light blocking unit (200). Accordingly, stray lights can be prevented from being generated in the inner region of the external light blocking unit (200) by the first light beam (LB1).

[0065] The stray light prevention unit (400) can be formed to absorb the second light ray (LB2) passing through the second point (P2) inside the lower region on the YZ plane of the filament section (100) or guide it to the outer region of the external light blocking unit (200). Accordingly, stray lights can be prevented from being generated in the inner region of the external light blocking unit (200) by the second light ray (LB2).

[0066] The stray light prevention unit (400) can be formed to absorb the third light ray (LB3) passing through the third point (P3) on the YZ plane of the filament (100) or guide it to the outer region of the external light blocking unit (200). Accordingly, stray lights can be prevented from being generated in the inner region of the external light blocking unit (200) by the third light ray (LB3).

[0067] Accordingly, the stray light prevention unit (400) may be formed to be longer than the first vertical length (VL1) to absorb the first and second light rays (LB1, LB2) passing through the first and second points (P1, P2) on the inner side on the YZ plane of the flow path unit (100). In this regard, the stray light prevention unit (400) may be formed to absorb the light passing through the flow path unit (100) or guide it to an external area of ​​the external light blocking unit (200). The stray light prevention unit (400) may be configured to absorb or guide and remove the light in the area indicated by the first vertical length (VL1). Accordingly, the stray light prevention unit (400) may be referred to as a light guide unit or a light removal unit.

[0068] Meanwhile, the stray light prevention unit (400) according to the present specification may be formed at a predetermined angle on the other side of the external light blocking unit (200) so as to absorb the light passing through the passage unit (100) or guide it to an external area of ​​the external light blocking unit (200). Accordingly, in the underwater fine matter detection device (1000) according to the present specification, the stray light prevention unit (400) may be formed in an inclined structure. In this regard, FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate plan views of an underwater fine matter detection device having a stray light prevention unit formed at a predetermined angle on the other side of the external light blocking unit.

[0069] Referring to Fig. 4, the light blocking unit (400) may be configured to have a first wall surface (410) and a second wall surface (420). The first wall surface (410) and the second wall surface (420) may be formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the other side of the external light blocking unit (200).

[0070] Meanwhile, one end of the first wall (410) and the other end of the external light blocking unit (200) of the second wall (420) can be combined. One end of the first wall (410) can be combined with the lower end of the other end of the external light blocking unit (200) on the Y axis. One end of the second wall (420) can be combined with the upper end of the other end of the external light blocking unit (200) on the Y axis.

[0071] Accordingly, one end of the second wall surface (420) of the light-prevention unit (400) may be formed to be coupled with the upper end of the other side of the external light blocking unit (200). In this regard, the second wall surface (420) adjacent to the other side of the external light blocking unit (200) may be formed parallel to the Z-axis.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 5, the stray light prevention unit (400) may be configured to have a first wall surface (410) and a second wall surface (420b). The first wall surface (410) and the second wall surface (420b) may be formed to be inclined at a first angle (α1) and a second angle (α2) with respect to the other side of the external light blocking unit (200). The length of the external light blocking unit (200) in the Y-axis direction may be formed to be a predetermined length or longer, or the external light blocking unit (200) may be combined with a separate plate. Accordingly, one end of the second wall surface (420b) of the stray light prevention unit (400) may be formed to be combined with the other side of the external light blocking unit (200) at a second angle (α2).

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the entrance end of the stray light prevention unit (400) can be arranged perpendicular to the incident light that passes through the flow path (100). The surface normal vector of the entrance end of the stray light prevention unit (400) can be arranged in a direction facing the optical axis of the incident light that passes through the flow path (100). The surface normal vector can be defined as a vector that is perpendicular to the plane.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the entrance end of the stray light prevention unit (400) can be perpendicular to the first incident light of the first light ray (LB1) passing through the first point (P1) of the flow path section (100). At this time, the first optical axis of the first reflected light is reflected according to the reflection law to the reflection reference axis (LA1) of the first wall surface and the second wall surface (410, 420, 420b). The entrance end of the stray light prevention unit (400) can be perpendicular to the second incident light of the second light ray (LB2) passing through the second point (P2) of the flow path section (100). At this time, the second optical axis of the second reflected light is reflected according to the reflection law to the reflection reference axis (LA2) of the first wall surface and the second wall surface (410, 420, 420b). The entrance end of the light prevention unit (400) can be perpendicular to the third incident light of the third ray (LB3) passing through the third point (P3) inside the flow path unit (100). At this time, the third optical axis of the third reflected light is reflected according to the reflection law to the reflection reference axis (LA3) of the first wall surface and the second wall surface (410, 420, 420b).

