Multi-Channel Fluorescent Tracer Imaging in Low-Permeability Media
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for measuring the concentration distribution of fluorescent tracers in low permeability media often disturb the sample and are limited to estimating narrow concentration ranges, compromising accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a multi-channel image analysis technique, including a pre-adsorption batch experiment, channel selection, concentration versus intensity equation derivation, and flow chamber experiment, to non-destructively estimate a wide range of tracer concentrations in low permeability media.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional single-channel measurement methods are used, then the measurement process is simple, but the concentration range that can be estimated is narrow and sample disturbance occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement process into multiple independent channels (R, G, B channels) that can simultaneously measure different concentration ranges. Each channel is optimized for specific concentration intervals, allowing the system to estimate a wide overall concentration range by combining results from multiple specialized channels rather than using a single general-purpose channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-channel (one-dimensional) measurement to multi-channel (multi-dimensional) measurement by utilizing multiple wavelength channels simultaneously. This dimensional expansion allows the system to capture concentration information across different spectral ranges, effectively increasing the measurable concentration range and reducing sample disturbance.
2Measurement precision
If conventional measurement methods are used, then the measurement process is quick, but the concentration estimation accuracy is compromised due to sample disturbance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calibration by establishing concentration-intensity equations for each channel before actual measurements. This pre-prepared reference data allows for rapid, accurate concentration estimation during experimentation without requiring time-consuming sample preparation or disturbance, as the multi-channel system can directly compare measured intensities against pre-established relationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/sample-based measurement methods (that require physical disturbance or extraction) with optical field-based multi-channel image analysis. By using non-invasive optical detection across multiple channels, the system achieves accurate concentration estimation without the time loss associated with sample manipulation, while maintaining high measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If multi-channel image analysis technique is used, then the concentration range estimation is wide and accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent systematically varies and optimizes parameters including wavelength selection for each channel, exposure time settings, and concentration-intensity relationship parameters. By carefully adjusting these parameters during calibration and measurement, the system achieves high measurement precision across wide concentration ranges while managing device complexity through parameter optimization rather than hardware complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal multi-channel image analysis framework that can handle various concentration ranges and clay types through a single integrated system. The same device and methodology can be applied across different experimental conditions and media types, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices and thereby managing overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
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 accurate, non-destructive estimation of tracer concentrations across a broad range without disturbing the sample, improving measurement accuracy compared to conventional single-channel methods.
Implementation Method 1
concentration distribution of fluorescent tracer
Implementation Method 2
diffusion while conducting a flow chamber experiment
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for estimating a concentration distribution of a fluorescent tracer in a low permeability medium is proposed. The device may obtain images by photographing acrylic boxes containing respective mixtures prepared by combining and stirring each type of clay with fluorescent tracer solutions. The device may also calculate a light intensity for the fluorescent tracer solutions for each clay, derive a light intensity of each RGB channel for each type of clay, select a channel representing a gradual change in the light intensity, and derive a concentration versus intensity equation of the selected channel. The device may further obtain images by photographing a flow chamber at an early stage and late stage of diffusion, estimate a fluorescent tracer concentration by using the concentration versus intensity equation, and evaluate validity of an estimation result by comparing the estimated fluorescent tracer concentration with a modeling value.