Multi-Wavelength Laser Diode Sensor for Real-Time Microalgae Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical sensors for microalgae monitoring are inadequate for real-time, high cell concentration measurements without sample preparation, and are not cost-effective for large-scale production systems, limiting their integration into outdoor raceway or photobioreactor systems.
Innovation Solution
A multi-wavelength laser diode-photodiode based optical sensor system that allows for real-time monitoring of optical density and growth without sample preparation, using distinct wavelengths to correlate optical density measurements with biological parameters, and can be integrated into any microorganism cultivation system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If commercial optical sensors are used for microalgae monitoring, then measurement capability is provided, but cost becomes too high for low added value product applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive commercial optical sensors with inexpensive laser diodes and photodiodes that can be mass-produced at low cost. The system uses off-the-shelf components rather than specialized expensive sensors, making the measurement system economically viable for low added value microalgae products.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified optical measurement system that replicates the functionality of expensive commercial sensors using basic optical components. By copying the essential measurement principle (light absorption at specific wavelengths) with inexpensive components, the system achieves comparable functionality at a fraction of the cost.
2Measurement precision
If existing optical sensors are used for high cell concentration monitoring, then measurement is possible, but sample preparation and dilution are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the measurement system by using multiple laser wavelengths (including near-infrared) and adjusting the optical path length in the flow cell. This allows direct measurement of high cell concentrations without dilution, as the system can handle higher optical densities through parameter optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the measurement capability to higher concentration ranges by using a flow cell with adjustable path length and multiple wavelengths. This dimensional extension in the optical measurement space allows direct measurement of concentrated samples that would otherwise require dilution.
3Measurement precision
If multi-wavelength laser diodes are used for monitoring, then accurate biological parameter correlation is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical measurement into multiple discrete wavelength channels, each targeting specific biological parameters. By using distinct laser wavelengths (e.g., 450nm for chlorophyll, 680nm for carotenoids, 780nm for turbidity), the system measures different parameters independently and combines them for comprehensive analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional optical sensor that can simultaneously measure multiple biological parameters (cell concentration, chlorophyll content, carotenoid content, turbidity) using a single integrated system. The same laser-photodiode assembly performs multiple measurement functions through wavelength selection.
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, real-time monitoring of cell concentration and physiological status of microalgae cultures over a wide range, optimizing resource use and reducing economic losses by eliminating the need for sample dilution and preparation, and is cost-effective for large-scale applications.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of laser diodes for emitting light at distinct wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of photodiodes for sensing said emitted light
Implementation Method 3
monitoring of optical density and growth without sample preparation, using distinct wavelengths to correlate optical density measurements with biological parameters
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-wavelength laser diode based optical sensor system capable of monitoring the dynamics and physiological changes of a microorganism culture in real-time. The microorganism culture from a microorganism production chamber is pumped to a flow chamber. Laser diodes emit light at certain wavelengths through the flow chamber, which is sensed by photodiodes. A laser control circuitry is operatively connected to the laser diodes and a signal conditioning circuitry is operatively connected to the photodiodes. A microprocessor reads and records voltage signals corresponding to the wavelengths. A data acquisition system converts said voltage signals into measurements of biological parameters, which are displayed on a graphical user interface and allow a user to monitor the measurements in real time.