[0075] Meanwhile, the end of the first wall (410) can be formed to protrude more in the Y-axis direction than the scattering detection unit (500) so that the light passing through the euro section (100) is reflected more than 10 times on the first wall (410) and the second wall (420).

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a scattering detection unit (500) may be placed between a light source unit (300) and a stray light prevention unit (400). The scattering detection unit (500) may be configured to detect light scattered by light irradiated from the light source unit (300) reacting with a fine material.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the entrance end of the stray light prevention unit (400) may be formed to have a rectangular shape. The area of ​​the entrance end of the stray light prevention unit (400) may be formed to be larger than the second area on which the light passing through the flow path (100) is irradiated to the other side of the external light blocking unit (200). In this regard, the second vertical length (VL2, VL2b) of the entrance end of the stray light prevention unit (400) may be formed to be longer than the first vertical length (VL1) by the first and second light rays (LB1, BL2). The first vertical length (VL1) corresponds to the length between the first and second points (P1b, P2b) at which the first and second light rays (LB1, BL2) passing through the flow path (100) are irradiated to the other side of the external light blocking unit (200).

[0078] The stray light prevention unit (400) may be provided with a wall surface (410, 420) on which light irradiated from the light source unit (300) is reflected and absorbed at least once. The wall surface of the stray light prevention unit (400) may be configured to include a first wall surface (410) and a second wall surface (420, 420b).

[0079] Among the lights irradiated from the light source (300), the lights that pass through the path section (100) can be incident on the stray light prevention section (400). Accordingly, the stray light prevention section (400) can be formed with a small and simple structure that allows the lights that pass through the path section (100) to be incident and extinguished.

[0080] Light passing through the path section (100) past the focus of the light source section (300) is reflected on the second wall surface (420, 420b) of the stray light prevention section (400) and then reflected on the first wall surface (410) of the stray light prevention section (400). The process of being reflected on the first wall surface (410) of the stray light prevention section (400) and then reflected again on the second wall surface (420, 420b) may be repeated. For example, the number of internal reflections of the stray light prevention section (400) may be 10 or more, but is not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application.

[0081] The inner surfaces of the first wall surface (410) and the second wall surface (420, 420b) of the stray light prevention unit (400) can be formed with a light absorber. When the absorption rate of the stray light prevention unit (400) is 95% (reflectivity 5%) and the number of reflections is 10, the stray light prevention unit (400) has excellent stray light removal performance with a reflectivity of 9.77 x 10^(-14) and almost 100% absorption. Even when the absorption rate is 80% (reflectivity 20%) and the number of reflections is 5, the stray light prevention unit has excellent stray light removal performance with a reflectivity of 0.00032 and 99.97% absorption.

[0082] Meanwhile, the first wall surface (410) may be formed at a first angle (α1) with respect to the entrance end of the stray light prevention unit (400) so that the light source is absorbed or reflected. The second wall surface (420) may be formed at a second angle (α2) with respect to the entrance end of the stray light prevention unit (400) so that the light source is absorbed or reflected.

[0083] The first angle (α1) of the first wall surface (410) may be formed to have a value between 20 degrees and 45 degrees. In this regard, if the first angle (α1) of the first wall surface (410) is less than 20 degrees, stray lights may be generated due to diffuse reflection of a plurality of light rays, including the first light ray (LB1). If the first angle (α1) of the first wall surface (410) is greater than 45 degrees, the degree to which the stray light prevention part (400) protrudes in the Z-axis direction increases.

[0084] The second angle (α2) of the second wall surface (420) may be formed to have a value between 0 and 90 degrees. In this regard, the second angle (α2) of the second wall surface (420) has a smaller effect on the degree to which multiple light rays are reflected and propagate downward on the Y-axis compared to the first angle (α1) of the first wall surface (410). However, if the second angle (α2) of the second wall surface (420) is less than 20 degrees, an issue may occur in the process of forming the second wall surface (420). In addition, if the second angle (α2) of the second wall surface (420) is less than 20 degrees, interference may occur with scattered lights detected by the scattering detection unit (500).

