Optical measurement device and optical measurement method

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an optical measurement device and a method for operating the same. Provided is an optical measurement device comprising: a moving body provided with an optical path; a support for supporting the moving body; a positioning mechanism; an optical system; and a processor. The processor is configured to: measure, using the optical system, the amount of light passing through the optical path of the moving body; evaluate the position of the moving body on the basis of the resulting light amount data; and control the positioning mechanism to adjust the position of the moving body.

Description

Optical Measurement Device and Optical Measurement Method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a measurement device using a moving body having an optical flow path and a measurement method thereof, and particularly relates to a technique for highly accurately aligning the position of the optical flow path with respect to an optical system.

[0002] Conventionally, techniques using an optical flow path have been widely used for the purpose of measuring optical properties such as the absorbance and transmittance of a fluid. In this technique, light is introduced from a light source into the optical flow path, the light passing through the flow path is detected by a light sensor, and the optical properties of the fluid as the measurement target are evaluated.

[0003] The positional relationship between the optical flow path and the optical system is an important factor that directly affects the measurement accuracy. In a device with a fixed optical flow path, high measurement accuracy can be obtained by aligning the optical axis of the optical system with the optical flow path. However, when arranging an optical flow path on a moving body (for example, a rotating disk or a slide mechanism), the position of the optical flow path may change due to the operation of the moving body. Since this position change can be a cause of measurement error, an appropriate alignment technique is required.

[0004] In the prior art, manual operation may be used as a method for aligning the optical flow path with the optical system, and techniques for improving accuracy using a fixed-type flow path have been proposed. However, these methods are not sufficient in a system using a moving body, and the positioning error may be a factor that restricts the measurement accuracy and reproducibility.

[0005] The present disclosure provides a technique that enables highly accurately aligning the position of an optical flow path with respect to an optical system and accurately measuring the optical properties of a fluid in a measurement device using a moving body having an optical flow path. The device of the present disclosure includes a support for supporting the moving body, a drive mechanism for moving the moving body to a predetermined position, an optical system including a light source and a light sensor, and further includes a processor that evaluates the position of the moving body based on the measured light amount and performs readjustment.

[0006] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the relative position of the optical channel with respect to the optical system is evaluated using the amount of light passing through the optical channel, and the position of the moving body is repeatedly readjusted based on the evaluation result. This mechanism ensures that the optical channel is located within an acceptable range with respect to the optical axis of the optical system during measurement, thereby improving measurement accuracy. Furthermore, the acceptable range can be dynamically determined based on the light intensity data obtained during the readjustment process, providing flexibility and adaptability to the entire system.

[0007] According to the technology disclosed herein, for example, even in measuring devices that use moving objects, high measurement accuracy and reproducibility can be achieved, and reliability is improved compared to conventional technologies.

[0008] Further aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes only exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As will be understood, other different embodiments are possible, and some of their details can be modified in various obvious ways without departing from the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description should be considered illustrative and not limiting in nature.

[0009] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an optical measuring device according to a certain embodiment. This is a flowchart showing the optical measurement process performed by an optical measuring device according to a certain embodiment. This is a top view showing an example of a fluid device according to one embodiment, where (A) shows the case where the optical axis of the optical channel is ideally aligned, and (B) shows the case where there is a misalignment in the optical axis. This is a top view showing examples of the shape of a fluid device according to one embodiment, where (A) shows a circular disk-shaped fluid device having a plurality of measurement sections, (B) shows a fan-shaped fluid device, and (C) shows an irregularly shaped fluid device formed to fit within a fan-shaped region. Detailed description of the invention

[0010] As used herein, the term "optical channel" refers to a passage through which light is passed in order to measure the optical properties of a fluid, and may include, as necessary, fluid inlets and outlets.

[0011] In some embodiments, an electrochemical sensor may be provided in the optical channel. This allows for simultaneous or efficient measurement of optical properties and other properties. In some embodiments, a bubble trap may be provided in the optical channel. This removes or suppresses bubbles generated in the channel, enabling more accurate optical measurements.

[0012] As used herein, the term "moving body" refers to a component equipped with an optical channel that is movable relative to the optical system. Examples of "moving bodies" include fluid devices that include optical channels.

[0013] As used herein, the term "positioning mechanism" refers to a mechanism for moving or adjusting a moving body to a desired position, and includes a rotating mechanism for rotating a rotating disk, a sliding mechanism, and other means of movement.

[0014] As used herein, the term "optical system" refers to a configuration for introducing light into an optical channel and detecting light that has passed through the optical channel, and includes a light source and a sensor.

