Dual-Sensor Constituent Detection With In Situ Spectral Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spectroscopic sensor systems for detecting constituents in materials face challenges in compiling accurate calibration data, particularly due to the need for large numbers of laboratory analyses, sample aging issues, and difficulties in replicating material presentation conditions.
Innovation Solution
A sensor arrangement comprising a first optical sensor for measuring the material's spectrum and a second sensor for analyzing the material's constituents, with a calibration data generating device using the second sensor's signal to produce calibration data for the evaluation device, allowing for in situ recording of spectra and constituent analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laboratory analyses are used to compile calibration data, then calibration data can be obtained, but a large number of manual laboratory analyses are required which is expensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-calibration by using the second sensor's constituent analysis signals to automatically generate calibration data for the first sensor, eliminating the need for manual laboratory analyses. The calibration data generating device autonomously processes the signals and updates calibration parameters without human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The second sensor acts as an intermediary that provides reference constituent level measurements. These measurements serve as a bridge to generate calibration data for the first sensor, replacing the need for manual laboratory analysis while maintaining calibration accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If samples are taken during harvesting process and stored for laboratory analysis, then calibration data can be compiled, but sample aging and weathering occur which impairs accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs constituent analysis immediately at the harvesting site using the second sensor, before any aging or weathering can occur. This preliminary measurement captures the true constituent levels of fresh samples, which are then used to generate accurate calibration data without storage-related degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
The second sensor serves as an intermediary that performs immediate constituent analysis on fresh samples at the harvesting site, eliminating the need for sample storage and transport to laboratories. This direct measurement approach prevents sample aging while providing accurate reference data for calibration.
3Measurement precision
If spectroscopic measurements are conducted in the laboratory, then calibration data can be obtained, but material presentation conditions cannot be well replicated
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calibration measurements directly at the harvesting site where material presentation conditions are naturally occurring and representative of actual operating conditions. This approach captures the true relationship between spectral characteristics and constituent levels under realistic material presentation scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adapts to varying material presentation parameters (flow rate, particle size distribution, moisture content) by performing calibration measurements under actual operating conditions rather than controlled laboratory settings. This allows the calibration data to account for real-world variations in material presentation.
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 approach enables more accurate and efficient detection of material constituents by reducing the reliance on laboratory analyses and addressing issues related to sample aging and material presentation, thereby improving the accuracy and reliability of spectroscopic measurements.
Implementation Method 1
The measurement of constituents by means of optical spectroscopy, in particular near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is nowadays an established technology
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and apparatus are disclosed to detect constituents using a sensor arrangement. A sensor apparatus for detecting constituents of a material includes a first sensor, which interacts with the material, and is configured to measure an optical spectrum of the material. Further, the first sensor is coupled to an evaluation device that is configured to output an output value relating to the level of the one or more constituents in the material with the aid of the measured spectrum and calibration data. The sensor apparatus further includes a second sensor configured to analyse the material examined by the first sensor and to output a signal relating to the level of the one or more constituents in the material. The sensor apparatus further includes a calibration data generating device configured to generate the calibration data for the evaluation device with the aid of the signal of the second sensor.