Particle Size Calibration Using Reflectivity Reference Samples
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing particle size measurement techniques using light interference are prone to sensitivity variations due to environmental changes, laser power fluctuations, and differences in reflectivity between standard beads and particles, requiring time-consuming and labor-intensive calibration procedures.
Innovation Solution
A particle measurement device uses a reflectivity reference sample with a glass window matching the sample container's material and thickness, and a substance with similar reflectivity to the sample, allowing for sensitivity calibration by measuring reflectivity at different times to correct for sensitivity changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensitivity calibration is performed using standard beads, then measurement accuracy is improved, but time consumption and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a reference sample that copies the optical characteristics (reflectivity) of the actual particle sample. By measuring the reference sample instead of using standard beads, the system obtains calibration data that directly reflects the measurement conditions for the actual sample, eliminating the need for time-consuming standard bead preparation and calibration procedures while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The reference sample acts as an intermediary between the measurement system and the actual particle sample. It mediates the calibration process by providing a stable reference with known reflectivity characteristics that match the sample being measured, allowing the system to correct sensitivity variations without direct interaction with standard beads
2Ease of manufacture
If standard beads with different reflectivity are used for calibration, then calibration can be performed, but sensitivity coefficient differences arise requiring additional adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures homogeneity between the reference sample and the actual sample in terms of optical properties, specifically reflectivity. By selecting a reference sample whose reflectivity matches that of the particle sample, the system eliminates sensitivity coefficient differences that would otherwise require additional adjustments and corrections, simplifying the overall measurement process
3Measurement precision
If laser power is changed between standard bead and particle measurement, then reflectivity differences are compensated, but sensitivity coefficient varies
Solution Approach 1:
The reference sample copies not only the reflectivity characteristics but also the optimal measurement conditions (including laser power settings) of the actual sample. This allows calibration to be performed under identical conditions to the actual measurement, ensuring sensitivity coefficient consistency while still achieving proper reflectivity compensation
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 method enables accurate and efficient sensitivity correction, reducing human error and time consumption, and ensuring consistent measurement results despite environmental and laser fluctuations.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the size of particles contained in a liquid sample using light
Implementation Method 2
reflected light and reference light interfere with each other to enhance a signal
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of coping with sensitivity that changes for various reasons when measuring the size of particles contained in a liquid sample using light. A particle measurement device according to the present invention calibrates a size of a particle included in a sample using a reference sample, the reference sample including a reference sample window having the same material quality and thickness as those of a sample container window and including a substance having a reflectivity similar to that of the sample, and calibrates the sample size using the reflectivities of the substance measured at different two time points