Non-Contact Turbidity Sensor Using Transmitted Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current turbidity measurement methods in liquids are prone to errors due to varying liquid levels and interference with the light source, requiring submersion which complicates maintenance and is labor-intensive, especially in applications like storm drains and industrial processes.
Innovation Solution
A monitoring system that emits light towards the liquid surface from a distance, using a light detector to capture the intensity and spatial distribution of transmitted light, with processing circuitry determining turbidity without physical contact, allowing for easier installation, reduced maintenance, and efficient data analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a light source is submerged into the liquid for turbidity measurement, then measurement can be performed, but maintenance becomes difficult and the liquid process may be disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary medium (air gap) between the light source/detector and the liquid. The system measures turbidity by directing light through the liquid from above without submerging the optical components, using the liquid's surface as the measurement interface. This resolves the contradiction by enabling measurement while preventing contact between the light source and liquid, thus eliminating maintenance difficulties.
2Measurement precision
If a photodetector is placed in the liquid body for measurement, then turbidity can be measured, but the liquid process is interfered with and contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light source and photodetector from the liquid environment and positions them above the liquid surface. The measurement is performed by directing light through the liquid column from above and detecting the transmitted or scattered light. This extraction eliminates process interference and contamination risks while maintaining measurement capability.
3Measurement precision
If light source and detector are placed at specific distance from liquid surface, then measurement accuracy improves, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the light source and detector to be positioned at optimal distances from the liquid surface during operation. The system can adapt to varying liquid levels and measurement requirements, maintaining accuracy without requiring fixed, complex installation structures. This dynamic positioning capability resolves the contradiction between precision and installation complexity.
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
This solution provides accurate and efficient turbidity measurements with reduced maintenance needs and improved usability, enabling better monitoring of liquid properties in various applications, including storm drains and industrial processes, by eliminating the need for physical contact and allowing for networked communication of measurement data.
Implementation Method 1
a light source configured to emit light towards the surface of said liquid, such that at least a portion of said light is transmitted through said liquid
Implementation Method 2
a light detector configured to detect light that has been emitted from said light source and transmitted through said liquid and to generate a representation of the intensity and spatial distribution of the emitted light that has been detected
Data Source
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Figure 4a~4d
Figure 5a~5d
AI summary
The present invention relates to a monitoring system for measuring and communicating properties of a liquid, wherein said monitoring system is configured to be arranged in a mounted position above and at a distance from a surface of the liquid, and wherein said monitoring system comprises: a light source configured to emit light towards the surface of said liquid, such that at least a portion of said light is transmitted through said liquid; a light detector configured to detect light that has been emitted from said light source and transmitted through said liquid and to generate a representation of the intensity and spatial distribution of the emitted light that has been detected; a processing circuitry being configured to determine the turbidity of the liquid based on said representation.