[0015] As used herein, the term "tolerance range" refers to the range within which measurement accuracy is not impaired when the optical channel is positioned relative to the optical system, and may be based on deviations in position or angle from the optical axis.

[0016] As used herein, the term "readjustment" refers to the process of changing the position of a moving object to align the optical channel with the optical axis of the optical system, based on the results of light intensity measurements.

[0017] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the configuration of an optical measuring device 100 according to one embodiment. The device 100 is designed to measure the optical properties of a fluid and includes a moving body 150, a support 110 for supporting the moving body, a motor 120 as a positioning mechanism, and an optical system 130 (light-emitting device 131 and light-receiving device 132). These components function to measure the absorbance or transmittance of a fluid by detecting light passing through an optical channel.

[0018] The fluid device 150, which is a mobile body, is mounted and fixed to the upper surface of a rotary table 110, which is configured as a support. The motor 120 rotates the support 110 via the rotation shaft 121, causing the mobile body 150 to rotate in conjunction. This rotational movement adjusts the optical channel 151 positioned on the mobile body 150 to be in an appropriate position with respect to the optical axis 133.

[0019] A slit (not shown) may be placed between the light source 131 and the optical channel 151, or between the optical channel 151 and the light sensor 132, to enhance the directivity of the light. By providing a slit, stray light can be reduced, and the light intensity peak detected in the alignment operation described later can be sharpened.

[0020] Furthermore, while a single photodiode is exemplified as the light sensor 132 in this embodiment, it is not limited to this. The light sensor 132 may have a plurality of light-receiving elements (photodiode array, CCD, CMOS image sensor, etc.) arranged in one or two dimensions. In this case, the processor 140 may be configured to select the element (pixel) that shows the maximum amount of light received from the plurality of light-receiving elements, instead of mechanically fine-tuning the moving body 110, or in combination with mechanical fine-tuning, and to measure the optical characteristics using the output of that element.

[0021] The light-emitting device 131 and the light-receiving device 132 are arranged as part of an optical system, and the optical system is fixed to the device 100. The optical axes 133 of the light-emitting device 131 and the light-receiving device 132 are aligned with high precision to the device 100, or are designed to be aligned. The optical axis 133 is set so that light emitted from the light-emitting device 131 passes through the optical channel 151 of the moving body 150 and is detected by the light-receiving device 132. The optical axis 152 is also formed inside the optical channel 151, forming a path for light to pass through the fluid device.

[0022] Furthermore, the processor 140 is used to control the light-emitting device 131, the light-receiving device 132, and the motor 120, and to readjust the position of the moving body 150 based on light intensity data. The processor 140 also has the function of repeatedly adjusting the position of the moving body 150 to improve the accuracy of measuring the amount of light passing through the optical channel and to ensure alignment of the optical axis 133 and the optical channel 151.

[0023] Here, we will provide further details regarding the configuration of the optical channel 151 in this embodiment. The cross-sectional shape of the optical channel 151 is not limited to a circle; it may also be rectangular or polygonal. By making the cross-section polygonal, the discharge of bubbles can be promoted by capillary flow (corner flow) utilizing the corners of the channel, thereby preventing light path obstruction (blockage) by bubbles. Furthermore, it can be expected that stray light reflection on the inner wall surface will be suppressed.

[0024] Furthermore, the inner wall of the optical channel 151 may be made of a material or coating that satisfies the total internal reflection condition for the fluid to be measured, and the channel itself may function as an optical waveguide. In addition, a prism structure or lens structure (not shown) to improve the coupling efficiency with the external optical system may be integrally formed on the light incident side and the light exit side of the optical channel 151.

[0025] Furthermore, a portion of the moving body 150 may be provided with a transparent solid block section (reference section) into which no fluid is introduced. This reference section is used to measure the absorbance (background) of the material of the moving body 150 itself and to calibrate the device.

[0026] Movable Mechanism and Z-axis Correction of Optical System In the embodiments described above, a configuration for adjusting the position of the movable body 150 was described, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the optical system 130 (light-emitting device 131 and light-receiving device 132) may be provided with a movable mechanism for adjusting the position or angle. If the rotation surface of the rotary table 110 is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane (so-called runout occurs), or if there is an error in the mounting height of the movable body 150, the height (Z-axis position) of the optical channel 151 may fluctuate.

[0027] To accommodate such Z-axis misalignment, the light-emitting device 131 may be equipped with a tilt mechanism that allows the angle (elevation or depression) of the optical axis 133 to be varied. The processor 140 controls the angle of the light-emitting device 131 so that the light-receiving level at the light-receiving device 132 is maximized, and corrects the incident angle of light to match the inclination of the optical channel 151.

