Particle sensor with wide linear range
US8603772B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 28, 2008 |
| Grant date | Dec 10, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 1, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2021/4709
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
This invention provides a novel methods and devices for measurement of particle concentration or changes in particle concentration over a wide linear range. The invention comprises one or more radiation sources and one or more detectors contained in a housing which is interfaced to a medium containing particulate matter. The one or more radiation sources are directed into the medium, scattered or transmitted by the particulate matter, and then some portion of the radiation is detected by the one or more detectors. Methods for confining the measurement to a specific volume within the medium are described. Algorithms are provided for combining the signals generated by multiple source-detector pairs in a manner that results in a wide linear range of response to changes in particle concentration. In one embodiment the sensor provides non-invasive measurements of biomass in a bioreactor. In another embodiment an immersible probe design is described, which may be suited for one-time use. In an addition embodiment, a sensor is provided which is well suited to the rapid sequential measurement of particle concentration in multiple vessels, such as assessment of biomass in series of shake fl…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.