Gas Measurement System Using Digital Camera Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gas measurement systems have low accuracy and reliability due to limited detection positions of color changes on reaction substances, which restricts precise detection of gaseous and vaporous components.
Innovation Solution
A gas measurement system utilizing a digital camera with a high pixel count and imaging optics to detect color changes at multiple positions within transparent channels, coupled with a motor for moving the reaction support unit and a suction pump for gas conveyance, allowing for precise evaluation of gas concentrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a mechanical bearing with limited detection positions is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical bearing system with limited detection positions (6 Si diodes) with a digital camera-based optoelectronic detection system. The digital camera captures images of the reaction substance, and image processing algorithms evaluate color changes at multiple positions simultaneously, achieving high measurement precision without complex mechanical moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from discrete point detection (6 separate positions) to continuous area detection by capturing the entire reaction zone in an image. This dimensional expansion allows color change evaluation across the whole reaction area, significantly improving measurement precision while using a single stationary detection device.
2Reliability
If multiple detection positions are implemented, then the reliability of gas detection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces multiple discrete mechanical sensors with a single digital camera that optically detects color changes across the entire reaction area. Image processing software then analyzes the captured image to determine gas concentration, achieving high reliability through multiple detection positions without increasing mechanical device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an optical copy (image) of the reaction zone and performs analysis on this copy rather than using multiple physical sensors. The digital camera captures the complete reaction area, and software evaluation of the image provides reliable gas detection data without requiring multiple separate detection components.
3Measurement precision
If a digital camera with high pixel count is used, then the measurement precision is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a digital camera, which is a commercially available and relatively inexpensive component, to replace expensive specialized sensors. The high pixel count of modern digital cameras provides sufficient measurement precision for color change detection at multiple positions without requiring custom-manufactured high-cost detection devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a digital camera, a universal consumer electronic component, for scientific measurement purposes. This multi-functional use of a standard component achieves high measurement precision while avoiding the need for specialized, expensive manufacturing, thereby reducing overall system cost.
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 and reliable detection of gaseous and vaporous components by capturing color changes at numerous positions, enhancing the precision and reliability of gas concentration measurements.
Implementation Method 1
an optoelectronic detection device for detecting a color change of the at least one reaction substance
Implementation Method 2
at least two light permeable channels
Implementation Method 3
a suction pump for conveying the gas mixture through the gas tube
Implementation Method 4
a friction bearing, for the reaction support unit
Data Source
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AI summary
A gas measurement system for measuring the concentration of gaseous and/or vaporous components of a gas mixture by means of a color change of at least one reaction substance on a reaction support unit, which is arranged in at least two light permeable channels in such a manner that the color change on the reaction substance can be detected at low expense on a large number of separate positions. The detecting unit which detects the color change can be designed as a digital camera with an electronic image converter or image sensor, and an imaging optics system (e.g., a lens system). Related systems, methods, apparatus, and articles are also described.