[0028] In some embodiments, if the light-receiving device 132 is a single light-receiving point (point sensor), the light-receiving device 132 may also be equipped with a lifting mechanism or angle adjustment mechanism in the Z-axis direction. This allows the light-receiving device 132 to follow the appropriate light-receiving position even if the light from the light-emitting device 131 is refracted or deflected after passing through the optical channel 151. In some embodiments, if the light-receiving device 132 is a two-dimensional area sensor with a sufficient light-receiving area, it is also possible to accommodate Z-axis displacement simply by selecting the light-receiving area (changing the ROI) without mechanically moving the light-receiving device 132.

[0029] Vertical arrangement using mirrors In some embodiments, an optical arrangement using mirrors may be employed to miniaturize the device or improve the freedom of arrangement. For example, the light-emitting device 131 and the light-receiving device 132 are arranged facing upward (in the Z-axis direction) below or inside the moving body 150 (disk). Then, a first reflective member (mirror or prism) and a second reflective member for bending light by 90 degrees are placed at symmetrical positions on the outer and inner circumferences of the moving body 150.

[0030] In this configuration, light emitted upward from the light-emitting device 131 is reflected horizontally by the first reflecting member and passes through the optical channel (containing BCP, etc.) of the moving body 150. The light is then reflected downward by the second reflecting member and incident on the light-receiving device 132. In this case, by using mirrors with sufficient size (height) in the Z-axis direction as the first and second reflecting members, even if the height position of the moving body 150 changes, it is possible to maintain the coupling of the optical axis by only adjusting the angle of the light-emitting device 131, etc., without adjusting the vertical position of the mirrors.

[0031] The combination of mechanisms is as follows: The optical movable mechanisms (tilt mechanism, lifting mechanism) and mirror arrangement described above are not mutually exclusive and can be combined and applied as needed. For example, in a configuration employing a mirror arrangement, a tilt mechanism for the light source may also be applied. Furthermore, these optical adjustment mechanisms are preferably used in conjunction with the mechanical positioning (rotation or sliding) and vibration processes of the movable body 150 described above. This is because combining mechanical alignment (coarse adjustment) and optical axis correction (fine adjustment) can compensate for errors in both the Z-axis direction and the XY-plane direction, maximizing the tolerance range.

[0032] Synergistic effect with sensor array In a particularly preferred embodiment, the tilt mechanism or mirror arrangement of the light source described above is combined with the two-dimensional array of optical sensors (sensor array, see C051) described above. When the angle of the optical axis is changed by tilt control of the light source, the position where the light reaches (spot position) on the light-receiving device is displaced. When the optical sensor is a sensor array, the processor 140 identifies the pixel corresponding to the displaced spot position without mechanically moving the light-receiving device and selectively acquires the output signal of that pixel. In other words, by combining "mechanical angle adjustment" on the transmitting side and "electronic position tracking" on the receiving side, it becomes possible to compensate for a wide range of Z-axis deviations (surface runout) while eliminating a complex movement mechanism on the light-receiving side.

[0033] Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of an optical measurement process performed by an optical measuring device 100 according to one embodiment. This flowchart sequentially illustrates a series of processes, starting from the initial positioning of the moving body 150, to the measurement of light intensity, position adjustment, and measurement of the optical properties of the fluid.

[0034] First, in step S110, the initial position of the moving body 150 (fluid device) is determined. In this step, the moving body 150 is placed on the rotary table 110 and fixed in a predetermined initial position via the motor 120.

[0035] Next, the process proceeds to step S120, where light intensity measurement for position evaluation is performed. In this step, light emitted from the light-emitting device 131 passes through the optical channel 151 and is detected by the light-receiving device 132. This measurement is important for ensuring the overall measurement accuracy of the device 100 and plays a role in evaluating the relative position between the optical axis (central axis) 152 of the optical channel 151 and the optical axis 133 of the optical system with high precision.

[0036] Next, in step S130, it is determined whether the optical channel 151 is aligned within an acceptable range with respect to the optical axis 133. The processor 140 analyzes the light intensity data obtained from the light receiving device 132 and evaluates the alignment state between the optical axes. If, in this determination, the optical channel 151 is outside the acceptable range, the process proceeds to step S140.

[0037] In step S140, the position of the moving body 150 is readjusted. The processor 140 controls the motor 120 to rotate or reposition the moving body 150 appropriately, adjusting it so that the optical axis 133 and the optical path 151 are aligned. After this readjustment, the process returns to step S120, and the light intensity measurement for position evaluation is performed again. This loop is repeated until the optical path 151 is aligned within an acceptable range.

