Sample accessories for optical spectrometers

Abstract

Provided herein are optical systems for measuring a sample using an optical spectrometer. The optical system may include an optical window configured to separate one or more illumination sources from a sample, a sample chamber comprising a sample chamber inlet channel configured to direct at least a portion of the sample into a portion of the sample chamber, wherein the sample chamber inlet channel defines one or more sample chamber openings vertically adjacent to the optical window, and an optical window protector.

Description

WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 SAMPLE ACCESSORIES FOR OPTICAL SPECTROMETERS CROSS-REFERENCE

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.63 / 671,659 filed July 15, 2024, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. BACKGROUND

[0002] Spectrometers, such as optical spectrometers, can be used to analyze one or more properties of an object. Optical spectrometers can detect electromagnetic radiation from an object to obtain spectral information of the object. The spectral information can be processed to provide information, such as chemical composition information, about the object. Optical spectrometers can typically include some type of spectrally selective element to separate wavelengths of radiation received from the object, and a first-stage optic, such as a lens, to focus and / or concentrate the radiation onto an imaging array. SUMMARY

[0003] In an aspect, the present disclosure provides an optical system, comprising: a sample chamber comprising a volume configured to hold a sample; an optical spectrometer in optical communication with the volume of the sample chamber; an optical window separating the optical spectrometer from the volume of the sample chamber; and an optical window protector operably coupled to the optical window.

[0004] In some embodiments, the optical system further comprises an inlet operably coupled to the sample chamber and configured to direct at least a portion of the sample into the volume of the sample chamber. In some embodiments, the optical system further comprises a plurality of inlets comprising the inlet, wherein the plurality of inlets is operably coupled to the sample chamber. In some embodiments, the inlet is disposed at an angle to a wall of the sample chamber or the optical spectrometer. In some embodiments, the angle is from about 0 to about 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the inlet is disposed above the optical window. In some embodiments, a bottom surface of the sample chamber is disposed on an opposite side of the optical window from the inlet. In some embodiments, the optical window seals the optical spectrometer from the volume of the sample chamber. In some embodiments, the optical window is transparent. In some embodiments, the optical window protector is disposed on and in contact with the optical window. In some embodiments, the optical window is disposed in the volume of the sample chamber. In some embodiments, the optical system further comprises a gate operably coupled to the sample chamber. In some embodiments, the gate is a slidable gate. In some embodiments, the gate is user adjustable. In some embodiments, the optical window comprises a base and a tipWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 disposed on opposite sides of the optical window. In some embodiments, the tip of the optical window is disposed adjacent to a bottom surface of the sample chamber. In some embodiments, the tip of the optical window is disposed adjacent to a side of the sample chamber, wherein the side of the sample chamber connects an opening of the sample chamber to a bottom surface of the sample chamber. In some embodiments, the optical window protector comprises a scratch protective coating. In some embodiments, the scratch protective coating comprises one or more of a ceramic coating, diamond like carbon, aluminum oxide, or silicon dioxide, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the sample chamber comprises a reflective coating. In some embodiments, the reflective coating comprises one or more of a metal, a dielectric coating, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the optical system further comprises an air nozzle in operable communication with the optical window. In some embodiments, the optical window protector comprises the air nozzle. In some embodiments, the air nozzle comprises an air nozzle channel between a top air nozzle external surface and a bottom air nozzle external surface. In some embodiments, the air nozzle channel comprises a stream of air directed at or near an inlet to the sample chamber. In some embodiments, air from the air nozzle is configured to move the sample away from the optical window or optical window protector. In some embodiments, the optical window protector comprises a folding element configured to cover at least a portion of the optical window. In some embodiments, the folding element is configured to deflect the sample away from the optical window. In some embodiments, the optical spectrometer comprises one or more illumination sources. In some embodiments, the one or more illumination sources are configured to illuminate the sample at an angle from about 0 to about 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the one or more illumination sources are disposed opposite the optical window from the volume. In some embodiments, the one or more illumination sources are disposed within the optical window. In some embodiments, the optical window comprises a glass material. In some embodiments, the optical window is a sphere or a portion thereof. In some embodiments, the optical window is a cylinder or a portion thereof. In some embodiments, the optical system is mounted to an agricultural machine. In some embodiments, the agricultural equipment comprises one or more of a grain weighing module, a load cell module, a weighbridge module, a conveyor belt scale, a hopper scale, a silo weighing system, a portable weighing module, an in-motion weighing system, a precision weighing module, a wireless weighing system, an automated grain weighing system and any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the grain weighing module, the load cell module, the weighbridge module, the conveyor belt scale, the hopper scale, the silo weighing system, the portable weighing module, the in-motion weighing system, the precision weighing module, the wireless weighing system, the automated grain weighing system, or the any combinationsWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 thereof is mounted on one of more of an agricultural combine, research combine, regular harvesting combine, grain combine harvester, corn combine harvester, soybean combine harvester, rice combine harvester, forage harvester, cotton combine harvester, sugar cane harvester, potato harvester, vegetable harvester, grapes harvester, olive harvester, lentil combine harvester, bean combine harvester, sunflower combine harvester, specialty crop harvester grain sampler, drain drier, grain elevator, or grain storage bin. In some embodiments, the optical window protector comprises a window portion and a non-window portion. In some embodiments, the non-window portion is configured to reflect light from an illumination source away from the optical spectrometer. In some embodiments, the non-window portion is configured increase a number of interactions with light emitted from an illumination source with the sample. In some embodiments, the sample chamber is configured to hold at least a portion of the sample through the window portion of the optical window protector in optical communication with the optical spectrometer and an illumination source. In some embodiments, the at least the portion of the sample is configured to scatter light from the illumination source towards the optical spectrometer. In some embodiments, the non-window portion is configured to reflect visible light, infrared light, ultraviolet light, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the optical spectrometer is substantially equidistant from each point of the optical window. In some embodiments, the volume of the sample chamber is at most about 5 liters. In some embodiments, the optical system further comprises a reflective cover disposed on top of the sample chamber and configured to reflect light that passes through the sample.

[0005] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of detecting a signal of a sample, comprising: (a) providing an optical system comprising (i) a sample chamber comprising a volume, (ii) an optical spectrometer, (iii) an optical window separating the optical spectrometer from the volume of the sample chamber, and (iv) an optical window protector operably coupled to the optical window; (b) dispensing the sample into the sample chamber, wherein, during the dispensing, the optical window protector protects the optical window from damage; (c) detecting, using the optical spectrometer, the signal of the sample, wherein the signal is detected through the optical window.

[0006] In some embodiments, the method further comprises, prior to (c), illuminating the sample using an illumination source of the optical system. In some embodiments, the optical window protector directs light from the illumination source to interact with the sample. In some embodiments, the optical window protector decreases an illumination loss from the illumination source. In some embodiments,, during the dispensing, the sample impacts the optical window protector with a force of at least 10 microjoules. In some embodiments, the optical system comprises a gate. In some embodiments, the gate deflects the sample away from the opticalWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 window. In some embodiments,, during the dispensing, the optical window protector reduces an energy of the sample contacting the optical window or deflects the sample away from the optical window. In some embodiments, the method further comprises directing, via the air nozzle of the optical system, the sample away from the optical window during the dispensing. In some embodiments, the method further comprises reducing, via an air nozzle of the optical system, a contacting force of the sample to the optical window during the dispensing. In some embodiments, the method further comprises receiving, via hardware, the signal from the optical spectrometer. In some embodiments, the method further comprises running, via the hardware, a software configured to output an analysis of one or more characteristics of the sample. In some embodiments, the one or more characteristics comprise one or more of sample chemical composition, color and appearance, size and shape, moisture content, purity and contaminants, aflatoxin and mycotoxin levels, starch content, sugar content, germination rate, vitamin and nutrient levels, aromatic compounds, toxic elements, protein content, oil content, starch content, or fiber content. In some embodiments, the sample comprises one or more of grain, wheat, rice, corn (maize), barley, oats, rye, sorghum, millet, quinoa, buckwheat, triticale, amaranth, teff, wild rice, spelt, kamut, emmer, or einkorn. In some embodiments, the dispensing comprises flowing the sample through the sample chamber. In some embodiments, the method further comprises recording over time a plurality of signals of the sample as the sample flows through the sample chamber. In some embodiments, the signal comprises one or more of an absorption spectrum, a florescence spectrum, a fluorescence lifetime signal, a reflection spectrum, or any combination thereof.

[0007] In one aspect the present disclosure provides an optical system for measuring a sample with an optical spectrometer, the optical system comprises: (a) an optical window configured to separate one or more illumination sources from a sample; (b) a sample chamber, wherein the sample chamber encompasses the optical window and comprises a sample chamber inlet channel configured to direct at least a portion of the sample into a portion of the sample chamber, wherein the sample chamber inlet channel comprises one or more sample chamber openings that are adjacent to the optical window; and (c) an optical window protector, wherein the optical window protector operably couples to the optical window. In certain embodiments, the sample chamber further comprises a side closed portion adjacent to the sample chamber inlet channel. In certain embodiments, the sample chamber inlet channel connects to the side closed portion at an angle. In certain embodiments, the one or more sample chamber openings are vertically adjacent to the optical window. In certain embodiments, the one or more sample chamber openings are in parallel adjacent to the optical window. In certain embodiments, the angle has a range of about 0 to about 90 degrees. In certainWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 embodiments, further comprising a user adjustable slidable gate operably coupled to the sample chamber opening. In certain embodiments, the user adjustable slidable gate sliding from one sample chamber side to an opposite sample chamber side increases a size of the sample chamber opening. In certain embodiments, the user adjustable slidable gate is configured to deflect the sample away from the optical window. In certain embodiments, the sample chamber openings are increased to comprise a sample chamber opening width up to about equal to a width of a sample chamber less than a radius of an optical window. In certain embodiments, the radius of the optical window is up to about 50 mm.

[0009] In certain embodiments, the optical window further comprises an optical window surface base and an optical window surface tip, wherein the optical window surface base is opposite the optical window surface tip. In certain embodiments, wherein the sample chamber further comprises a sample chamber bottom surface.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the sample chamber bottom surface is opposite from the one or more sample chamber openings. In certain embodiments, the optical window surface tip is directed towards the sample chamber bottom surface. In certain embodiments, the optical window surface tip is directed towards a side of the sample chamber that connects the one or more sample chamber openings and the sample chamber bottom surface. In certain embodiments, the optical window protector comprises a scratch protective coating. In certain embodiments, the scratch protective coating comprises a reflective material. In certain embodiments, the reflective material comprises gold, silver, silvered mirror, aluminum, chrome, lacquer, nickel, paint, enamel, steel, a polymer, mylar, or a retroreflective material. In certain embodiments, the reflective material may be selected to decrease illumination loss, increase illumination efficiency, increase a number of interactions of an illumination light with the sample, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the sample hits the scratch protective coating, and the scratch protective coating moves the sample away from the optical window, or reduces the sample energy.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the optical window protector comprises an air nozzle.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the air nozzle comprises an air nozzle channel, wherein the air nozzle channel is between a top air nozzle external surface and a bottom air nozzle external surface. In certain embodiments, the air nozzle channel comprises a stream of air, wherein the stream of air is directed at or near the sample channel inlet. In certain embodiments, the stream of air hits the sample, and moves the sample away from the optical window. In certain embodiments, wherein the optical window protector comprises a folding element configured to cover at least part of the optical window. In certain embodiments, the sample contacts the folding element. In certain embodiments, the sample energy comprises about 10 micro-joules orWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 greater prior to contacting the folding element. In certain embodiments, the sample comprises a sample energy, and wherein the folding element reduces the sample energy, deflects the sample away from the optical window, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more illumination sources are configured to illuminate the sample at an angle of between about 0 to about 180 degrees through the optical window. In certain embodiments, the optical window comprises a glass material. In certain embodiments, the optical window comprises a spherical shape or cross-section. In certain embodiments, the optical window comprises a hemi-spherical shape or cross-section. In certain embodiments, the optical window comprises a cylindrical shape or cross-section. In certain embodiments, the optical window comprises a tubular shape or cross-section. In certain embodiments, the optical window comprises one or more angles In certain embodiments, the optical window comprises a dome. In certain embodiments, the dome comprises a spherical shape or cross-section. In certain embodiments, the dome comprises a hemi-spherical shape or cross-section. In certain embodiments, the optical system is mounted to an agricultural equipment. In certain embodiments, the agricultural equipment is selected from the group consisting of a grain weighing module, a load cell module, a weighbridge module, a conveyor belt scale, a hopper scale, a silo weighing system, a portable weighing module, an in- motion weighing system, a precision weighing module, a wireless weighing system, an automated grain weighing system and any combinations thereof.

[0013] In certain embodiments, the group of a grain weighing module, a load cell module, a weighbridge module, a conveyor belt scale, a hopper scale, a silo weighing system, a portable weighing module, in-motion weighing system, a precision weighing module, a wireless weighing system, an automated grain weighing system and any combinations thereof is mounted on one of more of an agricultural combine, research combine, regular harvesting combine, grain combine harvester, corn combine harvester, soybean combine harvester, rice combine harvester, forage harvester, cotton combine harvester, sugar cane harvester, potato harvester, vegetable harvester, grapes harvester, olive harvester, lentil combine harvester, bean combine harvester, sunflower combine harvester, specialty crop harvester grain sampler, drain drier, grain elevator, or grain storage bin. In certain embodiments, further comprising providing an output of the optical system measurement readings of the sample. In certain embodiments, the agricultural equipment comprises hardware configured to receive the optical system measurement readings of the sample and software configured to output an analysis of the characteristics of the sample passing through the sample chamber. In certain embodiments, wherein the characteristics of the sample passing through the sample chamber comprise one or more of sample chemical composition, color and appearance, size and shape, moisture content, purity and contaminants, aflatoxin and mycotoxin levels, starch content, sugar content, germination rate, vitamin andWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 nutrient levels, aromatic compounds, toxic elements, protein content, oil content, starch content, or fiber content. In certain embodiments, the sample comprises one or more of any grain, wheat, rice, corn (maize), barley, oats, rye, sorghum, millet, quinoa, buckwheat, triticale, amaranth, teff, wild rice, spelt, kamut, emmer, or einkorn. In certain embodiments, the optical window protector comprises a window portion and a non-window portion. In certain embodiments, the optical window protector is in optical communication with an illumination source. In certain embodiments, the non-window portion is configured to reflect light emitted from the illumination source away from an optical spectrometer. In certain embodiments, the sample chamber is configured to hold a portion of the sample through the window-portion of the optical window protector, in optical communication with the optical spectrometer and the illumination source, such that the portion of the sample is configured to scatter light emitted from the illumination source toward the optical spectrometer. In certain embodiments, the optical window comprises an optical window surface tip, and an inner optical window surface configured to partially or completely enclose a light source and the optical spectrometer.

[0014] In certain embodiments, the optical window surface tip or the inner optical window surface or both are in optical communication with the portion of sample and the optical window protector, and wherein the inner optical window surface is configured to direct light emitted by the light source to achieve at least two optical interactions with the portion of the sample or the optical window protector. In certain embodiments, the optical window surface tip or the inner optical window surface is spherical. In certain embodiments, the optical window surface tip or the inner optical window surface is hemi-spherical. In certain embodiments, the optical window surface tip or the inner optical window surface is cylindrical. In certain embodiments, the optical window surface tip or the inner optical window surface is tubular. In certain embodiments, the optical window surface tip or the inner optical window surface comprises one or more angles. In certain embodiments, the optical window surface tip is in physical contact with the portion of the sample. In certain embodiments, both the optical window surface tip and the inner optical window surface are in optical communication with the portion of the sample through the window portion. In certain embodiments, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, or at least 40% of the optical window surface tip is in optical communication with the portion of the sample. In certain embodiments, up to 60%, up to 65%, up to 70%, up to 75%, up to 80%, up to 85%, up to 90%, or up to 95% of the optical window surface tip is in optical communication with the portion of the sample. In certain embodiments, the optical window is configured such that the optical spectrometer is substantially equidistant from a given point on a surface of the optical window. In certain embodiments, the non-window portion is configured to reflect visible light, infrared light,WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 ultraviolet light, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the illumination source is configured to emit light within a light cone having a half-angle of at least 60 degrees. In certain embodiments, the illumination source is configured to emit light within a light cone having a half-angle of at most 60 degrees. In certain embodiments, the sample has a volume of no more than 5000 mL, no more than 2500 mL, no more than 1000 mL, no more than 500 mL, or no more than 100 mL, or no more than 1 mL. In certain embodiments, the optical system further comprises a reflective cover positioned on top of the sample chamber and configured to reflect light that passes through the sample.

[0015] In another aspect this disclosure provides, a method for measuring a sample with an optical spectrometer, the method comprising mounting the optical system of any of the preceding claims to an agricultural equipment of any of the preceding claims; inserting the sample of any of the preceding claims into the optical system; illuminating the sample; detecting a reflectance of the illumination the sample; measuring the characteristics of the sample; and providing an output of the measured characteristics of the sample.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the agricultural equipment comprises hardware configured to receive the optical system measurement readings of the sample and software configured to output an analysis of the characteristics of the sample passing through the sample chamber. In certain embodiments, the characteristics of the sample passing through the sample chamber comprise one or more of sample chemical composition, color and appearance, size and shape, moisture content, purity and contaminants, aflatoxin and mycotoxin levels, starch content, sugar content, germination rate, vitamin and nutrient levels, aromatic compounds, toxic elements, protein content, oil content, starch content, or fiber content. In certain embodiments, the agricultural equipment is mounted to a combine. In certain embodiments, the combine comprises a combine of any of the preceding claims. In certain embodiments, the signal comprises…. In certain embodiments, the method further comprises measuring the characteristics of a sample passing through the sample chamber. INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0017] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee. The novel features of the disclosure are set forthWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present disclosure will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the disclosure are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

[0019] FIG.1A and FIG.1B show isometric views of an example of a compact spectrometer, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG.2 is a schematic diagram of a spectrometer system 1900, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG.3 is a schematic diagram of an example of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG.4 is a schematic diagram of an example of a mobile device comprising an optical spectrometer, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG.5 is a schematic diagrams of an example of an upright hemispherical accessory for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer;

[0024] FIG.6 is a schematic diagram of an example of an inverted hemispherical accessory for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG.7 is a schematic diagram of an example of a cylindrical or tubular accessory for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG.8 is a schematic diagram of an example of a cylindrical or tubular accessory comprising an opening for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG.9 is a flowchart for a method for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0028] FIG.10 is a schematic diagram of an example of a digital processing device, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG.11 is a schematic diagram of an example of a sample accessory for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG.12 is a schematic diagram of an example of a sensitivity control accessory for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure;WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0031] FIG.13 is a schematic diagram of an example of a sample accessory for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG.14A and FIG.14B are schematic diagrams of an example of a sample accessory with a cover for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG.15 is a schematic diagram of an example of an optical system for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG.16 is a schematic diagram of an example of an optical system for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG.17A - FIG.17D are schematic diagrams of examples of multiple optical systems for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG.18 is a schematic diagram of an example of an optical system for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] FIG.19A and FIG.19B are schematic diagrams of an example of optical systems for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0038] FIG.20 is a schematic diagram of an example of an optical system for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] In the following description, various aspects of the invention will be described. For the purposes of explanation, specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that there are other embodiments of the present disclosure that differ in details without affecting the essential nature thereof. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited by that which is illustrated in the figure and described in the specification, but only as indicated in the accompanying claims, with the proper scope determined only by the broadest interpretation of said claims.

[0040] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be understood that many variations, alterationsWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 and adaptations based on the disclosure provided herein may be possible. For example, the order of the operations of one or more of the processes described herein can be changed, some of the operations removed, some of the operations duplicated, and additional operations added as appropriate. Some of the operations can be performed in succession. Some of the operations can be performed in parallel. Some of the operations can be performed once. Some of the operations can be performed more than once. Some of the operations can comprise sub- operations. The processor as described herein can comprise one or more instructions to perform at least a portion of one or more operations of one or more of the methods. Overview

[0041] Described herein are optical systems for measuring the spectrum of a sample. The optical systems for measuring the spectrum of a sample may comprise an optical spectrometer and an accessory. In some embodiments, the optical system may be configured to be integrate into a grain handling device. The optical systems provided herein may be advantageous over current devices, systems and methods, in that the optical systems of this disclosure enables real-time, accurate, affordable and non-destructive grain analysis (e.g., Moisture, Protein, Oil, Starch, Fiber, etc.).

[0042] An optical system of the present disclosure may comprise an optical window. In some embodiments, the optical window is integrated into an optical spectrometer unit. In further embodiments, the optical spectrometer unit with the optical window is integrated into a grain weighing module that is then mounted on a research combine. In further embodiments, the optical spectrometer unit with the optical window is integrated into any agricultural equipment (e.g., regular harvesting combines, grain samplers, grain driers, grain elevators, grain storage bins, trucks, etc.).

[0043] The current devices, systems and methods described herein may further comprise integration with a software component. In some embodiments, the software component is installed on a computer on the agricultural equipment, (e.g. combine, storage bin, etc.). In further embodiments, the computer receives the raw signals from out units and turns them into the analysis result. In even further embodiments, the computer communicates with a cloud system to transfer and store the analysis results. Optical Systems

[0044] FIG.15 is a schematic diagram of an example of an optical system 1900 for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer 1903, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, a system 1900 for measuring a spectrum of a sample 1904 (not shown in Fig.15) is provided. In some embodiments, the system 1900 comprises an optical spectrometer 1903, one or more illumination sources, and an accessoryWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 1950 (not shown in Fig.15). In some embodiments, the accessory 1950 comprises an optical window 1902 configured to separate the one or more illumination sources from the sample 1904 (not shown in Fig.15), and a sample chamber 1901. In further embodiments, the optical window 1902 is configured to separate the optical spectrometer 1903 from the sample 1904 (not shown in FIG.15), and a sample chamber 1901. In some embodiments, the sample chamber 1901 comprises a sample chamber inlet channel 1906 configured to direct at least a portion of the sample into a portion of the sample chamber.

[0045] The optical system 1900 may comprise an optical spectrometer 1903 encased in an optical window (e.g., a hemispherical glass dome) 1902 to measure the spectrum of a sample 1904 filling a sample chamber 1901 around the optical window 1902, as shown in FIG.16. In some embodiments, the optical window 1902 comprises an optical window surface base 2110 and an optical window surface tip 2111. In some cases, the optical window surface base 2110 and optical window surface tip 2111 are substantially opposite each other.

[0046] In other cases, the optical window surface tip 2111 is substantially planar. In other cases, the optical window surface tip 2111 is curved. In other cases, the optical window surface tip 2111 comprises a side of a triangle. In other cases, the optical window surface tip 2111 comprises a side of a cylinder. In other cases, the optical window surface tip 2111 comprises a side of a tube.

[0047] In other cases, the optical window surface base 2110 is substantially planar. In other cases, the optical window surface base 2110 is curved. In other cases, the optical window surface base 2110 comprises a side of a triangle. In other cases, the optical window surface base 2110 comprises a side of a cylinder. In other cases, the optical window surface base 2110 comprises a side of a tube.

[0048] In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 having a hemi-spherical or spherical surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110, wherein the optical window surface base is substantially planar. In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 having a hemi-spherical or spherical surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110, wherein the optical window surface base is hemi-spherical or spherical.

[0049] In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 having a curved surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110, wherein the optical window surface base is substantially planar. In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 having a curved surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110 wherein the optical window surface base is curved.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0050] In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 having a substantially planar surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110, wherein the optical window surface base is substantially planar. In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111. having a substantially planar surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110, wherein the optical window surface base is curved.

[0051] In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 comprising a side of the triangle in connection with the optical window surface base 2110, wherein the optical window surface base comprises another side of the triangle.

[0052] In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 having a cylindrical surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110, wherein the optical window surface base is substantially planar. In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 having a cylindrical surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110 wherein the optical window surface base is curved. In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 having a cylindrical surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110 wherein the optical window surface base 2110 is cylindrical.

[0053] In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 having a tubular surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110, wherein the optical window surface base is substantially planar. In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 having a tubular surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110 wherein the optical window surface base is curved. In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 having a tubular surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110 wherein the optical window surface base is cylindrical. In some cases, the optical window 1902 comprises the optical window surface tip 2111 having a tubular surface opposite the optical window surface base 2110 wherein the optical window surface base is tubular.

[0054] In some embodiments, the optical window 1902 is located on a left sample chamber side 2113. In some embodiments, the optical window surface base 2110 contacts a left sample chamber side surface 2113.

[0055] In some embodiments, the sample chamber 1901 comprises one or more sample chamber sides. In some embodiments, the one or more sample chamber sides define an outer perimeter of the sample chamber 1901. In some embodiments, the one or more sample chamber sides comprise a top sample chamber side 1905, a bottom sample chamber side 2112, a left sample chamber side 2113, and a right sample chamber side 2114. FIG.16 is a schematic diagram ofWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 an example of an optical system 1900 for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0056] In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 for measuring a sample 1904 with an optical spectrometer 1903 comprises (a) an optical window 1902 configured to separate one or more illumination sources from a sample, (b) a sample chamber 1901 comprising a sample chamber inlet channel 1906 configured to direct at least a portion of the sample 1904 into a portion of the sample chamber 1901, and (c) an optical window protector or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 defines one or more sample chamber openings 1906. In certain embodiments, the one or more sample chamber openings 1906 are vertically adjacent to the optical window 1902. In certain embodiments, the one or more sample chamber openings 1906 are horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902. In certain embodiments, the one or more sample chamber openings 1906 are parallel adjacent to the optical window 1902.

[0057] In some embodiments, the sample 1904 may be solid. In further embodiments, the sample 1904 may include particles that may scratch the dome 1902 when hitting the optical window 1902, affecting the optical window’s 1902 optical properties, such as internal reflection, translucence, diffusivity and optical clarity. For example, the sample 1904 may be grains such as soybeans, corn or wheat, cropped in the field, mixed with some soil residues. Optical Window Protector

[0058] FIG.17A - FIG.17B are schematic diagrams of exemplary embodiments of optical system 1900 for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer 1903, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0059] In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 for measuring a sample 1904 with an optical spectrometer 1903 comprises (a) an optical window 1902 configured to separate one or more illumination sources from a sample 1904, and (b) an optical window protector.

[0060] In some embodiments, the optical window protector operably couples to the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the optical window protector operably couples to the optical window 1902. In some cases, the optical window protector and the optical window 1902 both protect the spectrometer 1903 from contacting the sample 1904.1904. In some instances, the optical window protector, the optical window 1902, or a combination thereof contact the sample 1904. For example, the optical window protector, the optical window 1902, or a combination thereof may reduce a sample energy upon sample contact.

[0061] In some embodiments, the optical window protector is adjacent to the optical window 1902. In some cases, the optical window protector is vertically adjacent to the optical window 1902. In some cases, the optical window protector is horizontally adjacent to the optical windowWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 1902. In some cases, the optical window protector is parallel adjacent to the optical window 1902.

[0062] In some embodiments, the optical window protector is layered on at least part of the optical window 1902. In some cases, the optical window protector is layered on substantially all of the optical window 1902. In some instances, the optical window protector is layered on the optical window surface tip 2111. In some instances, the optical window protector is layered on the optical window surface base 2110.

[0063] In some embodiments, the optical window protector covers at least part of the optical window 1902. In some cases, the optical window protector covers substantially all of the optical window 1902. In some instances, the optical window protector covers the optical window surface tip 2111. In some instances, the optical window protector covers the optical window surface base 2110.

[0064] In some embodiments, the optical window protector is in contact with at least part of the optical window 1902. In some cases, the optical window protector is in contact with substantially all of the optical window 1902. In some instances, the optical window protector is in contact with the optical window surface tip 2111. In some instances, the optical window protector is in contact with the optical window surface base 2110.

[0065] In some embodiments, the optical window protector comprises a sample chamber 1901. In some cases, the sample chamber 1901 operably couples to the optical window. In some instances, the sample chamber 1901 operably couples to the optical window by surrounding the optical window 1902. For example, the sample chamber 1901 may comprise a left sample chamber side 2113 in contact with an optical window surface base 2110. In further examples, the optical window surface base 2110 may lay on top of the left sample chamber side 2113.