[0085] The stray light prevention unit (400) may be made of the same material as the external light blocking unit (200). The stray light prevention unit (400) may be formed so that the surface reflectivity of the stray light prevention unit (400) is between 0% and 40%.

[0086] Meanwhile, the flow path (100) may be formed to have a cylindrical tube or a square tube through which a solution can pass. The material of the cylindrical tube or square tube of the flow path (100) may be formed to have a transparent glass or plastic material through which light can pass.

[0087] In this regard, the fine matter detection device according to the present specification is configured to detect fine matter in a liquid solution such as water. In this regard, the fine matter detection device according to the present specification has a technical difference in that it detects fine matter in a liquid (water) rather than a gas (air).

[0088] In this regard, among fluids, gas (air) and liquid (water) have different viscosities and, in particular, have completely different optical characteristics, with the refractive index of air being 1.0 and that of water being 1.333. Therefore, the configuration of a detection device for detecting fine dust and microorganisms in the air and the configuration of a fine material detection device according to the present specification for optically detecting fine particles in water are different.

[0089] A device for detecting fine particles in a gas (air) focuses light at the center of the flow path. On the other hand, the underwater fine particle detection device according to the present specification has a completely different optical configuration, as there is no separate structure for focusing light within the flow path (100).

[0090] In the underwater fine matter detection device according to the present specification, the light irradiation area can be formed wide in the flow path (100) where scattering can occur by not focusing the light inside the flow path (100). In addition, the flow path (100) can be configured to be smaller than the light irradiation area so that scattering can occur in the entire area of ​​the flow path (100).

[0091] Meanwhile, the flow path (100) may be formed in an offset structure by being spaced apart in one direction from the center of the Z-axis of the external light blocking unit (200). A first distance (Da1) from the center of the flow path (100) to one side of the external light blocking unit (200) may be formed longer than a second distance (Da2) from the center of the flow path (100) to the other side of the external light blocking unit (200). In this regard, a light source unit (300) may be arranged on one side of the external light blocking unit (200). A stray light prevention unit (400) may be arranged on the other side of the external light blocking unit (200).

[0092] As the flow path (100) is positioned adjacent to the stray light prevention unit (400) at the center of the external light blocking unit (200) on the Z-axis, the light passing through the flow path (100) is effectively collected by the stray light prevention unit (400), so that the generation of stray light is effectively suppressed. In addition, as the flow path (100) is positioned at a predetermined distance or more from the light source unit (300) at the center of the external light blocking unit (200) on the Z-axis, the light irradiated from the light source unit (300) can pass through the entire area of ​​the flow path (100). Therefore, detection of fine substances inside the flow path (100) can be effectively performed.

[0093] Meanwhile, the scattering detection unit (400) may be formed in an offset structure spaced apart in one direction from the center on the Z-axis of the external light blocking unit (200). Specifically, a third distance (Db1) from the center of the scattering detection unit (400) to one side of the external light blocking unit (200) may be formed longer than a fourth distance (Db2) from the center of the path section (100) to the other side of the external light blocking unit (200). In this regard, a light source unit (300) may be arranged on one side of the external light blocking unit (200). A stray light prevention unit (400) may be arranged on the other side of the external light blocking unit (200).

[0094] The center of the Z-axis of the flow path (100) and the center of the Z-axis of the scattering detection unit (400) can be formed to coincide. The second length of the Z-axis of the scattering detection unit (400) can be formed to be longer than the first length of the Z-axis of the flow path (100). Accordingly, the scattered lights formed by the light irradiated from the light source unit (300) being scattered by the fine materials inside the flow path (100) can be accurately detected. In addition, the scattering detection unit (400) can detect the lights scattered by the fine materials in the entire area inside the flow path (100).

[0095] As the flow path (100) is positioned adjacent to the stray light prevention unit (400) at the center of the Z-axis of the external light blocking unit (200), the light passing through the flow path (100) is effectively collected by the stray light prevention unit (400), effectively suppressing the generation of stray light. In addition, the flow path (100) is positioned at a predetermined distance or more from the light source unit (300) at the center of the Z-axis of the external light blocking unit (200). Therefore, the light irradiated from the light source unit (300) can pass through the entire area of ​​the flow path unit (100). Accordingly, detection of fine substances inside the flow path unit (100) can be effectively performed.

