LIBS Elemental Mapping With 3D Optical Focusing for Moving Ore
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for real-time elemental composition analysis in mining and material processing are limited by high costs, slow processing times, low sensitivity, and inability to accurately detect elemental concentrations in dynamic and heterogeneous materials, particularly on conveyor belts.
Innovation Solution
An optical system combined with computer vision and Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) using tuned photodiodes and machine learning algorithms for real-time elemental abundance mapping, enabling high-frequency and low-cost identification and classification of elements in various mining and processing stages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional detectors are used to capture light frequencies, then a broad spectrum of data is obtained, but the system lacks the sensitivity and statistics needed to accurately determine elemental abundances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the specific wavelength information needed for elemental abundance determination by replacing traditional broad-spectrum detectors with tuned photodiodes that capture only the characteristic wavelengths of target elements, eliminating unnecessary data while preserving measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by using photodiodes with specific spectral sensitivity tuned to detect only the characteristic wavelengths of particular elements, rather than using a uniform detector for all wavelengths, thereby optimizing detection precision for specific analytical targets
2Measurement precision
If extensive chemical analysis procedures are used, then accurate composition characterization is achieved, but production is slowed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/chemical analysis procedures with optical detection using photodiodes and computer vision, enabling real-time elemental abundance mapping without the time-consuming chemical processing steps while maintaining accurate composition characterization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-tuning the photodiodes to specific wavelengths characteristic of target elements before analysis, allowing direct measurement of elemental abundances without requiring subsequent chemical processing or data filtering steps
3Measurement precision
If material is diverted through an external sensing system, then elemental analysis is performed, but production is slowed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a sensing system that can analyze multiple elements simultaneously using multiple tuned photodiodes, allowing comprehensive elemental analysis to be performed in a single pass through the material stream without requiring sequential analysis or material re-routing
4Reliability
If traditional instruments are used for elemental detection, then detection capability is provided, but resolution and sensitivity are insufficient for moving material
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using a movable platform that moves synchronously with the conveyor belt, allowing the sensing system to maintain optimal positioning and focus on moving material throughout the analysis process, thereby preserving detection reliability and measurement precision for dynamic samples
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 real-time, high-resolution, and cost-effective elemental analysis on dynamic materials, providing accurate elemental abundance maps and volume calculations, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing material processing disruptions.
Implementation Method 1
Elements are identified using a custom Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) technique where a traditional detector is replaced by a series of photodiodes tuned for specific wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
The elements then emit light to return to a lower energy state
Implementation Method 3
The emitted light is detected using the photodiodes
Implementation Method 4
The optical system and data processing technique of the present invention allow for real-time elemental abundance monitoring
Implementation Method 5
An optical system combined with computer vision and Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) using tuned photodiodes and machine learning algorithms for real-time elemental abundance mapping
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein is a system and method for elemental abundance monitoring used in ore exploration, mining and processing comprising an optical assembly of sensing elements combined with computer vision techniques for 3-dimensional mapping and optical focusing to identify and map elemental concentrations. Elements are identified using a custom Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) technique where a traditional detector is replaced by a series of photodiodes tuned for specific wavelengths, indicative of the desired element(s). The optical system may be combined with a computer vision architecture to focus the optics by determining the 3-dimensional profile of the material to preserve sensor-sample optical path and geometry, a requirement for quantitative measurements of elemental abundances. The system may be employed in a dynamic system (such as a conveyor belt) where material is analyzed in real-time as it passes a scanner. Alternatively, the system can be used in a static condition without sample movement.