[0038] The drive mechanism 120 may further include a holding mechanism for physically stopping or holding the movable body 110 at a predetermined rotational angle position (coarse adjustment position). The holding mechanism may be, for example, a magnetic engagement means using magnets positioned at corresponding locations on the movable body 110 and the support 120, or a mechanical locking pin or brake member driven by a solenoid or the like. This allows the optical channel 151 to be quickly drawn into the field of view of the optical system before optical alignment (fine adjustment) is performed.

[0039] Furthermore, the drive mechanism 120 may include a vibration generating unit that applies a minute reciprocating motion (vibration) to the moving body 110 in order to agitate the fluid in the optical channel 151 or to remove air bubbles. The vibration generating unit may be realized by fine forward and reverse rotation control of the motor 121, or it may be a dedicated actuator such as a piezoelectric element attached to the moving body 110 or the support 110.

[0040] When it is determined that the optical path 151 is aligned within the allowable range with respect to the optical axis 133, the process proceeds to step S150. In step S150, the light quantity measurement for optical property measurement is performed. In this step, light is emitted from the light emitting device 131, and the light receiving device 132 detects the data of the light that has passed through the optical path 151, thereby measuring the optical properties of the fluid.

[0041] Further, the moving body 150 may be attached with identification information (ID) such as a QR code (registered trademark) or an RFID tag. The processor 140 reads this identification information via a reading unit (not shown), identifies the type of the attached moving body 150 (specimen type, lot number, etc.), and may be configured to automatically set alignment parameters (scan range, determination threshold, etc.) or a calibration curve according to the type.

[0042] Finally, in step S160, the measurement result is analyzed by the processor 140 and output to the display unit of the device, an external data management system, or a cloud server as necessary. This measurement result may include optical properties such as the absorbance and transmittance of the fluid.

[0043] This flowchart is based on an embodiment of the present disclosure, and it is also possible to apply it to other specific embodiments by omitting or adding a part of the flowchart according to a specific application or environment.

[0044] Methods for determining the allowable range The methods for determining the allowable range include the following examples.

[0045] Example 1: Determine the allowable range in advance during the manufacture or shipment of the device. In this method, the allowable range is set based on the design specifications or measurement accuracy of the optical system of the device. During actual positioning, if the measured light quantity falls within this allowable range, proceed to this measurement.

[0046] Example 2: Determine the tolerance range immediately before this measurement. This method is effective, for example, when attaching a new moving object. First, perform the light quantity measurement for positioning multiple times to obtain the position of the optical path and the distribution of errors. The tolerance range is determined based on this distribution. Then, repeat the positioning for evaluation, and proceed to this measurement when it is determined that the light quantity falls within the tolerance range.

[0047] Example 3: Provide a calibration optical path on the moving object. In this method, the light emitted by the optical system is split, and the tolerance range is determined based on the light quantity passing through the calibration optical path. The positional relationship between the optical axes is adjusted using the measurement result by this calibration optical path.

[0048] Example 4: Adaptively set the tolerance range based on the environmental conditions where the device is installed. In this method, the processor analyzes the data (e.g., temperature, vibration, humidity, etc.) acquired by the environmental sensor mounted on the device, and the tolerance range is dynamically adjusted based on this.

[0049] Example 5: Automatically update the tolerance range based on past measurement data. In this method, the processor analyzes the past measurement results and dynamically adjusts the tolerance range using a learning algorithm. By this method, improvement in measurement accuracy and efficiency of the positioning process can be achieved.

[0050] Example 6: Set the tolerance range based on the shape information of the moving object. In this method, the shape and design specifications of the moving object are registered in the processor in advance, and the tolerance range is set based on this information. By this method, high-precision position adjustment considering the individual differences of the moving object becomes possible.

[0051] Example 7: The curve-fitting peak prediction processor 140 may, during alignment, acquire light intensity data at multiple positions while moving the mobile body 110 to scan the optical channel 151, and perform statistical fitting processing (e.g., approximation to a Gaussian function or parabola) on the acquired data. The processor 140 calculates the true peak position and estimated peak light intensity from the approximation curve obtained by fitting, and moves the mobile body 110 to the said peak position. Then, if the light intensity actually measured at that position is 90% or more of a predetermined percentage (e.g., 90%) of the estimated peak light intensity, it is determined that alignment is complete. This configuration eliminates the influence of noise and enables high-speed and high-precision positioning.