[0096] Meanwhile, the external light blocking unit of the underwater fine matter detection device according to the present specification may be formed in a hexahedral shape or may be formed in another shape. In this regard, the light source unit and the scattering detection unit of the underwater fine matter detection device according to the present specification may be formed in a cylindrical shape and formed so that a portion of the external light blocking unit is inserted into the inner region. In this regard, Fig. 6 illustrates a plan view of an underwater fine matter detection device having a hexahedral external light blocking unit and a light source unit and a scattering detection unit partially inserted into the inner region of the external light blocking unit.

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, the external light blocking unit (200) may be formed in a hexahedral shape. The light source unit (300) may be inserted into the first surface, which is one side of the external light blocking unit (200), by a first length (L1). The light source unit (300) may be formed to be exposed to the outside of the first surface, which is one side of the external light blocking unit (200), by a second length (L2). The stray light prevention unit (400) may be formed on the second surface, which is the other side of the external light blocking unit (200).

[0098] The light source unit (300) may be formed with a first radius (R1) on the XY plane and YZ plane of the first surface of the external light blocking unit (200). Meanwhile, the outer diameter of the flow path unit (100) may be formed with a second radius (R2) larger than the first radius (R1) on the YZ plane. Meanwhile, the first light ray (LB1) and the second light ray (LB2) at the boundary of the wide angle irradiated from the light source unit (300) may be formed to contact the first point (P1) and the second point (P2) of the inner boundary of the flow path unit (100). Therefore, the first diameter (D1) of the light source unit (300) may be set to a value within a predetermined range so that a certain proportion or more of light passes through the flow path unit (100).

[0099] When the first diameter (D1) of the light source unit (300) is less than the first threshold value, the irradiated light passes through only a portion of the flow path unit (100), and thus, detection of fine substances is not performed for the entire area of ​​the flow path unit (100). On the other hand, when the first diameter (D1) of the light source unit (300) exceeds the second threshold value, the ratio of the irradiated light leaking into the external area of ​​the flow path unit (100) exceeds a certain ratio. The light leaking into the external area of ​​the flow path unit (100) can be detected by the scattering detection unit (500), but the scattered light exceeding a certain ratio may not be detected.

[0100] Meanwhile, when the first diameter (D1) of the light source unit (300) exceeds the second threshold value, the light density passing through the inside of the flow path unit (100) decreases. Accordingly, in order to accurately detect fine substances inside the flow path unit (100), the intensity of the light source irradiated from the light source unit (300) must be further increased. Accordingly, the first diameter (D1) of the light source unit (300) may be set to a value between the first threshold value and the second threshold value.

[0101] Meanwhile, the scattering detection unit (500) may be formed on the third surface between the first surface and the second surface of the external light blocking unit (200). The scattering detection unit (500) may be formed to be inserted into the third surface of the external light blocking unit (200) by a third length (L3) and exposed to the outside of the third surface by a fourth length (L4).

[0102] Meanwhile, the shape and size of each component of the underwater fine matter detection device according to the present specification can be determined by considering the spectral distribution of the incident and emitted light. In this regard, Fig. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the underwater fine matter detection device according to the present specification.

[0103] Referring to Fig. 7, the flow path (100) of the underwater fine matter detection device may be formed in a cylindrical shape having a predetermined length in the X-axis direction and a circular shape on the YZ plane. A light source (300) may be placed spaced apart from one side of the flow path (100). A scattering detection unit (500) may be placed spaced apart from a lower region of the flow path (100).

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, a light source unit (300) may be arranged spaced apart from one side of the flow path unit (100). The light source unit (300) may be formed on one side of the external light blocking unit (200). Lights irradiated through the light source unit (300) may form a specific illuminance distribution on a first planar surface (PS1) on one side of the flow path unit (100). Lights passing through the flow path unit (100) may form a specific illuminance distribution on a second planar surface (SP2) on the other side of the flow path unit (100).

[0105] In this regard, FIGS. 8 and 9 show illuminance distributions on the first and second planes on one side and the other side of the flow path. FIG. 8(a) shows the illuminance distribution on the first plane on one side of the flow path. FIG. 8(b) shows the intensity value of the illuminance distribution formed in the flow path of FIG. 8(a). FIG. 9(a) shows the illuminance distribution on the second plane on the other side of the flow path. FIG. 9(b) shows the intensity value of the illuminance distribution formed in the flow path of FIG. 9(a).