[0066] In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 may comprise a top sample chamber side 1905 vertically adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 may comprise a bottom sample chamber side 2112 vertically adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 may comprise a right sample chamber side 2114 horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 may comprise a right sample chamber side 2114 parallel adjacent to the optical window 1902.

[0067] In some cases, the sample chamber 1901 comprises : (i) a top sample chamber side 1905, wherein the top sample chamber side 1905 comprises: (1) a sample chamber inlet channel 1906 configured to direct at least a portion of the sample 1904 into a portion of the sample chamber 1901 and (2) a top sample chamber side closed portion 1907, wherein the sample chamber inletWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 channel 1906 defines one or more sample chamber openings 1906 horizontally adjacent to the top sample chamber side closed portion 1907.

[0068] FIG.17A – FIG.17B schematically shows means to reduce the energy of sample 1904 hitting the dome 1902 by directing the sampled elements 1904 away from the optical window 1902 when filling the sample chamber 1901. In some embodiments, the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 connects to the top sample chamber side closed portion 1907 at an angle. In some cases, the angle has a range of about 0 to about 90 degrees.

[0069] In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 comprises an angle 1908 of between about 0 to about 90 degrees between the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 and the top sample chamber side closed portion 1907.

[0070] In FIG.17A the sample 1904 enters diagonally to bypass the optical window 1902. In FIG.17B the sample 1904 enters vertically through a sample chamber opening 1906, wherein the sample chamber opening 1906 is positioned a distance horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902. In some cases, the sample chamber opening 1906 distance horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902 is adjusted according to the radius of the optical window 1902. In further embodiments, the sample chamber opening 1906 distance horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902 is adjusted to prevent high impact of sample elements 1904 onto the optical window 1902. In some instances, the radius of the optical window 1902 is up to about 50 mm. In some cases, the sample chamber opening 1906 distance horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902 is up to about 50 mm.

[0071] In some embodiments, the sample 1904 comprises a sample energy. In some embodiments, a high energy sample 1904 may damage the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, a low energy sample 1904 will impart little to no damage to the optical window 1902. User Adjustable Slidable Gate

[0072] FIG.17C is a schematic diagram of an examples of an optical system 1900 for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer 1903, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 for measuring a sample 1904 with an optical spectrometer 1903 comprises (a) an optical window 1902 configured to separate one or more illumination sources from a sample, (b) a sample chamber 1901 comprising a sample chamber inlet channel 1906 configured to direct at least a portion of the sample 1904 into a portion of the sample chamber 1901, and (c) an optical window protector.

[0073] In some embodiments, the optical window protector comprises a user adjustable slidable gate 2101.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0074] In some embodiments, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 operably couples to the optical window 1902. In some cases, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 and the optical window 1902 both protect the spectrometer 1903 from contacting the sample 1904. In some instances, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101, the optical window 1902, or a combination thereof contact the sample 1904. For example, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101, the optical window 1902, or a combination thereof may reduce a sample energy upon sample contact.

[0075] In some embodiments, the optical window protector operably couples to the sample chamber 1901. In some cases, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 operably couples to the sample chamber 1901.

[0076] In some cases, the sample chamber 1901 operably couples to the optical window 1902. In some instances, the sample chamber 1901 operably couples to the optical window 1902 by surrounding / encompassing the optical window 1902. For example, the sample chamber 1901 may comprise a left sample chamber side 2113 in contact with an optical window surface base 2110. In further examples, the optical window surface base 2110 may lay on top of the left sample chamber side 2113.

[0077] In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 may comprise a top sample chamber side 1905 vertically adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 may comprise a bottom sample chamber side 2112 vertically adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 may comprise a right sample chamber side 2114 horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 may comprise a right sample chamber side 2114 parallel adjacent to the optical window 1902.

[0078] In some cases, the sample chamber 1901 comprises a top sample chamber side 1905, wherein the top sample chamber side 1905 comprises a sample chamber inlet channel 1906 configured to direct at least a portion of the sample 1904 into a portion of the sample chamber 1901.

[0079] In further embodiments, the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 defines one or more sample chamber openings 1906 vertically adjacent to the optical window 1902. In certain embodiments, the one or more sample chamber openings 1906 are vertically adjacent to the optical window 1902.

[0080] In some instances, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 operably couples to the sample chamber inlet channel 1906. For example, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 is operably coupled to the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 via configuration for sliding along path 2150 from the right sample chamber side 2114 to the left sample chamber side 2113, or vice-versa. In further examples, the sliding along path 2150 from the right sample chamber side 2114 to theWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 left sample chamber side 2113, or vice-versa comprises increasing a size of one or more sample chamber openings 1906 adjacent (e.g., vertically, horizontally, or parallel) to the optical window 1902. In even further examples, the sample chamber openings are increased to comprise a sample chamber opening width up to about equal to a width of a sample chamber less than a radius of an optical window. In further examples, the sample chamber openings are configured to open until reaching a full opening (i.e., up to 2113)]. In further examples, the user adjustable slidable gate is configured to open until reaching a full opening (i.e., up to 2113)].

[0081] In some examples, the radius of the optical window is up to about 60 mm. in further examples, the radius of the optical window is up to about 55 mm. In further examples, the radius of the optical window is between about 20 mm and 60 mm. In further examples, the radius of the optical window is about 5 mm, about 10 mm, about 15 mm, about 20 mm, about 25 mm, about 30 mm, about 35 mm, about 40 mm, about 45 mm, about 50 mm, about 55 mm, or about 60 mm.

[0082] In alternative embodiments, for example, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 is operably coupled to the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 via configuration for sliding from the top sample chamber side 1905 to the bottom sample chamber side 2112, or vice-versa. In further examples, the sliding along path 2150 from the top sample chamber side 1905 to the bottom sample chamber side 2112, or vice-versa comprises increasing the size of the one or more sample chamber openings 1906 adjacent (e.g., vertically, horizontally, or parallel) to the optical window 1902. In even further examples, the sample chamber openings are increased to comprise a sample chamber opening width up to about equal to a width of a sample chamber less than a radius of an optical window. In some cases, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 comprises a user adjustable slidable gate external surface. In some instances, the user adjustable slidable gate external surface comprises a top user adjustable slidable gate external surface and a bottom user adjustable slidable gate external surface. For example, the top user adjustable slidable gate external surface and the bottom user adjustable slidable gate external surface are opposite each other.

[0083] In some embodiments, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 rests on one or more sample chamber sides. In some cases, the left sample chamber side 2113 and the top sample chamber side 1905 connect at a top left sample chamber side. In some instances, the user adjustable slidable 2101 operably couples to the top left sample chamber side. For example, the bottom user adjustable slidable gate external surface may, at least in part, be placed on top of the top left sample chamber side.

[0084] In some cases, the right sample chamber side 2114 and the top sample chamber side 1905 connect at a top right sample chamber side. In some instances, the user adjustable slidableWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 2101 operably couples to the top right sample chamber side. For example, the bottom user adjustable slidable gate external surface may, at least in part, be placed on top of the top right sample chamber side.

[0085] In further embodiments, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 is configured to deflect the sample 1904 away from the optical window 1902. In FIG.17C, a user adjustable slidable gate 2101 coupled to the sample chamber 1901 opens gradually along path 2150 such that the sample 1904 fills much of the sample chamber 1901 volume without contacting the optical window 1902 with high energy. For example, the sample comprises a sample energy of less than about 10 micro-joule when contacting the optical window 1902.

[0086] In some embodiments, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 is configured to open gradually during sample 1904 addition such that the high energy sample 1904 fills at least part of the sample chamber 1901 without contacting the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the sample 1904 converts from the high energy sample 1904 to the low energy sample 1904 upon sample addition by contacting a portion of the sample chamber 1901 (e.g., the bottom side of the sample chamber 2112) or another sample 1904. In some embodiments, the sample 1904 covers the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the sample 1904 comprises the low energy sample 1904 when the sample 1904 contacts the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the sample chamber 1901 is filled with the sample 1904.

[0087] FIG.17D is a schematic diagram of an example of an optical system 1900 for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer 1903. In accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 for measuring a sample with an optical spectrometer 1903 comprises (a) an optical window 1902 configured to separate one or more illumination sources from a sample 1904, and (b) an optical window protector..

[0088] In some embodiments, the optical window protector operably couples to the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the optical window protector comprises a sample chamber 1901. In some cases, the sample chamber 1901 operably couples to the optical window 1902. In some instances, the sample chamber 1901 operably couples to the optical window 1902 by surrounding the optical window 1902. For example, the sample chamber may comprise a top sample chamber side 1905 in contact with an optical window surface base 2110. In further examples, the optical window surface base 2110 may lay below a top sample chamber side closed portion 1907. In further examples, the sample chamber may comprise a sample chamber inlet channel 1906 horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber may comprise a sample chamber inlet channel 1906 parallel adjacent to the optical window 1902.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0089] In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 comprises a bottom sample chamber side 2112 vertically adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 comprises a right sample chamber side 2114 horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 comprises a left sample chamber side 2113 horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 comprises a right sample chamber side 2114 parallel adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 comprises a left sample chamber side 2113 parallel adjacent to the optical window 1902.

[0090] In some cases, the sample chamber 1901 comprises : (i) a top sample chamber side 1905, wherein the top sample chamber side 1905 comprises: (1) a sample chamber inlet channel 1906 configured to direct at least a portion of the sample 1904 into a portion of the sample chamber 1901 and (2) a top sample chamber side closed portion 1907, wherein the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 defines one or more sample chamber openings 1906 horizontally adjacent to the top sample chamber side closed portion 1907.

[0091] In some embodiments, the optical window 1902 comprises an optical window surface base 2110 and an optical window surface tip 2111, wherein the optical window surface base 2110 is opposite the optical window surface tip 2111. In further embodiments, the sample chamber 1901 comprises (i) a sample chamber inlet channel 1906 configured to direct at least a portion of the sample 1904 into a portion of the sample chamber 1901, wherein the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 defines one or more sample chamber openings 1906 horizontally adjacent to the optical window surface tip 2111, and (ii) a sample chamber bottom surface 2112, wherein the sample chamber bottom surface 2112 is opposite the one or more sample chamber openings 1906, and wherein the optical window surface tip 2111 is directed towards the sample chamber bottom surface 2112.

[0092] In some embodiments, the optical window surface tip 2111 faces the bottom sample chamber side 2112. In some cases, the optical window surface tip 2111 is directed towards a side of the sample chamber 1901 that connects the one or more sample chamber openings 1906 and the sample chamber bottom surface 2112.

[0093] In FIG.17D, the optical window 1902 is facing down (e.g., toward the sample chamber bottom surface 2112). In further embodiments, the optical window surface base 2110 is positioned horizontally adjacent to the one or more sample chamber openings 1906. In further embodiments, the optical window surface base 2110 is positioned parallel adjacent to the one or more sample chamber openings 1906. In even further embodiments, the sample 1904 falls into the sample chamber 1901 around the optical window 1902 without hitting the optical window surface tip 2111 directly. In certain embodiments, the sample elements 1904 may cover theWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 optical window 1902 with minimal motion energy when the sample chamber 1901 is filled up to and including the optical window height (e.g., up to the optical window surface base 2110). Scratch-Resistant Layer

[0094] FIG.18 is a schematic diagram of an example of an optical system 1900 for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer 1903, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the optical window protector comprises a scratch- protective coating / scratch-resistant layer / scratch protective layer 2201. FIG.18 shows scratch- resistant layer 2201 applied onto the external surface of the optical window (e.g., optical window surface tip 2111). In further embodiments, the scratch-resistant layer 2201 protects the optical window 1902 (e.g., from damage by the sample 1904).

[0095] In some embodiments, the scratch protective layer 2201 is operably coupled to the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the scratch protective layer 2201 operably couples to the optical window 1902. In some cases, the scratch protective layer 2201, the optical window 1902, or a combination thereof protect the spectrometer 1903 from contacting the sample 1904. In some instances, the scratch protective layer 2201, the optical window 1902, or a combination thereof contact the sample 1904. For example, the scratch protective layer 2201, the optical window 1902, or a combination thereof may reduce a sample energy upon sample contact.

[0096] In some cases, the scratch protective layer 2201 is operably coupled to the optical window 1902 by comprising an additional layer covering / in contact with the optical window surface tip 2111. For example, the scratch protective layer 2210 may be positioned over at least a portion of the optical window surface tip 2111 of the optical system 1900. In further embodiments, a scratch protective layer 2201 may be positioned over substantially all of the optical window surface tip 2111 of the optical system 1900. In even further embodiments, a scratch protective layer 2201 may be positioned over at least a portion of the optical window 1902 of the optical system 1900. In even further embodiments, a scratch protective layer 2201 may be positioned over substantially all of the optical window 1902 of the optical system 1900.

[0097] In some embodiments, the scratch protective layer 2201 is configured to protect the optical window 1902 from damage by the sample 1904. In some cases, the sample 1904 contacts the scratch protective layer 2201 wherein the scratch protective layer 2201 covers at least part of the optical window 1902. For example, the sample 1904 is deflected by the scratch protective layer 2201 to another portion of the sample chamber 1901 and the sample does not directly contact the optical window 1902. In further examples, the optical window 1902 sustains little to no damage from a high energy sample contacting the scratch protective layer 2201. In further examples, the optical window 1902 comprises a optical window surface area, wherein theWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 optical window surface area is 90-99% scratch / damage free upon the high energy sample impacting the scratch protective layer 2201.

[0098] The scratch protective layer 2201 may preferably comprise a high transmission for light. For example, the scratch protective layer 2201 may comprise a dielectric layer with high transmission in the visible and infrared spectrum range.

[0099] The scratch protective layer 2201 may cover at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or at least about 95% of the optical window surface tip. The scratch protective layer may cover up to about 5%, up to about 10%, up to about 15%, up to about 20%, up to about 25%, up to about 30%, up to about 35%, up to about 40%, up to about 45%, up to about 50%, up to about 55%, up to about 60%, up to about 65%, up to about 70%, up to about 75%, up to about 80%, up to about 85%, up to about 90%, or up to about 95% of the optical window surface tip 2111. The scratch protective layer 2201 may cover a percentage of the optical window surface tip 2111 of the optical system 1900 that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. The scratch protective layer 2201 may comprise a scratch protective layer radius at least equal to the optical window radius. In some cases, the optical window radius comprises at least about 50 mm. Folding Element

[0100] FIG.19A - FIG.19B are schematic diagrams of examples of multiple optical systems 1900 for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer 1903 in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 further comprises a folding element 2301. In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 is operably coupled to the optical window 1902.

[0101] In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 operably couples to the optical window 1902. In some cases, the folding element 2301 and the optical window 1902 both protect the spectrometer 1903 from contacting the sample 1904. In some instances, the folding element 2301, the optical window 1902, or a combination thereof contact the sample. For example, the folding element 2301, the optical window 1902, or a combination thereof may reduce a sample energy upon sample contact.

[0102] In some cases, the folding element 2301 operably couples to the optical window 1902 by comprising an additional layer covering / in contact with the optical window surface tip 2111. For example, the folding element 2301 may be configured to cover at least part of the optical window 1902. In further embodiments, the folding element 2301 may be positioned overWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 substantially all of the optical window surface tip 2111 of the optical system 1900. In even further embodiments, a the folding element 2301 may be positioned over at least a portion of the optical window 1902 of the optical system 1900. In even further embodiments, the folding element 2301 may be positioned over substantially all of the optical window 1902 of the optical system 1900.

[0103] In some cases, the folding element 2301 may be made from plastic, metal or any other solid material capable of withstanding the direct impact of sample 1904 particles. In further embodiments, the folding element 2301 may be made from any solid material capable of withstanding the direct impact of sample 1904 particles configured to secure the capacity of the folding element 2301 to substantially protect the optical window 1902.

[0104] FIG.19A – FIG.19B shows the folding element 2301. In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 covers the optical window 1902 during sample fill (FIG.19A). In certain embodiments, the folding element 2301 unfolds on a path 2302. In some embodiments, the path 2302 begins to cover the optical window 1902 starting from the optical window side closest to the top sample chamber side 1905. In some embodiments, the path 2302 finishes covering the optical window 1902 at the optical window side closest to the bottom sample chamber side 2112.

[0105] In further embodiments, the folding element 2301 uncovers the optical window on a path 2303. In even further embodiments, the folding element 2301 uncovers the optical window 2303 to expose a larger area of the optical window (FIG.19B) after filling the sample chamber 1901 is completed. In even further embodiments, the folding element 2301 uncovers the dome 2303 to expose a larger area of the dome (FIG.19B) when the energy of the sample 1904 is small enough. In further embodiments, the folding element 2301 is in communication with one or more sensors configured to measure an energy of a sample. In some cases, the sample energy comprises a mean / average kinetic energy of sample 1904 particles. In some instances, the sample 1904 particles comprise a mean / average kinetic energy of less than 10 micro-joule. In some instances, the sample 1904 particles comprise a mean / average speed of less than 1 m / sec.

[0106] In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 comprises a spherical shape or cross- section. In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 comprises a hemi-spherical shape or cross-section. In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 is configured to cover at least part of the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 is configured to cover the entire optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 is configured to cover at least part of an optical window surface tip 2111. In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 is configured to cover the entire optical window surface tip 2111. In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 is configured to cover the entire optical windowWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 surface tip 2111 during sample addition. In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 is configured to unfold to expose at least part of the optical window surface tip 2111. In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 is configured to unfold to expose at least part of the optical window surface tip 2111 after the end of sample addition. In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 is configured to unfold to expose at least part of the optical window surface tip 2111 during sample addition, wherein the sample comprises a low energy sample 1904.

[0107] In some embodiments, the folding element 2301 is configured to protect the optical window 1902 from damage by the sample 1904. In some cases, the sample 1904 contacts the folding element 2301 wherein the folding element 2301 covers at least part of the optical window 1902. For example, the sample 1904 is deflected by the folding element 2301 to another portion of the sample chamber 1901 and the sample does not directly contact the optical window 1902. In further examples, the optical window 1902 sustains little to no damage from a high energy sample contacting the folding element 2301. In further examples, the optical window 1902 comprises a optical window surface area, wherein the optical window surface area is 90- 99% scratch / damage free upon the high energy sample impacting the folding element 2301.

[0108] The folding element 2301 may comprise a folding element radius at least equal to the optical window radius. In some cases, the optical window radius comprises at least about 50 mm. Scratch Protective Layer / Folding Element Transmission

[0109] The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may be spherical. The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may be hemi-spherical (for instance, as depicted in FIG.5 or FIG.6). The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may be cylindrical or tubular (for instance, as depicted in FIG.7 or FIG.8). The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may be polyhedral. The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may comprise one or more angles. For instance, the scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may comprise at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, at least 14, at least 15, at least 16, at least 17, at least 18, at least 19, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, or more angles. The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may comprise at most 100, at most 90, at most 80, at most 70, at most 60, at most 50, at most 40, at most 30, at most 20, at most 19, at most 18, at most 17, at most 16, at most 15, at most 14, at most 13, at most 12, at most 11, at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, or at most 1 angle. The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may comprise aWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 number of angles that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may have any number of substantially flat surfaces. The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may have any number of substantially curved surfaces.

[0110] Alternatively or in addition, the scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may have any combination of a number of substantially curved surfaces and substantially flat surfaces. The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may be transparent. The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may be translucent. The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may be opaque. The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may have a reflectivity of at least 0.01%, at least 0.02%, at least 0.03%, at least 0.04%, at least 0.05%, at least 0.06%, at least 0.07%, at least 0.08%, at least 0.09%, at least 0.1%, at least 0.2%, at least 0.3%, at least 0.4%, at least 0.5%, at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, at least 99.1%, at least 99.2%, at least 99.3%, at least 99.4%, at least 99.5%, at least 99.6%, at least 99.7%, at least 99.8%, at least 99.9%, at least 99.91%, at least 99.92%, at least 99.93%, at least 99.94%, at least 99.95%, at least 99.96%, at least 99.97%, at least 99.98%, at least 99.99%, or more, over a range of wavelengths detected by the optical spectrometer (and / or a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source). The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may have a reflectivity of at most 99.99%, at most 99.98%, at most 99.97%, at most 99.96%, at most 99.95%, at most 99.94%, at most 99.93%, at most 99.92%, at most 99.91%, at most 99.9%, at most 99.8%, at most 99.7%, at most 99.6%, at most 99.5%, at most 99.4%, at most 99.3%, at most 99.1%, at most 99.1%, at most 99%, at most 98%, at most 97%, at most 96%, at most 95%, at most 94%, at most 93%, at most 92%, at most 91%, at most 90%, at most 80%, at most 70%, at most 60%, at most 50%, at most 40%, at most 30%, at most 20%, at most 10%, at most 9%, at most 8%, at most 7%, at most 6%, at most 5%, at most 4%, at most 3%, at most 2%, at most 1%, at most 0.9%, at most 0.8%, at most 0.7%, at most 0.6%, at most 0.5%, at most 0.4%, at most 0.3%, at most 0.2%, at most 0.1%, at most 0.09%, at most 0.08%, at most 0.07%, at most 0.06%, at most 0.05%, at most 0.04%, at most 0.03%, at most 0.02%, at most 0.01%, or less, over a range of wavelengths detected by the optical spectrometer (and / or a range of wavelengths (and / or a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source). The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may have a reflectivity that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0111] The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may have a transmissivity of at least 0.01%, at least 0.02%, at least 0.03%, at least 0.04%, at least 0.05%, at least 0.06%, at least 0.07%, at least 0.08%, at least 0.09%, at least 0.1%, at least 0.2%, at least 0.3%, at least 0.4%, at least 0.5%, at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, at least 99.1%, at least 99.2%, at least 99.3%, at least 99.4%, at least 99.5%, at least 99.6%, at least 99.7%, at least 99.8%, at least 99.9%, at least 99.91%, at least 99.92%, at least 99.93%, at least 99.94%, at least 99.95%, at least 99.96%, at least 99.97%, at least 99.98%, at least 99.99%, or more, over a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source. The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may have a transmissivity of at most 99.99%, at most 99.98%, at most 99.97%, at most 99.96%, at most 99.95%, at most 99.94%, at most 99.93%, at most 99.92%, at most 99.91%, at most 99.9%, at most 99.8%, at most 99.7%, at most 99.6%, at most 99.5%, at most 99.4%, at most 99.3%, at most 99.1%, at most 99.1%, at most 99%, at most 98%, at most 97%, at most 96%, at most 95%, at most 94%, at most 93%, at most 92%, at most 91%, at most 90%, at most 80%, at most 70%, at most 60%, at most 50%, at most 40%, at most 30%, at most 20%, at most 10%, at most 9%, at most 8%, at most 7%, at most 6%, at most 5%, at most 4%, at most 3%, at most 2%, at most 1%, at most 0.9%, at most 0.8%, at most 0.7%, at most 0.6%, at most 0.5%, at most 0.4%, at most 0.3%, at most 0.2%, at most 0.1%, at most 0.09%, at most 0.08%, at most 0.07%, at most 0.06%, at most 0.05%, at most 0.04%, at most 0.03%, at most 0.02%, at most 0.01%, or less, over a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source. The optical window surface tip 2111 may have a transmissivity that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0112] The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may comprise an anti- reflective material. The anti-reflective material may have any reflectivity or transmissivity described herein with respect to the optical window surface tip 2111 of the accessory.

[0113] The scratch protective layer 2201 or folding element 2301 may comprise a diffuse reflective material. The diffuse reflective material may comprise a diffuse white reflector. The diffuse reflective material may be substantially flat. The diffuse reflective material may be outside a range of a direct field of view of a light source used with the accessory 1950. The diffuse reflective material may be outside a range of a direct field of view of an optical spectrometer used with the accessory 1950. Air NozzleWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0114] FIG.20 is a schematic diagram of an example of an optical system for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer 1903, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the optical system for measuring a sample 1900 with an optical spectrometer 1903 comprises (a) an optical window 1902 configured to separate one or more illumination sources from a sample 1904, and (b) an optical window protector.

[0115] In some embodiments, the optical window protector comprises an air nozzle 2401.

[0116] In some cases, the air nozzle 2401 is powered by pressurized air supplied by a compressor. In some instances, the compressor comprises a compressor configured for pneumatic equipment. For example, the pressurized air, controlled by the compressor, may be directed through the air nozzle 2401 towards the sample 1904. In further examples, the action forms an air cushion or barrier that prevents the spectrometer 1903 from directly contacting the sample 1904. In further examples, the air nozzle 2401 provides additional protection for the spectrometer 1903 and also helps manage the energy of the sample 1904 upon contact (e.g., thus contributing to a more precise and reliable measurement).

[0117] In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 operably couples to the optical window 1902. In some cases, the air nozzle 2401, the optical window 1902, or a combination thereof protect the spectrometer 1903 from contacting the sample 1904. In some instances, the air nozzle 2401, the optical window 1902, or a combination thereof contact the sample 1904. For example, the optical air nozzle 2401, the optical window 1902, or a combination thereof may reduce a sample energy upon sample contact.

[0118] In some embodiments, the optical window protector operably couples to the sample chamber 1901. In some cases, the air nozzle 2401 operably couples to the sample chamber 1901.

[0119] In some cases, the sample chamber 1901 operably couples to the optical window 1902. In some instances, the sample chamber 1901 operably couples to the optical window 1902 by surrounding the optical window 1902. For example, the sample chamber may comprise a left sample chamber side 2113 in contact with an optical window surface base 2110. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 comprises a top sample chamber side 1905 vertically adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 comprises a bottom sample chamber side 2112 vertically adjacent to the optical window 1902. In further examples, the sample chamber 1901 comprises a right sample chamber side 2114 horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902.

[0120] In some cases, the air nozzle 2401 operably couples to the top side sample chamber 1905. For example, the air nozzle may 2401 may be placed above the top sample chamber side 1905. In further examples the air nozzle may 2401 may be placed above and to the left of the topWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 sample chamber side 1905. In further examples, the air nozzle 2401 may be placed above the optical spectrometer 1903. In even further examples, the air nozzle 2401 may be placed above and to the left of the optical window 1902. In even further examples, the air nozzle 2401 may be placed above and to the left of the optical window 1902, above the optical spectrometer 1903, above and to the left of the top sample chamber side 1905.

[0121] In some cases, the air nozzle 2401 comprises an air nozzle external surface. In some instances, the air nozzle external surface comprises a top air nozzle external surface and a bottom air nozzle external surface. For example, the top air nozzle external surface and the bottom air nozzle external surface are opposite each other.

[0122] In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 is positioned on one or more sample chamber sides. In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 is positioned between one or more sample chamber sides.

[0123] In some cases, the left sample chamber side 2113 and the top sample chamber side 1905 connect at a top left sample chamber side. In some instances, the air nozzle 2401 operably couples to the top left sample chamber side. For example, the bottom air nozzle external surface may, at least in part, be placed on top of the top left sample chamber side. In some cases, the right sample chamber side 2114 and the top sample chamber side 1905 connect at a top right sample chamber side. In some instances, the air nozzle 2401 operably couples to the top right sample chamber side. For example, the bottom air nozzle external surface may, at least in part, be placed on top of the top right sample chamber side.

[0124] In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 comprises an air nozzle channel. In some cases, the air nozzle channel is between the top air nozzle external surface and the bottom air nozzle external surface.

[0125] In some cases, the air nozzle channel comprises a stream of air. In some instances, the stream of air may be directed at or near the sample channel inlet 1906. For example, the air nozzle channel may direct the stream of air at or near a sample 1904. For example, the air nozzle channel may direct the stream of air at or near a sample 1904 as the sample enters the sample channel inlet 1906. In even further examples, the stream of air hits the sample 1904, and directs the sample away from the optical window 1902.

