Spectrometric Sensor for Milk Somatic Cell Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for milk analysis, such as near infrared spectroscopy, are costly and lack advanced capabilities for accurately measuring various components of milk, particularly somatic cells, which are essential for assessing milk quality and herd management.
Innovation Solution
A spectrometric sensor system that includes multiple light sources with different wavelengths, light detectors, and a control unit to measure reflection and transmission intensities, generating spectra values for chemometric analysis, specifically designed to estimate somatic cell concentrations in flowing milk using ultraviolet light and thermo-stabilization to maintain light flux intensity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If near infrared spectroscopy is used for milk analysis, then measurement capability is provided, but cost is high and measurement precision for somatic cells is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the spectral measurement into multiple discrete wavelength channels (365nm, 405nm, 450nm, 480nm, 530nm, 560nm, 590nm, 630nm, 660nm, 730nm, 810nm, 850nm) using separate LEDs and photodetectors. This segmentation allows targeted measurement at specific wavelengths that are sensitive to different milk components, improving measurement precision for somatic cells while reducing system complexity compared to continuous spectrum analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from continuous near-infrared spectrum to discrete visible and near-infrared wavelength points. By selecting specific wavelengths where somatic cells have characteristic absorption or scattering properties, the system achieves higher measurement precision for somatic cell concentration while using simpler, more cost-effective LED light sources and photodetector arrays
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wavelengths are used for comprehensive analysis, then measurement capability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple measurement functions into a single integrated device. Multiple LEDs emitting at different wavelengths and multiple photodetectors are combined in one housing, allowing simultaneous or sequential measurement of various milk components (fat, protein, somatic cells, etc.) at different wavelengths. This merging provides comprehensive analysis capability while maintaining a compact, unified device structure rather than requiring separate instruments for each measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal milk analysis device that can measure multiple components (fat, protein, somatic cells, lactose, etc.) using a single instrument. The multi-wavelength LED array and photodetector system is designed to detect various milk constituents simultaneously, making the device versatile for comprehensive milk quality assessment without requiring multiple specialized instruments
3Productivity
If real-time measurement is implemented, then productivity improves, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic illumination with multiple wavelengths in a systematic sequence. The LEDs are activated in cycles, with each wavelength being measured in turn by the photodetectors. This periodic action allows rapid sequential measurement of all milk components across multiple wavelengths, achieving real-time analysis capability while maintaining measurement precision through systematic data collection and processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical sampling and preparation systems with a direct optical measurement system. Milk flows through a measurement cell and is immediately analyzed by the LED-photodetector system without requiring mechanical manipulation, filtration, or preparation steps. This substitution enables real-time measurement while maintaining precision through direct optical interaction with the milk sample
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
Provides accurate and cost-effective estimation of somatic cell concentrations and other milk components, enabling real-time quality assessment during the milking process, improving herd management and milk marketability.
Implementation Method 1
a first light detector configured for measuring a first intensity of a reflection of the first light flux from the sample
Implementation Method 2
measuring a first intensity of a reflection of the first light flux from the sample and a second intensity of a second light flux transmitted through the sample
Implementation Method 3
a control unit configured for sustaining the light source at a predefined temperature, thereby stabilizing the intensity of the first light flux
Data Source
AI summary
A spectrometric sensor for measuring a spectra value of a flowing fluid. The spectrometric sensor comprises a light source for emitting a first light flux toward a sample of the flowing fluid, a light detector for measuring a first intensity of a reflection of the first light flux from the flowing fluid and a second intensity of a second light flux received via the flowing fluid, and a control unit configured for generating at least one spectra value according to at least one of the first and second intensities.