Integrating Sphere Particle Analyzer for Airborne Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting airborne biological particles are expensive, complex, and limited in deployment due to high costs and size, making them unsuitable for widespread or portable use, especially in environments where rapid detection is critical.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a pair of opposed concave reflective surfaces and an integrating sphere that uses multiple wavelength bands of light to enhance detection sensitivity, allowing for the use of both scattered and fluorescence signals to discriminate particle types, and is designed for low-cost, portable, and unattended operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If time-of-flight mass spectrometry with laser fragmentation is used for airborne particle analysis, then particle discrimination capability is improved, but response time deteriorates and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential detection function from complex mass spectrometry systems by using simple optical detectors to measure light scattering and fluorescence intensity, eliminating the time-consuming mass analysis components while retaining particle discrimination capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, complex mass spectrometry equipment with inexpensive optical detection components that can be easily deployed and replaced, enabling widespread monitoring without significant investment
2Loss of time
If simple light scattering techniques are used for particle detection, then real-time analysis capability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two optical measurement techniques - light scattering and fluorescence - into a single detection system, allowing simultaneous real-time particle detection and material characterization through the relationship between scattered light intensity and fluorescence emission
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes fluorescence emission at different wavelengths (color changes) as particles are excited by UV light, providing material-specific spectral signatures that enable particle identification and classification in real-time
3Measurement precision
If multiple particle characterization techniques are implemented to improve discrimination capability, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional detection system where a single optical detection apparatus performs both light scattering measurement and fluorescence detection, eliminating the need for separate specialized instruments while achieving comprehensive particle characterization
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses fluorescence emission as an intermediary signal that provides material-specific information without requiring direct interaction with the particle, simplifying the detection process while enhancing discrimination capability
4Measurement precision
If expensive and complex particle analysis equipment is deployed, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of manufacture and deployment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive optical components and detectors that can be manufactured at low cost and deployed widely, replacing expensive specialized equipment while maintaining sufficient detection capability for environmental monitoring applications
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
The apparatus significantly improves detection sensitivity for low particle concentrations and reduces costs, enabling the deployment of multiple units for wide-area monitoring or personal use, with rapid response times to biological hazards.
Implementation Method 1
A light source, usually a laser, illuminates the measurement space and the particles scatter some radiation to an appropriately positioned detector
Implementation Method 2
The light excites some naturally occurring fluorophores within the particles and the fluorescence emission spectrum between 500 nm and 800 nm wavelength is recorded
Implementation Method 3
the apparatus comprises a pair of opposed concave reflective surfaces and the zone is between these surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
This invention describes an improved method and apparatus for the analysis of fluid borne particles and which is especially suitable for the detection of airborne biological particles. In one aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for the detection of fluid borne particles which comprises a zone through which a fluid to be analyzed flows in use, a source of illumination to illuminate/irradiate fluid borne particles present in said zone, and a detector to detect light from the particles as an indicator of the presence or characteristics of the particles, wherein the apparatus comprises an integrating sphere and the zone is within the integrating sphere. The apparatus is highly sensitive and can be used for detecting airborne particles even where the particles are present at very low particle concentrations in the air.