[0126] FIG.20 shows deflection of the sample 1904 from hitting the optical window 1902 using an air nozzle or “air blade” 2401 placed above the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 comprises a pneumatic jet. In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 comprises an air blade. In certain embodiments, the optical system comprises an air nozzle 2401. In further embodiments, the optical system comprises an air nozzle configured to protect the optical window 1902 from damage.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0127] In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 is configured to be placed above the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 is configured to deflect at least a portion of the sample 1904 passing through the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 away from the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 is configured to prevent the sample 1906 from contacting the optical window 1902 with high impact energy. In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 is configured to be placed above the optical window 1902 and to the left of sample chamber 2113. In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 is configured to direct the sample 1904 to the right of the optical window surface tip 2111. In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 is configured to direct the sample 1904 towards the right sample chamber side 2114.

[0128] In some embodiments, the optical window 1902 comprises a dome. In some embodiments, the dome 1902 comprises a spherical shape or cross-section. In some embodiments, the dome 1902 comprises a hemi-spherical shape or cross-section.

[0129] In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 further comprises an optical window protector. In some embodiments, the optical window protector comprises one or more of the user adjustable slidable gate 2101, scratch protective coating 2201, the air nozzle 2401, or the folding element 2301.

[0130] In further embodiments, the optical system comprises an accessory 1950. In even further embodiments, the accessory 1950 comprises the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 or the air nozzle 2401. In even further embodiments, the accessory 1950 comprises the optical window 1902, wherein the optical window 1902 comprises a scratch protective coating 2201, a folding element 2301, or a combination thereof configured to protect the optical window from damage. Integration into Larger System

[0131] The optical systems 1900 the present disclosure may be integrated into a larger system. For example, a larger system may comprise an optical systems 1900 described herein and an instrument coupled or otherwise integrated to the optical system 1900. In some embodiments, an optical system 1900 as disclosed herein may be integrated into a tool configured to perform additional actions. For example, the tool may be configured to interface or perform one or more actions on the sample that is measured or monitored by the optical systems 1900 of the present disclosure.

[0132] The optical systems 1900 may be coupled to the instrument via one or more fastening mechanisms described herein. Examples of fastening mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, complementary threading, form-fitting pairs, hooks and loops, latches, threads, screws, staples, clips, clamps, prongs, rings, brads, rubber bands, rivets, grommets, pins, ties, snaps, velcro, adhesives (e.g., glue), tapes, vacuum, seals, magnets, magnetic seals, aWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 combination thereof, or any other types of fastening mechanisms. Alternatively, the optical systems 1900 may be integrally part of the instrument. For example, the optical systems 1900 can be monolithically built into the instrument, or vice versa.

[0133] In some instances, the optical systems 1900 and the instrument can be fastened to each other via complementary fastening units. For example, the optical systems 1900 and the instrument can complete a form-fitting pair. The optical systems 1900 can comprise a form- fitting male component and the instrument can comprise a form-fitting female component, and / or vice versa. In some instances, an outer diameter of a protrusion-type fastening unit of the optical systems 1900 can be substantially equal to an inner diameter of a depression-type fastening unit of the instrument, or vice versa, to form an interference fit.

[0134] Alternatively or in addition, the optical systems 1900 and instrument can comprise other types of complementary units or structures (e.g., hook and loop, latches, snap-ons, buttons, nuts and bolts, magnets, etc.) that can be fastened together. Alternatively or in addition, the optical systems 1900 and instrument can be fastened using other fastening mechanisms, such as but not limited to staples, clips, clamps, prongs, rings, brads, rubber bands, rivets, grommets, pins, ties, snaps, velcro, adhesives (e.g., glue), magnets or magnetic fields, tapes, a combination thereof, or any other types of fastening mechanisms.

[0135] In some instances, the optical systems 1900 and the instrument can be fastened to each other via an intermediary structure. The intermediary structure may be a linker or connector between the optical systems 1900 and the instrument. In some instances, the intermediary structure may be fastened to one or both of the optical systems 1900 and the instrument through one or more of any of the fastening mechanisms described herein. The intermediary structure may be solid. The intermediary structure may be liquid or gas. The intermediary structure may be a gel. In some instances, the intermediary structure may be applied as one phase (e.g., liquid) and transform into another phase (e.g., solid) after passage of time such as to achieve the fastening. For example, the intermediary structure may comprise a fluid adhesive that solidifies to achieve the fastening. In some instances, the intermediary structure may be capable of transforming from a first phase to a second phase, such as from liquid to solid or from solid to liquid, upon application of a stimulus (e.g., thermal change, pH change, pressure change, magnetic field, electric field, etc.) to achieve fastening or unfastening (or both). In some instances, the optical systems 1900 and / or the instrument may comprise the intermediary structure. For example, the intermediary structure may be integral to the optical systems 1900 and / or the instrument. In some instances, the optical systems 1900 and / or the instrument, in part or entirely, may be capable of transforming from a first phase to a second phase, such as from liquid to solid or from solid to liquid, upon application of a stimulus (e.g., thermal change, pHWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 change, pressure change, magnetic field, electric field, etc.) to achieve fastening or unfastening (or both).

[0136] The fastening between the optical systems 1900 and the instrument can be temporary, such as to allow for subsequent unfastening of the optical systems 1900 and instrument without damage (e.g., permanent deformation, disfigurement, etc.) to the optical systems 1900 and instrument or with minimal damage. In some cases, the fastening and unfastening can be readily repeatable any number of times with no, or minimal, damage to both the optical systems 1900 and instrument to permit independent mobility and replacement of one or both of the optical systems 1900 and the instrument when not fastened together (e.g., as an assembly).

[0137] Alternatively, the fastening can be permanent, such as to allow for subsequent unfastening of the optical systems 1900 and instrument only by damaging at least one of the optical systems 1900 and instrument. One of the optical systems 1900 and instrument, or both, can be temporarily or permanently deformed (e.g., stretched, compressed, etc.) and / or disfigured (e.g., bent, wrinkled, folded, creased, etc.) or otherwise manipulated when fastened to each other or during fastening. In some instances, one or both of the optical systems 1900 and instrument can be cut into or pierced by the other when the optical systems 1900 and instrument are fastened together. Agricultural Equipment

[0138] In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 is mounted to an agricultural equipment. In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 comprises an accessory to an agricultural equipment. In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 is integrally part of the agricultural equipment. In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 is monolithically built into the agricultural equipment or vice-versa.

[0139] In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 is coupled to the agricultural equipment via one or more fastening mechanisms. In some embodiments, the one or more fastening mechanisms comprises complementary threading, form-fitting pairs, hooks and loops, latches, threads, screws, staples, clips, clamps, prongs, rings, brads, rubber bands, rivets, grommets, pins, ties, snaps, Velcro, adhesives (e.g., glue), tapes, vacuum, seals, magnets, magnetic seals, a combination thereof, or any other types of fastening mechanisms. In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 and the agricultural equipment can be fastened to each other via an intermediary structure. In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 and the agricultural equipment can be fastened to each other via complementary fastening units. Grain Weighing Module

[0140] In some embodiments, the agricultural equipment is a grain weighing module. In some embodiments, the grain weight module comprises a load cell module, weighbridge module,WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 conveyor belt scale, hopper scale, silo weighing system, portable weighing module, in-motion weighing system, precision weighing module, wireless weighing system, automated grain weighing system, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the grain weighing module is mounted on an agricultural combine.

[0141] In some embodiments, the agricultural equipment is selected from the group consisting of a grain weighing module, a load cell module, a weighbridge module, a conveyor belt scale, a hopper scale, a silo weighing system, a portable weighing module, an in-motion weighing system, a precision weighing module, a wireless weighing system, an automated grain weighing system and any combinations thereof. Combines

[0142] In some embodiments, the agricultural equipment is a mounted on a combine. In some embodiments, the grain weighing module is mounted on a combine. In some embodiments, the grain weighing module is mounted on a research combine. In some embodiments, the grain weighing module is mounted on a regular harvesting combine. In some embodiments, the grain weighing module is mounted on a grain combine harvester, corn combine harvester, soybean combine harvester, rice combine harvester, forage harvester, cotton combine harvester, sugar cane harvester, potato harvester, vegetable harvester, grapes harvester, olive harvester, lentil combine harvester, bean combine harvester, sunflower combine harvester, or specialty crop harvester. In some embodiments, the grain weighing module is mounted on a grain sampler, drain drier, grain elevator, or grain storage bins. In some cases, one or more spectrometers of the present disclosure may be integrated into a combine. For example, the one or more spectrometers can be mounted within a combine and configured to measure a property of a sample (e.g., agricultural product) while the sample is being processed by the combine. In some cases, the analysis of the sample can be real-time with the harvesting of the sample. For example, the sample can be harvested by the combine and, after the harvesting, analyzed by the spectrometer. In this example, the sample can be analyzed as it passes from the harvesting portion of the combine to a storage portion of the combine. A portion of a harvest by the combine can be analyzed by the optical system. For example, a portion of the harvest of the combine can be diverted to the optical system for analysis. In this way, real time information on the crop can be acquired. For example, the information can provide analysis of a property of the sample that informs the downstream processing of the sample.

[0143] In some embodiments, the group of a grain weighing module, a load cell module, a weighbridge module, a conveyor belt scale, a hopper scale, a silo weighing system, a portable weighing module, an in-motion weighing system, a precision weighing module, a wireless weighing system, an automated grain weighing system and any combinations thereof is mountedWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 on one of more of an agricultural combine, research combine, regular harvesting combine, grain combine harvester, corn combine harvester, soybean combine harvester, rice combine harvester, forage harvester, cotton combine harvester, sugar cane harvester, potato harvester, vegetable harvester, grapes harvester, olive harvester, lentil combine harvester, bean combine harvester, sunflower combine harvester, specialty crop harvester grain sampler, drain drier, grain elevator, or grain storage bin. Vehicles

[0144] In some embodiments, the agricultural equipment is a mounted on a vehicle. In some embodiments, the grain weighing module is mounted on a vehicle. In some embodiments, the vehicle comprises a tractor, combine harvester, plow, seeder and planter, cultivator, harvester, baler, sprayer, fertilizer spreader, mower, truck and trailer combination, atv and utv, skid steer loader, front loader, cart and wagon, irrigation vehicle, utility vehicle, drone and uav, grain cart, manure spreader, or combination thereof. Sample

[0145] The sample may be a solid sample. The sample may be a powder sample. In some embodiments, the sample comprises a solid. In some embodiments, the sample comprises at least one particle that may scratch the dome when hitting the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the sample comprises at least one particle that may affect optical properties of the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the optical properties comprise an internal reflection, translucence, diffusivity, optical clarity, or a combination thereof.

[0146] In some embodiments, the sample comprises any grain. In some embodiments, the sample comprises any grain cropped in the field and mixed with soil residue. In some embodiments, the sample comprises corn. In some embodiments, the sample comprises soybeans, corn, wheat, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the sample comprises wheat, rice, corn (maize), barley, oats, rye, sorghum, millet, quinoa, buckwheat, triticale, amaranth, teff, wild rice, spelt, kamut, emmer, einkorn, or a combination thereof. Accessories

[0147] Described herein are optical accessories for use with an optical system 1900. An optical accessory 1950 of the present disclosure may improve the sensitivity or efficiency of an optical system 1900, for example when measuring a sample 1904.

[0148] In some embodiments, an accessory 1950 for measuring a sample with an optical spectrometer is provided. In some embodiments, the accessory 1950 comprises an optical window 1902 configured to separate one or more illumination sources from a sample 1904; a sample chamber 1901 comprising a sample chamber inlet channel 1906 configured to direct atWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 least a portion of the sample 1904 into a portion of the sample chamber 1901, wherein the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 defines a sample chamber opening vertically adjacent to the optical window, and a means for protecting the optical window 1902 from scratching by the sample 1904.

[0149] In some embodiments, an accessory 1950 for measuring a sample with an optical spectrometer 1903 is provided. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises an optical window 1902 configured to separate one or more illumination sources from a sample 1904, a sample chamber 1901 comprising a top sample chamber side 1905, wherein the top sample chamber side 1905 comprises a sample chamber inlet channel 1906 configured to direct at least a portion of the sample 1904 into a portion of the sample chamber 1901 and a top sample chamber side closed portion 1907, wherein the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 defines a sample chamber opening horizontally adjacent to the top sample chamber side closed portion 1907, and an optical window protector.

[0150] In some embodiments, the accessory 1950 comprises an angle 1908 of between about 0 to about 90 degrees between the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 and the top sample chamber side closed portion 1907. In some embodiments, the accessory 1905 comprises a user adjustable slidable gate 2101 operably coupled to the sample chamber opening. In some embodiments, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 is configured to deflect sample away from the optical window 1902.

[0151] In some embodiments, the means for protecting the optical window from scratching by the sample comprises an air nozzle 2401.

[0152] In some embodiments, the means for protecting the optical window from scratching by the sample comprises a scratch protective coating 2201.

[0153] In some embodiments, the means for protecting the optical window from scratching by the sample comprises the air nozzle 2401 and the scratch protective coating 2201. In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 comprises a pneumatic jet. In some embodiments, the air nozzle 2401 comprises an air blade.

[0154] In some embodiments, the means for protecting the optical window from scratching by the sample comprises a folding element 2301.

[0155] In some embodiments, the means for protecting the optical window from scratching by the sample comprises an upper gate / user adjustable slidable gate 2101.

[0156] In some embodiments, the optical window 1902 comprises a dome. In some embodiments, the dome comprises a spherical shape or cross-section. In some embodiments, the dome comprises a hemi-spherical shape or cross-section.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 Sample Chamber

[0157] In some embodiments, the optical accessory 1950 may comprise a sample chamber 1901 configured to hold a sample 1904 in optical communication with an optical spectrometer 1903.

[0158] In some embodiments, the sample chamber 1901 encompasses the optical window 1902.

[0159] In some embodiments, the sample chamber 1901 comprises one or more sample chamber sides. In some embodiments, the one or more sample chamber sides define an outer perimeter of the sample chamber 1901.

[0160] In some embodiments, the sample chamber 1901 comprises a sample chamber inlet channel 1906 configured to direct at least a portion of the sample 1904 into a portion of the sample chamber 1901. In some cases, the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 comprises one or more sample chamber openings that are adjacent to the optical window 1902. In some instances, the one or more sample chamber openings are vertically adjacent to the optical window 1902. In some instances, the one or more sample chamber openings are horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902. In some instances, the one or more sample chamber openings are parallel adjacent to the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the one or more sample chamber sides comprises a side closed portion 1907 adjacent to the sample chamber inlet channel 1906. In some cases, the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 connects to the side closed portion 1907 at an angle. In some instances, the angel has a range of about 0 to about 90 degrees.

[0161] In some embodiments, the one or more sample chamber sides comprise a top sample chamber side 1905, a bottom sample chamber side 2112, a left sample chamber side 2113, and a right sample chamber side 2114. In some embodiments, the top sample chamber side 1905 comprises a sample chamber surface opposite the bottom sample chamber side 2112. In some embodiments, the sample chamber bottom surface 2112 comprises a sample chamber surface opposite from the one or more sample chamber openings 1906. In some embodiments, the left sample chamber side 2113 comprises a sample chamber surface opposite the right sample chamber side 2114. In further embodiments, the sample chamber may comprise a cover (e.g., a reflective cover).

[0162] In some cases, the left sample chamber side 2113 and the top sample chamber side 1905 connect at a top left sample chamber side. In some cases, the right sample chamber side 2114 and the top sample chamber side 1905 connect at a top right sample chamber side.

[0163] In some embodiments, the top sample chamber side 1905 comprises the sample chamber inlet channel 1906. In some embodiments, the sample chamber inlet channel comprises 1906 at least one opening configured for addition of the sample 1904. In some embodiments, the bottom sample chamber side 2112 comprises a location for sample storage. In some embodiments, the bottom sample chamber side 2112 comprises a sample chamber outlet channel. In someWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 embodiments, the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 is configured to direct at least a portion of the sample 1904 to the bottom sample chamber side 2112.

[0164] In some embodiments, the sample chamber inlet channel 1906 comprises a diagonal channel configured to direct the sample 1904 from the opening configured for addition of the sample away from the optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the top sample chamber side 1905 comprises two adjacent sections, wherein one section comprises the diagonal channel 1906 and the other section comprises a top sample chamber side closed portion 1907. In some embodiments, the optical accessory 1950 comprises an angle 1908 of between about 0 degrees to about 90 degrees between the diagonal channel 1906 and the top sample chamber side closed portion 1907. In some embodiments, the opening configured for addition of the sample is located near the right sample chamber side 2114. In some embodiments, the top sample chamber side comprises an upper gate / user adjustable slidable gate 2101.

[0165] In some embodiments, the sample chamber 1901 comprises a sample chamber width. In some cases, the sample chamber width comprises a horizontal distance between a left sample chamber side 2113 and a right sample chamber side 2114.

[0166] The optical system 1900 may comprise a sample chamber 1901 surrounding all or part of an encasement. The sample chamber 1901 may be configured to hold the sample 1904 in the sample volume. The sample chamber 1901 may be configured to contain, position, or distribute the sample around the spectrometer 1901 or optical window 1902 and maintain the sample 1904 in the sample volume in optical communication with the optical spectrometer 1903. The sample chamber 1901 may be configured to hold a sample. The sample chamber 1901 may be configured to hold a solid sample 1904. The sample chamber 1901 may be configured to hold a powder sample.

[0167] The sample chamber 1901 may be interchangeable with a second sample chamber.

[0168] In some embodiments, the sample chamber 1901 may be a sample chamber configured to receive or hold a sample 1904, as shown in FIG.17A – 17D. The sample chamber 1901 may be used in combination with an optical window 1902, for example an optical window illustrated in any one of FIG.5 – FIG.8. In some embodiments, the sample chamber 1901 may be a sample chamber configured to hold a small, medium, large or combination thereof sized sample 1904 as shown in FIG.15 – FIG.20.

[0169] A sample may lack sufficient volume to sufficiently cover an optical window surface tip 2111 of a sample accessory 1950 for spectroscopic analysis using an optical spectrometer 1903.

[0170] As illustrated in FIG.17A – 17D, a sample 1904 may be contained within a sample chamber 1901 configured to hold a sample 1904. The sample chamber 1901 may be configured to hold an amount of the sample 1904 in optical communication with the optical spectrometerWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 1903. The sample may be contained within the sample chamber 1901 such that only a fraction of the optical window surface tip 2111 of a sample accessory (e.g., a hemispherical sample accessory, a tubular sample accessory, or a cylindrical sample accessory) is covered by the sample 1904.

[0171] As illustrated in FIG.15 – FIG.20, a sample 1904 may be contained within a sample chamber 1901 configured to hold a sample of small to large size. The sample chamber 1901 may be configured to hold an amount of the sample in optical communication with the optical spectrometer 1903. The sample may be contained within the sample chamber 1901 such that only a fraction of the optical window surface tip 2111 of an optical window 1902 (e.g., a hemispherical sample accessory, a tubular sample accessory, or a cylindrical sample accessory) is covered by the sample 1904. The sample may be contained within the sample chamber 1901 such that all of the optical window surface tip 2111 of a sample accessory 1950 (e.g., a hemispherical sample accessory, a tubular sample accessory, or a cylindrical sample accessory) is covered by the sample 1904.

[0172] In some embodiments, the surface area of the optical spectrometer 1903 may be small compared to the surface area of the sample 1904 such that most of the light reaching the spectrometer 1903 has had multiple interactions with the sample 1904. Increasing the number of times the light interacts with the sample 1904 may increase the sensitivity of the measurement. In some embodiments, light reaching the optical spectrometer 1903 may achieve at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, at least 200, at least 300, at least 400, at least 1900, at least 600, at least 700, at least 800, at least 900, at least 1,000, or more optical interactions with the sample before being received by the optical spectrometer.

[0173] The walls of the sample chamber 1901 may be absorptive, or the walls of the sample chamber 1901 may be reflective. In some embodiments, sample chamber 1901 may comprise a reflective material for example gold, silver, silvered mirror, aluminum, chrome, lacquer, nickel, paint, enamel, steel, a polymer, mylar, or a retroreflective material. In some embodiments, the sample chamber 1901 may comprise an absorptive material for example acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), absorptive paint, or anodized metal.

[0174] In some embodiments the walls of the sample chamber 1901 may be orthogonal to the scratch protective layer 2201, the optical window surface tip 2111 of optical window 1902, or both, as shown in FIG.14B. In some embodiments, the walls of the sample chamber (e.g., comprising a reflective material) are orthogonal to a hemispherical surface (e.g., a hemispherical scratch protective layer or a hemispherical optical window surface tip) and are oriented such thatWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 light reflected off the sample chamber walls is not directed toward the optical spectrometer 540, as shown in FIG.14B. In some embodiments, the walls of the sample chamber (e.g., comprising a reflective material) form a conic section with the tip of the cone coincident with the center of a hemisphere (e.g., a hemispherical scratch protective layer or a hemispherical sample accessory), as shown in FIG.14B.

[0175] In some embodiments, at least part of the walls of the sample chamber 1901 may run parallel to and orthogonal to the scratch protective layer 2201, the folding element 2301, the optical window surface tip 2111 of optical window 1902, or both, as shown in FIG.15 – FIG. 20. In some embodiments, the walls of the sample chamber 1903 (e.g., comprising a reflective material) are parallel to a hemispherical surface (e.g., a hemispherical scratch protective layer or a hemispherical optical window surface tip) and are oriented such that light reflected off the sample chamber walls is directed toward the optical spectrometer 540, as shown in FIG.15 – FIG.20.

[0176] In some embodiments, a sample chamber 1901 may comprise a cover, wherein the cover comprises a reflective material 575, as shown in FIG.14A and FIG.14B. The cover may be a reflective cover and may reflect illumination that passes through the sample, thereby returning the illumination to the sample chamber. The cover may prevent illumination from escaping the sample chamber of a sample accessory 1950. In some embodiments, the cover forms a section of a sphere (e.g., a spherical cap) positioned such that a sensor of the spectrometer is positioned at approximately the center of the sphere.

[0177] In some embodiments, the sample chamber walls of FIG.15- FIG.20 may comprise the reflective material 575 and may reflect illumination that passes through the sample 1904, thereby returning the illumination to the optical window 1902. The reflective material may prevent illumination from escaping the sample chamber 1903 of a sample accessory 1950.

[0178] Reflecting the illumination and returning the illumination to the sample chamber 1901 may increase the sensitivity of a sample measurement by increasing the number of interactions the illumination has with the sample or by reducing loss of illumination. The reflective material 575 may comprise a The sample chamber 1901 may include one or more sample chamber walls comprising the reflective material. The reflective sample chamber walls may reflect visible light, infrared light, ultraviolet light, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, illumination reflected off of the reflective sample chamber walls is not reflected directly toward the sensor. Instead, the illumination may have additional interactions with the sample 1904, the inner optical window surface ceiling 520, the inner optical window surface floor 525, or a combination thereof. For example, the reflective cover may be configured such that light reflected off of the reflective cover achieves at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5,WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, at least 200, at least 300, at least 400, at least 1900, at least 600, at least 700, at least 800, at least 900, at least 1,000, or more optical interactions with the sample before being received by the optical spectrometer 1903.

[0179] The sample chamber 1901 may be configured to hold a sample 1904 that is no more than about 500 mL, no more than about 450 mL, no more than about 400 mL, no more than about 350 mL, no more than about 300 mL, no more than about 250 mL, no more than about 200 mL, no more than about 150 mL, no more than about 100 mL, no more than about 90 mL, no more than about 80 mL, no more than about 70 mL, no more than about 60 mL, no more than about 50 mL, no more than about 40 mL, no more than about 30 mL, no more than about 20 mL, no more than about 10 mL, no more than about 9 mL, no more than about 8 mL, no more than about 7 mL, no more than about 6 mL, no more than about 5 mL, no more than about 4 mL, no more than about 3 mL, no more than about 2 mL, or no more than about 1 mL in volume. The sample 1904 may have a volume that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0180] The sample chamber 1901 may be configured to hold a sample 1904 that is no more than about 5000 mL, no more than about 4500 mL, no more than about 4000 mL, no more than about 3500 mL, no more than about 3000 mL, no more than about 2500 mL, no more than about 2000 mL, no more than about 1500 mL, no more than about 1000 mL, no more than about 900 mL, no more than about 800 mL, no more than about 700 mL, no more than about 600 mL, no more than about 500 mL, no more than about 400 mL, no more than about 300 mL, no more than about 200 mL, no more than about 100 mL, no more than about 90 mL, no more than about 80 mL, no more than about 70 mL, no more than about 60 mL, no more than about 50 mL, no more than about 40 mL, no more than about 30 mL, no more than about 20 mL, no more than about 10 mL, no more than about 9 mL, no more than about 8 mL, no more than about 7 mL, no more than about 6 mL, no more than about 5 mL, no more than about 4 mL, no more than about 3 mL, no more than about 2 mL, or no more than about 1 mL in volume. The sample 1904 may have a volume that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0181] The sample chamber 1901 may be configured to hold a sample 1904 that is no more than about 1000 mL, no more than about 900 mL, no more than about 800 mL, no more than about 700 mL, no more than about 600 mL, no more than about 500 mL, no more than about 400 mL, no more than about 300 mL, no more than about 200 mL, no more than about 180 mL, no more than about 160 mL, no more than about 140 mL, no more than about 120 mL, no more than about 100 mL, no more than about 80 mL, no more than about 60 mL, no more than about 40 mL, no more than about 20 mL, no more than about 18 mL, no more than about 16 mL, no moreWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 than about 14 mL, no more than about 12 mL, no more than about 10 mL, no more than about 8 mL, no more than about 6 mL, no more than about 4 mL, no more than about 2 mL, or no more than about 1 mL in volume. The sample 1904 may have a volume that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0182] In some embodiments up to about 5%, up to about 10%, up to about 15%, up to about 20%, up to about 25%, up to about 30%, up to about 35%, up to about 40%, up to about 45%, up to about 50%, up to about 55%, up to about 60%, up to about 65%, up to about 70%, up to about 75%, up to about 80%, up to about 85%, up to about 90%, or up to about 95% of optical window surface tip 2111 of a sample accessory is covered by the sample 1904. In some embodiments at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or at least about 95% of optical window surface tip 2111 of an optical window 1902 is covered by the sample 1904. The sample 1904 may cover a percentage of the optical window surface tip 2111 of the optical window 1902 that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0183] In some embodiments, the sample chamber may be a cup-shaped sample chamber 1100, as shown in FIG.11. The sample chamber may comprise a sample size adaptor configured to reduce the amount of sample in the sample chamber while maintaining the amount of sample in optical communication with the optical spectrometer. The sample size adaptor may be inserted into the sample chamber. The sample size adaptor may comprise a sample container 1520. The sample volume 1520 may be configured to fully or partially surround the optical window 1902. The sample volume may be hemispherical. The sample container may have a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the optical window. The sample container may further comprise a funnel 1510. The funnel may comprise a wide end and a narrow end. The wide end may be open to allow sample insertion, and the narrow end may be connected to the sample container. The funnel may be configured to reduce sample loss while inserting the sample into the sample container. In some embodiments, the sample chamber described with respect to FIG.13 may be used in combination with the cup-shaped sample chamber 1100 of FIG.11.

[0184] FIG.2 shows a schematic diagram of an optical system 1900. In many instances, the spectrometer system 1900 may comprise a handheld spectrometer 102, or spectrometers 300, 401, and 540 as described herein or elsewhere in this specification and a mobile device 110 in wireless communication 116 with a remote server or storage, such as a cloud based server or storage system 118. The handheld spectrometer 102, or spectrometers 300, 401, and 540 as can acquire the data as described herein or elsewhere in this specification. The handheldWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 spectrometer 102, or spectrometers 300, 401, and 540 as may comprise a processor 106 and communication circuitry 104 coupled to the spectrometer head 120 having spectrometer components as described herein or elsewhere in this specification. The spectrometer can transmit the data to the mobile device 110 with communication circuitry 104 with a communication link, such as a wireless serial communication link, for example BluetoothTM. The mobile device can receive the data from the handheld spectrometer 102, or spectrometers 300, 401, and 540 as and transmit the data to the cloud based storage system 118. The data can be processed and analyzed by the cloud based server 118 and transmitted back to the mobile device 110 to be displayed to the user. In addition, the analyzed spectral data and / or related additional analysis results may be dynamically added to a universal database operated by the cloud server 118, where the spectral data associated with sample materials may be stored. The spectral data stored on the database may comprise data generated by one or more users of the spectrometer system 100, and / or pre-loaded spectral data of materials with known spectra. The cloud based server may comprise a memory having the database stored thereon.