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, the illuminance distribution on the first plane (PS1) on one side of the euro section (100) has a concentric shape with the light source section (300) as the center.

[0107] Referring to FIGS. 6, 7, and 9, the illuminance distribution on the second plane (PS2) on the other side of the flow path (100) has an elliptical shape with the light source (300) as the center. As the light irradiated from the light source (300) passes through the flow path (100), the illuminance value on the other side of the flow path (100) decreases. Therefore, the illuminance value on the second plane (PS2) on the other side of the flow path (100) decreases compared to the illuminance value on the first plane (PS1) on one side of the flow path (100).

[0108] In relation to the elliptical illuminance distribution, the water inside the flow path (100) and the flow path (100) in the form of a flow tube can act as a cylindrical lens. In order to receive all light emitted from the flow path (100) in the form of a flow tube, the shape of the inlet end of the stray light prevention part (400) corresponding to the exit end of the flow path (100) needs to be formed in a shape that includes the illuminance distribution range. Accordingly, the shape of the inlet end of the external light blocking part (200) corresponding to the exit end of the flow path (100) has an elliptical shape or a rectangular shape.

[0109] In this regard, the entrance end of the stray light prevention unit (400) may be formed to have a first length in the X-axis direction of the flow path section (100) and a second length in the Y-axis direction that is shorter than the first length. The first length of the entrance end of the stray light prevention unit (400) on the X-axis may be formed to be approximately twice the second length on the Y-axis. For example, the entrance end of the stray light prevention unit (400) may be formed to have 8 mm in the X-axis direction of the flow path section (100) and 4 mm in the Y-axis direction, but is not limited thereto and may be changed depending on the application.

[0110] Meanwhile, the external light blocking unit according to the present specification may be formed to correspond to the shape of the flow path. In this regard, Fig. 10 illustrates a plan view of an underwater fine matter detection device having an external light blocking unit formed to correspond to the shape of the flow path.

[0111] Referring to Fig. 10(a), the flow path (100a) may be formed in a first cylindrical shape with a first radius (R1). An external light blocking portion (200b) may be formed in a second cylindrical shape to surround the flow path (100a). A plurality of light rays emitted from a light source irradiate a portion of the flow path (100a). Accordingly, detection of fine substances may not be performed for the entire area of ​​the flow path (100). However, diffuse reflection, scattering, etc. due to the plurality of light rays emitted from the light source and external light can be prevented.

[0112] A first slot area having a first slot length (Ls1) may be formed on one side of the external light blocking unit (200) so that a light source is arranged on one side of the external light blocking unit (200). A second slot area having a second slot length (Ls2) may be formed on the other side of the external light blocking unit (200) so that a stray light prevention unit is arranged on the other side of the external light blocking unit (200).

[0113] Referring to Fig. 10(b), the flow path (100) may be formed in a first cylindrical shape with a second radius (R2). The second radius (R2) of the flow path (100) may be formed smaller than the first radius (R1) of the flow path (100a) of Fig. 10(a). An external light blocking member (200b) may be formed in a second cylindrical shape to surround the flow path (100). The second radius (R2) of the flow path (100) may be formed so that a plurality of light rays emitted from a light source irradiate the entire area of ​​the flow path (100a). Accordingly, detection of fine substances in the entire area of ​​the flow path (100) may be effectively performed.

[0114] Meanwhile, a first slot region having a first slot length (Ls1b) may be formed on one side of the external light blocking portion (200) so that a light source is placed on one side of the external light blocking portion (200). The first slot length (Ls1b) of the first slot region of Fig. 10(b) may be formed to be shorter than the first slot length (Ls1a) of the first slot region of Fig. 10(a).

[0115] In this regard, the size of the first slot length (Ls1b) of the first slot area may be dynamically adjusted depending on the size of the second radius (R2) of the flow path (100), the transparency of the solution within the flow path (100), and the accuracy of detecting fine substances. Accordingly, by changing the distance between the light source (300) and the flow path (100a, 100) and the diameter of the flow path (100a, 100), light can be irradiated to the entire flow path (100a, 100), thereby improving the performance of detecting fine substances.

