Modular Optical Sensor for Fluid Media Multi-Axis Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical measurement systems for fluid media are not suitable for on-site use, particularly for monitoring optical properties of flowing media, as they require separate setups for different measurements and lack flexibility for simultaneous multi-axis analysis.
Innovation Solution
A modular optical sensor system with an exchangeable optics holder and fluid chamber, allowing for parallel measurements at multiple angles and interchangeable optical components, enabling turbidity, absorption, and scattered light analysis in a compact, versatile setup suitable for both continuous flow and individual samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate measurement setups are used for different optical measurements in the laboratory, then each measurement method can be performed with dedicated equipment, but the system complexity increases and on-site use becomes impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal measurement setup where a single optical sensor system can perform multiple optical measurements (absorbance, turbidity, scattered light) by exchanging measurement modules. Each module contains specific optical components configured for particular measurements, but all modules share the same basic platform, enabling laboratory-grade measurements in a compact on-site device.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is divided into separable modules that can be exchanged independently. The optics holder and fluid chamber are designed as interchangeable components, allowing users to swap between different measurement configurations without replacing the entire system, thus reducing complexity while maintaining measurement capabilities.
2Productivity
If multiple optical measurements are performed in parallel using an optics holder with two optical axes, then measurement efficiency and productivity increase, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a three-dimensional arrangement with two optical axes positioned at 90 degrees to each other. This spatial configuration enables simultaneous parallel measurements along different axes within a single measurement cell, doubling the measurement capacity without requiring multiple separate devices or complex sequential operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple measurement functions are merged into a single integrated optics holder that accommodates both optical axes and their respective components (LEDs, photodiodes). The fluid chamber is designed to serve both measurement paths simultaneously, combining what would traditionally require separate measurement setups into one unified device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If exchangeable optics holders and fluid chambers are used to enable different measurement types and flow conditions, then system versatility and adaptability improve, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to multiple interchangeable parts
Solution Approach 1:
The exchangeable modules are designed with standardized interfaces that maintain universal compatibility with the base system. Despite the ability to swap different optics holders and fluid chambers for various measurement types (absorbance, turbidity, scattered light) and flow conditions, the connection and alignment mechanisms remain consistent, simplifying the user experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The modules are pre-configured and pre-aligned during manufacturing, so that when users exchange them, no complex alignment or calibration is required. The standardized interfaces ensure proper positioning automatically, eliminating the operational complexity that would otherwise arise from handling multiple interchangeable components.
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 system provides great flexibility and versatility, enabling simultaneous multi-axis optical measurements, calibration with sealed reference samples, and efficient processing of measurement signals, making it suitable for on-site monitoring of fluid media properties.
Implementation Method 1
the absorption of a medium can be determined at two different wavelengths using the transmitted light method
Implementation Method 2
record the scattered light at a 90° angle, which is relevant for measuring turbidity
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A modular optical sensor system for fluid media comprises a measurement module (12) that has a replaceable fluid chamber (14) and a replaceable optical system holder (16). The fluid chamber includes an inlet, an outlet, and a measurement chamber for the fluid medium. The optical system holder has at least one optical transmitter and at least one optical receiver. Said optical system holder is positioned relative to the fluid chamber within the measurement module in such a way that the radiation emitted by the optical transmitter penetrates the measurement chamber for the fluid medium within the fluid chamber and reaches the optical receiver.