Compact Fluorometer Single Lens Optical Path
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluorometers require costly modifications and significant downtime for optical access, leading to inconsistent readings and inefficiencies in monitoring the concentration of substances in fluid samples, particularly in industrial and commercial applications.
Innovation Solution
A compact fluorometer design with a single optical lens for both emitting and receiving light, along with supplemental sensors for non-optical properties, allows for easy installation and accurate monitoring of fluid samples by adjusting for turbidity effects and providing consistent readings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple separate optical lenses are used for different optical emitters, then each emitter can have dedicated optical access, but the device becomes complex and readings become inconsistent due to measuring different portions of fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (emission and detection) into a single optical lens assembly. The housing contains multiple optical emitters and detectors that all share a common optical lens, eliminating the need for separate lenses for each component. This merging approach ensures all components measure the same portion of fluid, improving reading consistency while simplifying the overall device structure.
2Measurement precision
If existing fluorometer systems are modified to provide optical access to samples, then fluorescence measurement is enabled, but significant modification costs and system downtime are required
Solution Approach 1:
The fluorometer is designed as a self-contained unit with all necessary optical components (emitters, detectors, and lens) integrated into a single housing that can be independently installed. The device does not require modification of the existing fluid system or sample container, allowing for quick installation and removal without taking the main system offline. This self-service design enables fluorescence measurement capability while minimizing installation time and system downtime.
3Ease of operation
If a compact fluorometer design is implemented, then installation is simplified and fouling resistance is improved, but multiple optical components must be integrated into a single housing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple optical components (multiple emitters, multiple detectors, and a single optical lens) into one integrated housing unit. This consolidation creates a compact design that is easier to install and remove from fluid systems, while the internal arrangement of components ensures they all function through the shared optical lens without requiring complex external modifications.
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 compact fluorometer design facilitates efficient and accurate monitoring of fluid samples, reducing installation time and costs while improving measurement consistency and accuracy across various applications.
Implementation Method 1
control the first optical emitter to emit light at a first wavelength through an optical pathway into a fluid sample under analysis... detect fluorescent emissions emitted by the fluid sample
Implementation Method 2
control the second optical emitter to emit light at a second wavelength different than the first wavelength through the optical pathway and into the fluid sample under analysis... detect light scattered by the fluid sample
Implementation Method 3
detect fluorescent emissions emitted by the fluid sample and received through the optical pathway by an optical detector... detect light scattered by the fluid sample and received through the optical pathway by the optical detector
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An optical sensor may include multiple optical emitters configured to emit light into a fluid sample via an optical pathway. Light from the emitters can cause fluorescence from the sample and/or scatter off of the sample. Scattered and fluoresced light can be received by an optical detector in the sensor via the optical pathway, and used to determine at least one characteristic of the fluid sample. A second optical detector can provide reference measurements of the amount of light emitted to the sample. In one example, the optical detector can detect scattered and fluoresced light simultaneously. In another example, light is emitted and detected alternatingly. The sensor can be part of a system that includes one or more controllers configured to control the emitting and detecting of light to and from the fluid sample. The controller can use detected light to determine at least one characteristic of the fluid sample.