Settlement Analyser Using Optical Arrays for Interface Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing settlement analysis methods are unreliable and require multiple equipment setups, especially in processes involving liquids with suspended solids, lacking efficient determination of levels and interface layer depths without manual intervention.
Innovation Solution
A settlement analyser using arrays of emitters and detectors, primarily infrared LEDs and photodiodes, to measure transmittance and turbidity profiles of samples, allowing for automated determination of interface layers and properties like MLSS concentration and SVI values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If visual measurement methods are used to determine settled solids levels, then equipment complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to lack of automated analysis and additional parameter requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual measurement methods with an automated optical analysis system. The settlement analyser uses light transmission and reflection principles to automatically determine settled solids levels, eliminating the need for manual visual inspection while significantly improving measurement precision and reliability through automated data collection and analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary medium between the settled solids and the detection system. By measuring light transmission and reflection characteristics, the system indirectly determines settled solids levels with high precision, avoiding direct mechanical or visual contact while maintaining measurement accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If multiple separate equipment systems are used to determine settled solids, MLSS, and turbidity, then measurement comprehensiveness is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional settlement analyser that can simultaneously perform multiple measurements including settled solids level determination, MLSS concentration analysis, and turbidity assessment. This single integrated system replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate equipment systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining comprehensive measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions into a single integrated optical analysis system. By merging settled solids detection, MLSS measurement, and turbidity analysis into one unified instrument with shared optical components and processing electronics, the system achieves comprehensive measurement coverage while minimizing equipment complexity and space requirements.
3Measurement precision
If conventional multiphase flow meters are used to determine phase fractions, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical multiphase flow meters with an optical measurement system. By using light transmission and reflection properties to determine phase fractions, the system achieves accurate measurements without the mechanical complexity, moving parts, and high costs associated with conventional MPFMs.
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 reliable, automated analysis of sample settlement with improved resolution and reduced equipment complexity, enabling accurate determination of interface layers and sample properties without manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a transmittance profile of the sample as a function of time
Implementation Method 2
measuring a turbidity profile of the sample as a function of time
Data Source
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AI summary
A settlement analyser and a method of analysing settlement which employs an array of emitters and at least one array of detectors, wherein the settlement analyser is configured to analyse a sample placed or otherwise located between the array of emitters and the at least one array of detectors by sequentially emitting light from the array of emitters, and detecting light which arrives at the at least one array of detectors via the sample volume. Repeating this sequence allows an optical profile of the sample to be determined as a function of time. The sequence may be a linear sequence, or it may be a non-linear sequence, and light from a particular emitter may be detected by several different detectors in order to increase the resolution of the analyser and the method. The analyser and the method may thereby identify the location of boundaries or interfaces between different layers in a sample once settled and during settlement. Furthermore, measurements obtained by the settlement analyser and method may be used to determine one or more properties of the sample, including MLSS concentration, SV30 number and SVI value. In one embodiment one or more settlement analysers may be comprised in an apparatus which may be located in a process or flow and thereby obtain and analyse samples directly from the process or flow, and in another embodiment a stand-alone analyser is able to receive and analyse samples within sample holders.