Turbidity Measurement Using Scattered and Reflected Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing turbidity measurement methods using a single scattered light signal at 90°, as per ISO 7027, face ambiguity in distinguishing between low and high turbidity values, leading to incorrect interpretations and the need for additional measuring devices.
Innovation Solution
A method and measuring arrangement that utilize a single measuring channel to perform optical scattered light measurements by transmitting excitation light into the medium, receiving scattered light, and evaluating the signal strength of reflected light at the medium surface to determine turbidity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single scattered light signal at 90° is used for turbidity measurement according to ISO 7027, then the measurement complies with international standards, but the signal becomes ambiguous and cannot distinguish between low and high turbidity values
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new measurement dimension by adding a reflected light signal component at the medium surface, complementing the existing scattered light measurement at 90°. This dimensional expansion transforms the single-parameter measurement into a multi-parameter system, enabling unambiguous differentiation between low and high turbidity values while maintaining ISO 7027 compliance.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflected light signal acts as an intermediary variable that provides additional information about the medium's optical properties. By evaluating both the scattered light signal and the reflected light signal, the system can resolve the ambiguity in turbidity measurement without deviating from the standard's core requirements.
2Measurement precision
If additional measuring devices are installed to obtain further information about actual turbidity value, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity and installation effort increase considerably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the single measuring channel multi-functional by enabling it to perform both scattered light measurement (for ISO 7027 compliance) and reflected light measurement (for ambiguity resolution). This universalization allows one device to provide comprehensive turbidity information that would otherwise require multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement function is segmented into two independent optical paths: one for scattered light detection and another for reflected light detection. This segmentation allows the system to process multiple types of optical information simultaneously through a single measuring channel, avoiding the need for separate devices while maintaining measurement accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the measuring range is extended to detect very high turbidity values, then measurement capability improves, but signal attenuation increases and measurement reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflected light signal provides a feedback mechanism that indicates the optical properties of the medium. By monitoring the intensity of the reflected light, the system can detect when signal attenuation becomes excessive due to high turbidity, allowing for reliable measurement across an extended range while maintaining awareness of signal quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter by introducing reflected light intensity as an additional variable. This parameter change enables the system to detect and compensate for signal attenuation effects, extending the measurable turbidity range while maintaining reliability through the complementary information provided by the reflected light signal.
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 allows for clear distinction between low and high turbidity media, eliminating signal ambiguity and reducing the need for additional measuring devices, thereby enhancing economic efficiency and extending the measuring range.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting excitation light into the medium, wherein the excitation light is scattered in the medium
Implementation Method 2
transmitting excitation light into the medium towards the medium surface, wherein the excitation light is reflected at the medium surface
Implementation Method 3
at least one photodiode that receives light scattered in the medium and light reflected at the medium surface and converts it into an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a scattered light parameter, for example turbidity, in a medium using a measuring arrangement, the method including the steps of: transmitting excitation light into the medium, wherein the excitation light is scattered in the medium; receiving the light scattered in the medium; transmitting excitation light into the medium towards the medium surface, wherein the excitation light is reflected at the medium surface; receiving the light reflected from the medium surface; and determining the scattered light parameter, in particular turbidity, from the scattered light and reflected light. The present disclosure further discloses a measuring arrangement for performing the method.