[0052] Example 8: The vibration sequence processor 140 before measurement may control the drive mechanism 120 (or piezoelectric element) to apply vibration to the moving body 110 for a predetermined time at a timing before the start of the alignment operation, or after the alignment is completed but before the start of measurement. This can discharge bubbles in the optical channel 151 to the outside of the channel, or equalize the fluid concentration, thereby improving measurement accuracy.

[0053] This disclosure provides a disk-shaped fluid device for use in an optical measuring apparatus. In some embodiments, the disk-shaped fluid device comprises: a disk body configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis; an optical channel provided in the disk body and capable of containing a fluid; optical windows provided at both ends of the optical channel; and a notch provided in the peripheral part of the disk body where the optical windows are located, configured such that the optical windows are positioned nearly perpendicular to the optical axis (the optical axis of the optical channel, the central axis).

[0054] Figure 3 is a top view showing the arrangement of the optical axis in a fluid device for optical measurement according to an example of this embodiment, where Figure 3(A) shows the case of an ideal arrangement and Figure 3(B) shows the case in which there is a misalignment of the optical axis.

[0055] This optical system includes a light-emitting diode 521 and a photodetector 522, with the optical axis shown as the line connecting 521 and 522. Furthermore, this optical system is fixed to the main body of the analyzer (not shown), and the optical axis 523 between the light-emitting diode 521 and the photodetector 522 is precisely adjusted and configured to always be maintained in a stable position.

[0056] The optical fluid device 510 shown in this figure is a disk-shaped device configured to rotate around a rotation axis O within the main body of the analyzer. This disk 510 has an optical channel 511 capable of containing fluid, and the optical channel 511 is provided inside the disk 510. Furthermore, an optical window 515 for injecting light and an optical window 516 for emitting light are provided at both ends of the optical channel 511.

[0057] These light windows 515 and 516 are positioned within notches 513 and 514 formed in the periphery of the disk 510. These notches 513 and 514 are designed so that the light windows 515 and 516 are positioned nearly perpendicular to the optical axis 512, and play a role in improving the light transmission efficiency.

[0058] The optical channel 511 is capable of containing fluid and has a structure that allows light to enter and exit. This structure, including the optical windows 515 and 516 and the notches 513 and 514, assists in aligning the end face of the optical channel 511 with respect to the optical axis 512, thereby improving the accuracy of the optical measurement process. It also reduces light refraction and reflection, and optimizes light transmission efficiency.

[0059] The disk-shaped fluid device 510 has the following configuration. The disk 510 is configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis O and has an optical channel 511 capable of containing fluid. Optical windows 515 and 516 are provided at both ends of the optical channel 511, and these optical windows are located within notches 513 and 514. This configuration maintains the alignment of the optical channel 511 with respect to the optical axis 512, thereby improving the reliability of the measurement process.

[0060] Figure 3(A) shows the case where light passing through the optical channel 511 travels along the correct optical axis 512. In this case, the positional relationship between the optical axis and the optical channel is ideally aligned, and optical measurements are performed with optimal accuracy.

[0061] On the other hand, Figure 3(B) shows the case where the position of the central axis 512 of the optical channel 511 and the optical axis 523 of the optical system are shifted by an angle θ. Such a shift can occur due to positioning errors in the rotating system, mounting errors of the fluid device 510 to the rotating system during actual operation, deformation of the disk of the fluid device 510, etc. However, the positioning of the optical axis 523 can be optimized by performing the position adjustment process described elsewhere in this specification. In this case, the fact that the optical windows 515 and 516 are positioned nearly perpendicular to the optical axis 523 functions as a factor that improves the accuracy of the position adjustment.

[0062] This configuration is important for improving the overall measurement accuracy of the optical measuring device, and in particular, the alignment of the optical axis 523 of the optical system and the central axis 512 of the optical channel 511 is a factor that affects the reliability of optical measurements. The disc-shaped fluid device 511 optimizes the alignment of the optical system and the optical channel through the design of the optical windows 515 and 516 and the notches 513 and 514, thereby improving measurement performance.

[0063] In some embodiments, the fluid device is configured to utilize centrifugal force, in which case the entire device or a part thereof is designed to rotate. For example, the fluid device may be circular in shape, have a rotation axis at its center, and be configured to rotate around this axis. Alternatively, the fluid device may have a circular shape, but only a part of it, and may be formed in a fan shape.

[0064] In some embodiments, the fluid device has a disc shape with multiple measuring sections, and the disc may be divided into multiple sector-shaped measuring sections. Each measuring section may be shaped to evenly divide the entire disc, for example, forming sectors of 72, 90, 120, or 180 degrees. Such a configuration makes it possible to efficiently perform multiple measurements on a single disc.

