Photometric Segregation Testing Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring segregation of particulate solids in mixtures are limited in accuracy and application, failing to effectively quantify and characterize the spatial dispersion of different particles, which leads to uncertainty and nonuniformity in industrial processes.
Innovation Solution
Photometric methods and devices that reflect light off the surface of a mixture volume, analyzing the spectral content of the reflected light to determine the constituent fractions and spatial segregation patterns, using a light source and detector to collect data at multiple locations, mimicking process flow geometries to form a test volume surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical measurement methods are used to measure segregation parameters, then application simplicity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical/mechanical measurement methods with photometric/optical methods. Instead of physically sampling and measuring constituents, the system uses light reflection and spectral analysis to non-contactly determine constituent fractions and segregation patterns, achieving both ease of operation and high measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from physical properties (mass, volume) to optical properties (reflectance, spectral content). By measuring how different constituents reflect light at various wavelengths, the system can identify and quantify constituents without physical contact, resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and measurement accuracy
2Measurement precision
If photometric methods are used to measure constituent fractions, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement task into discrete wavelength channels using multiple detectors, each sensitive to specific wavelength ranges. This allows the complex spectral analysis to be broken down into manageable detector responses that can be processed independently and combined to determine constituent fractions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a photometric sensor system as an intermediary between the light source and the measurement objective. This intermediary converts the optical information from the mixture into electrical signals that can be processed, effectively managing the complexity by providing a standardized interface between the optical field and the measurement system
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 comprehensive data on segregation patterns within a mixture volume, enabling precise measurement of constituent fractions and spatial dispersion, thereby improving process control and reducing segregation-related issues in industries like food production.
Implementation Method 1
a known light source is reflected off the surface of a volume of a mixture. The reflected light is detected and measured
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and devices are provided to measure segregation in solid particulate mixtures. Light energy is projected through a transparent barrier and reflected off a surface of a mixture volume. The constituent fraction in the mixture is determined by analyzing the mixture reflected light as a combination of the constituents' known reflected light spectral contents and intensities. This is accomplished at multiple surface locations to provide constituent fraction data over the mixture volume surface.