Optical Container Integrity Detection via Laser Absorption Spectroscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting leaks in sealed containers, especially thermally sealed packages, are limited by sensitivity, speed, and complexity, and are not suitable for inline measurements or 100% leak testing without being intrusive or potentially damaging the contents.
Innovation Solution
A method using optical measurements to determine the integrity of containers by transmitting a light signal through the headspace and detecting changes in pressure and gas composition, which can indicate leaks, leveraging temperature equilibration to generate pressure differences and employing tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy for non-destructive and sensitive detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If penetration tests using dyes or trace gases are used to detect small leaks, then measurement precision is improved, but the method becomes destructive and slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/chemical penetration test methods with optical detection using laser absorption spectroscopy. The system uses a laser beam to detect changes in gas composition (O2, CO2, H2O) inside the container through non-contact optical measurements, eliminating the need for destructive dye penetration or trace gas injection while maintaining high sensitivity for detecting small leaks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by measuring the optical absorption properties of gases inside the container as a mediator to detect leaks. Instead of directly detecting physical breaches or using trace gases, the system monitors the composition and pressure of the headspace gas through its optical absorption characteristics, providing indirect but sensitive leak detection.
2Ease of operation
If automated vision systems are used to inspect containers, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision for small leaks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces automated vision systems with optical spectroscopy-based detection. Instead of using cameras or visual sensors that cannot detect small leaks, the system uses laser absorption spectroscopy to measure gas composition and pressure changes inside the container, achieving both automation and high sensitivity for detecting even small leaks.
3Measurement precision
If differential pressure methods are used for leak testing, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex differential pressure measurement systems with optical detection methods. Instead of using pressure sensors, vacuum chambers, and complex control systems to create and measure pressure differentials, the system uses laser absorption spectroscopy to directly detect gas composition changes and pressure variations through optical measurements, simplifying the overall system while maintaining sensitivity.
4Measurement precision
If gas detection cells are used to extract and detect leaked gas, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential detection function by using optical sensors that can measure gas composition through the container wall or headspace without requiring physical extraction of the gas into a separate detection cell. The laser absorption spectroscopy system detects O2, CO2, and H2O concentrations directly in situ, eliminating complex gas extraction and handling systems.
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 fast, non-intrusive, and sensitive detection of leaks in sealed containers, allowing for 100% leak testing without damaging the contents or requiring conductive substances, suitable for inline measurements and complex geometries, while avoiding high energy exposure.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting a light signal through a headspace of the container using an optical sensor sensitive to at least one gas
Implementation Method 2
employing tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy for non-destructive and sensitive detection
Implementation Method 3
leveraging temperature equilibration to generate pressure differences
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for determining an integrity of a container, including obtaining a pressure inside a container by producing, filling and/or sealing a container using heat or at cold conditions. Transmitting a light signal through a headspace of the container and determining, based on the transmitted light signal being detected, the integrity of the container.