[0065] In another embodiment, the fluid device may have a fan-shaped disc body with a portion of a circle cut off, and be mounted at a predetermined position on a rotary table. Such a fan-shaped structure allows for an efficient design limited to the required measurement area, and can also be used as a disposable device that can be replaced after each measurement.

[0066] In yet another embodiment, the fluid device may be designed to fit within a sector-shaped region on a rotary table. In this case, the fluid device may have an irregular shape that fits into a specific sector-shaped region, rather than being the entire circle or part of a sector. This configuration increases the design flexibility of the fluid device and allows for the accommodating of diverse measurement requirements.

[0067] The fluid device of this disclosure may be configured to move fluid using centrifugal force, and the flow path and inlet are designed to function properly under the influence of centrifugal force. The fluid device may also have a structure that includes inlet and outlet ports for introducing and discharging fluid, thereby improving measurement accuracy and operability.

[0068] The fluid device of the present invention may have a structure that includes sectors formed by dividing an entire circle or a part of a circle into equal parts. In this case, the sectors may be formed with central angles of 90 degrees, 120 degrees, or 180 degrees, but are not limited thereto.

[0069] These configuration examples illustrate one embodiment of the present invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Each component and shape can be modified as appropriate depending on the object to be measured and the design requirements.

[0070] Figure 4 shows an example of the shape of a fluid device according to the present invention, illustrating a specific structure of a fluid device that can be attached to the aforementioned rotating disk or rotary table.

[0071] In some embodiments, a disc-shaped fluid device for rotational motion comprises a circular disc-shaped body positioned on a rotary table and configured to be rotatable; and a plurality of fan-shaped measuring sections provided on the disc-shaped body; each of the plurality of measuring sections having an internal flow path for containing fluid.

[0072] The fluid device 610 shown in Figure 4(A) is a circular, disc-shaped device with a central axis of rotation, configured to perform rotational motion. This device is provided with a plurality of measuring sections 611 to 614, each functioning as an independent area for fluid storage or measurement. Each measuring section is arranged to divide the disc equally, for example, by dividing the entire disc into four 90-degree sectors. This configuration makes it possible to perform multiple measurements simultaneously or sequentially on a single disc.

[0073] In some embodiments, the disc-shaped fluid device for rotational motion comprises a fan-shaped disc body formed by cutting off a portion of a circle and arranged on a rotary table, the disc body having an internal flow path for containing fluid.

[0074] The fluid device 620 shown in Figure 4(B) has a fan-shaped form. This device is shaped like a portion of a circular disk and is used by mounting it in a predetermined position on a rotary table. The fan-shaped design allows only the necessary measurement section to be attached, and it can be replaced for each measurement as a disposable device. This enables material savings and miniaturization of the device.

[0075] In some embodiments, the disc-shaped fluid device for rotational motion comprises (a) a disc-shaped body arranged on a rotary table and configured to be rotatable; the disc-shaped body is formed to fit within a fan-shaped region on the rotary table.

[0076] Figure 4(C) shows that the fluid device 630 has an irregular shape and is not necessarily limited to circular or sectoral shapes. This device is designed to fit a specific measurement section on a rotating disk and its shape and size can be flexibly changed depending on the measurement purpose or the characteristics of the fluid.

[0077] The present disclosure includes the following embodiments: A001. An optical measuring device comprising: (A1) a support for a mobile body having an optical channel; (A2) a positioning mechanism including a drive mechanism for moving the support to a desired position; (A3) an optical system including a light source for introducing light into the optical channel of the mobile body and a light sensor for measuring the amount of light that has passed through the optical channel; and (A4) a processor configured to evaluate the relative position of the optical channel with respect to the optical system based on the measured amount of light; transmit a control signal to the positioning mechanism based on the evaluation to cause the positioning mechanism to readjust the position of the mobile body; after readjustment, cause the optical system to measure the amount of light that has passed through the optical channel; and, if the relative position of the optical channel with respect to the optical system is within an acceptable range, cause the optical system to measure the optical properties of the fluid in the optical channel.

[0078] B001. An optical measurement method comprising controlling an optical system and a movable body having an optical channel and movable relative to the optical system, the method comprising: (b1) moving the movable body to a desired position by a drive mechanism; (b2) introducing light into the optical channel of the movable body using the optical system and measuring the amount of light that has passed through the optical channel; (b3) evaluating the relative position of the movable body with respect to the optical system based on the measured amount of light; and (b4) readjusting the position of the movable body with respect to the drive mechanism based on the evaluation; (b5) after readjusting, causing the optical system to measure the amount of light that has passed through the optical channel; and (b6) if the relative position of the optical channel with respect to the optical system is within an acceptable range, causing the optical system to measure the optical properties of the fluid in the optical channel.

