Claims:Claims
We Claim:
1. An apparatus to measure concentration of particulates in a solution, the apparatus comprising:
a lighting unit having a plurality of light sources, each light source of the plurality of lights sources configured to emit a light beam having a predefined wavelength;
a sample holder to receive the emitted light beam, wherein the sample holder contains the solution, the solution is a mixture of a sample and one or more reactants;
a sensory unit positioned in line with the sample holder to detect multiple sets of light intensity values of an emergent light beam subsequent to passing through the solution and scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution;
a controlling unit communicably coupled to each of the lighting unit and the sensory unit and configured to:
selectively retrieve at least four light intensity values from each set of the multiple sets of light intensity values;
determine an initial time reaction rate and a final time reaction rate for each set of the multiple sets of light intensity values, based on the selectively retrieved at least four light intensity values;
determine a percentage of reaction change based on the initial time reaction rate and the final time reaction rate for each set of the multiple sets of light intensity values;
compare the determined percentage of reaction change for each set of the multiple sets of light intensity values with a threshold value until a pre-defined criteria is satisfied; and
select a set of light intensity values from the multiple sets of light intensity values in response to satisfying the pre-defined criteria, and thereby measure the concentration of the particulates in the solution.
2. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of light sources is sequentially operated for preset time intervals.
3. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the each of the at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved correspond to a light intensity value detected at a pre-set time shift.
4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein each light intensity value of the multiple sets of light intensity values correspond to a light intensity value detected at a time point within a pre-determined time period.
5. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the initial time reaction rate of each of the multiple sets of light intensity values correspond to a logarithmic functional ratio of a light intensity value selectively retrieved at a higher pre-set time shift to a light intensity value selectively retrieved at a lower pre-set time shift.
6. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the final time reaction rate of each of the multiple sets of light intensity values correspond to a logarithmic functional ratio of a light intensity value selectively retrieved at a higher pre-set time shift to a light intensity value selectively retrieved at a lower pre-set time shift.
7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pre-defined criteria pertains to the determined percentage of reaction rate for the multiple sets of light intensity values is lesser than the respective threshold value respectively.
8. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, the controller unit is further configured to:
determine an optical density for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values;
select the optical density of the set of light intensity values selected from the multiple sets of light intensity values in response to satisfying the pre-defined criteria; and
utilize the selected optical density in a calibration curve model to measure the concentration of particulates contained in the solution.

9. A method of measuring concentration of particulates in a solution, the method comprising:
detecting, by a sensory unit, multiple sets of light intensity values of an emergent light beam subsequent to passing through a solution and scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution;
receiving, by a controller unit, multiple sets of light intensity values from the sensory unit, wherein each light intensity value of the multiple sets of light intensity values correspond to a light intensity value detected at a time point within a pre-defined time period;
selectively retrieving, by the controller unit, at least four light intensity values from each set of the multiple sets of light intensity values, wherein the each of the at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved correspond to a light intensity value detected at a pre-set time shift;
determining, by the controller unit, an initial time reaction rate and a final time reaction rate for each set of the multiple sets of light intensity values, based on the selectively retrieved at least four light intensity values;
determining, by the controller unit, a percentage of reaction change based on the initial time reaction rate and the final time reaction rate for each set of the multiple sets of light intensity values;
comparing, by the controller unit, the determined percentage of reaction change for each set of the multiple sets of light intensity values with a threshold value until a pre-defined criteria is satisfied; and
selecting, by the controller unit, a set of light intensity values from the multiple sets of light intensity values in response to satisfying the pre-defined criteria, and thereby measure the concentration of the particulates in the solution.

10. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising:
determining, by the controller unit, an optical density for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values;
selecting, by the controller unit, the optical density of the set of light intensity values selected from the multiple sets of light intensity values in response to satisfying the pre-defined criteria; and
utilizing, by the controller unit, the determined optical density of the set of light intensity values in a calibration curve model to thereby measure the concentration of particulates contained in the solution.
, Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
As amended by the Patents (Amendment) Act, 2005
&
The Patents Rules, 2003
As amended by the Patents (Amendment) Rules, 2006

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION

TITLE OF THE INVENTION: APPARATUS AND METHOD TO MEASURE CONCENTRATION OF PARTICULATES IN SOLUTION

APPLICANT:
Agappe Diagnostics Limited, having address at Agappe Hills, Pattimattom, Ernakulam (Dist.), Kerala – 683562, India

