LWIR Detection of Phosphate and Sulphate Salts on Substrates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting prints or coatings on substrates are hindered by interference from the substrate itself, making it difficult to detect patterns not visible to the human eye using infrared radiation, and require complex or destructive detection processes.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a substrate with amorphous or crystalline phosphate and/or sulphate salts, irradiated with longwave infrared light, and detected using a LWIR detecting device such as a bolometer or mercury cadmium telluride sensor, allowing for non-destructive and interference-free detection of patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional detection methods are used to detect prints or coatings on substrates, then detection can be performed with simple equipment, but the substrate itself interferes with the detection making it difficult to detect invisible patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the wavelength parameter of the detection light to the long-wave infrared range (8-14 μm), where phosphate and sulphate salts exhibit characteristic absorption properties. This parameter change allows the detection system to distinguish between the substrate and the coating based on their different infrared absorption characteristics, thereby resolving the substrate interference problem while maintaining simple detection equipment.
2Measurement precision
If infrared detection is used to detect patterns not visible to the human eye, then detection sensitivity is improved, but the detection process becomes complex and may require destructive analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies using long-wave infrared light with wavelengths of 8-14 μm, which corresponds to the characteristic absorption bands of phosphate and sulphate salts. This targeted wavelength selection simplifies the detection process by focusing on the specific spectral region where the coating materials exhibit strong absorption, eliminating the need for complex spectral analysis across the entire infrared range while maintaining high detection sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection method utilizes the inherent infrared absorption properties of phosphate and sulphate salts without requiring any additional labeling, tagging, or preparation of the sample. The coating materials themselves provide the detection signal through their natural spectral characteristics, making the process non-destructive and eliminating the need for complex sample preparation procedures.
3Device complexity
If visible light is used for detection, then the detection system is simple and compatible with human vision, but patterns not visible to the human eye cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from visible light detection to long-wave infrared detection, moving to a different spectral dimension where phosphate and sulphate salts exhibit characteristic absorption. This dimensional change in the electromagnetic spectrum allows the detection of invisible patterns while maintaining relatively simple detection equipment, as the same basic infrared detection principles apply but at different wavelengths.
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 clear detection of patterns on substrates without damaging them, using a handheld and cost-effective LWIR detection system that distinguishes between substrate and coating reflections, even when the substrate contains cellulose.
Implementation Method 1
irradiating the substrate of i) with infrared light at least over the whole wavelength range of 8 to 14 μm, detecting the intensity of electromagnetic radiation scattered and/or reflected by the substrate and the amorphous and/or crystalline structure of phosphate and/or sulphate salts
Implementation Method 2
detecting the intensity of electromagnetic radiation scattered and/or reflected by the substrate and the amorphous and/or crystalline structure of phosphate and/or sulphate salts due to the irradiation in step iii) with the LWIR detecting device
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention refers to method for detecting phosphate and/or sulphate salts on the surface of a substrate or within a substrate, use of a LWIR detecting device for detecting the intensity of electromagnetic radiation scattered and/or emitted reflection by phosphate and/or sulphate salts being present on and/or in a substrate, use of a substrate comprising phosphate and/or sulphate salts for providing information via electromagnetic radiation scattering and/or emission as well as a LWIR imaging system for detecting phosphate and/or sulphate salts on and/or within a substrate.