[0079] C011. An embodiment according to A001 or B001, wherein the moving body is a rotating disk, the longitudinal direction of the optical channel extends in the in-plane direction of the rotating disk, and the drive mechanism is a rotation mechanism for rotating the rotating disk and is configured to position the rotating disk in the rotational direction. C021. An embodiment in which the optical channel comprises a fluid inlet and an outlet. C022. An embodiment in which an electrochemical sensor for measuring the fluid in the optical channel is disposed in the optical channel. C031. An embodiment in which the light source of the optical system is configured to emit light in the in-plane direction of the rotating disk and introduce light into the optical channel, and the light sensor of the optical system is configured to detect light emitted from the optical channel in the in-plane direction of the rotating disk. C032. Embodiment in which the light source of the optical system is configured to emit light perpendicular to the surface of the rotating disk, the moving body is configured to refract light from the light source and cause it to enter the optical channel, and to refract the light emitted from the optical channel perpendicular to the surface of the rotating disk, and the optical sensor of the optical system is configured to detect light emitted from the rotating disk perpendicular to the rotating disk. C041. Embodiment in which the moving body is readjusted and the amount of light that has passed through the optical channel is measured repeatedly until the relative position falls within the allowable range. C042. Embodiment in which the allowable range of the relative position of the optical channel with respect to the optical system is determined by repeatedly readjusting the position of the moving body and measuring the amount of light that has passed through the optical channel.

[0080] C051. Embodiment in which the optical sensor includes a plurality of light-receiving elements arranged in one or two dimensions, and the processor is configured to select the element showing the maximum amount of light received from the plurality of light-receiving elements, in lieu of or in addition to readjusting the position of the moving body, and to measure the optical characteristics using the output of the selected element. C052. Embodiment in which, when readjusting the position of the moving body, the processor is configured to perform statistical fitting on the light intensity data acquired at a plurality of positions to calculate the true peak position and the estimated peak light intensity, and to determine the tolerance range based on the ratio of the measured light intensity to the estimated peak light intensity. C061. Embodiment in which the drive mechanism includes a vibration generating unit (e.g., motor control or piezoelectric element) that applies vibration to the moving body before or during the measurement operation, and is configured to remove bubbles or stir the fluid in the optical channel. C062. Embodiment C071. Embodiment C072. Embodiment C073. Embodiment C074. Embodiment C074. Embodiment C075. Embodiment C076C091. An embodiment in which, in any embodiment, the moving body includes a transparent solid reference section into which no fluid is introduced, and the processor is configured to calibrate the device based on the amount of light that has passed through the solid reference section.

[0081] C101. An embodiment in which the light source of the optical system is equipped with a tilt mechanism for adjusting the angle of the optical axis, and the processor is configured to control the tilt mechanism based on the light reception level of the light receiving device to correct deviation in the Z-axis direction (height direction) or tilt of the moving body. C102. An embodiment in which the light source and light sensor of the optical system are arranged perpendicular to the surface of the moving body (in the Z-axis direction), and a first reflective member and a second reflective member are arranged on either side of the optical path of the moving body to change the optical path by 90 degrees, and the first reflective member and the second reflective member have a reflective surface size that allows for positional variation of the moving body in the Z-axis direction. C103. An embodiment according to C101 or C102, wherein the processor performs alignment of the optical axis by coordinating mechanical positioning by the drive mechanism with optical correction by the tilt mechanism. C104. An embodiment according to any one of C101 to C103, wherein the optical sensor includes a sensor array in which a plurality of light-receiving elements are arranged, and the processor is configured to maintain the alignment of the optical axis by detecting the light-receiving position which changes with angle adjustment by the tilt mechanism or the position change of the moving body, and by electronically changing the readout area (ROI) on the sensor array.

[0082] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided only as examples. The present invention is not intended to be limited by any specific examples provided herein. While the present invention has been described with reference to the foregoing specification, the descriptions and illustrations of embodiments herein are not intended to be constrained. Those skilled in the art will be able to conceive of numerous variations, modifications, and substitutions without departing from the present invention. Furthermore, it should be understood that all aspects of the present invention are not limited to any specific descriptions, configurations, or relative proportions described herein, depending on various conditions and variables. It should be understood that various alternative forms of the embodiments of the present invention described herein may be used in carrying out the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is intended to cover such alternatives, modifications, variations, or equivalents. The claims of this application define the scope of the present invention, and the methods and structures within these claims, as well as their equivalents, are intended to be covered thereby.