[0185] The optical system 1900 may allow multiple users to connect to the cloud based server 118 via their mobile devices 110, as described in further detail herein. In some instances, the server 118 may be configured to simultaneously communicate with up to millions of mobile devices 110. The ability of the system to support a large number of users and devices at the same time can allow users of the system to access, in some instances in real-time, large amounts of information relating to a material of interest. Access to such information may provide users with a way of making informed decisions relating to a material of interest or differentiating among a variety of materials.

[0186] The mobile device 110 may comprise one or more components of a smart phone, such as a display 112, an interface 114, a processor, a computer readable memory and communication circuitry, such as one or more transmitters and receivers (or transceivers). The mobile device 110 may comprise a substantially stationary device when used, such as a wireless communication gateway, for example.

[0187] The processor 106 may comprise a tangible medium embodying instructions, such as a computer readable memory embodying instructions of a computer program. Alternatively or in combination, the processor may comprise logic such as gate array logic in order to perform one or more logic steps. In some cases, the handheld spectrometer 102, or spectrometers 300, 401, and 540 can be integrated with the mobile device 110. For example, the handheld spectrometer 102, or spectrometers 300, 401, and 540 as can be a part of the mobile device 110. In this case, it would be convenient for the user of the mobile device 110 to collect spectral data of a material of interest and transmit the collected spectral data to the cloud based server at any time using theWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 mobile device. Additionally or alternatively, the handheld spectrometer 102, or spectrometers 300, 401, and 540 can either be enclosed within the mobile device itself or mounted on and connected to the mobile device by wired or wireless means for providing power and a data link. By incorporating the spectrometer system into a mobile device, the spectral data obtained with the spectrometer can be uploaded to a remote location, and analysis can be performed there. Afterwards, the user can be notified of the results of the analysis. The spectrometer system can also be equipped with a Global Position System (GPS) device and / or altimeter so that a physical location or a height of a sample being measured can be reported. Further non-limiting examples of such components may include a camera for recording the visual impression of the sample and sensors for measuring such environmental variables as temperature and humidity.

[0188] FIG.3 is a schematic diagram of an example of an optical spectrometer 300. In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 comprises optical spectrometer 1903. In further embodiments, optical spectrometer 1903 comprises optical spectrometer 300. The optical spectrometer 300 may comprise an illuminator 301, which may be configured to illuminate a sample of an object with light. In some embodiments, the illuminator 301 comprises one or more illumination sources. In some cases, the one or more illumination sources are configured to illuminate a sample 1904 at an angle of between about 0 to about 180 degrees through a optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the illuminator may comprise an illumination window for sealing the illumination module. The illumination window can be substantially transmissive to the light produced in the illuminator. The illuminator can comprise a light source. In some embodiments, the light source can comprise one or more light emitting diodes (LED), such as a blue LED, a red LED, a green LED or an infrared LED. The illuminator 301 may further comprise a radiation diffusion unit which may be configured to receive the radiation emitted from the array of LEDs and provide as an output illumination radiation for use in analyzing a sample material. The radiation diffusion unit may comprise a first diffuser and a second diffuser and one lens may be disposed between the first and second diffusers. The radiation diffusion unit may further comprise additional diffusers and lenses.

[0189] The optical spectrometer 300 may also comprise a detector 302 which may be configured to detect electromagnetic radiation from each of a plurality of objects. In some embodiments, the detector may comprise one or more of a spectrometer module and a sensor module (not shown). The spectrometer module, working together with the illuminator 301, can be configured to measure spectroscopic information relating to a sample material of an object. The sensor module herein can be configured to measure non-spectroscopic information relating to a sample material. For instance, the sensor module may be a temperature sensor module configured to measure and record the temperature of the sample in response to infrared radiationWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 emitted from the sample. In some embodiments, the sensor module may further comprise a second temperature sensor module configured to measure the temperature of the light source in the illuminator. In some embodiments, the sensor module can enable an identification of the sample material based on non-spectroscopic information in addition to the spectroscopic information measured by the co- operation of the illuminator and detector. Such a dual information system may enhance the accuracy of detection or identification of the samples.

[0190] The optical spectrometer 300 may further comprise one or more of a processor 303, a memory 304, and a communication module 305. The processor herein may be configured to analyze the spectral data collected with the illuminator 301 and detector 302. The memory herein may be configured to store spectral data collected by the optical spectrometer and other data that may be useful for analyzing the spectral data. For example, the memory may be configured to temporarily or permanently store the spectral data associated with a variety of objects and computer software programs or instructions embodying various algorithms. In some embodiments, upon execution via the processor, the software instructions may analyze the spectral data associated with a plurality of objects. Alternatively or in combination, the processor may comprise a digital signal processing unit, which can be configured to compress the raw data, including raw spectral data. The compressed raw data signal can then be transmitted inside the spectrometer to the communication module, which may comprise a data encryption / transmission component such as BluetoothTMto encrypt the data. Once encrypted, the compressed encrypted raw data can be wirelessly transmitted via Bluetooth to the mobile device 110, where the encrypted raw data can be decrypted and get prepared for further processing.

[0191] In some embodiments, the communication module 305 may comprise one or more transmitters and receivers, or one or more transceivers integrating the functionalities of the transmitter and receiver for establishing a wired or wireless connection with a mobile device and thereby performing two-way communication with the mobile device. For example, a result may be transmitted to a mobile device via the communication module and presented to the user via a graphic user interface on a display of the mobile device. Alternatively, measurements of the optical spectrometer may be transmitted directly to a mobile device, or a cloud based server, or indirectly to the cloud based server via the mobile device, which acts as a relay node. The communication module herein can be configured to support a wide variety of communication techniques, including but not limited to communications via the Internet, Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC) technologies, networks based on mobile data protocols such as General Packet Radio Services (GPRS), GSM, Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), 3G, 4G, or Long Term EvolutionWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 (LTE) protocols, Infra-Red (IR) communication technologies, and / or Wi-Fi, and may be wireless, wired, or a combination thereof.

[0192] FIG.4 is a schematic diagram of an example of a mobile device 400 comprising an optical spectrometer 401. In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 comprises optical spectrometer 1903. In further embodiments, optical spectrometer 1903 comprises optical spectrometer 401. As mentioned above with respect to FIG.3, an optical spectrometer can be a part of a mobile device, such as integrated into a mobile device, which is illustrated in FIG.4. The optical spectrometer 401 as included in the mobile device may comprise an illuminator 402 and a detector 403 for carrying out steps of detecting, scanning, measuring samples of objects, and collecting corresponding spectral data for subsequent processing. It is to be understood that the illuminator and detector shown in FIG.4 may be the same as or similar to the illuminator and detector as shown in FIG.3. Therefore, any description of the illuminator and detector made before with reference to FIG.3 can be equally applied to those as illustrated in FIG.4.

[0193] Different from the optical spectrometer as shown in FIG.3 which may be equipped with its own processor, memory, and communication module, the optical spectrometer 401 can share a processor 404, memory 405 and a communication module 406 with the mobile device 400. In other words, the processor, memory and communication module can be commonly used by both the mobile device and the spectrometer. Based on this configuration and arrangement, the mobile device comprising the optical spectrometer can be more compact and minimized and thereby mobility can be increased.

[0194] Upon obtaining the spectral data associated with the samples of the objects of interest, the optical spectrometer can transmit these data internally to the memory via data buses or channels (not shown) and the processor can extract the spectral data from the memory for further processing.

[0195] It will be appreciated that the mobile device 400 is only one example of a portable multifunction device, and that the device 400 may have more or fewer components than shown, may combine two or more components, or a may have a different configuration or arrangement of the components. The various components shown in FIG.4 may be implemented in hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software, including one or more signal processing and / or application specific integrated circuits. For example, although not shown, the mobile device 400 may further include a peripherals interface, a RF circuitry in the communication module, audio circuitry, a speaker, a microphone, an input / output (I / O) subsystem, other input or control devices, and an external port. These components, together with those shown in FIG.4 may communicate over one or more communication buses or signal lines within the external housing of the mobile device.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0196] It will be understood that the optical spectrometers as described herein are for illustrative purposes. Any number of other spectrometers known in the art can be applied to the methods and apparatuses described herein, including for example spectrometers described in U.S. Publication No.2010 / 0182598, U.S. Publication No.2005 / 0229698, U.S. Publication No. 2015 / 0036138, U.S. Patent No.2013 / 0308045, and U.S. Publication No.2014 / 0061486, and U.S. Publication No.2011 / 0310052, the entire disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. Optical Window

[0197] FIG.5 is a schematic diagram of an example of an optical window 1900 for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer. In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 comprises an accessory 1950. In some embodiments, the accessory 1950 comprises an optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the optical window 1902 comprises a dome. The optical window 1902 may comprise an optical window surface tip 2111. The optical window surface tip may be in optical communication with a sample 1904. The sample may be a solid sample. The sample may be a powder sample. The optical window surface tip 2111 may be in proximity to the sample 1904. The optical window surface tip 2111 may be in contact with the sample. The optical window surface tip 2111 may be surrounded by the sample.

[0198] In some embodiments, the optical window 1902 may be used in combination with a sample chamber 1901, described in further detail with respect to FIG.17. In some embodiments, the optical window 1902 may be used in combination with a sample chamber 1901, described in further detail with respect to FIG.15-24. The sample holder may comprise a cover 575 (e.g., a reflective cover), as shown in FIG.14A and FIG.14B. In some embodiments, the optical window surface tip 2111 may not be in contact with the sample 1904. For example, there may be at least one medium (such as air, water, or any other medium) between the optical window surface tip 2111 and the sample.

[0199] The optical window surface tip 2111 may be spherical. The optical window surface tip 2111 may be hemi-spherical (for instance, as depicted in FIG.5 or FIG.6). The optical window surface tip 2111 may be cylindrical or tubular (for instance, as depicted in FIG.7 or FIG.8). The optical window surface tip 2111 may be polyhedral. The optical window surface tip 2111 may comprise one or more angles. For instance, the optical window surface tip 2111 may comprise at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, at least 14, at least 15, at least 16, at least 17, at least 18, at least 19, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, or more angles. The optical window surface tip 2111 may comprise at most 100, at most 90, at most 80, at most 70, at most 60, at most 50, at most 40, atWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 most 30, at most 20, at most 19, at most 18, at most 17, at most 16, at most 15, at most 14, at most 13, at most 12, at most 11, at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, or at most 1 angles. The optical window surface tip 2111 may comprise a number of angles that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. The optical window surface tip 2111 may have any number of substantially flat surfaces. The optical window surface tip 2111 may have any number of substantially curved surfaces. Alternatively or in addition, the optical window surface tip 2111 may have any combination of a number of substantially curved surfaces and substantially flat surfaces.

[0200] The optical window surface tip 2111 may be transparent. The optical window surface tip 2111 may be translucent. The optical window surface tip 2111 may be opaque. The optical window surface tip 2111 may have a reflectivity of at least 0.01%, at least 0.02%, at least 0.03%, at least 0.04%, at least 0.05%, at least 0.06%, at least 0.07%, at least 0.08%, at least 0.09%, at least 0.1%, at least 0.2%, at least 0.3%, at least 0.4%, at least 0.5%, at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, at least 99.1%, at least 99.2%, at least 99.3%, at least 99.4%, at least 99.5%, at least 99.6%, at least 99.7%, at least 99.8%, at least 99.9%, at least 99.91%, at least 99.92%, at least 99.93%, at least 99.94%, at least 99.95%, at least 99.96%, at least 99.97%, at least 99.98%, at least 99.99%, or more, over a range of wavelengths detected by the optical spectrometer (and / or a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source). The optical window surface tip 2111 may have a reflectivity of at most 99.99%, at most 99.98%, at most 99.97%, at most 99.96%, at most 99.95%, at most 99.94%, at most 99.93%, at most 99.92%, at most 99.91%, at most 99.9%, at most 99.8%, at most 99.7%, at most 99.6%, at most 99.5%, at most 99.4%, at most 99.3%, at most 99.1%, at most 99.1%, at most 99%, at most 98%, at most 97%, at most 96%, at most 95%, at most 94%, at most 93%, at most 92%, at most 91%, at most 90%, at most 80%, at most 70%, at most 60%, at most 50%, at most 40%, at most 30%, at most 20%, at most 10%, at most 9%, at most 8%, at most 7%, at most 6%, at most 5%, at most 4%, at most 3%, at most 2%, at most 1%, at most 0.9%, at most 0.8%, at most 0.7%, at most 0.6%, at most 0.5%, at most 0.4%, at most 0.3%, at most 0.2%, at most 0.1%, at most 0.09%, at most 0.08%, at most 0.07%, at most 0.06%, at most 0.05%, at most 0.04%, at most 0.03%, at most 0.02%, at most 0.01%, or less, over a range of wavelengths detected by the optical spectrometer (and / or a range of wavelengths (and / or a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source). The optical window surface tip 2111 may have a reflectivity that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0201] The optical window surface tip 2111 may have a transmissivity of at least 0.01%, at least 0.02%, at least 0.03%, at least 0.04%, at least 0.05%, at least 0.06%, at least 0.07%, at least 0.08%, at least 0.09%, at least 0.1%, at least 0.2%, at least 0.3%, at least 0.4%, at least 0.5%, at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, at least 99.1%, at least 99.2%, at least 99.3%, at least 99.4%, at least 99.5%, at least 99.6%, at least 99.7%, at least 99.8%, at least 99.9%, at least 99.91%, at least 99.92%, at least 99.93%, at least 99.94%, at least 99.95%, at least 99.96%, at least 99.97%, at least 99.98%, at least 99.99%, or more, over a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source. The optical window surface tip 2111 may have a transmissivity of at most 99.99%, at most 99.98%, at most 99.97%, at most 99.96%, at most 99.95%, at most 99.94%, at most 99.93%, at most 99.92%, at most 99.91%, at most 99.9%, at most 99.8%, at most 99.7%, at most 99.6%, at most 99.5%, at most 99.4%, at most 99.3%, at most 99.1%, at most 99.1%, at most 99%, at most 98%, at most 97%, at most 96%, at most 95%, at most 94%, at most 93%, at most 92%, at most 91%, at most 90%, at most 80%, at most 70%, at most 60%, at most 50%, at most 40%, at most 30%, at most 20%, at most 10%, at most 9%, at most 8%, at most 7%, at most 6%, at most 5%, at most 4%, at most 3%, at most 2%, at most 1%, at most 0.9%, at most 0.8%, at most 0.7%, at most 0.6%, at most 0.5%, at most 0.4%, at most 0.3%, at most 0.2%, at most 0.1%, at most 0.09%, at most 0.08%, at most 0.07%, at most 0.06%, at most 0.05%, at most 0.04%, at most 0.03%, at most 0.02%, at most 0.01%, or less, over a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source. The optical window surface tip 2111 may have a transmissivity that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0202] The optical window surface tip 2111 may comprise an anti-reflective material. The anti- reflective material may have any reflectivity or transmissivity described herein with respect to the optical window surface tip 2111 of the accessory.

[0203] The optical window surface tip 2111 may comprise a diffuse reflective material. The diffuse reflective material may comprise a diffuse white reflector. The diffuse reflective material may be substantially flat. The diffuse reflective material may be outside a range of a direct field of view of a light source used with the accessory 1950. The diffuse reflective material may be outside a range of a direct field of view of an optical spectrometer used with the accessory 1950.

[0204] The accessory 1950 may further comprise an inner optical window surface, comprising a ceiling 520 and a floor 525. In some embodiments, the ceiling 520 may comprise the surfaceWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 opposite the optical window surface tip 2111. The inner optical window surface may be in optical communication with the sample 1904. The inner optical window surface may be configured to partially or completely enclose one or more light sources, such as first light source 530a and second light source 530b, as depicted in FIG.5. Though depicted as enclosing two light sources in FIG.5, the accessory 1950 may be configured to partially or completely enclose at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, or more light sources. The accessory 1950 may be configured to partially or completely enclose at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, or at most 1 light sources. The accessory 1950 may be configured to partially or completely enclose a number of light sources that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0205] The inner optical window surface, comprising the inner optical window surface ceiling 520 and the inner optical window surface floor 525, may be configured to partially enclose an optical spectrometer 1903. In some embodiments, optical spectrometer 1903 comprises optical spectrometer 540. Optical spectrometer 540 may comprise an ultraviolet, visible, or infrared spectrometer. Optical spectrometer 540 may comprise a reflectance spectrometer. Optical spectrometer 540 may comprise an absorptance spectrometer. Optical spectrometer 540 may comprise a fluorescence spectrometer. Optical spectrometer 540 may comprise a Fourier transform spectrometer. Optical spectrometer 540 may comprise a Raman spectrometer. Optical spectrometer 540 may be similar to spectrometer 102 described herein, or any element or module of spectrometer 102 described herein. Optical spectrometer 540 may be similar to spectrometer 300 described herein, or any element or module of spectrometer 300 described herein. Optical spectrometer 540 may be similar to spectrometer 401 described herein, or any element or module of spectrometer 401 described herein.

[0206] The inner optical window surface, comprising the ceiling 520 and the floor 525, may be hemispherical, spherical, tubular, tetrahedral, cubic, rectangular, octahedral, dodecahedral, icosahedral, or any polyhedron. The floor may be positioned below the ceiling, as shown in FIG.5, or the floor may be positioned above the ceiling, as shown in FIG.6. In some embodiments, the floor comprises a region of an inner optical window surface of a tube, as shown in FIG.7. The inner optical window surface may have a diameter. The diameter of the inner optical window surface may be about 20 millimeters (mm), about 25 mm, about 30 mm, about 35 mm, about 40 mm, about 50 mm, about 60 mm, about 75 mm, about 100 mm, about 105 mm, about 110 mm, about 125 mm, about 150 mm, about 200 mm, about 250 mm, about 300 mm, or about 400 mm. The diameter of the inner optical window surface may be from 30 mm to 50 mm, from 40 mm to 75 mm, from 50 mm to 100 mm, from 60 mm to 100 mm, fromWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 75 mm to 100 mm, from 100 mm to 105 mm, from 105 mm to 110 mm, from 110 mm to 125 mm, from 125 mm to 150 mm, from 150 mm to 200 mm, from 200 mm to 250 mm, from 250 mm to 300 mm, from 300 mm to 400 mm, from 20 mm to 400 mm, from 30 mm to 300 mm, from 50 mm to 200 mm, from 75 mm to 125 mm, or from 100 mm to 110 mm.

[0207] In some embodiments, the optical window surface base 2110 may comprise a surface vertically adjacent to the floor 525. In some cases, the optical window surface base 2110 may comprise a surface vertically adjacent to the one or more light sources (e.g., 530a or 530b).

[0208] In some embodiments, a portion of the inner optical window surface or the optical window surface tip 2111 of the sample accessory 1950 may be covered with a scratch protective layer 2201. In some cases, the scratch protective layer 2201 comprises a reflective coating. The reflective coating may reflect visible light, infrared light, ultraviolet light, or a combination thereof. The reflective coating may comprise gold, silver, silvered mirror, aluminum, chrome, lacquer, nickel, paint, enamel, steel, a polymer, mylar, or a retroreflective material. The reflective coating may be in in optical communication with the optical spectrometer 1903. The reflective coating may be in in optical communication with the optical spectrometer 540. In some cases, one or more walls of the sample chamber may comprise the reflective coating. For example, a reflective coating disposed on one or more walls of the sample chamber can reflect light that passes through a sample back through the sample, thereby increasing a likelihood of interaction of the light with the sample.

[0209] The scratch protective layer 2201 may comprise a window through which the sample may be in optical communication with the optical spectrometer. In some embodiments, the scratch protective layer 2201 comprising a window portion and a non-window portion. In some cases, the scratch protective layer 2201 is in optical communication with an illumination source. In some instances, the non-window portion is configured to reflect light emitted from the illumination source away from an optical spectrometer.

[0210] In some embodiments, the scratch protective layer 2201 comprises a window portion. In some cases, the scratch protective layer 2201 is in optical communication with an illumination source. In some instances, the window portion is configured to reflect light emitted from the illumination source toward the optical spectrometer. In some instances, the optical system further comprises a sample chamber configured to hold a portion of the sample through the window-portion of the scratch protective layer 2201, in optical communication with the optical spectrometer and the illumination source. For example, the portion of the sample is configured to scatter light emitted from the illumination source toward the optical spectrometer.

[0211] WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0212] The scratch protective layer 2201 may cover at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 96%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or about 100% of the optical window surface tip not covered by the sample. The scratch protective layer 2201 may cover up to about 50%, up to about 55%, up to about 60%, up to about 65%, up to about 70%, up to about 75%, up to about 80%, up to about 85%, up to about 90%, up to about 95%, up to about 96%, up to about 97%, up to about 98%, up to about 99%, or up to about 100% of the optical window surface tip not covered by the sample. The scratch protective layer 2201 may cover a percentage of the optical window surface tip of the sample accessory not covered by the sample that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. The scratch protective layer 2201 may cover at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, or at least about 95% of the optical window surface tip. The reflective coating may cover up to about 5%, up to about 10%, up to about 15%, up to about 20%, up to about 25%, up to about 30%, up to about 35%, up to about 40%, up to about 45%, up to about 50%, up to about 55%, up to about 60%, up to about 65%, up to about 70%, up to about 75%, up to about 80%, up to about 85%, up to about 90%, or up to about 95% of the optical window surface tip. The reflective coating may cover a percentage of the optical window surface tip of the sample accessory that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0213] In some embodiments, the reflective surface (e.g., the reflective scratch protective layer or reflective coating) may be a hemispherical reflective surface. The reflective surface may be spherical. The reflective surface may be hemispherical (for instance, as depicted in FIG.17). The reflective surface may be cylindrical or tubular. The reflective surface may be polyhedral. The reflective surface may comprise one or more angles. For instance, the reflective surface may comprise at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, at least 14, at least 15, at least 16, at least 17, at least 18, at least 19, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, or more angles. The reflective surface may comprise at most 100, at most 90, at most 80, at most 70, at most 60, at most 50, at most 40, at most 30, at most 20, at most 19, at most 18, at most 17, at most 16, at most 15, at most 14, at most 13, at most 12, at most 11, at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, or at most 1 angles. The reflective surface may comprise a number of angles that isWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. The reflective surface may have any number of substantially flat surfaces. The reflective surface may have any number of substantially curved surfaces. Alternatively or in addition, the reflective surface may have any combination of a number of substantially curved surfaces and substantially flat surfaces. The reflective surface may be optically smooth (e.g., polished). The scratch protective layer 2201, the sample accessory 1950, or both may be positioned such that the optical spectrometer 1903 is positioned approximately in the center (e.g., approximately equidistant from a given point on the surface) of the hemispherical reflective surface. The scratch protective layer 2201, the sample accessory 1950, or both may be positioned such that illumination reflecting off the reflective surface of the scratch protective layer 2201, the sample accessory 1950, or both is not directed toward the optical spectrometer 1903. The scratch protective layer 2201, the sample accessory 1950, or both may be positioned such that illumination reflecting off the reflective surface of the scratch protective layer 2201, the sample accessory 1950, or both is not directed toward the optical spectrometer 540. In some embodiments, light that is in optical communication with the sample 1904 (e.g., the sample contained in the sample chamber 1901) is scattered toward the optical spectrometer 1903.In some embodiments, light that is in optical communication with the sample 1904 (e.g., the sample contained in the sample chamber 1901) is scattered toward the optical spectrometer 540. In some embodiments, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 96%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or about 100% of the light scattered toward the optical spectrometer is in optical communication with the sample. In some embodiments, up to about 50%, up to about 55%, up to about 60%, up to about 65%, up to about 70%, up to about 75%, up to about 80%, up to about 85%, up to about 90%, up to about 95%, up to about 96%, up to about 97%, up to about 98%, up to about 99%, or up to about 100% of the light scattered toward the optical spectrometer is in optical communication with the sample.

[0214] Illumination directed toward a floor of the inner optical window surface may be reflected toward the scratch protective layer 2201, the reflective coating, or the sample 1904. Illumination directed toward the scratch protective layer 2201 or the reflective coating may be directed toward the floor of the inner optical window surface or to other locations on the scratch protective layer or the reflective coating. In some embodiments, illumination directed toward the scratch protective layer 2201 or the reflective coating may not be reflected toward the optical spectrometer 1903. In some embodiments, illumination directed toward the scratch protective layer 2201 or the reflective coating may not be reflected toward the optical spectrometer 540.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0215] An optical window surface tip 2111 of a spectrometer accessory 1950, for example optical window surface tip 2111 as described with respect to FIG.5, may comprise a coating. The coating may be an optically transparent layer. In some embodiments, the coating comprises a conductive layer or conductive mesh. The conducting layer may comprise indium tin oxide (ITO), aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO), indium-doped cadmium oxide, gallium-doped zinc oxide (GZO), indium-doped zinc oxide (IZO), a carbon nanotube, a conductive polymers (ICP), or metal nanoparticles. In some embodiments, the coating may reduce an accumulation of static charge on the spectrometer or spectrometer accessory. For example, an optical window surface tip of the spectrometer accessory may be coated with an optically transparent conductive layer to prevent accumulation of static charge caused by relative motions of a dry sample. Preventing accumulation of static charge on the spectrometer or spectrometer accessory may reduce the adherence of particles, for example dust or sample residue, to the optical window surface tip.

[0216] FIG.6 is a schematic diagram of example of an inverted optical window 1902 for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer. FIG.6 is a schematic diagram of example of an inverted optical window 1902 for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer as shown in the optical system 1900 of FIG.17D. As depicted in FIG.6, optical window 1902 may be inverted for insertion into a sample 1904. As depicted in FIG.6, optical window 1902 may be inverted such that the sample 1904 contacts optical window surface tip 2111 first as shown in FIG.17D. As depicted in FIG.6, optical window 1902 may be inverted such that the entirety optical window surface tip 2111 faces each sample 1904 as shown in FIG. 17D.

[0217] An inverted optical window 1902 may be especially useful for performing optical spectroscopy of a solid sample. The inverted accessory may comprise a sample chamber surface 2112. The sample chamber surface 2112 may be in contact with the sample. The sample chamber surface may be in optical communication with the sample 1904, the optical spectrometer 1903, and / or the light source 530a or 530b. In some embodiments, the sample chamber surface 2112 of the optical system 1900 may be reflective. In some embodiments, any one of the sample chamber surface (e.g., 1905, 2112 – 2114) of the optical system 1900 may be reflective. The reflectivity of the sample chamber surface may be increased to increase the optical signal strength when measuring a solid sample. For example, the sample chamber surface may comprise a spectrally flat and / or highly reflective material. In some embodiments, the highly reflective material may be polytetrafluoroethylene (PFTE), paint, or a fluoropolymer (e.g., Spectralon®). The reflective sample chamber surface may be covered by a protective layer to prevent contamination from a solid sample. The protective layer may be an opticallyWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 transparent layer. For example, the protective layer may be glass, quartz, a transparent polymer, or any other optically transparent material.

[0218] FIG.7 is a schematic diagram of an example of a cylindrical or tubular accessory 1950 for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer. As depicted in FIG.7, optical window 1902 may comprise a cylindrical or tubular form. An example optical path 580 is illustrated.