[0116] Meanwhile, a second slot area having a second slot length (Ls2) can be formed on the other side of the external light blocking unit (200) so that a stray light prevention unit is arranged on the other side of the external light blocking unit (200).

[0117] Referring to FIG. 10, the underwater fine matter detection device (1000) can be configured to include a flow path (100a, 100) and an external light blocking part (200b).

[0118] Referring to Fig. 10, the flow path portion (100a, 100) may be formed in a first cylindrical shape with a second radius (R2). The external light blocking portion (200b) may be formed in a second cylindrical shape with a third radius (R3) surrounding the flow path portion (100). A first slot area having a first slot length (Ls1) may be formed on one side of the external light blocking portion (200b). A second slot area having a second slot length (Ls2) may be formed on the other side of the external light blocking portion (200b).

[0119] The second slot length (Ls2) may be formed to be greater than the first slot length (Ls1) on one side of the external light blocking portion (200b). By setting the first slot length (Ls1) to a first threshold value or greater, light can be irradiated to the entire area of ​​the passage portion (100) of the second radius (R2). Meanwhile, by setting the first slot length (Ls1) to a second threshold value or less, unnecessary light scattering within the external light blocking portion (200b) can be reduced.

[0120] On the other hand, the second slot length (Ls2) on the other side of the external light blocking portion (200b) may be set to be equal to or greater than the third threshold value so that light passing through the entire area of ​​the flow path (100) is introduced. The second slot length (Ls2) may be set to be equal to or less than the fourth threshold value so that light scattered from the outside of the flow path (100) is not introduced.

[0121] The above describes the underwater fine matter measurement device according to this specification. The technical effects of the underwater fine matter measurement device according to this specification can be summarized as follows, but are not limited thereto and may be modified depending on the application.

[0122] According to at least one of the embodiments, a high detection rate of fine substances can be provided by removing light acting as stray light among the lights irradiated from the light source through a stray light prevention unit.

[0123] According to at least one of the embodiments, real-time measurement of suspended fine particles in water is possible by continuously providing the measurement solution through a flow tube while measuring fine substances in a new solution.

[0124] According to at least one of the embodiments, since the euro portion is positioned adjacent to the stray light prevention portion at the center of the external light blocking portion, light passing through the euro portion is effectively collected by the stray light prevention portion, so that stray light generation can be effectively suppressed.

[0125] According to at least one of the embodiments, the light source portion is positioned at a predetermined distance from the center of the external light blocking portion, so that light emitted from the light source portion can pass through the entire area of ​​the light source portion. Accordingly, detection of fine substances within the light source portion can be effectively performed.

[0126] According to at least one of the embodiments, the shape and size of each component of the underwater fine matter detection device can be determined by considering the spectral distribution of the incident light and the emitted light.

[0127] According to at least one of the embodiments, a lightweight, compact, low-cost, and highly productive underwater fine material detector can be provided, which comprises a light source, a scattering detection unit, a stray light prevention unit, and an external light blocking unit, and provides a high detection rate.

[0128] The above-described present disclosure can be implemented as computer-readable code on a program-recorded medium. The computer-readable medium includes all types of recording devices that store data that can be read by a computer system. Examples of computer-readable media include hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state disk drives (SSDs), silicon disk drives (SDDs), ROMs, RAMs, CD-ROMs, magnetic tapes, floppy disks, optical data storage devices, and the like, and also includes media implemented in the form of carrier waves (e.g., transmission via the Internet).

[0129] Accordingly, the above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in all respects, but rather as illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. In a device for detecting underwater fine substances, A flow path formed to transport a solution; An external light blocking portion surrounding the above-mentioned euro portion and configured to block external light; A light source unit arranged on one side of the external light blocking unit and configured to irradiate light into the interior of the external light blocking unit; A stray light prevention unit arranged on the other side of the above external light blocking unit and configured to remove light irradiated from the light source unit and passing through the light path unit; and An underwater fine matter detection device, comprising a scattering detection unit disposed between the light source unit and the stray light prevention unit and configured to detect light scattered by the irradiated light reacting with fine matter.

2. In paragraph 1, A device for detecting underwater fine substances, wherein the surface normal vector, which is a vector perpendicular to the plane of the entrance end of the above-mentioned light prevention section, is arranged in a direction facing the optical axis of incident light incident through the above-mentioned passage section.