Claims

1. An optical measuring device comprising: (A1) a support for a mobile body having an optical channel; (A2) a positioning mechanism including a drive mechanism for moving the support to a desired position; (A3) an optical system including a light source for introducing light into the optical channel of the mobile body and a light sensor for measuring the amount of light that has passed through the optical channel; and (A4) a processor configured to evaluate the relative position of the optical channel with respect to the optical system based on the measured amount of light, transmit a control signal to the positioning mechanism based on the evaluation to cause the positioning mechanism to readjust the position of the mobile body, cause the optical system to measure the amount of light that has passed through the optical channel after readjustment, and, if the relative position of the optical channel with respect to the optical system is within an acceptable range, cause the optical system to measure the optical properties of the fluid in the optical channel.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the moving body is a rotating disk, the longitudinal direction of the optical channel extends in the in-plane direction of the rotating disk, and the drive mechanism is a rotating mechanism for rotating the rotating disk, configured to position the rotating disk in the rotational direction.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the light source of the optical system is configured to emit light in the in-plane direction of the rotating disk and introduce light into the optical channel, and the optical sensor of the optical system is configured to detect light emitted from the optical channel in the in-plane direction of the rotating disk.

4. An optical measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the optical sensor includes a plurality of light-receiving elements arranged in one or two dimensions, and the processor is configured to select an element from the plurality of light-receiving elements that shows the maximum amount of light received, instead of, or in addition to, readjusting the position of the moving body, and to measure the optical characteristics using the output of the selected element.

5. An optical measuring apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to perform statistical fitting processing on light intensity data acquired at multiple positions when readjusting the position of the moving body, calculate the true peak position and the estimated peak light intensity, and determine the tolerance range based on the ratio of the measured light intensity to the estimated peak light intensity.

6. An optical measuring apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light source of the optical system is equipped with a tilt mechanism for adjusting the angle of the optical axis, and the processor is configured to control the tilt mechanism based on the light reception level of the light sensor and to correct the deviation in the Z-axis direction (height direction) or the tilt of the moving body.

7. An optical measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the light source and light sensor of the optical system are arranged perpendicular to the surface of the moving body (in the Z-axis direction), a first reflective member and a second reflective member are arranged on either side of the optical channel of the moving body to change the optical path by 90 degrees, and the first reflective member and the second reflective member have a reflective surface size that allows for positional variation of the moving body in the Z-axis direction.

8. An optical measuring apparatus according to any one of claims 1, 6, or 7, wherein the optical sensor includes a sensor array in which a plurality of light-receiving elements are arranged, and the processor is configured to maintain the alignment of the optical axis by detecting a light-receiving position that changes with the angle adjustment of the optical axis or the position change of the moving body, and by electronically changing the readout area (ROI) on the sensor array.

9. An optical measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the drive mechanism includes a vibration generating unit that applies vibration to the moving body before or during the measurement operation, and is configured to remove bubbles or stir the fluid in the optical channel.

10. An optical measuring apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the drive mechanism further includes a holding mechanism (e.g., a magnet, a locking pin, or a brake member) for physically engaging and stopping the moving body at a predetermined rotational position, and the processor is configured to perform fine adjustment based on light intensity after coarse adjustment by the holding mechanism.

11. An optical measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the optical channel is polygonal, and the device is configured to promote the discharge of bubbles by utilizing capillary flow at the corners of the channel.

12. An optical measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the inner wall surface of the optical channel is configured to cause total internal reflection of light passing through the internal fluid, and the optical channel functions as an optical waveguide.

13. An optical measuring apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the moving body includes a transparent solid reference section into which no fluid is introduced, and the processor is configured to calibrate the apparatus based on the amount of light that has passed through the solid reference section.

14. An embodiment of the optical measuring device according to claim 1, further comprising repeatedly readjusting the position of the moving body and measuring the amount of light that has passed through the optical channel until the relative position falls within the allowable range.

15. An optical measurement method comprising controlling an optical system and a movable body having an optical channel and movable relative to the optical system, the method comprising: (b1) moving the movable body to a desired position by a drive mechanism; (b2) introducing light into the optical channel of the movable body using the optical system and measuring the amount of light that has passed through the optical channel; (b3) evaluating the relative position of the movable body with respect to the optical system based on the measured amount of light; and (b4) readjusting the position of the movable body with respect to the drive mechanism based on the evaluation; (b5) measuring the amount of light that has passed through the optical channel after the readjustment; and (b6) measuring the optical system for the optical properties of the fluid in the optical channel when the relative position of the optical channel with respect to the optical system is within an acceptable range.

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