Non-destructive Gas Analyzer Using Infrared Interpolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-destructive carbon dioxide testing systems require new prediction models for each container type and are not suitable for field testing of carbonated beverages, limiting their applicability and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A non-destructive gas analyzer using a sensor unit with an infrared emitter and detector, coupled with a processor module, that transmits and receives near-infrared radiation through the container neck, allowing for rapid determination of gas concentration without the need for predetermined prediction models, and can operate on a variety of transparent or semi-transparent containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a non-destructive testing system using NIR transmission and prediction models is used, then testing time is reduced from several weeks to minutes, but the system requires new prediction models for each container type and is not suitable for field testing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential measurement function from the complex prediction model-based system. Instead of using pre-established prediction models that require calibration for each container type, the invention uses a universal infrared sensor system that directly measures carbon dioxide concentration through the container wall, eliminating the need for container-type-specific models while maintaining rapid testing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal testing system that can accommodate various container types (plastic, glass, metal) without requiring separate prediction models for each. The infrared sensor system works across different container materials and geometries, enabling both production line testing and field testing applications
2Measurement precision
If destructive testing methods are used to measure carbon dioxide in containers, then direct measurement is achieved, but the testing process becomes complex requiring large equipment including plumbing and precision gas detectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical and chemical testing system (plumbing, gas detectors, physical sampling) with an optical measurement system. Infrared radiation passes through the container wall and is detected on the opposite side, eliminating the need for destructive sampling and complex gas analysis equipment while maintaining direct measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses infrared radiation as an intermediary to measure carbon dioxide concentration non-contactedly. Instead of directly sampling the gas and using complex detection equipment, the infrared energy transmits through the container wall and interacts with the carbon dioxide, providing a simplified measurement approach
3Reliability
If periodic sampling of production containers is performed to ensure specifications, then quality control is maintained, but the process is time-consuming and requires actual direct measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous quality control by allowing rapid non-destructive measurement of carbon dioxide concentration in containers during production. Instead of periodic sampling, the system can continuously monitor container quality without interrupting production flow, maintaining both reliability and productivity
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 rapid and accurate measurement of carbon dioxide concentration in carbonated beverages, applicable to various container types without the need for pre-loaded prediction models, facilitating field testing and improving production efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an infrared emitter affixed to the at least one sidewall and configured to transmit infrared radiation across the sensor region
Implementation Method 2
an infrared detector affixed to the at least one sidewall, opposite the infrared emitter, and configured to receive infrared radiation transmitted by the infrared emitter across the sensor region and to provide an output signal corresponding to the received infrared radiation
Implementation Method 3
The infrared radiation may comprise near infrared radiation
Data Source
AI summary
A gas analyzer to non-destructively detect the concentration of a gas in a container includes a sensor unit with an infrared emitter configured to transmit infrared radiation over a path through the container. There is an infrared detector configured to receive a portion of the infrared radiation transmitted by the infrared emitter and to produce an output signal corresponding to the received radiation. There is a processor module, in communication with the sensor unit, configured to receive the detected spectrum from the infrared detector, the detected spectrum including a trough region at wavelengths which absorb the gas in the pressurized container. The processor is also configured to form an interpolated baseline spectrum from the detected spectrum by interpolating baseline data points spanning the trough region and to calculate a gas concentration in the container using the detected spectrum and the interpolated baseline spectrum.