Refractometer Monitoring of Spent Grain Extract Content
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for calculating extract loss in the brewing process are inaccurate due to the subtraction of large numbers with significant standard deviations, leading to low precision in determining brewhouse efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method using a refractometer to directly measure the extract content of spent grains, allowing for accurate determination of extract loss by transporting a stream of spent grains across the refractometer to obtain time-resolved refractive index measurements, which are then used in a specific equation to calculate extract loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional calculation methods are used to determine extract loss by subtracting large numbers, then the calculation can be performed with existing data, but the measurement precision and reliability are significantly reduced due to high standard deviations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical calculation method (subtracting large numbers with high standard deviations) with an optical measurement system (refractometer) that directly measures extract content in spent grains. This substitution eliminates the mathematical error propagation inherent in subtraction-based calculations and provides direct, accurate measurement of extract loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from indirect calculation based on mass balances to direct optical measurement of refractive index in spent grains. By measuring the refractive index, which correlates with extract content, the system obtains accurate extract loss data without the precision losses associated with subtracting large, variable numbers.
2Measurement precision
If a refractometer is used to directly measure extract content in spent grains, then measurement precision is significantly improved, but the device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a refractometer as an intermediary measurement device that optically determines extract content in spent grains. This intermediary tool provides accurate measurement without requiring complex chemical analysis or multiple measurement devices, simplifying the overall system while improving precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The refractometer measures extract content directly in the spent grains stream without requiring separate sampling, preparation, or multiple measurement steps. The device performs self-contained measurement by directing light through the spent grain sample and reading the refractive index, eliminating the need for complex external measurement systems.
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 significantly improves the accuracy of extract loss calculation, reducing the relative standard deviation from 89.9% to 6.1%, providing a more precise measurement of brewhouse efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
transporting a stream of the spent grains across a refractometer to obtain a sequence of time-resolved refractive index measurements
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The present invention provides a method of monitoring extract content of spent grains in a brewing process, said method : • separating a saccharified mash into clear wort and spent grains; and • transporting a stream of the spent grains across a refractometer to obtain a sequence of time-resolved refractive index measurements. The present method for monitoring extract content is much more accurate than the conventional method and can easily be implemented in industrial breweries. This new method relies on the use of a refractometer to directly determine the extract content of spent grains. The present invention further provides an apparatus for separating saccharified mash into clear wort and spent grains, said apparatus comprising: • a solid- liquid separation device having an inlet for saccharified mash; an outlet for clear wort; and an outlet for spent grains; and • an inline refractometer disposed in the outlet for spent grains or downstream of said outlet of spent grains.