Pulsed Laser Dual-Modal Imaging for Dispersed Object Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring microscale objects in fluids face challenges in accurately distinguishing fluorescent and non-fluorescent objects at high velocities, leading to image blurring and errors in volume calculations.
Innovation Solution
The use of pulsed lasers to generate simultaneous dual-modal images of fluorescence and excitation light, allowing for the differentiation and volume fraction analysis of dispersed objects in flowing liquids or gases, while minimizing image blurring through high-energy short pulses or high-frame-rate continuous wave lasers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional imaging methods are used to measure microscale objects in high-velocity flows, then the measurement process is simple, but image blurring occurs and measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pulsed laser illumination with controlled pulse widths (e.g., 1-100 ns) to capture images at specific moments in time. This periodic illumination synchronized with the flow conditions enables clear imaging of high-velocity dispersed objects by limiting the exposure duration to minimize motion blurring while maintaining sufficient signal intensity for accurate measurement.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If single-modal imaging is used, then the device complexity is low, but the ability to distinguish fluorescent and non-fluorescent objects is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges fluorescence imaging and reflected light imaging into a single integrated measurement system. The optical path is designed to simultaneously capture both fluorescent emission and reflected excitation light using appropriate filters and detectors, enabling differentiation between fluorescent objects (e.g., oil droplets) and non-fluorescent objects (e.g., solids, gas bubbles) based on their distinct optical signatures without requiring separate imaging systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system is designed with multi-functionality to handle different types of dispersed objects through a single platform. By incorporating both fluorescence detection and reflected light detection capabilities, the system can universally measure various object types (fluorescent droplets, non-fluorescent solids, gas bubbles) in the same flow condition, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices.
3Measurement precision
If continuous wave laser is used with high frame rate camera, then image blurring is reduced, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pulsed laser illumination with controlled pulse widths (e.g., 1-100 ns) to capture images at specific moments in time. This periodic illumination synchronized with the flow conditions enables clear imaging of high-velocity dispersed objects by limiting the exposure duration to minimize motion blurring while maintaining sufficient signal intensity for accurate measurement.
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 approach enhances the accuracy of measurements by clearly distinguishing fluorescent and non-fluorescent objects, even at high velocities, reducing errors and enabling precise volume calculations of dispersed objects in dynamic fluid environments.
Implementation Method 1
certain types of dispersed material emits fluorescent light under excitation by laser light
Implementation Method 2
the very short duration but high light energy of pulsed laser can be used to eliminate imaging blurring when the dispersed materials moves very fast
Data Source
AI summary
Measuring devices and methods are described for generating microscopic fluorescence and excitation light images of dispersed objects in liquid or gas, and for analyzing the images to determine the volume fractions of dispersed objects and distinguish different types of objects by comparing the images.