[0219] FIG.8 is a schematic diagram of an example of a cylindrical or tubular accessory comprising an opening for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer. As depicted in FIG.8, optical window 1902 may comprise a generally cylindrical or tubular form. In comparison with the embodiment depicted in FIG.7, optical window 1902 may be partially open to the environment or in partial contact with a sample. Dome

[0220] In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 comprises an accessory 1950. In some embodiments, the accessory 1950 comprises an optical window 1902. In some embodiments, the optical window 1902 comprises a dome. In some embodiments, the dome comprises a bottom dome surface and a top dome surface, wherein the bottom dome surface and top dome surface are opposite each other. In some embodiments, the dome is located on the left sample chamber side 2113. In some embodiments, the bottom dome surface contacts a left sample chamber side surface 2113. In some embodiments, the dome is located on the right sample chamber side 2114. In some embodiments, the bottom dome surface contacts a right sample chamber side surface 2114. In some embodiments, the dome is located on the top sample chamber side 1904. In some embodiments, the bottom dome surface contacts a top sample chamber side surface 1905. In some embodiments, the dome is located on the bottom sample chamber side 2112. In some embodiments, the bottom dome surface contacts a bottom sample chamber side surface 2112.

[0221] In some embodiments, the dome comprises a glass material. In some embodiments, the dome comprises an inner dome surface and an outer dome surface. In some embodiments, the inner dome surface comprises an inner dome surface ceiling and inner dome surface floor. In some embodiments, the inner dome surface ceiling and inner dome surface floor are located on opposite side of the inner dome surface. In some embodiments, the inner dome surface ceiling is configured to partially or completely enclose the one or more illumination sources. In some embodiments, the inner dome surface floor is configured to partially enclose an optical spectrometer. In some embodiments, the outer dome surface comprises the scratch protective coating. Examples of scratch protective coatings include, but are not limited to, ceramicWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 coatings, diamond like carbon, aluminum oxide, silicon dioxide, zirconium dioxide, titanium dioxide, polymer coatings, or the like, or any combination thereof. Optical Spectrometer

[0222] FIG.13 illustrates an example of a sample accessory 1950 configured to hold a sample in optical communication with an optical spectrometer, and a scratch protective layer 2201 configured to enhance the detection of the sample 1904.

[0223] An accessory 1950 of the present disclosure may be used in combination with an optical spectrometer 1903. An accessory 1950 of the present disclosure may comprise an optical spectrometer 1903.

[0224] The optical spectrometer 1903 may comprise any spectrometer described in Fig.1 – FIG.20. For example, the spectrometer 102 can be used as a general purpose material analyzer for many applications, as described in further detail herein. In particular, the spectrometer 102 can be used to identify materials or objects, provide information regarding certain properties of the identified materials, and accordingly provide users with actionable insights regarding the identified materials. The spectrometer 102 may comprise a spectrometer head 120 configured to be directed towards a sample material S, such as a sample of an object as discussed herein. The spectrometer head 120 may comprise a sensor module 130, which may, for example, comprise a temperature sensor. The spectrometer head 120 may also comprise an illumination module 140 configured to illuminate a sample with light. Additionally, the spectrometer head 120 may comprise a spectrometer module 160, which may be sealed by a spectrometer window 162 (e.g., an IR-pass filter) and comprise a detector or sensor configured to measure the spectra of the sample material within a field of view 40 of the detector or sensor, thereby obtaining spectral information associated with the sample material S. As illustrated, the spectrometer module 160, illumination module 140 and sensor module 130 may be housed by a container 902, which may be capable of supporting user input via control means. The control means, such as an operating button 1006, may be configured for users to control the operation of the spectrometer. The compact size of the spectrometer 102 can provide a mobile device that can be directed (e.g., pointed) at a material to rapidly obtain information about the material. For example, as shown in FIG.1A and FIG.1B, the spectrometer 102 may be sized to fit inside a single hand H of a user.

[0225] The detector as discussed above may be configured to have a wide field of view. The illumination module may comprise a light source configured to direct an optical beam 10 to the sample material S within the field of view 40. The light source may be configured to emit electromagnetic energy, which may include but is not limited to one or more of ultraviolet, visible, near infrared, or infrared light energy. The light source may comprise one or moreWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 component light sources. The field of view 40 can define the portion of the sample material S from which the spectral data is collected by the spectrometer 102. The illumination module may further comprise one or more optics coupled to the light source to direct the optical beam 10 toward the sample material S. The one or more optics may comprise one or more of a mirror, a beam splitter, a lens, a curved reflector, or a parabolic reflector, as described in further detail herein. The spectrometer 102 may further comprise circuitry coupled to the detector and the light source, wherein the circuitry is configured to transmit the optical beam 10 in response to user interactions with the user input using hand H holding the spectrometer. When a user initiates a measurement of a sample material S using the spectrometer 102, for example by pressing the operating button 1006 with the hand H, the spectrometer emits an optical beam 10 toward the sample material within the field of view 40. When the optical beam 10 hits the sample material S, the light may be partially absorbed and / or partially reflected by the sample material. Alternatively or in combination, optical beam 10 may cause the sample material to emit light in response. The sample emission, which may comprise at least a portion of the optical beam 10 reflected back by the sample and / or light emitted by the sample in response to the optical beam 10, is sensed by the detector or sensor of the spectrometer module 160. The spectrometer module 160 may consequently generate the spectral data of the sample material as described in further detail herein.

[0226] The spectrometer 102 may be configured to begin measurement of a sample material S with just ambient light, without the optical beam 10. Subsequent to completing the measurement with ambient light only, the illumination module 140 of the spectrometer 102 can generate the optical beam 10, and the spectrometer module 160 can begin measurement of the sample material with the optical beam 10. In this case, there may be a brief time lapse between the initiation of a measurement, for example by a user pressing the operating button 1006, and the generation of the optical beam 10 and the visible portions thereof. The ambient light-only measurement can be used to reduce or eliminate the contribution of ambient light in the spectral data of the sample material S. For example, the measurement made with ambient light only can be subtracted from the measurement made with the optical beam 10.

[0227] A portion of the optical beam 10 that is reflected from the sample material S may be visible to the user; this visible, reflected portion of optical beam 10 may define the measurement area 50 of the sample material S. The measurement area 50 of the sample may at least partially overlap with and fall within the field of view 40 of the detector of the spectrometer. The area covered by the field of view 40 may be larger than the visible area of the sample illuminated by the optical beam 10, or the measurement area 50 defined by the visible portion of the optical beam 10. Alternatively, the field of view may be smaller than the optical beam, for example. InWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 many configurations, the field of view 40 of the detector of the spectrometer module is larger than the area illuminated by the optical beam 10, and hence the measurement area 50 is defined by the optical beam 10 rather than by the field of view 40 of the detector.

[0228] The visible portion of optical beam 10 may comprise one or more wavelengths corresponding to one or more colors visible to the user. For example, the visible portion of optical beam 10 may comprise one or more wavelengths corresponding to the colors, such as red, orange, yellow, blue, green, indigo, violet, or a combination thereof. The visible portion of optical beam 10 reflected from the sample material S may comprise at least 0.1%, at least 0.2%, at least 0.3%, at least 0.4%, at least 0.5%, at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%, or more of the power of optical beam 10. The visible portion of optical beam 10 reflected from the sample material S may comprise at most 10%, at most 9%, at most 8%, at most 7%, at most 6%, at most 5%, at most 4%, at most 3%, at most 2%, at most 1%, at most 0.9%, at most 0.8%, at most 0.7%, at most 0.6%, at most 0.5%, at most 0.4%, at most 0.3%, at most 0.2%, at most 0.1%, or less of the power of optical beam 10. The visible portion of optical beam 10 reflected from the sample material S may comprise a percentage of the power of optical beam 10 that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. For instance, the visible portion of optical beam 10 reflected from the sample material S may comprise about 0.1% to about 10%, about 1% to about 4%, or about 2% to about 3% of the power of optical beam 10.

[0229] The visible portion of optical beam 10 may comprise light operating with a power of at least 0.1 milliwatts (mW), at least 0.2 mW, at least 0.3 mW, at least 0.4 mW, at least 0.5 mW, at least 0.6 mW, at least 0.7 mW, at least 0.8 mW, at least 0.9 mW, at least 1 mW, at least 2 mW, at least 3 mW, at least 4 mW, at least 5 mW, at least 6 mW, at least 7 mW, at least 8 mW, at least 9 mW, at least 10 mW, at least 20 mW, at least 30 mW, at least 40 mW, at least 50 mW, at least 60 mW, at least 70 mW, at least 80 mW, at least 90 mW, at least 100 mW, at least 200 mW, at least 300 mW, at least 400 mW, at least 1900 mW, at least 600 mW, at least 700 mW, at least 800 mW, at least 900 mW, at least 1 W, at least 2 W, at least 3 W, at least 4 W, at least 5 W, at least 6 W, at least 7 W, at least 8 W, at least 9 W, at least 10 W, or more. The visible portion of optical beam 10 may comprise light operating with a power of at most 10 W, at most 9 W, at most 8 W, at most 7 W, at most 6 W, at most 5 W, at most 4 W, at most 3 W, at most 2 W, at most 1 W, at most 900 mW, at most 800 mW, at most 700 mW, at most 600 mW, at most 1900 mW, at most 400 mW, at most 300 mW, at most 200 mW, at most 100 mW, at most 90 mW, at most 80 mW, at most 70 mW, at most 60 mW, at most 50 mW, at most 40 mW, at most 30 mW, at most 20 mW, at most 10 mW, at most 9 mW, at most 8 mW, at most 7 mW, at mostWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 6 mW, at most 5 mW, at most 4 mW, at most 3 mW, at most 2 mW, at most 1 mW, at most 0.9 mW, at most 0.8 mW, at most 0.7 mW, at most 0.6 mW, at most 0.5 mW, at most 0.4 mW, at most 0.3 mW, at most 0.2 mW, at most 0.1 mW, or less, The visible portion of optical beam may comprise light operating with a power that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. For instance, the visible portion of optical beam 10 may comprise light operating with power in a range from about 0.1 mW to about 100 mW, about 1 mW to about 75 mW, about 1 mW to about 50 mW, about 5 mW to about 40 mW, about 5 mW to about 30 mW, about 5 mW to about 20 mW, or about 10 mW to about 15 mW. The visible portion of optical beam 10 incident on the sample may have an intensity in a range from about 0.1 mW to about 100 mW, about 1 mW to about 75 mW, about 1 mW to about 50 mW, about 5 mW to about 40 mW, about 5 mW to about 30 mW, about 5 mW to about 20 mW, or about 10 mW to about 15 mW. The visible portion of optical beam 10 incident on the sample may have an intensity or total light output in a range from about 0.001 lumens to about 10 lumens, about 0.001 lumens to about 5 lumens, about 0.005 lumens to about 10 lumens, about 0.01 lumens to about 10 lumens, about 0.005 lumens to about 5 lumens, about 0.05 lumens to about 5 lumens, about 0.1 lumens to about 5 lumens, about 0.2 lumens to about 1 lumens, or about 0.5 lumens to about 5 lumens.

[0230] The optical beam 10 incident on the sample S may have an area of about 0.5 to about 2 cm2, or about 1 cm2. Accordingly, the optical beam 10 incident on the sample S may have an irradiance within a range from about 0.1 mW / cm2to about 100 mW / cm2, about 1 mW / cm2to about 75 mW / cm2, about 1 mW / cm2to about 50 mW / cm2, about 5 mW / cm2to about 40 mW / cm2, about 5 mW / cm2to about 30 mW / cm2, about 5 mW / cm2to about 20 mW / cm2, or about 10 mW / cm2to about 15 mW / cm2. The optical beam 10 incident on the sample S may have an illuminance (Ev) within a range from about 20 lux (lumens / m2) to about 100,000 lux, about 200 lux to about 75,000 lux, about 400 lux to about 50,000 lux, about 2,000 lux to about 25,000 lux, about 2,000 lux to about 15,000 lux, about 4,000 lux to about 15,000 lux, or about 4,000 lux to about 6,000 lux.

[0231] The light output of the visible portion of optical beam 10 may vary depending on the type of light source. In some cases, the visible light output of optical beam 10 may vary due to the different luminous efficacies of different types of light source.

[0232] The light output of the visible portion of optical beam 10 may also vary due to the nature of interactions between the different components of a light source.

[0233] A portion of the optical beam 10 that is reflected from the sample material S may be invisible to the user. The invisible portion of optical beam 10 may comprise one or more infrared wavelengths. For example, the invisible portion of optical beam 10 may comprise one or more wavelengths in range from about 700 nanometers (nm) to about 1 millimeter (mm). TheWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 invisible portion of optical beam 10 reflected from the sample material S may comprise at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, at least 99.1%, at least 99.2%, at least 99.3%, at least 99.4%, at least 99.5%, at least 99.6%, at least 99.7%, at least 99.8%, at least 99.9%, or more of the power of optical beam 10. The invisible portion of optical beam 10 reflected from the sample material S may comprise at most 99.9%, at most 99.8%, at most 99.7%, at most 99.6%, at most 99.5%, at most 99.4%, at most 99.3%, at most 99.2%, at most 99.1%, at most 99%, at most 98%, at most 97%, at most 96% at most 95%, at most 94%, at most 93%, at most 92%, at most 91%, at most 90%, or less of the power of optical beam 10. The invisible portion of optical beam 10 reflected from the sample material S may comprise a percentage of the power of optical beam 10 that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0234] The invisible portion of optical beam 10 may comprise light operating with a power of at least 0.1 mW, at least 0.2 mW, at least 0.3 mW, at least 0.4 mW, at least 0.5 mW, at least 0.6 mW, at least 0.7 mW, at least 0.8 mW, at least 0.9 mW, at least 1 mW, at least 2 mW, at least 3 mW, at least 4 mW, at least 5 mW, at least 6 mW, at least 7 mW, at least 8 mW, at least 9 mW, at least 10 mW, at least 20 mW, at least 30 mW, at least 40 mW, at least 50 mW, at least 60 mW, at least 70 mW, at least 80 mW, at least 90 mW, at least 100 mW, at least 200 mW, at least 300 mW, at least 400 mW, at least 1900 mW, at least 600 mW, at least 700 mW, at least 800 mW, at least 900 mW, at least 1 W, at least 2 W, at least 3 W, at least 4 W, at least 5 W, at least 6 W, at least 7 W, at least 8 W, at least 9 W, at least 10 W, or more. The invisible portion of optical beam 10 may comprise light operating with a power of at most 10 W, at most 9 W, at most 8 W, at most 7 W, at most 6 W, at most 5 W, at most 4 W, at most 3 W, at most 2 W, at most 1 W, at most 900 mW, at most 800 mW, at most 700 mW, at most 600 mW, at most 1900 mW, at most 400 mW, at most 300 mW, at most 200 mW, at most 100 mW, at most 90 mW, at most 80 mW, at most 70 mW, at most 60 mW, at most 50 mW, at most 40 mW, at most 30 mW, at most 20 mW, at most 10 mW, at most 9 mW, at most 8 mW, at most 7 mW, at most 6 mW, at most 5 mW, at most 4 mW, at most 3 mW, at most 2 mW, at most 1 mW, at most 0.9 mW, at most 0.8 mW, at most 0.7 mW, at most 0.6 mW, at most 0.5 mW, at most 0.4 mW, at most 0.3 mW, at most 0.2 mW, at most 0.1 mW, or less, The invisible portion of optical beam may comprise light operating with a power that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. For instance, the invisible portion of optical beam 10 may comprise light operating with power in a range from about 0.1 mW to about 100 mW, about 1 mW to about 75 mW, about 1 mW to about 50 mW, about 5 mW to about 40 mW, about 5 mW to about 30 mW, about 5 mW to about 20 mW, or about 10 mW to about 15 mW. The invisible portion of optical beam 10 incident on the sample may have an intensity in a range from about 0.1 mW to about 100 mW,WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 about 1 mW to about 75 mW, about 1 mW to about 50 mW, about 5 mW to about 40 mW, about 5 mW to about 30 mW, about 5 mW to about 20 mW, or about 10 mW to about 15 mW. The invisible portion of optical beam 10 incident on the sample may have an intensity or total light output in a range from about 0.001 lumens to about 10 lumens, about 0.001 lumens to about 5 lumens, about 0.005 lumens to about 10 lumens, about 0.01 lumens to about 10 lumens, about 0.005 lumens to about 5 lumens, about 0.05 lumens to about 5 lumens, about 0.1 lumens to about 5 lumens, about 0.2 lumens to about 1 lumens, or about 0.5 lumens to about 5 lumens.

[0235] The light output of the invisible portion of optical beam 10 may vary depending on the type of light source. In some cases, the invisible light output of optical beam 10 may vary due to the different luminous efficacies of different types of light source.

[0236] The light output of the invisible portion of optical beam 10 may also vary due to the nature of interactions between the different components of a light source.

[0237] The optical beam 10 may comprise a visible aiming beam 20 as illustrated in FIG.1B. The aiming beam 20 may comprise one or more wavelengths corresponding to one or more colors visible to the user, such as red, orange, yellow, blue, green, indigo, or violet. Alternatively or in combination, the optical beam 10 may comprise a measurement beam 30, configured to measure the spectra of the sample material. The measurement beam 30 may be visible, such that the measurement beam 30 comprises and functions as a visible aiming beam. The optical beam 10 may comprise a visible measurement beam 30 that comprises a visible aiming beam. The measurement beam 30 may comprise light in the visible spectrum, non- visible spectrum, or a combination thereof. The aiming beam 20 and the measurement beam 30 may be produced by the same light source or by different light sources within the illumination module 140 and can be arranged to illuminate the sample material S within the field of view 40 of the detector or sensor of the spectrometer 102. The visible aiming beam 20 and the optical beam 30 may be partially or completely overlapping, aligned, and / or coaxial.

[0238] The visible aiming beam 20 may comprise light in the visible spectrum, for example in a range from about 390 nm to about 800 nm, which the user can see reflected on a portion of the sample material S. The aiming beam 20 can provide basic visual verification that the spectrometer 102 is operational and can provide visual indication to the user that a measurement is in progress. The aiming beam 20 can help the user visualize the area of the sample material being measured, and thereby provide the user with guidance in adjusting the position and / or angle of the spectrometer 102 to position the measurement area over the desired area of the sample material S. The aiming beam 20 may be configured with circuitry to be emitted throughout the duration of a measurement, and automatically turn off when the measurement of the sample material S is complete; in this case, the aiming beam 20 can also provide visualWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 indication to the user of how long the user should hold the spectrometer 102 pointed at the sample material S.

[0239] The visible aiming beam 20 and the measurement beam 30 may be produced by the same light source, wherein the visible aiming beam 20 comprises a portion of the measurement beam 30. Additionally or alternatively, the aiming beam 20 may be produced by a first light source, and the measurement beam 30 may be produced by a second light source. For example, the measurement beam 30 may comprise an infrared beam and the aiming beam 20 may comprise a visible light beam.

[0240] The measurement beam 30 may be configured to illuminate the measurement area of the sample S, and the aiming beam 20 may be configured to illuminate an area of the sample overlapping with the measurement area, thereby displaying the measurement area to the user. The visible area illuminated by the visible aiming beam 20 may comprise from about 50% to about 150% or about 75% to about 125% of the measurement area, or at least about 90%, at least about 95%, or at least about 99% of the measurement area.

[0241] One or more optics of the illumination module, such as a lens or a parabolic reflector, may be arranged to receive the aiming beam 20 and the measurement beam 30 and direct the aiming beam and measurement beam toward the sample material S, with the aiming beam and measurement beam overlapping on the sample. In some configurations, the aiming beam 20 may be arranged to be directed along an aiming beam axis 25 as illustrated in FIG.1B, while the measurement beam 30 may be arranged to be directed along a measurement beam axis 35. The aiming beam axis 25 may be co-axial with measurement beam axis 35.

[0242] The sensor or detector of the spectrometer module 160 may comprise one or more filters configured to transmit the measurement beam 30 but inhibit transmission of the aiming beam 20. In many configurations, the spectrometer module comprises one filter configured to inhibit transmission of visible light, thereby inhibiting transmission of portions of the aiming beam 20 and measurement beam 30 reflected from the sample that comprise visible light. In some configurations, the spectrometer module 160 may comprise a plurality of optical filters configured to inhibit transmission of a portion of the aiming beam 20 reflected from the sample material S, and to transmit a portion of the measurement beam 30 reflected from the sample. In configurations of the spectrometer module comprising a plurality of optical channels, the spectrometer module may comprise a plurality of filters wherein each optical filter corresponds to an optical channel. Each filter may be configured to inhibit transmission of light within a specific range and / or within a specific angle of incidence, wherein the filtered specific range or specific angle of incidence may be specific to the corresponding channel. In some configurations, each optical channel of the spectrometer module may comprise a field of view.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 The field of view 40 of the spectrometer module may hence comprise a plurality of overlapping fields of view of a plurality of optical channels. The aiming beam and the measurement beam may overlap with the plurality of overlapping fields of view on the sample S. In some configurations, a diffuser may be disposed between the plurality of optical filters and the incident light from the sample, wherein each optical filter corresponds to an optical channel. In such configurations, the plurality of optical channels may comprise similar fields of view, each field of view at least partially overlapping with the fields of view of other optical channels, wherein the spectrometer substantially comprises a field of view of ±1 to ± 90°.

[0243] Optionally, the visible aiming beam 20 may be produced by a light source separate from the illumination module 140. In this case, the separate light source may be configured to produce the aiming beam such that the aiming beam illuminates a portion of the sample material that overlaps with the measurement area of the sample.

[0244] In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 comprises optical spectrometer 1903. In further embodiments, optical spectrometer 1903 comprises optical spectrometer 102, 300, 401 or 540. An optical spectrometer (e.g., optical spectrometer 1903 as illustrated in any one of FIG.5 – FIG.8, FIG.11, FIG.11, FIG.13– FIG.20) may comprise one or more sensors. The optical spectrometer may comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or more sensors. The optical spectrometer may comprise at most about 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 1211, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1 sensor. In some embodiments, the optical spectrometer may comprise two or more sensors, wherein at least two of the sensors are sensitive to a different spectral range. For example, an optical spectrometer may comprise sensors sensitive to one or more of UV light, visible light, IR light, red light, green light, blue light, purple light, near IR light, near UV light, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, two or more sensors may be arranged such that the sensors are approximately equidistant from a reference center point. For example, the sensors may be arranged in a circle surrounding the reference center point. In some embodiments, two or more sensors may be arranged in pairs with each sensor of the pair is positioned on opposite sides of the reference center point. In some embodiments, two or more sensors may be arranged in radial symmetry with respect to the reference center point. If the spectrometer comprises an odd number of sensors (e.g., 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, or 19 sensors), the spectrometer may further comprise a dummy sensor paired with one of the odd number of sensors. A dummy sensor may not detect light. In some embodiments, the reference center point between the sensors may be a center point of an optical window. For example, the center point may be the center point of the optical window of a sample accessory (e.g., the sample accessory shown in any one of FIG.5, FIG.6, FIG.17- FIG.20). In some embodiments, the sensors may be positioned around a center point of anWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 optical window such that most of the light detected by a sensor is directed to the sensor from the sample.

[0245] In some embodiments, the optical system 1900 comprises optical spectrometer 1903. In further embodiments, optical spectrometer 1903 comprises optical spectrometer 540. Optical spectrometer 540 may be positioned in any possible spatial relation to inner optical window surface. For instance, optical spectrometer 540 may be positioned at or near a center of the floor 525. Optical spectrometer 540 may be positioned at an offset from the center of the floor. Positioning the optical spectrometer at or near the center of the floor, or at an offset from the center of the floor, may increase a number of interactions of the light with the sample, thereby enhancing the sensitivity or efficiency of the optical spectrometer.

[0246] The one or more light sources (such as first and second light source 530a and 530b, respectively, as described herein) may be positioned in any possible spatial relation to the inner optical window surface. For instance, the one or more light sources may be positioned at or near a center of the floor 525. The one or more light sources may be positioned at an offset from the center of the floor. Positioning the one or more light sources at or near the center of the floor, or at an offset from the center of the floor, may increase a number of interactions of the light with the sample, thereby enhancing the sensitivity or efficiency of the optical spectrometers described herein.

[0247] An optical spectrometer of the present disclosure may comprise two or more light sources. The two or more light sources may be the same. The two or more light sources may be different. For example, the two or more light sources may have different illumination wavelengths. The two or more light sources may have different illumination spectra. The two or more light sources may have different illumination intensities. The two or more light sources may have different angles of incidence on a closing plane. The two or more light sources may reflect or refract off different closing planes. In some embodiments, the light from the two or more light sources may be combined to produce homogenous illumination of the sample. The combined light from the two or more light sources may produce a more homogenous illumination of the sample than an individual light source.

[0248] An optical spectrometer of the present disclosure may comprise two or more detectors. The two or more detectors may be the same. The two or more detectors may be different. For example, the two or more detectors may have different detection wavelengths. The two or more detectors may have different detection bandwidth. The two or more light sources may have different detection sensitivities. In some embodiments, the signal detected by the two or more detectors may be combined to produce homogenous detection of the sample. The combinedWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 signal detected by the two or more detectors may produce a more homogenous detection of the sample than an individual detector.

[0249] The optical spectrometer, one or more light sources, inner optical window surface, and optical window surface tip may be positioned in any possible configuration relative to one another. For instance, the optical spectrometer, one or more light sources, inner optical window surface, and optical window surface tip may be positioned in such a manner as to minimize reflections of light emitted by the one or more light sources from the inner optical window surface or the optical window surface tip toward the spectrometer. Such a configuration may reduce the amount of light that has not interacted with the sample that is subsequently detected by the spectrometer and thereby increase the number of interactions of the light with the sample.

[0250] The inner optical window surface may be configured to direct light emitted by the one or more light sources to achieve a plurality of optical interactions with the sample 1904 before being received by the optical spectrometer. The optical interactions may comprise any possible interaction of the light with the sample. For instance, the optical interactions may comprise reflection, absorption, elastic scattering, inelastic scattering, diffraction, or any other linear or non-linear optical interaction, The inner optical window surface may be configured to direct light emitted by the one or more light sources to achieve at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, at least 200, at least 300, at least 400, at least 1900, at least 600, at least 700, at least 800, at least 900, at least 1,000, or more optical interactions with the sample before being received by the optical spectrometer. The inner optical window surface may be configured to direct light emitted by the one or more light sources to achieve at most 1,000, at most 900, at most 800, at most 700, at most 600, at most 1900, at most 400, at most 300, at most 200, at most 100, at most 90, at most 80, at most 70, at most 60, at most 50, at most 40, at most 30, at most 20, at most 10, at most 90, at most 80, at most 70, at most 60, at most 50, at most 40, at most 30, at most 20, at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, or at most 1 optical interactions with the sample before being received by the optical spectrometer. The inner optical window surface may be configured to direct light emitted by the one or more light sources to achieve a number of optical interactions with the sample that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values before being received by the optical spectrometer. In some instances, most of the light emitted by the one or more light sources may achieve such multiple optical interactions with the sample before being received by the optical spectrometer. In some instances, the inner optical window surface may be configured to increase an optical path length by at least 1 times, at least 2 times, at least 3 times, at least 4 times, at least 5 times, at least 6 times, at least 7 times,WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 at least 8 times, at least 9 times, at least 10 times, at least 20 times, at least 30 times, at least 40 times, at least 50 times, at least 60 times, at least 70 times, at least 80 times, at least 90 times, at least 100 times, or more, with respect to an optical path length of a single reflection. The inner optical window surface may be configured to increase an optical path length by at most 100 times, at most 90 times, at most 80 times, at most 70 times, at most 60 times, at most 50 times, at most 40 times, at most 30 times, at most 20 times, at most 10 times, at most 9 times, at most 8 times, at most 7 times, at most 6 times, at most 5 times, at most 4 times, at most 3 times, at most 2 times, at most 1 time, or less. The inner optical window surface may be configured to increase an optical path length by a number of times that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0251] The plurality of optical interactions may increase a contrast of an optical spectrum obtained by the optical spectrum by a factor of at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, at least 200, at least 300, at least 400, at least 500, at least 600, at least 700, at least 800, at least 900, at least 1,000, or more, as compared to a contrast of an optical spectrum obtained by an optical spectrometer in the absence of the accessory. The plurality of optical interactions may increase a contrast of an optical spectrum obtained by the optical spectrum by a factor of at most 1,000, at most 900, at most 800, at most 700, at most 600, at most 500, at most 400, at most 300, at most 200, at most 100, at most 90, at most 80, at most 70, at most 60, at most 50, at most 40, at most 30, at most 20, at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, or less, as compared to a contrast of an optical spectrum obtained by an optical spectrometer in the absence of the accessory. The plurality of optical interactions may increase a contrast of an optical spectrum obtained by the optical spectrum by a factor that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values, as compared to a contrast of an optical spectrum obtained by an optical spectrometer in the absence of the accessory.

