Algae Information Management via Color Chart Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Measuring the protein content of algae is time-consuming and labor-intensive due to variations in algae constituents based on growing environments, making it difficult to utilize algae for suitable applications.
Innovation Solution
An algae information management apparatus that includes an inputter, a specifying unit, and a storage system, which receives and stores first and second identification information to associate color samples with protein content, allowing for efficient protein content measurement by comparing the color of microalgae to a color chart, thereby reducing the time and effort required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional protein content measurement methods are used for microalgae, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but measurement time and labor effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the color changes of microalgae that correspond to different protein content levels. By comparing the color of microalgae samples against a standardized color chart with known protein content references, the system determines protein content through visual color matching rather than complex chemical analysis, thereby reducing measurement time while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a color chart that is a visual copy or representation of microalgae with known protein content characteristics. This color chart serves as a reference model that allows rapid determination of unknown protein content samples through comparison, eliminating the need for time-consuming laboratory analysis while preserving measurement precision
2Ease of operation
If comprehensive protein content measurement is performed for all microalgae samples, then application suitability is accurately determined, but operational complexity and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables operators to independently determine protein content by simply comparing sample colors against the standardized color chart without requiring specialized laboratory equipment or expertise. The color chart itself provides the reference standards, allowing any operator to perform accurate protein content assessment through visual comparison, thereby simplifying operations and increasing throughput
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
The system effectively reduces the time and effort needed to measure protein content and classify algae applications, enabling more efficient utilization of algae based on their protein content for various applications such as biofuels, bioplastics, and food sources.
Implementation Method 1
The specifying unit specifies second identification information given to a color sample closest to a color of the microalgae among a plurality of color samples for comparison with the color of the microalgae
Data Source
AI summary
An algae information management apparatus according to embodiments includes an inputter, a specifying unit, and a storage. The input unit receives input of first identification information given for each measurement microalgae. The specifying unit specifies second identification information given to a color sample closest to a color of the microalgae among a plurality of color samples for comparison with the color of the microalgae. The storage stores the first identification information and the second identification information in association with each other.