Elemental Composition Analyzer Imaging for Sample Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing analyzer instruments for elemental composition analysis, such as XRF and LIBS, face reliability issues due to sample characteristics that compromise the accuracy of the analysis, rendering certain samples unsuitable for reliable measurement.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an imaging apparatus and controller in analyzer instruments to capture images of the sample surface, analyze for predefined irregularities, and determine the reliability of the measurement based on these irregularities, providing an indication of measurement reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If analyzer instruments (XRF, LIBS, OES) are used for elemental composition analysis, then analysis capability is provided, but measurement reliability deteriorates when sample characteristics compromise analysis accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging apparatus captures images of the sample surface before the excitation beam is applied. The controller analyzes these images to identify irregularities such as rough surfaces, contaminants, or non-representative areas. This preliminary assessment allows the system to determine whether the sample is suitable for reliable analysis before the actual measurement takes place, preventing unreliable measurements on unsuitable samples.
2Reliability
If imaging apparatus and controller are added to monitor sample irregularities, then measurement reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging apparatus serves multiple functions: it captures sample surface images for irregularity detection, and can potentially serve other diagnostic or documentation purposes. The controller integrates the image analysis functionality into the existing measurement control system, allowing a single added component (imaging apparatus) to provide multiple benefits including reliability assessment, sample qualification, and measurement optimization without requiring entirely separate systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
In accordance with an example embodiment of the invention, an analyzer instrument for analysis of elemental composition of a sample (130) is provided, wherein the analyzer instrument comprises a measurement assembly (100) comprising: an exciter (102) for generating an excitation directed at a target position (130a) to invoke an emission from the sample (130) positioned at the target position (130a); a detector assembly (106) for receiving the emission from the sample (130) positioned at the target position (130a), arranged to generate one or more measurement signals that are descriptive of said emission; an imaging apparatus (110) for capturing images of an area around the target position (130a); and a controller (108) for carrying out a measurement, where the controller (108) is arranged to operate the exciter (102) to generate the excitation and to carry out analysis of the elemental composition of the sample (130) on basis of the one or more measurement signals, wherein the controller (108) is arranged to carry out a reliability analysis associated with the measurement, where the controller (108) is arranged to: operate the imaging apparatus (110) to capture one or more images of the sample (130), determine estimated reliability of the measurement on basis of the captured one or more images of the sample (130), and selectively issue an indication pertaining to reliability of the measurement in dependence of said estimated reliability.