Adjustable Optical Deflection Device for Varying Layer Thickness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical measurement apparatuses for substance concentrations struggle with measuring varying layer thicknesses, requiring frequent replacement of measurement probes and deflection devices, leading to operational disruptions and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable apparatus with a displacement device that allows for varying the distance between the deflection device and the transmitter/receiver, enabling measurement of changing layer thicknesses without disrupting operations, and incorporating a sealed hollow space for reference measurements and cleaning without removing the apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the measurement probe and deflection device are replaced to measure varying layer thicknesses, then the measurement capability is improved, but operational disruptions and time loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The deflection device is made dynamically adjustable relative to the housing through a displacement device, allowing continuous modification of the measurement path length and layer thickness measurement capability without replacing components. This dynamic adjustment eliminates operational disruptions while maintaining adaptability to varying measurement requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The displacement device enables a single deflection device to perform multiple measurement functions across different layer thicknesses by adjusting its position. This multi-functionality replaces the need for multiple specialized probes, maintaining measurement capability while eliminating time loss from replacements.
2Ease of repair
If the deflection device is moved to different locations for cleaning, then the cleaning accessibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The displacement device provides a controlled mechanical adjustment mechanism that moves the deflection device between measurement position and cleaning position. This dynamic positioning system balances cleaning accessibility with acceptable device complexity through a straightforward mechanical linkage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a closed hollow space is formed between the housing and deflection device, then the reference measurement capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is segmented into distinct functional zones: the closed hollow space for reference measurements and the measurement path for sample analysis. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each function while maintaining overall system simplicity through clear spatial separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The closed hollow space serves multiple functions: providing a reference measurement environment, enabling background subtraction, and facilitating instrument calibration. This multi-functionality justifies the structural addition by consolidating multiple measurement capabilities into a single integrated feature.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows for continuous measurement of varying layer thicknesses with reduced operational disruptions and costs, enhanced sensitivity, and simplified cleaning and maintenance, while maintaining accurate optical measurements.
Implementation Method 1
optical radiation, usually light, is used to measure the absorption effected by the medium when it is permeated by the optical radiation
Implementation Method 2
a deflection device (9) which is arranged in the substance (2) and serves for the deflection of the optical radiation (6) emitted by the transmitter (4) towards the receiver (5)
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for optical measurement of substance concentrations has at least one transmitter arranged in or on a housing and at least one receiver for optical radiation, and a deflection device, which is at a distance from the at least one transmitter and the at least one receiver and is arranged within the substance when the apparatus is being used correctly, for deflection of the optical radiation from the at least one transmitter to the at least one receiver. The distance between the deflection device and the at least one transmitter and/or the at least one receiver can be varied by means of an adjusting device.