[0252] The inner optical window surface may be spherical. The inner optical window surface may be hemi-spherical (for instance, as depicted in FIG.5 or FIG.6). The inner optical window surface may be cylindrical or tubular (for instance, as depicted in FIG.7 or FIG.8). The inner optical window surface may be polyhedral. The inner optical window surface may comprise one or more angles. For instance, the inner optical window surface may comprise at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, at least 14, at least 15, at least 16, at least 17, at least 18, at least 19, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, or more angles. The inner optical window surface may comprise at most 100, atWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 most 90, at most 80, at most 70, at most 60, at most 50, at most 40, at most 30, at most 20, at most 19, at most 18, at most 17, at most 16, at most 15, at most 14, at most 13, at most 12, at most 11, at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, or at most 1 angles. The inner optical window surface may comprise a number of angles that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. The inner optical window surface may have any number of substantially flat surfaces. The inner optical window surface may have any number of substantially curved surfaces. Alternatively or in addition, the inner optical window surface may have any combination of a number of substantially curved surfaces and substantially flat surfaces.

[0253] The inner optical window surface may be transparent. The inner optical window surface may be translucent. The inner optical window surface may be opaque. The inner optical window surface may have a reflectivity of at least 0.01%, at least 0.02%, at least 0.03%, at least 0.04%, at least 0.05%, at least 0.06%, at least 0.07%, at least 0.08%, at least 0.09%, at least 0.1%, at least 0.2%, at least 0.3%, at least 0.4%, at least 0.5%, at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, at least 99.1%, at least 99.2%, at least 99.3%, at least 99.4%, at least 99.5%, at least 99.6%, at least 99.7%, at least 99.8%, at least 99.9%, at least 99.91%, at least 99.92%, at least 99.93%, at least 99.94%, at least 99.95%, at least 99.96%, at least 99.97%, at least 99.98%, at least 99.99%, or more, over a range of wavelengths detected by the optical spectrometer (and / or over a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source). The inner optical window surface may have a reflectivity of at most 99.99%, at most 99.98%, at most 99.97%, at most 99.96%, at most 99.95%, at most 99.94%, at most 99.93%, at most 99.92%, at most 99.91%, at most 99.9%, at most 99.8%, at most 99.7%, at most 99.6%, at most 99.5%, at most 99.4%, at most 99.3%, at most 99.1%, at most 99.1%, at most 99%, at most 98%, at most 97%, at most 96%, at most 95%, at most 94%, at most 93%, at most 92%, at most 91%, at most 90%, at most 80%, at most 70%, at most 60%, at most 50%, at most 40%, at most 30%, at most 20%, at most 10%, at most 9%, at most 8%, at most 7%, at most 6%, at most 5%, at most 4%, at most 3%, at most 2%, at most 1%, at most 0.9%, at most 0.8%, at most 0.7%, at most 0.6%, at most 0.5%, at most 0.4%, at most 0.3%, at most 0.2%, at most 0.1%, at most 0.09%, at most 0.08%, at most 0.07%, at most 0.06%, at most 0.05%, at most 0.04%, at most 0.03%, at most 0.02%, at most 0.01%, or less, over a range of wavelengths detected by the optical spectrometer (and / or over a range ofWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 wavelengths emitted by the light source). The inner optical window surface may have a reflectivity that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0254] The inner optical window surface may have a transmissivity of at least 0.01%, at least 0.02%, at least 0.03%, at least 0.04%, at least 0.05%, at least 0.06%, at least 0.07%, at least 0.08%, at least 0.09%, at least 0.1%, at least 0.2%, at least 0.3%, at least 0.4%, at least 0.5%, at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, at least 99.1%, at least 99.2%, at least 99.3%, at least 99.4%, at least 99.5%, at least 99.6%, at least 99.7%, at least 99.8%, at least 99.9%, at least 99.91%, at least 99.92%, at least 99.93%, at least 99.94%, at least 99.95%, at least 99.96%, at least 99.97%, at least 99.98%, at least 99.99%, or more, over a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source. The inner optical window surface may have a transmissivity of at most 99.99%, at most 99.98%, at most 99.97%, at most 99.96%, at most 99.95%, at most 99.94%, at most 99.93%, at most 99.92%, at most 99.91%, at most 99.9%, at most 99.8%, at most 99.7%, at most 99.6%, at most 99.5%, at most 99.4%, at most 99.3%, at most 99.1%, at most 99.1%, at most 99%, at most 98%, at most 97%, at most 96%, at most 95%, at most 94%, at most 93%, at most 92%, at most 91%, at most 90%, at most 80%, at most 70%, at most 60%, at most 50%, at most 40%, at most 30%, at most 20%, at most 10%, at most 9%, at most 8%, at most 7%, at most 6%, at most 5%, at most 4%, at most 3%, at most 2%, at most 1%, at most 0.9%, at most 0.8%, at most 0.7%, at most 0.6%, at most 0.5%, at most 0.4%, at most 0.3%, at most 0.2%, at most 0.1%, at most 0.09%, at most 0.08%, at most 0.07%, at most 0.06%, at most 0.05%, at most 0.04%, at most 0.03%, at most 0.02%, at most 0.01%, or less, over a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source. The inner optical window surface may have a transmissivity that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0255] The inner optical window surface may comprise an anti-reflective material. The anti- reflective material may have any reflectivity or transmissivity described herein with respect to the inner optical window surface of the accessory. The inner optical window surface floor and the inner optical window surface ceiling may comprise the same or different materials. For example, the inner optical window surface floor and the inner optical window surface ceiling may have different reflectivity or transmissivity. In some embodiments, the reflectivity or transmissivity of the inner optical window surface floor may be adjustable, as described with respect to FIG.12.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0256] The inner optical window surface may comprise a diffuse reflective material. The diffuse reflective material may comprise a diffuse white reflector. The diffuse reflective material may be substantially flat. For example, the inner optical window surface floor may comprise the diffuse reflective material. The diffuse reflective material may be outside a range of a direct field of view of a light source used with the accessory 1950. The diffuse reflective material may be outside a range of a direct field of view of an optical spectrometer used with the accessory 1950.

[0257] The inner optical window surface may comprise one or more apertures. The inner optical window surface may comprise a plurality of apertures. For instance, the inner optical window surface may comprise at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, or more apertures. The inner optical window surface may comprise at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, or at most 1 apertures. The inner optical window surface may comprise a number of apertures that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. The one or more apertures may be sized for placement of the one or more light sources. The one or more apertures may be sized for placement of the optical spectrometer. The one or more apertures may be sized for placement of one or more temperature sensors. The one or more temperature sensors may be configured to remotely sense a temperature of the sample, light source, or spectrometer. The one or more temperature sensors may be bolometer-based temperature sensors or any other temperature sensors.

[0258] The inner optical window surface may define a cavity. The cavity may have a closing plane. In some embodiments, the inner optical window surface floor may comprise the closing plane. The cavity may be placed in a measurement volume filled by a sample. The measurement volume may be disposed below the closing plane. The measurement volume may be disposed above the closing plane. The closing plane may comprise a closing plane material. The closing plane material may have any reflectivity or transmissivity described herein with respect to the inner optical window surface of the accessory. The closing plane material may comprise a material or a diffuse white material. The closing plane material may be substantially planar. For instance, the closing plane material may be substantially planar to within a deviation (such as a root-mean-square deviation) of at least 0.1 nm, at least 0.2 nm, at least 0.3 nm, at least 0.4 nm, at least 0.5 nm, at least 0.6 nm, at least 0.7 nm, at least 0.8 nm, at least 0.9 nm, at least 1 nm, at least 2 nm, at least 3 nm, at least 4 nm, at least 5 nm, at least 6 nm, at least 7 nm, at least 8 nm, at least 9 nm, at least 10 nm, at least 20 nm, at least 30 nm, at least 40 nm, at least 50 nm, at least 60 nm, at least 70 nm, at least 80 nm, at least 90 nm, at least 100 nm, at least 200 nm, at least 300 nm, at least 400 nm, at least 1900 nm, at least 600 nm, at least 700 nm, at least 800 nm,WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 at least 900 nm, at a least 1 micrometer (tm), at least 2 tm, at least 3 tm, at least 4 tm, at least 5 tm, at least 6 tm, at least 7 tm, at least 8 tm, at least 9 tm, at least 10 tm, at least 20 tm, at least 30 tm, at least 40 tm, at least 50 tm, at least 60 tm, at least 70 tm, at least 80 tm, at least 90 tm, at least 100 tm, or more. The closing plane material may be substantially planar to within a deviation of at most 100 tm, at most 90 tm, at most 80 tm, at most 70 tm, at most 60 tm, at most 50 tm, at most 40 tm, at most 30 tm, at most 20 tm, at most 10 tm, at most 9 tm, at most 8 tm, at most 7 tm, at most 6 tm, at most 5 tm, at most 4 tm, at most 3 tm, at most 2 tm, at most 1 tm, at most 900 nm, at most 800 nm, at most 700 nm, at most 600 nm, at most 1900 nm, at most 400 nm, at most 300 nm, at most 200 nm, at most 100 nm, at most 90 nm, at most 80 nm, at most 70 nm, at most 60 nm, at most 50 nm, at most 40 nm, at most 30 nm, at most 20 nm, at most 10 nm, at most 9 nm, at most 8 nm, at most 7 nm, at most 6 nm, at most 5 nm, at most 4 nm, at most 3 nm, at most 2 nm, at most 1 nm, at most 0.9 nm, at most 0.8 nm, at most 0.7 nm, at most 0.6 nm, at most 0.5 nm, at most 0.4 nm, at most 0.3 nm, at most 0.2 nm, at most 0.1 nm, or less. The closing plane material may be substantially planar to a deviation that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0259] The closing plane 1600 may comprise one or more prisms 1610 and 1620, as shown in FIG.12. The one or more prisms may comprise one or more closing plane materials. In some embodiments, a closing plan comprises a prism configured to rotate about an axis 1630 substantially parallel to the closing plane. The prism may comprise a plurality of surfaces which, upon rotation about the axis, may reflect light off a part of the closing plan. A surface of the plurality of surfaces may be substantially parallel to the axis of rotation. A surface of the plurality of surfaces may have a reflectivity of at least 0.01%, at least 0.02%, at least 0.03%, at least 0.04%, at least 0.05%, at least 0.06%, at least 0.07%, at least 0.08%, at least 0.09%, at least 0.1%, at least 0.2%, at least 0.3%, at least 0.4%, at least 0.5%, at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, at least 99.1%, at least 99.2%, at least 99.3%, at least 99.4%, at least 99.5%, at least 99.6%, at least 99.7%, at least 99.8%, at least 99.9%, at least 99.91%, at least 99.92%, at least 99.93%, at least 99.94%, at least 99.95%, at least 99.96%, at least 99.97%, at least 99.98%, at least 99.99%, or more, over a range of wavelengths detected by the optical spectrometer (and / or over a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source). A surface of the plurality of surfaces may have a reflectivity of at most 99.99%, at most 99.98%, at most 99.97%, at most 99.96%, at most 99.95%, at most 99.94%, at most 99.93%, at most 99.92%, at most 99.91%, at most 99.9%, atWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 most 99.8%, at most 99.7%, at most 99.6%, at most 99.5%, at most 99.4%, at most 99.3%, at most 99.1%, at most 99.1%, at most 99%, at most 98%, at most 97%, at most 96%, at most 95%, at most 94%, at most 93%, at most 92%, at most 91%, at most 90%, at most 80%, at most 70%, at most 60%, at most 50%, at most 40%, at most 30%, at most 20%, at most 10%, at most 9%, at most 8%, at most 7%, at most 6%, at most 5%, at most 4%, at most 3%, at most 2%, at most 1%, at most 0.9%, at most 0.8%, at most 0.7%, at most 0.6%, at most 0.5%, at most 0.4%, at most 0.3%, at most 0.2%, at most 0.1%, at most 0.09%, at most 0.08%, at most 0.07%, at most 0.06%, at most 0.05%, at most 0.04%, at most 0.03%, at most 0.02%, at most 0.01%, or less, over a range of wavelengths detected by the optical spectrometer (and / or over a range of wavelengths emitted by the light source). A surface of the plurality of surfaces may have a reflectivity that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. Each surface of the plurality of surfaces may have different reflective properties. A prism may be a triangular prism, a square prism, a rectangular prism, a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism, a heptagonal prism, an octagonal prism, a nonagonal prism, a decagonal prism, or a prism having any number of sides. In a preferred embodiment, a closing plan comprises one or more square prisms. Each square prism may comprise four reflective surfaces substantially parallel to the axis of rotation. Each surface of the four surfaces may have different reflective properties. Rotating one or more of the prisms may alter the reflectivity of a part of the closing plane, thereby altering the average reflectivity of the closing plane. In some embodiments, altering the average reflectivity of the closing plane may alter the cavity gain. For example, the cavity gain of a spectrometer as disclosed herein may be controlled by rotating one or more prisms, each prism having a plurality of surfaces with different reflective properties, about one or more axes such that the surface facing the closing plane changes, wherein the surface facing the closing plane reflects light off the closing plane. The closing plane 1600 may comprise a dynamically adjustable surface. The dynamically adjustable surface may comprise a plurality of reflective surfaces. The dynamically adjustable surface may comprise a reflective surface with variable reflectivity.

[0260] The closing plane may comprise one or more apertures. The closing plane may comprise a plurality of apertures. For instance, the closing plane may comprise at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, or more apertures. The closing plane may comprise at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, or at most 1 apertures. The closing plane may comprise a number of apertures that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values. The one or more apertures may be sized for placement of the one or more light sources. The one or more apertures may be sized for placement of the optical spectrometer.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601

[0261] The light source may be configured to emit light within a light cone having a half-angle. The half-angle may be at least 1 degrees, at least degrees, at least 3 degrees, at least 4 degrees, at least 5 degrees, at least 6 degrees, at least 7 degrees, at least 8 degrees, at least 9 degrees, at least 10 degrees, at least 15 degrees, at least 20 degrees, at least 25 degrees, at least 30 degrees, at least 35 degrees, at least 40 degrees, at least 45 degrees, at least 50 degrees, at least 55 degrees, at least 60 degrees, at least 65 degrees, at least 70 degrees, at least 75 degrees, at least 80 degrees, at least 81 degrees, at least 82 degrees, at least 83 degrees, at least 84 degrees, at least 85 degrees, at least 86 degrees, at least 87 degrees, at least 88 degrees, at least 89 degrees, or more. The half-angle may be at most 89 degrees, at most 88 degrees, at most 87 degrees, at most 86 degrees, at most 85 degrees, at most 84 degrees, at most 83 degrees, at most 82 degrees, at most 81 degrees, at most 80 degrees, at most 75 degrees, at most 70 degrees, at most 65 degrees, at most 60 degrees, at most 55 degrees, at most 50 degrees, at most 45 degrees, at most 40 degrees, at most 35 degrees, at most 30 degrees, at most 25 degrees, at most 20 degrees, at most 15 degrees, at most 10 degrees, at most 9 degrees, at most 8 degrees, at most 7 degrees, at most 6 degrees, at most 5 degrees, at most 4 degrees, at most 3 degrees, at most 2 degrees, at most 1 degrees, or less. The half-angle may be within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0262] The one or more light sources may have a bandwidth of at least 1 nanometer (nm), at least 2 nm, at least 3 nm, at least 4 nm, at least 5 nm, at least 6 nm, at least 7 nm, at least 8 nm, at least 9 nm, at least 10 nm, at least 20 nm, at least 30 nm, at least 40 nm, at least 50 nm, at least 60 nm, at least 70 nm, at least 80 nm, at least 90 nm, at least 100 nm, at least 200 nm, at least 300 nm, at least 400 nm, at least 500 nm, at least 600 nm, at least 700 nm, at least 800 nm, at least 900 nm, at least 1,000 nm, or more. The one or more light sources may have a bandwidth of at most 1,000 nm, at most 900 nm, at most 800 nm, at most 700 nm, at most 600 nm, at most 500 nm, at most 400 nm, at most 300 nm, at most 200 nm, at most 100 nm, at most 90 nm, at most 80 nm, at most 70 nm, at most 60 nm, at most 50 nm, at most 40 nm, at most 30 nm, at most 20 nm, at most 10 nm, at most 9 nm, at most 8 nm, at most 7 nm, at most 6 nm, at most 5 nm, at most 4 nm, at most 3 nm, at most 2 nm, at most 1 nm, or less. The one or more light sources may have a bandwidth that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0263] The optical spectrometer may be configured to detect light within a light cone having a half-angle. The half-angle may be at least 1 degrees, at least degrees, at least 3 degrees, at least 4 degrees, at least 5 degrees, at least 6 degrees, at least 7 degrees, at least 8 degrees, at least 9 degrees, at least 10 degrees, at least 15 degrees, at least 20 degrees, at least 25 degrees, at least 30 degrees, at least 35 degrees, at least 40 degrees, at least 45 degrees, at least 50 degrees, at least 55 degrees, at least 60 degrees, at least 65 degrees, at least 70 degrees, at least 75 degrees,WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 at least 80 degrees, at least 81 degrees, at least 82 degrees, at least 83 degrees, at least 84 degrees, at least 85 degrees, at least 86 degrees, at least 87 degrees, at least 88 degrees, at least 89 degrees, or more. The light source The half-angle may be at most 89 degrees, at most 88 degrees, at most 87 degrees, at most 86 degrees, at most 85 degrees, at most 84 degrees, at most 83 degrees, at most 82 degrees, at most 81 degrees, at most 80 degrees, at most 75 degrees, at most 70 degrees, at most 65 degrees, at most 60 degrees, at most 55 degrees, at most 50 degrees, at most 45 degrees, at most 40 degrees, at most 35 degrees, at most 30 degrees, at most 25 degrees, at most 20 degrees, at most 15 degrees, at most 10 degrees, at most 9 degrees, at most 8 degrees, at most 7 degrees, at most 6 degrees, at most 5 degrees, at most 4 degrees, at most 3 degrees, at most 2 degrees, at most 1 degrees, or less. The half-angle may be within a range that is defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0264] The optical spectrometer may have a bandwidth of at least 1 nm, at least 2 nm, at least 3 nm, at least 4 nm, at least 5 nm, at least 6 nm, at least 7 nm, at least 8 nm, at least 9 nm, at least 10 nm, at least 20 nm, at least 30 nm, at least 40 nm, at least 50 nm, at least 60 nm, at least 70 nm, at least 80 nm, at least 90 nm, at least 100 nm, at least 200 nm, at least 300 nm, at least 400 nm, at least 500 nm, at least 600 nm, at least 700 nm, at least 800 nm, at least 900 nm, at least 1,000 nm, or more. The optical spectrometer may have a bandwidth of at most 1,000 nm, at most 900 nm, at most 800 nm, at most 700 nm, at most 600 nm, at most 500 nm, at most 400 nm, at most 300 nm, at most 200 nm, at most 100 nm, at most 90 nm, at most 80 nm, at most 70 nm, at most 60 nm, at most 50 nm, at most 40 nm, at most 30 nm, at most 20 nm, at most 10 nm, at most 9 nm, at most 8 nm, at most 7 nm, at most 6 nm, at most 5 nm, at most 4 nm, at most 3 nm, at most 2 nm, at most 1 nm, or less. The optical spectrometer may have a bandwidth that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0265] The optical spectrometer may have a first area (such as a detection area that is sensitive to light received by the optical spectrometer) and the sample may have a second area. A ratio of the second area to the first area may be at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, at least 200, at least 300, at least 400, at least 500, at least 600, at least 700, at least 800, at least 900, at least 1,000, or more. A ratio of the second area to the first area may be at most 1,000, at most 900, at most 800, at most 700, at most 600, at most 500, at most 400, at most 300, at most 200,at most 100, at most 90, at most 80, at most 70, at most 60, at most 50, at most 40, at most 30, at most 20, at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, at most 1, or less. A ratio of the second are to the first area may be within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 Encasement

[0266] The inner optical window surface and the optical window surface tip may define the boundaries of an encasement. The encasement may partially or completely enclose the one or more light sources. The encasement may partially or completely enclose the optical spectrometer. Thus, a system for improving an optical spectrum may comprise an optical spectrometer as described herein, a light source as described herein, and an encasement. The encasement may comprise an optical window surface tip in optical communication with a sample, as described herein. The encasement may further comprise an inner optical window surface defining a cavity and partially or completely enclosing the light source and the optical spectrometer in the cavity, as described herein. The inner optical window surface may be in optical communication with the sample. The encasement may comprise a closing plane defined by the cavity, as described herein. The encasement may be disposed relative to each of the optical spectrometer and the one or more light sources such that light emitted by the light source achieve a plurality of optical interactions with a sample before being received by the optical spectrometer. The cavity may be placed in a measurement volume filled by a sample. The measurement volume may be disposed below the closing plane. The measurement volume may be disposed above the closing plane. The measurement volume may be disposed alongside the closing plane, such that the closing plane is oriented with any possible angle to the measurement volume. The measurement volume may be partially or completely enclosed by the encasement. The system may further comprise an external light source. The system may further comprise an external optical sensor configured to image the encasement during activation of the light source. In some embodiments, the system may comprise an image sensor, for example a camera. The image sensor may be configured to image the sample. In some embodiments, the image sensor may be configured to image a sample shape, morphology, size, color, purity, uniformity, degree of damage, or any other parameter that may be imaged optically.

[0267] The encasement may have any shape. For instance, the encasement may have a spherical, hemi-spherical, cylindrical, or tubular shape. The encasement may have the same shape as the inner optical window surface or optical window surface tip.

[0268] The encasement may have any reflectivity or transmissivity. For instance, the encasement may have any reflectivity or transmissivity described herein with respect to the inner optical window surface of the accessory.

[0269] Any possible portion of light emitted by the light source may penetrate the sample and reach the encasement. For instance, at least 0.1%, at least 0.2%, at least 0.3%, at least 0.4%, at least 0.5%, at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 6%, at least 7%, at least 8%, at least 9%, at least 10%,WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93%, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99.1%, at least 99.2%, at least 99.3%, at least 99.4%, at least 99.5%, at least 99.6%, at least 99.7%, at least 99.8%, at least 99.9%, or more of the light emitted by the light source may penetrate the sample and reach the encasement, At most 99.9%, at most 99.8%, at most 99.7%, at most 99.6%, at most 99.5%, at most 99.4%, at most 99.3%, at most 99.2%, at most 99.1%, at most 99%, at most 98%, at most 97%, at most 96%, at most 95%, at most 94%, at most 93%, at most 92%, at most 91%, at most 90%, at most 80%, at most 70%, at most 60%, at most 50%, at most 40%, at most 30%, at most 20%, at most 10%, at most 9%, at most 8%, at most 7%, at most 6%, at most 5%, at most 4%, at most 3%, at most 2%, at most 1%, at most 0.9%, at most 0.8%, at most 0.7%, at most 0.6%, at most 0.5%, at most 0.4%, at most 0.3%, at most 0.2%, at most 0.1%, or less of the light emitted by the light source may penetrate the sample and reach the encasement. A portion of light emitted by the light source that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values may penetrate the sample and reach the encasement.

[0270] The encasement may further comprise a temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature of the sample. Temperature measurements received by the temperature sensor may be used to provide enhanced chemometric models of the samples measured using the optical spectrometer.

[0271] The encasement may further comprise a weight sensor configured to measure a weight of the sample. The weight sensor may comprise one or more force sensors. The weight sensor may comprise one or more strain sensors. The weight of the sample may be used to determine additional sample properties. For example, the weight of the sample may be used to determine a sample density, a sample mass, a sample water content, a sample concentration, a sample purity, a sample composition, or a sample volume.

[0272] The encasement may comprise any number of ports (such as sample input or sample output ports). For instance, the encasement may comprise at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, or more ports. The encasement may comprise at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, at most 1, or fewer ports. The encasement may comprise a number of ports that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0273] The encasement may comprise any number of shutters. For instance, the encasement may comprise at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, or more shutters. The encasement may comprise at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, at most 1, or fewerWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 shutters. The encasement may comprise a number of shutters that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0274] An optimal encasement may act to increase the amount of the sample that interacts with the light emitted by the light source (for instance, by increasing the surface area or volume of the sample that interacts with the light emitted by the light source). A gap between the optical window surface tip and the encasement may be small enough that a portion of the light emitted by the light source passes through the sample volume and illuminates the sample far from the inner optical window surface. The gap may be large enough to allow for good flow and fill of the sample in the sampling volume between the optical window surface tip and the encasement. The entire accessory may be tilted to provide good flow and fill of the sample in the sample volume. Method

[0275] In another aspect this disclosure provides, a method for measuring a sample with an optical spectrometer, the method comprising mounting the optical system of any of the preceding claims to an agricultural equipment of any of the preceding claims; inserting the sample of any of the preceding claims into the optical system; illuminating the sample; detecting a reflectance of the illumination the sample; measuring the characteristics of the sample; and providing an output of the measured characteristics of the sample.

[0276] In certain embodiments, the agricultural equipment comprises hardware configured to receive the optical system measurement readings of the sample and software configured to output an analysis of the characteristics of the sample passing through the sample chamber. In certain embodiments, the characteristics of the sample passing through the sample chamber comprise one or more of sample chemical composition, color and appearance, size and shape, moisture content, purity and contaminants, aflatoxin and mycotoxin levels, starch content, sugar content, germination rate, vitamin and nutrient levels, aromatic compounds, toxic elements, protein content, oil content, starch content, or fiber content. In certain embodiments, the agricultural equipment is mounted to a combine. In certain embodiments, the combine comprises a combine of any of the preceding claims. In certain embodiments, the signal comprises…. In certain embodiments, the method further comprises measuring the characteristics of a sample passing through the sample chamber.

[0277] In some embodiments, the method for measuring a sample with an optical spectrometer comprises using an optical system. In further embodiments, the optical system comprises an accessory. In even further embodiments, the accessory comprises: (a) an optical window configured to separate one or more illumination sources from a sample, (b) a sample chamber comprising a sample chamber inlet channel configured to direct at least a portion of the sampleWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 into a portion of the sample chamber, and an (c) an optical window protector. In further embodiments, the optical system comprises an optical spectrometer. In even further embodiments, the accessory is mounted to the optical spectrometer.

[0278] In some embodiments, the method further comprises mounting the accessory to an optical spectrometer. In some embodiments, the method further comprises mounting the accessory to agricultural equipment. In some embodiments, the method further comprises measuring the optical characteristics of a sample.

[0279] In some embodiments, the optical window comprises a dome, wherein the dome comprises a hemispherical or spherical shape or cross section. In certain embodiments, the optical window protector comprises a scratch protective coating. In further embodiments, the optical window protector comprises an air nozzle. In further embodiments, the optical window protector comprises a folding element configured to cover at least part of the optical window. In even further embodiments, the optical window protector comprises one or more of the scratch protective coating, air nozzle, or folding element.

[0280] In some embodiments, the method further comprises mounting the optical system to agricultural equipment.

[0281] In certain embodiments, the agricultural equipment comprises one or more of a (a) grain weighing module, load cell module, weighbridge module, conveyor belt scale, hopper scale, silo weighing system, portable weighing module, in-motion weighing system, precision weighing module, wireless weighing system, or automated grain weighing system, mounted on one or more of (b) an agricultural combine, research combine, regular harvesting combine, grain combine harvester, corn combine harvester, soybean combine harvester, rice combine harvester, forage harvester, cotton combine harvester, sugar cane harvester, potato harvester, vegetable harvester, grapes harvester, olive harvester, lentil combine harvester, bean combine harvester, sunflower combine harvester, specialty crop harvester grain sampler, drain drier, grain elevator, or grain storage bin.

