Chopper Wheel Optical Analysis System for Real-Time Spectral Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical analysis systems face challenges in accurately measuring sample properties in real-time due to interference from multiple factors affecting light intensity, requiring complex and expensive instrumentation for precise spectral analysis.
Innovation Solution
A high-speed optical analysis system utilizing a chopper wheel with multivariate optical elements and reference elements to process light signals from samples, allowing for real-time monitoring of sample properties by rotating the wheel to sequence light through different elements, enabling fast and accurate determination of properties as samples move past the inspection point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional spectral analysis instrumentation is used to accurately measure sample properties, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the spectral analysis function into discrete segments by using a chopper wheel with multiple independently designed multivariate optical elements. Each element handles specific wavelength bands or analytical functions, allowing the complex spectral analysis task to be segmented into manageable portions that can be processed sequentially rather than requiring a single complex instrument
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters by rotating the chopper wheel at controlled speeds to sequentially present different multivariate optical elements to the light beam. This temporal parameter change allows the system to perform multiple analytical measurements using a single detector, replacing the need for complex simultaneous multi-wavelength detection instrumentation
2Productivity
If real-time monitoring of sample properties is implemented, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate due to interference from multiple factors
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and isolates specific wavelength bands or spectral features using the multivariate optical elements on the chopper wheel. By selectively transmitting or blocking specific wavelength ranges, the system separates the desired analytical information from interfering factors in real-time, maintaining measurement precision while enabling continuous monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The chopper wheel performs periodic rotation to sequentially present different multivariate optical elements to the light beam. This periodic action allows the system to cycle through multiple analytical measurements in rapid succession, achieving real-time monitoring capability while maintaining precision through repeated, consistent measurement cycles that can be averaged or processed
3Measurement precision
If multiple wavelength bands are analyzed simultaneously, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the functions of multiple spectral filters, monochromators, or wavelength-selective elements into a single integrated chopper wheel assembly. By combining these functions into one rotating component with multiple optical elements, the system achieves simultaneous multi-wavelength analysis capability while reducing the overall device complexity compared to using separate instruments for each wavelength band
Solution Approach 2:
The chopper wheel serves multiple functions: it acts as a mechanical shutter, a wavelength selector, a measurement sequencer, and a timing reference all in one component. Each multivariate optical element on the wheel can be designed to perform different analytical functions, making the single device universal and eliminating the need for multiple specialized instruments
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
Enables real-time, high-speed processing and monitoring of sample properties with improved measurement precision and reduced instrumentation complexity, facilitating applications in pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and other industries by directly analyzing reflected or transmitted light.
Implementation Method 1
Light reflecting from the sample, which contains information about the sample, passes through a chopper wheel and onto a detector
Data Source
AI summary
The present subject matter relates to methods of high-speed analysis of product samples. Light is directed to a portion of a product under analysis and reflected from or transmitted through the product toward a plurality of optical detectors. Signals from the detectors are compared with a reference signal based on a portion of the illuminating light passing through a reference element to determine characteristics of the product under analysis. The products under analysis may be stationary, moved by an inspection point by conveyor or other means, or may be contained within a container, the container including a window portion through which the product illuminating light may pass.