Handheld Spectroradiometer Calibration for Algae Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spectroradiometers are expensive and require extensive training to accurately detect and monitor harmful algae blooms (HABs), particularly cyanobacteria, which are increasing in the Great Lakes, limiting their accessibility and efficiency in generating spectral data for water quality assessment.
Innovation Solution
A handheld spectroradiometer system connected to a mobile computing device that is significantly less expensive and requires minimal training, capable of generating accurate spectral data by observing radiance values in the blue, green, red, and infrared parts of the electromagnetic spectrum to estimate phycocyanin and surface scum indices, and can be used in various applications with a calibration method to correct for device-specific distortions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional spectroradiometers are used to detect and monitor harmful algae blooms, then accurate spectral data can be obtained, but the device cost is high and extensive training is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a mobile device camera as a copy or substitute for the conventional spectroradiometer sensor, capturing spectral data through a diffraction grating instead of expensive specialized sensors. This copying approach maintains measurement capability while dramatically reducing cost and training requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, durable conventional spectroradiometers with inexpensive mobile device cameras that can be widely distributed. The temporary nature of mobile device usage and lower cost allows for disposable or short-term deployment without significant investment
2Measurement precision
If conventional spectroradiometers are used to detect and monitor harmful algae blooms, then accurate spectral data can be obtained, but the device cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a functional copy of the spectroradiometer using inexpensive mobile device camera hardware combined with a diffraction grating, achieving spectral measurement capability at a fraction of the conventional device cost
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the complex mechanical and optical systems of conventional spectroradiometers with a simplified system using a mobile device camera and diffraction grating, substituting expensive specialized components with readily available consumer technology
3Measurement precision
If conventional spectroradiometers are used for water quality assessment, then comprehensive spectral analysis is possible, but the complexity of the system limits accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential spectral measurement function from the complex conventional spectroradiometer system, isolating only the critical components (camera, diffraction grating, processor) needed for water quality assessment while eliminating unnecessary complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a universal mobile device platform that can perform multiple functions including spectral data collection, processing, and analysis for various water quality parameters, replacing specialized single-function conventional instruments
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
The system provides rapid and accurate detection of cyanobacteria blooms, allowing for rapid screening of potentially harmful algae, and can be used by non-experts, offering a cost-effective solution for monitoring HABs and other water quality parameters with minimal training, achieving results comparable to conventional spectroradiometers.
Implementation Method 1
The handheld spectroradiometer includes an image sensor with a diffraction device
Data Source
AI summary
Non-transitory computer-readable media, spectroradiometer systems, and methods for calibrating a spectroradiometer. In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable medium includes instructions that, when executed by an electronic processor, cause the electronic processor to perform a set of operations. The set of operations includes receiving spectral data regarding an object-of-interest that is captured by a handheld spectroradiometer, detecting a characteristic of the object-of-interest by performing a spectral analysis on the spectral data that is received, and controlling a display to display the characteristic of the object-of-interest.