[0282] In further embodiments, the method further comprises measuring the characteristics of a sample passing through the sample chamber. In even further embodiments, the optical system further comprises sensors configured to measure and output optical system measurement readings of the sample. In even further embodiments, the agricultural equipment comprises hardware configured to receive the optical system measurement readings of the sample and software configured to output an analysis of the characteristics of the sample passing through the sample chamber.

[0283] In certain embodiments, the characteristics comprise one or more of sample chemical composition, color and appearance, size and shape, moisture content, purity and contaminants,WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 aflatoxin and mycotoxin levels, starch content, sugar content, germination rate, vitamin and nutrient levels, aromatic compounds, toxic elements, protein content, oil content, starch content, or fiber content.

[0284] In further embodiments, the sample comprises one or more of any grain, wheat, rice, corn (maize), barley, oats, rye, sorghum, millet, quinoa, buckwheat, triticale, amaranth, teff, wild rice, spelt, kamut, emmer, or einkorn.

[0285] In some embodiments, a method for measuring a sample with an optical spectrometer is provided. In some embodiments, the method comprises using an accessory. In some embodiments, the accessory comprises an optical window configured to separate one or more illumination sources from a sample; a sample chamber comprising a sample chamber inlet channel configured to direct at least a portion of the sample into a portion of the sample chamber, and an optical window protector.

[0286] In some embodiments, a method of using any of the accessories is provided to analyze a sample. In some embodiments, a method of using any of the systems is provided to analyze a sample.

[0287] FIG.9 is a flowchart for a method 900 for improving sensitivity or efficiency of an optical spectrometer. The optical spectrometer may be any optical spectrometer described herein. In a first operation 910, the method 900 may comprise providing a light source and an optical spectrometer in proximity to a sample. The light source may be any light source described herein. The optical spectrometer may be any optical spectrometer described herein. The sample may be any sample described herein.

[0288] In a second operation 920, the method 900 may comprise partially or completely enclosing the light source and the optical spectrometer in an accessory. The accessory may comprise any accessory described herein, such as accessory 1950 as described herein with respect to FIG.5, FIG.6, FIG.7, and FIG.8. The accessory may comprise an optical window surface tip in optical communication with a sample. The accessory may comprise an inner optical window surface configured to partially or completely enclose the light source and the optical spectrometer and to direct light emitted by the light source to optically interact with the sample a plurality of times before being received by the optical spectrometer. The inner optical window surface may be in optical communication with the sample.

[0289] In a third operation 930, the method 900 may comprise activating the light source and the optical spectrometer.

[0290] The method 900 may further comprise calibrating the accessory. Calibrating the accessory may comprise providing the light source and the optical spectrometer in proximity to a reference sample, partially or completely enclosing the light source and the opticalWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 spectrometer in the accessory and activating the light source and the optical spectrometer to generate reference data.

[0291] The optically absorptive material may be configured to direct light reflected, scattered, diffracted, or diffused by the optically reflective material before being received by the optical spectrometer. The optical interactions may comprise any possible interaction of the light with the optically reflective material. For instance, the optical interactions may comprise reflection, absorption, elastic scattering, inelastic scattering, diffraction, or any other linear or non-linear optical interaction, The inner optical window surface may be configured to direct light emitted by the one or more light sources to achieve at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, at least 200, at least 300, at least 400, at least 1900, at least 600, at least 700, at least 800, at least 900, at least 1,000, or more optical interactions with the sample before being received by the optical spectrometer. The inner optical window surface may be configured to direct light emitted by the one or more light sources to achieve at most 1,000, at most 900, at most 800, at most 700, at most 600, at most 1900, at most 400, at most 300, at most 200, at most 100, at most 90, at most 80, at most 70, at most 60, at most 50, at most 40, at most 30, at most 20, at most 10, at most 90, at most 80, at most 70, at most 60, at most 50, at most 40, at most 30, at most 20, at most 10, at most 9, at most 8, at most 7, at most 6, at most 5, at most 4, at most 3, at most 2, or at most 1 optical interactions with the optically reflective material before being received by the optical spectrometer. The inner optical window surface may be configured to direct light emitted by the one or more light sources to achieve a number of optical interactions with the optically reflective material that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values before being received by the optical spectrometer. In some instances, most of the light emitted by the one or more light sources may achieve such multiple optical interactions with the sample before being received by the optical spectrometer. In some instances, the inner optical window surface may be configured to increase an optical path length by at least 1 times, at least 2 times, at least 3 times, at least 4 times, at least 5 times, at least 6 times, at least 7 times, at least 8 times, at least 9 times, at least 10 times, at least 20 times, at least 30 times, at least 40 times, at least 50 times, at least 60 times, at least 70 times, at least 80 times, at least 90 times, at least 100 times, or more, with respect to an optical path length of a single reflection. The inner optical window surface may be configured to increase an optical path length by at most 100 times, at most 90 times, at most 80 times, at most 70 times, at most 60 times, at most 50 times, at most 40 times, at most 30 times, at most 20 times, at most 10 times, at most 9 times, at most 8 times, at most 7 times, at most 6 times, at most 5 times, at most 4 times, at most 3 times, at most 2 times, at most 1 time, or less.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 The inner optical window surface may be configured to increase an optical path length by a number of times that is within a range defined by any two of the preceding values.

[0292] The reference sample may comprise a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) sample.

[0293] Calibrating the accessory may occur prior to any one or more of operations 910, 920, and 930. Calibrating the accessory may occur subsequent to any one or more of operations 910, 920, and 930.

[0294] The method 900 may further comprise, subsequent to operation 930, generating sample data and processing the sample data with the reference data to calibrate the sample data.

[0295] The method 900 may further comprise, subsequent to operation 930, generating sample data, measuring sample temperature to generate sample temperature data, and processing the sample data with the sample temperature data to compensate for temperature-related spectral variations. Digital processing device

[0296] FIG.10 is a schematic diagram of an example of a digital processing device, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0297] The present disclosure provides computer systems for implementing methods and devices of the present disclosure. FIG.10 shows a computer system 1001 that is programmed or otherwise configured to operate any method or system described herein. The computer system 1001 can regulate various aspects of the present disclosure. The computer system 1001 can be an electronic device of a user or a computer system that is remotely located with respect to the electronic device. The electronic device can be a mobile electronic device.

[0298] The computer system 1001 includes a central processing unit (CPU, also “processor” and “computer processor” herein) 1005, which can be a single core or multi core processor, or a plurality of processors for parallel processing. The computer system 1001 also includes memory or memory location 1010 (e.g., random-access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronic storage unit 1015 (e.g., hard disk), communication interface 1020 (e.g., network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices 1025, such as cache, other memory, data storage and / or electronic display adapters. The memory 1010, storage unit 1015, interface 1020 and peripheral devices 1025 are in communication with the CPU 1005 through a communication bus (solid lines), such as a motherboard. The storage unit 1015 can be a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The computer system 1001 can be operatively coupled to a computer network (“network”) 1030 with the aid of the communication interface 1020. The network 1030 can be the Internet, an internet and / or extranet, or an intranet and / or extranet that is in communication with the Internet. The network 1030 in some cases is a telecommunication and / or data network. The network 1030 can includeWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 one or more computer servers, which can enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. The network 1030, in some cases with the aid of the computer system 1001, can implement a peer-to-peer network, which may enable devices coupled to the computer system 1001 to behave as a client or a server.

[0299] The CPU 1005 can execute a sequence of machine-readable instructions, which can be embodied in a program or software. The instructions may be stored in a memory location, such as the memory 1010. The instructions can be directed to the CPU 1005, which can subsequently program or otherwise configure the CPU 1005 to implement methods of the present disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the CPU 1005 can include fetch, decode, execute, and writeback.

[0300] The CPU 1005 can be part of a circuit, such as an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the system 1001 can be included in the circuit. In some cases, the circuit is an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0301] The storage unit 1015 can store files, such as drivers, libraries and saved programs. The storage unit 1015 can store user data, e.g., user preferences and user programs. The computer system 1001 in some cases can include one or more additional data storage units that are external to the computer system 1001, such as located on a remote server that is in communication with the computer system 1001 through an intranet or the Internet.

[0302] The computer system 1001 can communicate with one or more remote computer systems through the network 1030. For instance, the computer system 1001 can communicate with a remote computer system of a user. Examples of remote computer systems include personal computers (e.g., portable PC), slate or tablet PC’s (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab), telephones, Smart phones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android-enabled device, Blackberry®), or personal digital assistants. The user can access the computer system 1001 via the network 1030.

[0303] Methods as described herein can be implemented by way of machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored on an electronic storage location of the computer system 1001, such as, for example, on the memory 1010 or electronic storage unit 1015. The machine executable or machine readable code can be provided in the form of software. During use, the code can be executed by the processor 1005. In some cases, the code can be retrieved from the storage unit 1015 and stored on the memory 1010 for ready access by the processor 1005. In some situations, the electronic storage unit 1015 can be precluded, and machine-executable instructions are stored on memory 1010.

[0304] The code can be pre-compiled and configured for use with a machine having a processor adapted to execute the code or can be compiled during runtime. The code can be supplied in aWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 programming language that can be selected to enable the code to execute in a pre-compiled or as-compiled fashion.

[0305] Aspects of the systems and methods provided herein, such as the computer system 1001, can be embodied in programming. Various aspects of the technology may be thought of as “products” or “articles of manufacture” typically in the form of machine (or processor) executable code and / or associated data that is carried on or embodied in a type of machine readable medium. Machine-executable code can be stored on an electronic storage unit, such as memory (e.g., read-only memory, random-access memory, flash memory) or a hard disk. “Storage” type media can include any or all of the tangible memory of the computers, processors or the like, or associated modules thereof, such as various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives and the like, which may provide non-transitory storage at any time for the software programming. All or portions of the software may at times be communicated through the Internet or various other telecommunication networks. Such communications, for example, may enable loading of the software from one computer or processor into another, for example, from a management server or host computer into the computer platform of an application server. Thus, another type of media that may bear the software elements includes optical, electrical and electromagnetic waves, such as used across physical interfaces between local devices, through wired and optical landline networks and over various air-links. The physical elements that carry such waves, such as wired or wireless links, optical links or the like, also may be considered as media bearing the software. As used herein, unless restricted to non-transitory, tangible “storage” media, terms such as computer or machine “readable medium” refer to any medium that participates in providing instructions to a processor for execution.

[0306] Hence, a machine readable medium, such as computer-executable code, may take many forms, including but not limited to, a tangible storage medium, a carrier wave medium or physical transmission medium. Non-volatile storage media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as any of the storage devices in any computer(s) or the like, such as may be used to implement the databases, etc. shown in the drawings. Volatile storage media include dynamic memory, such as main memory of such a computer platform. Tangible transmission media include coaxial cables; copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a bus within a computer system. Carrier-wave transmission media may take the form of electric or electromagnetic signals, or acoustic or light waves such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media therefore include for example: a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD or DVD-ROM, any other optical medium, punch cards paper tape, any other physical storage medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a ROM, aWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 PROM and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave transporting data or instructions, cables or links transporting such a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer may read programming code and / or data. Many of these forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to a processor for execution.

[0307] The computer system 1001 can include or be in communication with an electronic display 1035 that comprises a user interface (UI) 1040. Examples of UI’s include, without limitation, a graphical user interface (GUI) and web-based user interface. Methods and systems of the present disclosure can be implemented by way of one or more algorithms. An algorithm can be implemented by way of software upon execution by the central processing unit 1005. The algorithm can, for example, enact any of the systems or methods described herein. Non-transitory computer readable storage medium

[0308] In some embodiments, the platforms, systems, media, and methods disclosed herein include one or more non-transitory computer readable storage media encoded with a program including instructions executable by the operating system of an optionally networked digital processing device. In further embodiments, a computer readable storage medium is a tangible component of a digital processing device. In still further embodiments, a computer readable storage medium is optionally removable from a digital processing device. In some embodiments, a computer readable storage medium includes, by way of non-limiting examples, CD-ROMs, DVDs, flash memory devices, solid state memory, magnetic disk drives, magnetic tape drives, optical disk drives, cloud computing systems and services, and the like. In some cases, the program and instructions are permanently, substantially permanently, semi- permanently, or non-transitorily encoded on the media. Computer program

[0309] In some embodiments, the platforms, systems, media, and methods disclosed herein include at least one computer program, or use of the same. A computer program includes a sequence of instructions, executable in the digital processing device’s CPU, written to perform a specified task. Computer readable instructions may be implemented as program modules, such as functions, objects, Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), data structures, and the like, that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. In light of the disclosure provided herein, those of skill in the art will recognize that a computer program may be written in various versions of various languages.

[0310] The functionality of the computer readable instructions may be combined or distributed as desired in various environments. In some embodiments, a computer program comprises oneWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 sequence of instructions. In some embodiments, a computer program comprises a plurality of sequences of instructions. In some embodiments, a computer program is provided from one location. In other embodiments, a computer program is provided from a plurality of locations. In various embodiments, a computer program includes one or more software modules. In various embodiments, a computer program includes, in part or in whole, one or more web applications, one or more mobile applications, one or more standalone applications, one or more web browser plug-ins, extensions, add-ins, or add-ons, or combinations thereof. Web application

[0311] In some embodiments, a computer program includes a web application. In light of the disclosure provided herein, those of skill in the art will recognize that a web application, in various embodiments, utilizes one or more software frameworks and one or more database systems. In some embodiments, a web application is created upon a software framework such as Microsoft®.NET or Ruby on Rails (RoR). In some embodiments, a web application utilizes one or more database systems including, by way of non-limiting examples, relational, non-relational, object oriented, associative, and XML database systems. In further embodiments, suitable relational database systems include, by way of non-limiting examples, Microsoft®SQL Server, mySQLTM, and Oracle®. Those of skill in the art will also recognize that a web application, in various embodiments, is written in one or more versions of one or more languages. A web application may be written in one or more markup languages, presentation definition languages, client-side scripting languages, server-side coding languages, database query languages, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a web application is written to some extent in a markup language such as Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Extensible Hypertext Markup Language (XHTML), or eXtensible Markup Language (XML). In some embodiments, a web application is written to some extent in a presentation definition language such as Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). In some embodiments, a web application is written to some extent in a client-side scripting language such as Asynchronous Javascript and XML (AJAX), Flash®Actionscript, Javascript, or Silverlight®. In some embodiments, a web application is written to some extent in a server-side coding language such as Active Server Pages (ASP), ColdFusion®, Perl, JavaTM, JavaServer Pages (JSP), Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP), PythonTM, Ruby, Tcl, Smalltalk, WebDNA®, or Groovy. In some embodiments, a web application is written to some extent in a database query language such as Structured Query Language (SQL). In some embodiments, a web application integrates enterprise server products such as IBM®Lotus Domino®. In some embodiments, a web application includes a media player element. In various further embodiments, a media player element utilizes one or more of many suitableWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 multimedia technologies including, by way of non-limiting examples, Adobe®Flash®, HTML 5, Apple®QuickTime®, Microsoft®Silverlight®, JavaTM, and Unity®. Mobile application

[0312] In some embodiments, a computer program includes a mobile application provided to a mobile digital processing device. In some embodiments, the mobile application is provided to a mobile digital processing device at the time it is manufactured. In other embodiments, the mobile application is provided to a mobile digital processing device via the computer network described herein.

[0313] In view of the disclosure provided herein, a mobile application is created by techniques known to those of skill in the art using hardware, languages, and development environments known to the art. Those of skill in the art will recognize that mobile applications are written in several languages. Suitable programming languages include, by way of non-limiting examples, C, C++, C#, Objective-C, JavaTM, Javascript, Pascal, Object Pascal, PythonTM, Ruby, VB.NET, WML, and XHTML / HTML with or without CSS, or combinations thereof.

[0314] Suitable mobile application development environments are available from several sources. Commercially available development environments include, by way of non-limiting examples, AirplaySDK, alcheMo, Appcelerator®, Celsius, Bedrock, Flash Lite, .NET Compact Framework, Rhomobile, and WorkLight Mobile Platform. Other development environments are available without cost including, by way of non-limiting examples, Lazarus, MobiFlex, MoSync, and Phonegap. Also, mobile device manufacturers distribute software developer kits including, by way of non-limiting examples, iPhone and iPad (iOS) SDK, AndroidTMSDK, BlackBerry®SDK, BREW SDK, Palm®OS SDK, Symbian SDK, webOS SDK, and Windows®Mobile SDK.

[0315] Those of skill in the art will recognize that several commercial forums are available for distribution of mobile applications including, by way of non-limiting examples, Apple®App Store, Google®Play, Chrome WebStore, BlackBerry®App World, App Store for Palm devices, App Catalog for webOS, Windows®Marketplace for Mobile, Ovi Store for Nokia®devices, Samsung®Apps, and Nintendo®DSi Shop. Standalone application

[0316] In some embodiments, a computer program includes a standalone application, which is a program that is run as an independent computer process, not an add-on to an existing process, e.g., not a plug-in. Those of skill in the art will recognize that standalone applications are often compiled. A compiler is a computer program(s) that transforms source code written in a programming language into binary object code such as assembly language or machine code.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 Suitable compiled programming languages include, by way of non-limiting examples, C, C++, Objective-C, COBOL, Delphi, Eiffel, JavaTM, Lisp, PythonTM, Visual Basic, and VB .NET, or combinations thereof. Compilation is often performed, at least in part, to create an executable program. In some embodiments, a computer program includes one or more executable complied applications. Web browser plug-in

[0317] In some embodiments, the computer program includes a web browser plug-in (e.g., extension, etc.). In computing, a plug-in is one or more software components that add specific functionality to a larger software application. Makers of software applications support plug-ins to enable third-party developers to create abilities which extend an application, to support easily adding new features, and to reduce the size of an application. When supported, plug-ins enable customizing the functionality of a software application. For example, plug-ins are commonly used in web browsers to play video, generate interactivity, scan for viruses, and display particular file types. Those of skill in the art will be familiar with several web browser plug-ins including, Adobe®Flash®Player, Microsoft®Silverlight®, and Apple®QuickTime®. In some embodiments, the toolbar comprises one or more web browser extensions, add-ins, or add-ons. In some embodiments, the toolbar comprises one or more explorer bars, tool bands, or desk bands.

[0318] In view of the disclosure provided herein, those of skill in the art will recognize that several plug-in frameworks are available that enable development of plug-ins in various programming languages, including, by way of non-limiting examples, C++, Delphi, JavaTM, PHP, PythonTM, and VB .NET, or combinations thereof.

[0319] Web browsers (also called Internet browsers) are software applications, designed for use with network-connected digital processing devices, for retrieving, presenting, and traversing information resources on the World Wide Web. Suitable web browsers include, by way of non- limiting examples, Microsoft®Internet Explorer®, Mozilla®Firefox®, Google®Chrome, Apple®Safari®, Opera Software®Opera®, and KDE Konqueror. In some embodiments, the web browser is a mobile web browser. Mobile web browsers (also called mircrobrowsers, mini- browsers, and wireless browsers) are designed for use on mobile digital processing devices including, by way of non-limiting examples, handheld computers, tablet computers, netbook computers, subnotebook computers, smartphones, music players, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and handheld video game systems. Suitable mobile web browsers include, by way of non-limiting examples, Google®Android®browser, RIM BlackBerry®Browser, Apple®Safari®, Palm®Blazer, Palm®WebOS®Browser, Mozilla®Firefox®for mobile, Microsoft®InternetWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 Explorer®Mobile, Amazon®Kindle®Basic Web, Nokia®Browser, Opera Software®Opera®Mobile, and Sony®PSPTM browser. Software modules

[0320] In some embodiments, the platforms, systems, media, and methods disclosed herein include software, server, and / or database modules, or use of the same. In view of the disclosure provided herein, software modules are created by techniques known to those of skill in the art using machines, software, and languages known to the art. The software modules disclosed herein are implemented in a multitude of ways. In various embodiments, a software module comprises a file, a section of code, a programming object, a programming structure, or combinations thereof. In further various embodiments, a software module comprises a plurality of files, a plurality of sections of code, a plurality of programming objects, a plurality of programming structures, or combinations thereof. In various embodiments, the one or more software modules comprise, by way of non-limiting examples, a web application, a mobile application, and a standalone application. In some embodiments, software modules are in one computer program or application. In other embodiments, software modules are in more than one computer program or application. In some embodiments, software modules are hosted on one machine. In other embodiments, software modules are hosted on more than one machine. In further embodiments, software modules are hosted on cloud computing platforms. In some embodiments, software modules are hosted on one or more machines in one location. In other embodiments, software modules are hosted on one or more machines in more than one location. Databases

[0321] In some embodiments, the platforms, systems, media, and methods disclosed herein include one or more databases, or use of the same. In view of the disclosure provided herein, those of skill in the art will recognize that many databases are suitable for storage and retrieval of spectral information. In various embodiments, suitable databases include, by way of non- limiting examples, relational databases, non-relational databases, object oriented databases, object databases, entity-relationship model databases, associative databases, and XML databases. Further non-limiting examples include SQL, PostgreSQL, MySQL, Oracle, DB2, and Sybase. In some embodiments, a database is internet-based. In further embodiments, a database is web-based. In still further embodiments, a database is cloud computing-based. In other embodiments, a database is based on one or more local computer storage devices.

[0322] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to thoseWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention.

[0323] Where values are described as ranges, it will be understood that such disclosure includes the disclosure of all possible sub-ranges within such ranges, as well as specific numerical values that fall within such ranges irrespective of whether a specific numerical value or specific sub- range is expressly stated.

[0324] Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Any reference to “or” herein is intended to encompass “and / or” unless otherwise stated.

[0325] Whenever the term “at least,” “greater than,” or “greater than or equal to” precedes the first numerical value in a series of two or more numerical values, the term “at least,” “greater than” or “greater than or equal to” applies to each of the numerical values in that series of numerical values. For example, greater than or equal to 1, 2, or 3 is equivalent to greater than or equal to 1, greater than or equal to 2, or greater than or equal to 3.

[0326] Whenever the term “no more than,” “less than,” “less than or equal to,” or “at most” precedes the first numerical value in a series of two or more numerical values, the term “no more than,” “less than” or “less than or equal to,” or “at most” applies to each of the numerical values in that series of numerical values. For example, less than or equal to 3, 2, or 1 is equivalent to less than or equal to 3, less than or equal to 2, or less than or equal to 1. EXAMPLES

[0327] The following examples are illustrative and non-limiting to the scope of the devices, methods, systems, and kits described herein. EXAMPLE 1 Dome-Shaped Accessory

[0328] This example describes a dome-shaped accessory for use with an optical spectrometer.

[0329] A dome, such a hemi-spherical glass dome, creates a cavity with a closing plane. The cavity closing plane can be a mirror or a diffuse white material. Preferably, the reflectivity of the closing plane material is as close as possible to 100% and as flat across the useful wavelength range of the system as possible. In some cases, the dome has a shape that is different from a hemi-sphere in order to provide more uniform illumination of the sample. This may beWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 more important when the reflections from the sample and from the other walls have a specular component larger than the randomly diffuse reflections.

[0330] One or more wide-band and wide-angle light sources are placed in small-area openings in the closing plane. One or more spectrometer receivers are placed at one or more openings in the closing plane. Preferably, the spectrometer has wide angle incidence and small area A relative to the surface area of sample, S. In some cases, narrow band sources may be used, such as when the sample spectral response is important in a set of well-defined wavelengths. In some cases, narrow-angle light sources may be preferable to wide-angle light sources, such as in cases in which the light is guided by an optical fiber, or when a laser is used as a light source. Optionally, lenses or transparent diffusers or engineered diffusers may also be used to convert a narrow beam source to a wide-angle illumination.

[0331] Optionally, the dome is coated on one or two sides by anti-reflecting coating to reduce unwanted reflections from the surface of the dome.

[0332] The cavity is placed in a measurement volume that can be filled by the sampled substance, which is preferably diffusive. For instance, the cavity may be placed in a sample comprising grains.

[0333] Assume now that the reflectance of the sample is μ(X), where μ is a unit-less value smaller than 1, and X is the wavelength. Assume also that the illumination spectral density power is P(X), for example, P may be expressed in units of milliwatts per nanometer [mW / nm].

[0334] Given the shape of the accessory, the wide angle illumination, and a highly reflective, highly diffusive sample (μ(X) not much smaller than 1), it can be assumed that the power flux spectral density, E(X) in the cavity is uniform, where E may be expressed in units of milliwats per nanometer per square millimeter (mW / nm / mm2).

[0335] Under the simplifying assumption that the closing plane reflectivity is 1 and the spectrometer absorbs all of the light emitted by the light source impinging on the spectrometer, the steady state condition will be established when the power injected into the cavity in the form of light emitted by the light source equals the power absorbed by the sample and thespectrometer. Thus:P X E X A S 1 X

[0336] Spectrometer output M( ) can be written as M(X) = A*E(X). Therefore:P AM A1 SA 1 A

[0337] Since S / A>>1, the contrast of the spectrum is significantly improved. For example, assume that the reflectivity of the sample μ(X) is nominally 90%, with a range of ±1%. The contrast in a reflectance test will therefore be (μMAx- μMIN) / (μMAx+ μMIN) = (91-89) / (91+89) =WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 1.11%. Assume now that S / A = 100. The contrast in the improved-sensitivity accessory is calculated by insertion of μMAx, μMINand S / A into the equations of M and calculating the contrast in M, resulting in improved contrast of 9.1%, a factor of 8.2 larger than in the single- reflection spectrometry.

[0338] It can be seen that, depending on the reflectivity of the sample, it is possible to trade off light intensity for the larger optical path. This may be achieved by selecting the ratio between S and A. The larger this ratio, the better the contrast but the smaller the received light intensity. EXAMPLE 2 Dynamic Cavity Gain Control Using a Rotating Prism

[0339] This example describes dynamic cavity gain control using a rotating prism.

[0340] A prism, such as a square prism, may be used to dynamically adjust the gain of a spectrometer cavity. A sample may be detected using two or more cavity geometries, thereby providing a plurality of contrasts. One mechanism to dynamically adjust the gain is to control the average reflectivity of the closing plane. FIG.12 illustrates an accessory for controlling the reflectivity of the closing plane by rotating one or more square prisms about an axis substantially parallel to the closing plane. Each side of a prism may be coated, covered, or painted with a material with different reflective properties. Each surface may have different reflectivity. Rotating a prism about its axis may change the average reflectivity of the closing plane, thereby adjusting the cavity gain. A sample may be measured at one or more prism configurations. A sample may be measured at one or more contrast settings. Measurement of the sample at multiple configurations may be useful when calibration of the spectrometer is not convenient or if calibration of the spectrometer is time consuming. EXAMPLE 3 Optical System with Sample Accessory with Scratch Protective Layer

[0341] This example describes an optical system with a sample accessory with a scratch- protective layer for use with an optical spectrometer.

[0342] A sample accessory 1950 is configured enhance detection of a sample 1904 using an optical spectrometer 1903. The sample accessory 1950 comprises a sample chamber 1901 configured to hold a sample 1904 in optical communication with the optical spectrometer 1903, an optical window 1902, and an optical window surface tip 2111 comprising a scratch-protective layer 2201 as illustrated in FIG.18. The scratch-protective layer 2201 may be configured to protect the optical window 1902 (e.g., the dome) from damage from any object (e.g., a sampleWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 1904). Furthermore, the scratch-protective layer 2201 may prevent any object from affecting optical properties of the optical window 1902 (e.g., dome). In some embodiments, the optical properties comprise an internal reflection, translucence, diffusivity, optical clarity, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the sample 1904 comprises any sample (e.g., grain, corn, etc.).

[0343] The surface area of the spectrometer 1904 may be small compared to the surface area of the sample 1904 and the surface area of scratch protective layer 2201 on the optical window surface tip 2111 such that most of the light reaching the spectrometer 1903 has had multiple interactions with the sample 1904. Increasing the number of times the light interacts with the sample 1904 increases the sensitivity of the measurement.