3. In paragraph 2, The above entrance has a rectangular shape, An underwater fine matter detection device, wherein the area of ​​the above inlet section is formed larger than the second area on which light passing through the above-mentioned euro section is irradiated to the other side of the above-mentioned external light blocking section.

4. In paragraph 2, The above-mentioned light prevention unit is an underwater fine substance detection device having a wall surface on which light irradiated from the light source unit is reflected and absorbed at least once.

5. In paragraph 4, The above wall surface of the above light-prevention unit is, A first wall surface formed at a first angle with the above entrance end and through which light is absorbed or reflected; and An underwater fine matter detection device comprising a second wall surface formed at a second angle with the above inlet end and through which a light source is absorbed or reflected.

6. In paragraph 5, The first angle of the first wall surface has a value between 20 and 45 degrees, An underwater fine matter detection device, wherein the second angle of the second wall surface has a value between 0 and 90 degrees.

7. In paragraph 6, One end of the above first wall is connected to the upper end on the Y-axis of the other side of the external light blocking part, One end of the second wall surface is connected to the lower part on the Y-axis of the other side of the external light blocking part, An underwater fine matter detection device, wherein one end of the second wall surface adjacent to the other side of the external light blocking section is formed parallel to the Z axis.

8. In paragraph 1, The above light-prevention unit is made of the same material as the mechanism of the above external light blocking unit, An underwater fine substance detection device, characterized in that the surface reflectivity of the above-mentioned light prevention part is between 0% and 40%.

9. In paragraph 1, A device for detecting underwater fine matter, characterized in that the wavelength band of the light irradiated from the above light source unit has a wavelength of 200 nm to 1300 nm.

10. In paragraph 1, An underwater fine matter detection device, characterized in that the above-mentioned euro portion has a cylindrical tube or a square tube through which the solution can pass.

11. In paragraph 10, An underwater fine substance detection device characterized in that the material of the cylindrical or rectangular tube of the above-mentioned euro section is made of transparent glass or plastic material that allows light to pass through.

12. In paragraph 1, A device for detecting underwater fine matter, wherein a first distance from the above-mentioned euro section to one side of the external light blocking part where the light source part is arranged is longer than a second distance from the above-mentioned euro section to the other side of the external light blocking part where the stray light prevention part is arranged.

13. In paragraph 12, The third distance from the scattering detection unit to one side of the external light blocking unit where the light source unit is arranged is formed longer than the fourth distance from the scattering detection unit to the other side of the external light blocking unit where the stray light prevention unit is arranged. The center of the Z-axis of the above-mentioned euro portion is formed to coincide with the center of the Z-axis of the above-mentioned scattering detection portion, An underwater fine matter detection device, wherein a second length on the Z-axis of the scattering detection unit is formed longer than a first length on the Z-axis of the above-mentioned euro portion.

14. In paragraph 5, The above external light blocking part is formed in a hexahedral shape, The above light source part is formed to be inserted into the inside of the first surface, which is one side of the external light blocking part, by a first length and exposed to the outside of the first surface by a second length, An underwater fine substance detection device, wherein the above-mentioned light-prevention unit is formed on the second surface, which is the other side of the above-mentioned external light blocking unit.

15. In paragraph 14, The light source portion is formed with a first diameter on the XY plane and YZ plane of the first surface, An underwater fine matter detection device, wherein the outer diameter of the above-mentioned euro portion is formed as a second diameter larger than the first diameter on the YZ plane.

16. In paragraph 14, An underwater fine matter detection device, wherein the end of the first wall is formed to protrude more than the scattering detection unit so that light passing through the euro section is reflected at least 10 times from the first wall and the second wall.

17. In paragraph 14, The above scattering detection unit is formed on the third surface between the first surface and the second surface, An underwater fine matter detection device, wherein the scattering detection unit is formed to be inserted into the inside of the third surface by a third length and exposed to the outside of the third surface by a fourth length.

18. In paragraph 1, The above-mentioned euro portion is formed in a first cylindrical shape, The above external light blocking part is formed in a second cylindrical shape surrounding the euro part, A first slot area having a first slot length is formed on one side of the above external light blocking portion, A second slot area having a second slot length is formed on the other side of the above external light blocking portion, An underwater fine matter detection device, wherein the second slot length is formed to be greater than the first slot length.

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