THC Concentration Detection via UV Light Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis infusions are expensive and time-consuming, requiring advanced techniques like gas chromatography or mass spectrometry, which are not accessible or practical for everyday use outside a laboratory setting.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing the high ultraviolet light absorption properties of THC, employing a control circuit to illuminate samples with UV light and measure transmitted light intensity using a light receiving element, allowing for quick and inexpensive quantification of THC concentration in solvents like oils and lipids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If gas chromatography or mass spectrometry is used to determine THC concentration, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical/chemical analysis systems (gas chromatography, mass spectrometry) with an optical detection system that uses UV-Vis spectroscopy to measure THC concentration through light absorption, eliminating the need for complex laboratory instrumentation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable test strips or cuvettes containing the analytical reagents, replacing expensive, reusable laboratory equipment. These single-use components are inexpensive and eliminate the need for maintaining complex instruments
2Measurement precision
If gas chromatography or mass spectrometry is used to determine THC concentration, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary preparation by pre-coating test strips or cuvettes with extraction solvents and detection reagents before use. This allows the actual measurement to be completed rapidly without time-consuming sample preparation steps during analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a rapid extraction and detection method that skips the lengthy separation and identification steps required by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, achieving results in minutes rather than hours through direct UV-Vis spectroscopic measurement
3Measurement precision
If gas chromatography or mass spectrometry is used to determine THC concentration, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the test system to be self-contained and self-explanatory, with automatic calibration and interpretation features that eliminate the need for highly trained operators. The device performs its own calibration and provides direct readout of THC concentration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a user-friendly interface and automated data processing system that acts as an intermediary between the complex analytical measurement and the end user, translating complex spectral data into simple, actionable concentration values
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
Enables rapid, accessible, and accurate determination of THC concentration in cannabis infusions, making it feasible for use outside laboratory environments, with the potential for precise measurement of THC and other therapeutic compounds in cannabis edibles.
Implementation Method 1
employing a control circuit to illuminate samples with UV light and measure transmitted light intensity
Data Source
AI summary
The present describes a system and method for determining the concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) including a tray comprising a first analyte including an infusion of a solvent and cannabis, a light emitting element configured to illuminate the first analyte, a light receiving element configured to receive a first light transmitted through the first analyte, and a control circuit configured to calculate a concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol in the first analyte based at least in part on the first light.