[0344] The scratch-protective layer 2201 may comprise a reflective cover reflects light that passes through the sample 1904, returning the light to the sample chamber 1901 and the sample accessory 1950. The reflective cover may be made from a highly reflective material and forms a section of a sphere (e.g., a spherical cap) with the spectrometer sensor positioned at the center of the sphere such that light reflected off the reflective cover is not reflected directly toward the sensor of the spectrometer, thereby increasing the number of interactions between the light and the sample 1904. The sample 1904 is illuminated by an illumination source, and light from the illumination source that interacts with the sample 1904 is scattered back toward the optical spectrometer 1903. Light from the illumination source that does not interact with the sample 1904 reflects off of the reflective scratch protective layer 2201 and is not directed toward the optical spectrometer 1903. Thus, most light reaching the optical spectrometer 1903 has interacted with the sample 1904. The sample accessory 1950 increases the sensitivity of detecting a sample 1904 with an optical spectrometer 1903 by increasing the proportion of light reaching the optical spectrometer 1903 that has interacted with the sample 1904. EXAMPLE 4 Optical System with Sample Accessory with Air Nozzle

[0345] This example describes an optical system with a sample accessory with an air nozzle for use with an optical spectrometer.

[0346] A sample accessory 1950 is configured enhance detection of a sample using an optical spectrometer. The sample accessory 1950 comprises a sample chamber 1901 configured to hold a sample 1904 in optical communication with the optical spectrometer 1903, an optical window 1902, and an air nozzle 2401 as illustrated in FIG.20. The air nozzle 2401 may be configured to protect the optical window 1902 from damage. For example, FIG.20 shows deflection of theWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 sample 1904 from contacting the optical window 1902 using an air nozzle 2401 (e.g., an “air blade”) placed above the optical window 1902 (e.g., dome). The air nozzle 2401 may change the direction of the sample 1904 to a portion of the sample chamber 1901 horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902. Thus, if and when the sample 1904 contacts the optical window 1902, the sample 1904 will comprise a low sample energy, thereby minimizing any potential damage to the optical window 1902. EXAMPLE 5 Optical System with Sample Accessory with Folding Element

[0347] This example describes an optical system with a sample accessory with a folding element for use with an optical spectrometer.

[0348] A sample accessory 1950 is configured enhance detection of a sample 1904 using an optical spectrometer 1903. The sample accessory 1950 comprises a sample chamber 1901 configured to hold a sample 1904 in optical communication with the optical spectrometer 1903, an optical window 1902, and a folding element 2301 as illustrated in FIG.19A -19B. The folding element 2301 may be configured to protect the optical window 1902 (e.g., the dome) from damage from any object (e.g., a sample 1904). Furthermore, the folding element 2301 may prevent any object from affecting optical properties of the optical window 1902. For example, the optical properties may comprise an internal reflection, translucence, diffusivity, optical clarity, or a combination thereof.

[0349] The folding element 2301 is configured to fold to cover at least part of the optical window 1902 along path 2302 (as shown in Fig.19A). For example, the folding element 2301 may fold completely cover the optical window surface tip 2111 during sample addition. Furthermore, the folding element 2301 may be configured to unfold along path 2303 to expose at least part of the optical window surface tip 2111 (as shown in Fig.19B). For example, the folding element 2301 is configured to unfold (e.g., along path 2303) to expose at least part of the optical window surface tip 2111 after the end of sample addition. In other examples, the folding element 2301 is configured to unfold (e.g., along path 2303) to expose at least part of the optical window surface tip 2111 during sample addition, wherein the sample 1904 comprises a low energy sample. For example, the folding element 2301 may be in communication with a sensor or other component configured to measure the energy of the sample 1904 (e.g., force / pressure sensor). In further examples, the sample 1904 particles may comprise a mean / average kinetic energy of less than 10 micro-joule. In even further examples, the sample 1904 particles mayWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 comprise a mean / average speed of less than 1 m / sec. The sample may comprise a low energy and the folding element 2301 may unfold (e.g., along path 2303) prior to end of sample addition. EXAMPLE 6 Optical System with Sample Accessory with User Adjustable / Slidable Gate

[0350] This example describes an optical system with a sample accessory with a user adjustable / slidable gate for use with an optical spectrometer.

[0351] A sample accessory 1950 is configured enhance detection of a sample1904 using an optical spectrometer 1903. The sample accessory 1950 comprises a sample chamber 1901 configured to hold a sample 1904 in optical communication with the optical spectrometer 1903, an optical window 1902, and a user adjustable / slidable gate 2101 as illustrated in FIG.17C. The user adjustable / slidable gate 2101 may be configured to protect the optical window 1902 (e.g., the dome) from damage from any object (e.g., a sample). For example, the optical properties may comprise an internal reflection, translucence, diffusivity, optical clarity, or a combination thereof.

[0352] In FIG.17C, a user adjustable slidable gate 2101 coupled to the sample chamber 1901 opens gradually such that the sample 1904 fills much of the sample chamber 1901 volume without contacting the optical window 1902 with high energy.

[0353] In further examples, the sample 1904 particles may comprise a mean / average kinetic energy of less than 10 micro-joule. In even further examples, the sample 1904 particles may comprise a mean / average speed of less than 1 m / sec. The user adjustable slidable gate 2101 is configured to open along path 2150 from the right sample chamber side 2114 to the left sample chamber side 2113, or vice-versa. In alternative embodiments, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 is configured to open from the top sample chamber side 1905 to the bottom sample chamber side 2112, or vice-versa. The user adjustable slidable gate 2101 is configured to open gradually during sample 1904 addition such that a high energy sample 1904 fills at least part of the sample chamber 1901 without contacting the optical window 1902. Furthermore, the sample 1904 converts from the high energy sample to a low energy sample upon sample addition by contacting the bottom side of the sample chamber 2112 or another sample 1904. Eventually, the sample 1904 may contact / covers the optical window 1902. Moreover, the sample 1904 comprises the low energy sample 1904 when the sample 1904 contacts the optical window 1902. Further, the sample chamber 1901 may be filled with the sample 1904 without affecting optical properties of the optical window 1902. For example, the optical properties may comprise an internal reflection, translucence, diffusivity, optical clarity, or a combination thereof.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 EXAMPLE 7 Optical System with Sample Accessory with Scratch-Protective Layer, Air Nozzle and Folding Element

[0354] This example describes an optical system with a sample accessory with a scratch- protective layer, air nozzle, user-adjustable / slidable gate, and folding element for use with an optical spectrometer.

[0355] Furthermore, the sample accessory 1950 with a scratch-protective layer 2201, air nozzle 2401, user-adjustable / slidable gate 2101, and folding element 2301 for use with an optical spectrometer 1903 may prevent any object (e.g., the sample 1904) from affecting the optical properties of the optical window 1902. For example, the optical properties may comprise an internal reflection, translucence, diffusivity, optical clarity, or a combination thereof.

[0356] A sample accessory 1950 is configured enhance detection of a sample 1904 using an optical spectrometer 1903. The sample accessory 1950 comprises a sample chamber 1950 configured to hold a sample 1904 in optical communication with the optical spectrometer 1903, an optical window 1902, and an optical window surface tip 2111 comprising a scratch-protective layer 2201 from Example 3, an air nozzle 2401 from Example 4, a folding element 2301 from Example 5, and a user-adjustable slidable gate 2101 from Example 6.

[0357] For example, the air nozzle 2401 may change the direction of the sample 1904 to a portion of the sample chamber 1901 horizontally adjacent to the optical window 1902. Moreover, the folding element 2301 may overlay the scratch-protective layer 2201 and further prevent any object from affecting optical properties of the optical window 1902. In addition, the folding element 2301 may completely cover the scratch-protective layer 2201 during sample addition. Furthermore, the folding element 2301 may unfold (e.g., along path 2303) to expose at least part of the scratch-protective layer 2201 after the end of sample addition. Alternatively, the folding element 2301 may unfold (e.g., along path 2303) to expose at least part of the scratch- protective layer 2201 during sample addition (e.g., where the sample 1904 comprises a low energy sample). For example, the folding element 2301 may be in communication with a sensor configured to measure the energy of the sample 1904. The sample 1904 may comprise a low energy and the folding element 2301 may unfold (e.g., along path 2303) prior to end of sample addition. In further examples, the sample 1904 particles may comprise a mean / average kinetic energy of less than 10 micro-joule. In even further examples, the sample 1904 particles may comprise a mean / average speed of less than 1 m / sec. In addition, the user adjustable slidable gate 2101 may open gradually (e.g., along path 2150) during sample 1904 addition such that a high energy sample 1904 fills at least part of the sample chamber 1901 without contacting the optical window 1902.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 EXAMPLE 7 System for Measuring Sample Spectrum

[0358] This example describes a system for measuring the spectrum of a sample. The system includes an optical system for use as an accessory to agricultural equipment and agricultural equipment.

[0359] The optical system 1900 comprises an optical spectrometer 1903, one or more illumination sources, and any of the sample accessories 1950 described in Example 1 – Example 6. For example, the sample accessory 1950 may comprise the scratch-protective layer 2201, air nozzle 2401, user-adjustable / slidable gate 2101, folding element 2301, or a combination thereof.

[0360] The optical system 1900 comprises an accessory to an agricultural equipment. The optical system 1900 may be integrally part of the agricultural equipment, monolithically built into the agricultural equipment or vice-versa. The optical system 1900 may be coupled to the agricultural equipment via one or more fastening mechanisms.

[0361] The optical system 1900 may be an accessory to any agricultural equipment. For example, the optical system 1900 may be mounted to a grain weighing module. Furthermore, the grain weighing module with the optical system 1900 may be mounted on a combine (e.g., a research combine) or a vehicle (e.g., a tractor).

[0362] The agricultural equipment comprising the optical system accessory may be used to measure the spectrum of a sample 1904. For example, the grain weighing module may receive a grain sample through the sample chamber 1901 of the optical system accessory. The optical window 1902 of the optical system accessory may measure the characteristics of the grain sample 1904. In addition, the optical system accessory may comprise an air nozzle 2401. The air nozzle 2401 may prevent the grain sample 1904 from contacting the optical window 1902 by directing the sample 1904 to a horizontally adjacent sample chamber 1901 location. In addition or as an alternative, the optical system accessory may comprise a scratch-protective layer 2201. The scratch-protective layer 2201 may protect an optical window surface tip 2111 of the optical window 1902 from receiving damage and losing the optical window’s 1902 optical properties. In addition or as an alternative, the optical system accessory may comprise a folding element 2301. The folding element 2301 may unfold (e.g., along path 2303) to protect the scratch protective layer 2201 or optical window 1902 from contacting the grain sample 1904 during sample addition. In addition or as an alternative, the folding element 2301 may be in communication with a sensor configured to measure the energy of the sample. The sample may comprise a low energy and the folding element may unfold prior to end of sample addition. InWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 further examples, the sample 1904 particles may comprise a mean / average kinetic energy of less than 10 micro-joule. In even further examples, the sample 1904 particles may comprise a mean / average speed of less than 1 m / sec. In addition, the optical system accessory may comprise a user adjustable slidable gate 2101. The user-adjustable / slidable gate 2101 may open gradually (e.g., along path 2150) during sample addition such that a high energy sample fills at least part of the sample chamber 1901 without contacting the optical window 1902.

[0363] The optical system accessory may comprise an optical spectrometer 1903 configured to measure the characteristics of a sample1904 passing through the sample chamber 1901. The optical system accessory may further comprise sensors configured to measure and output optical system measurement readings of the sample 1904.

[0364] The agricultural equipment may comprise hardware configured to receive the optical system measurement readings of the sample 1904 and software configured to output an analysis of the characteristics of the sample 1904 passing through the sample chamber 1901. Numbered Embodiments of the Disclosure 1. An optical system for measuring a sample with an optical spectrometer, the optical system comprises: (a) an optical window configured to separate one or more illumination sources from a sample; (b) a sample chamber, wherein the sample chamber encompasses the optical window and comprises a sample chamber inlet channel configured to direct at least a portion of the sample into a portion of the sample chamber, wherein the sample chamber inlet channel comprises one or more sample chamber openings that are adjacent to the optical window; and (c) an optical window protector, wherein the optical window protector operably couples to the optical window. 2. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sample chamber further comprises a side closed portion adjacent to the sample chamber inlet channel. 3. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sample chamber inlet channel connects to the side closed portion at an angle. 4. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the one or more sample chamber openings are vertically adjacent to the optical window. 5. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the one or more sample chamber openings are in parallel adjacent to the optical window.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 6. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the angle has a range of about 0 to about 90 degrees. 7. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sample contacts the optical window protector with a sample energy. 8. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sample energy comprises about 10 micro-joules or greater prior to contacting the optical window protector. 9. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising a user adjustable slidable gate operably coupled to the sample chamber opening. 10. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the user adjustable slidable gate sliding from one sample chamber side to an opposite sample chamber side increases a size of the sample chamber opening. 11. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the user adjustable slidable gate is configured to deflect the sample away from the optical window. 12. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sample chamber openings are increased to comprise a sample chamber opening width up to about equal to a width of a sample chamber less than a radius of an optical window. 13. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the radius of the optical window is up to about 50 mm. 14. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window further comprises an optical window surface base and an optical window surface tip, wherein the optical window surface base is opposite the optical window surface tip. 15. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sample chamber further comprises a sample chamber bottom surface. 16. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sample chamber bottom surface is opposite from the one or more sample chamber openings. 17. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window surface tip is directed towards the sample chamber bottom surface. 18. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window surface tip is directed towards a side of the sample chamber that connects the one or more sample chamber openings and the sample chamber bottom surface. 19. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window protector comprises a scratch protective coating.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 20. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the scratch protective coating comprises a reflective material. 21. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the reflective material comprises gold, silver, silvered mirror, aluminum, chrome, lacquer, nickel, paint, enamel, steel, a polymer, mylar, or a retroreflective material. 22. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the reflective material may be selected to decrease illumination loss, increase illumination efficiency, increase a number of interactions of an illumination light with the sample, or a combination thereof. 23. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sample hits the scratch protective coating, and the scratch protective coating moves the sample away from the optical window, or reduces the sample energy. 24. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window protector comprises an air nozzle. 25. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the air nozzle comprises an air nozzle channel, wherein the air nozzle channel is between a top air nozzle external surface and a bottom air nozzle external surface. 26. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the air nozzle channel comprises a stream of air, wherein the stream of air is directed at or near the sample chamber inlet channel. 27. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the stream of air hits the sample, and moves the sample away from the optical window, or reduces a sample energy. 28. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window protector comprises a folding element configured to cover at least part of the optical window. 29. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sample comprises the sample energy, and wherein the folding element reduces the sample energy, deflects the sample away from the optical window, or a combination thereof. 30. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the one or more illumination sources are configured to illuminate the sample at an angle of between about 0 to about 180 degrees through the optical window. 31. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window comprises a glass material.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 32. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window comprises a spherical shape or cross-section. 33. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window comprises a hemi-spherical shape or cross-section. 34. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window comprises a cylindrical shape or cross-section. 35. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window comprises a tubular shape or cross-section. 36. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window comprises one or more angles 37. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window comprises a dome. 38. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the dome comprises a spherical shape or cross-section. 39. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the dome comprises a hemi-spherical shape or cross-section. 40. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical system is mounted to an agricultural equipment. 41. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the agricultural equipment is selected from the group consisting of a grain weighing module, a load cell module, a weighbridge module, a conveyor belt scale, a hopper scale, a silo weighing system, a portable weighing module, an in-motion weighing system, a precision weighing module, a wireless weighing system, an automated grain weighing system and any combinations thereof. 42. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the group of a grain weighing module, a load cell module, a weighbridge module, a conveyor belt scale, a hopper scale, a silo weighing system, a portable weighing module, in-motion weighing system, a precision weighing module, a wireless weighing system, an automated grain weighing system and any combinations thereof is mounted on one of more of an agricultural combine, research combine, regular harvesting combine, grain combine harvester, corn combine harvester, soybean combine harvester, rice combine harvester, forage harvester, cotton combine harvester, sugar cane harvester, potato harvester, vegetable harvester, grapes harvester, olive harvester, lentil combine harvester, bean combine harvester, sunflower combine harvester, specialty crop harvester grain sampler, drain drier, grain elevator, or grain storage bin.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 43. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising providing an output of the optical system measurement readings of the sample. 44. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the agricultural equipment comprises hardware configured to receive the optical system measurement readings of the sample and software configured to output an analysis of characteristics of the sample passing through the sample chamber. 45. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein characteristics of the sample passing through the sample chamber comprise one or more of sample chemical composition, color and appearance, size and shape, moisture content, purity and contaminants, aflatoxin and mycotoxin levels, starch content, sugar content, germination rate, vitamin and nutrient levels, aromatic compounds, toxic elements, protein content, oil content, starch content, or fiber content. 46. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sample comprises one or more of any grain, wheat, rice, corn (maize), barley, oats, rye, sorghum, millet, quinoa, buckwheat, triticale, amaranth, teff, wild rice, spelt, kamut, emmer, or einkorn. 47. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window protector comprises a window portion and a non-window portion. 48. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window protector is in optical communication with an illumination source. 49. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the non-window portion is configured to reflect light emitted from the illumination source away from an optical spectrometer. 50. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sample chamber is configured to hold a portion of the sample through the window-portion of the optical window protector, in optical communication with the optical spectrometer and the illumination source, such that the portion of the sample is configured to scatter light emitted from the illumination source toward the optical spectrometer. 51. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window comprises an optical window surface tip, and an inner optical window surface configured to partially or completely enclose a light source and the optical spectrometer, 52. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window surface tip or the inner optical window surface or both are in opticalWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 communication with the portion of sample and the optical window protector, and wherein the inner optical window surface is configured to direct light emitted by the light source to achieve at least two optical interactions with the portion of the sample or the optical window protector. 53. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window surface tip or the inner optical window surface is spherical. 54. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window surface tip or the inner optical window surface is hemi-spherical. 55. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window surface tip or the inner optical window surface is cylindrical. 56. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window surface tip or the inner optical window surface is tubular. 57. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window surface tip or the inner optical window surface comprises one or more angles. 58. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window surface tip is in physical contact with the portion of the sample. 59. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein both the optical window surface tip and the inner optical window surface are in optical communication with the portion of the sample through the window portion. 60. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, or at least 40% of the optical window surface tip is in optical communication with the portion of the sample. 61. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein up to 60%, up to 65%, up to 70%, up to 75%, up to 80%, up to 85%, up to 90%, or up to 95% of the optical window surface tip is in optical communication with the portion of the sample. 62. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the optical window is configured such that the optical spectrometer is substantially equidistant from a given point on a surface of the optical window. 63. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the non-window portion is configured to reflect visible light, infrared light, ultraviolet light, or a combination thereof. 64. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the illumination source is configured to emit light within a light cone having a half-angle of at least 60 degrees.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 65. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the illumination source is configured to emit light within a light cone having a half-angle of at most 60 degrees. 66. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sample has a volume of no more than 5000 mL, no more than 2500 mL, no more than 1000 mL, no more than 500 mL, or no more than 100 mL, or no more than 1 mL. 67. The optical system of any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising a reflective cover positioned on top of the sample chamber and configured to reflect light that passes through the sample. 68. A method for measuring a sample with an optical spectrometer, the method comprising (a) mounting the optical system of any of the preceding embodiments to an agricultural equipment of any of the preceding embodiments; (b) inserting the sample of any of the preceding embodiments into the optical system; (c) illuminating the sample; (d) detecting a reflectance of the illumination the sample; (e) measuring the characteristics of the sample; and (f) providing an output of the measured characteristics of the sample. 69. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the agricultural equipment comprises hardware configured to receive the optical system measurement readings of the sample and software configured to output an analysis of the characteristics of the sample passing through the sample chamber. 70. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the characteristics of the sample passing through the sample chamber comprise one or more of sample chemical composition, color and appearance, size and shape, moisture content, purity and contaminants, aflatoxin and mycotoxin levels, starch content, sugar content, germination rate, vitamin and nutrient levels, aromatic compounds, toxic elements, protein content, oil content, starch content, or fiber content. 71. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the agricultural equipment is mounted to a combine. 72. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the combine comprises a combine of any of the preceding claims. 73. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising measuring the characteristics of a sample passing through the sample chamber.

[0365] While preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by wayWSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the disclosure. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the disclosure described herein may be employed in practicing the disclosure. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the disclosure and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An optical system, comprising: a sample chamber comprising a volume configured to hold a sample; an optical spectrometer in optical communication with the volume of the sample chamber; an optical window separating the optical spectrometer from the volume of the sample chamber; and an optical window protector operably coupled to the optical window.

2. The optical system of claim 1, further comprising an inlet operably coupled to the sample chamber and configured to direct at least a portion of the sample into the volume of the sample chamber.

3. The optical system of claim 2, further comprising a plurality of inlets comprising the inlet, wherein the plurality of inlets is operably coupled to the sample chamber.

4. The optical system of claim 2, wherein the inlet is disposed at an angle to a wall of the sample chamber or the optical spectrometer.

5. The optical system of claim 4, wherein the angle is from about 0 to about 90 degrees.

6. The optical system of claim 2, wherein the inlet is disposed above the optical window.

7. The optical system of claim 2, wherein a bottom surface of the sample chamber is disposed on an opposite side of the optical window from the inlet.

8. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical window seals the optical spectrometer from the volume of the sample chamber.

9. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical window is transparent.

10. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical window protector is disposed on and in contact with the optical window.

11. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical window is disposed in the volume of the sample chamber.

12. The optical system of claim 1, further comprising a gate operably coupled to the sample chamber.

13. The optical system of claim 12, wherein the gate is a slidable gate.

14. The optical system of claim 12, wherein the gate is user adjustable.

15. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical window comprises a base and a tip disposed on opposite sides of the optical window.

16. The optical system of claim 15, wherein the tip of the optical window is disposed adjacent to a bottom surface of the sample chamber.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 17. The optical system of claim 15, wherein the tip of the optical window is disposed adjacent to a side of the sample chamber, wherein the side of the sample chamber connects an opening of the sample chamber to a bottom surface of the sample chamber.

18. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical window protector comprises a scratch protective coating.

19. The optical system of claim 18, wherein the scratch protective coating comprises one or more of a ceramic coating, diamond like carbon, aluminum oxide, or silicon dioxide, or any combination thereof.

20. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the sample chamber comprises a reflective coating.

21. The optical system of claim 20, wherein the reflective coating comprises one or more of a metal, a dielectric coating, or any combination thereof.

22. The optical system of claim 1, further comprising an air nozzle in operable communication with the optical window.

23. The optical system of claim 22, wherein the optical window protector comprises the air nozzle.

24. The optical system of claim 22, wherein the air nozzle comprises an air nozzle channel between a top air nozzle external surface and a bottom air nozzle external surface.

25. The optical system of claim 24, wherein the air nozzle channel comprises a stream of air directed at or near an inlet to the sample chamber.

26. The optical system of claim 22, wherein air from the air nozzle is configured to move the sample away from the optical window or optical window protector.

27. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical window protector comprises a folding element configured to cover at least a portion of the optical window.

28. The optical system of claim 27, wherein the folding element is configured to deflect the sample away from the optical window.

29. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical spectrometer comprises one or more illumination sources.

30. The optical system of claim 29, wherein the one or more illumination sources are configured to illuminate the sample at an angle from about 0 to about 180 degrees.

31. The optical system of claim 29, wherein the one or more illumination sources are disposed opposite the optical window from the volume.

32. The optical system of claim 29, wherein the one or more illumination sources are disposed within the optical window.

33. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical window comprises a glass material.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 34. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical window is a sphere or a portion thereof.

35. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical window is a cylinder or a portion thereof.

36. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical system is mounted to an agricultural machine.

37. The optical system of claim 36, wherein the agricultural equipment comprises one or more of a grain weighing module, a load cell module, a weighbridge module, a conveyor belt scale, a hopper scale, a silo weighing system, a portable weighing module, an in- motion weighing system, a precision weighing module, a wireless weighing system, an automated grain weighing system and any combinations thereof.

38. The optical system of claim 37, wherein the grain weighing module, the load cell module, the weighbridge module, the conveyor belt scale, the hopper scale, the silo weighing system, the portable weighing module, the in-motion weighing system, the precision weighing module, the wireless weighing system, the automated grain weighing system, or the any combinations thereof is mounted on one of more of an agricultural combine, research combine, regular harvesting combine, grain combine harvester, corn combine harvester, soybean combine harvester, rice combine harvester, forage harvester, cotton combine harvester, sugar cane harvester, potato harvester, vegetable harvester, grapes harvester, olive harvester, lentil combine harvester, bean combine harvester, sunflower combine harvester, specialty crop harvester grain sampler, drain drier, grain elevator, or grain storage bin.

39. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical window protector comprises a window portion and a non-window portion.

40. The optical system of claim 39, wherein the non-window portion is configured to reflect light from an illumination source away from the optical spectrometer.

41. The optical system of claim 39, wherein the non-window portion is configured increase a number of interactions with light emitted from an illumination source with the sample.

42. The optical system of claim 39, wherein the sample chamber is configured to hold at least a portion of the sample through the window portion of the optical window protector in optical communication with the optical spectrometer and an illumination source.

43. The optical system of claim 42, wherein the at least the portion of the sample is configured to scatter light from the illumination source towards the optical spectrometer.

44. The optical system of claim 39, wherein the non-window portion is configured to reflect visible light, infrared light, ultraviolet light, or any combination thereof.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 45. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical spectrometer is substantially equidistant from each point of the optical window.

46. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the volume of the sample chamber is at most about 5 liters.

47. The optical system of claim 1, further comprising a reflective cover disposed on top of the sample chamber and configured to reflect light that passes through the sample.

48. A method of detecting a signal of a sample, comprising: (a) providing an optical system comprising (i) a sample chamber comprising a volume, (ii) an optical spectrometer, (iii) an optical window separating the optical spectrometer from the volume of the sample chamber, and (iv) an optical window protector operably coupled to the optical window; (b) dispensing the sample into the sample chamber, wherein, during the dispensing, the optical window protector protects the optical window from damage; (c) detecting, using the optical spectrometer, the signal of the sample, wherein the signal is detected through the optical window.

49. The method of claim 48, further comprising, prior to (c), illuminating the sample using an illumination source of the optical system.

50. The method of claim 49, wherein the optical window protector directs light from the illumination source to interact with the sample.

51. The method of claim 49, wherein the optical window protector decreases an illumination loss from the illumination source.

52. The method of claim 48, wherein, during the dispensing, the sample impacts the optical window protector with a force of at least 10 microjoules.

53. The method of claim 48, wherein the optical system comprises a gate.

54. The method of claim 53, wherein the gate deflects the sample away from the optical window.

55. The method of claim 48, wherein, during the dispensing, the optical window protector reduces an energy of the sample contacting the optical window or deflects the sample away from the optical window.

56. The method of claim 48, further comprising directing, via the air nozzle of the optical system, the sample away from the optical window during the dispensing.

57. The method of claim 48, further comprising reducing, via an air nozzle of the optical system, a contacting force of the sample to the optical window during the dispensing.

58. The method of claim 48, further comprising receiving, via hardware, the signal from the optical spectrometer.WSGR Docket No.45151-732.601 59. The method of claim 58, further comprising running, via the hardware, a software configured to output an analysis of one or more characteristics of the sample.

60. The method of claim 59, wherein the one or more characteristics comprise one or more of sample chemical composition, color and appearance, size and shape, moisture content, purity and contaminants, aflatoxin and mycotoxin levels, starch content, sugar content, germination rate, vitamin and nutrient levels, aromatic compounds, toxic elements, protein content, oil content, starch content, or fiber content.

61. The method of claim 48, wherein the sample comprises one or more of grain, wheat, rice, corn (maize), barley, oats, rye, sorghum, millet, quinoa, buckwheat, triticale, amaranth, teff, wild rice, spelt, kamut, emmer, or einkorn.

62. The method of claim 48, wherein the dispensing comprises flowing the sample through the sample chamber.

63. The method of claim 62, further comprising recording over time a plurality of signals of the sample as the sample flows through the sample chamber.

64. The method of claim 48, wherein the signal comprises one or more of an absorption spectrum, a florescence spectrum, a fluorescence lifetime signal, a reflection spectrum, or any combination thereof.

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