INVENTOR:
Thomas John, an Indian national having address at Agappe Hills, Pattimattom, Ernakulam (Dist.) Kerala – 683562, India, and
Varghese N Ouseph, an Indian national having address at Agappe Hills, Pattimattom, Ernakulam (Dist.) Kerala – 683562, India

PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION
The following specification particularly describes the nature of this invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to particulate measurement, and more particularly relates to measuring concentration of particulates in a solution.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In the field of medical diagnostics, generally, principles of scattering of light are utilized in nephelometry and turbidimetry techniques to measure concentration of suspended particulates in a solution. An amount of light scattered depends on size, shape and concentration of the suspended particulate matter, refractive index of the suspended particulate matter and of the medium, the wavelength and intensity of light source and the angle of detection.
[0003] As is known in art, nephelometry involves the technique of measuring scattered light beam subsequent to the light beam passing through the solution and being deflected/scattered by the particulates present in the solution. Further, turbidimetry involves the technique of measuring loss of intensity of the light beam after the light beam has passed through the solution without being deflected/scattered in the solution.
[0004] The particulates present in the solution are formed due to a reaction between a sample and one or more reactants added to the sample. The one or more reactants include one of a latex coated reactant and a non-latex coated reactant. Various factors such as concentration of the sample, type of the reactant, temperature, incubation time etc. influence the concentration of the particulates in the solution. The particulates formed is one of micro-particulates and macro-particulates which can scatter light beams when passed through them.
[0005] The wavelength of the light beam for measuring the concentration of the particulates is required to be selected based on the size of the particulates present in the solution. For example, the wavelength of the light beam could be in a range of 400nm to 450nm, or in a range of 500nm to 700nm. Generally, for instance, for the measurement of the concentration of the micro particulates within the solution, the light beam having a shorter wavelength range is selected over the light beam having a longer wavelength range. The selection of the light beam having the shorter wavelength range aids in achieving accurate measurements when the micro particulates are present within the solution. However, when the size of the particulates is unknown, usage of the light beam with an arbitrary wavelength range can lead to an inaccurate measurement of the concentration of particulates in the solution.
[0006] Further, it is known in the art, that for solutions containing latex coated reactants, the particulates are generally macro particulates. Hence, linearity of measurement of the solution containing the latex coated reactants using turbidimetry technique is accurate in comparison to the linearity of measurement of the concentration of the particulates using nephelometry technique. In addition, sensitivity of the measurement using the nephelometry technique is accurate in comparison to sensitivity of measurement of the concentration of particulates using turbidimetry technique for solution containing latex coated reactants. The linearity is the highest concentration that can be measured without diluting the solution and the sensitivity is the lowest concentration that can be measured.
[0007] Likewise, for solutions containing non-latex coated reactants, the particulates are generally micro particulates. The linearity of measurement of the solutions containing non-latex coated reactants using nephelometry technique is accurate in comparison to the linearity of measurement of the concentration of the particulates using the turbidimetry technique. In addition, sensitivity of the measurement using the turbidimetry technique is accurate in comparison to the sensitivity of measurement of the concentration of particulates using the nephelometry technique.
[0008] In view of the above techniques of nephelometry and turbidimetry, it is essential for a user to possess information of whether the reactant is one of the latex coated and non-latex coated, and also whether the particulates formed in the solution would be one of the micro particulates and macro particulates in size. In absence of this information or possessing wrong information in this regard, can result in inaccurate measurements of concentration of the particulates, thereby inaccurate measurements of the linearity and sensitivity of the concentration of particulates in the solution.
[0009] In view of the above, there is a need for an apparatus and a method for efficiently measuring the concentration of the particulates in the solution.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] One or more embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus and method to measure concentration of particulates in a solution.
[0011] In one aspect of the invention, an apparatus to measure concentration of particulates in a solution is provided. The apparatus includes a lighting unit having a plurality of light sources. Each light source of the plurality of lights sources is configured to emit a light beam having a predefined wavelength. The apparatus further includes a sample holder to receive the emitted light beam. The sample holder contains the solution and the solution is a mixture of a sample and one or more reactants. The apparatus includes a sensory unit positioned in line with the sample holder to detect multiple sets of light intensity values of the emergent light beam subsequent to passing through the solution and scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution. A controlling unit is communicably coupled to each of the lighting unit and the sensory unit of the apparatus. The controlling unit is configured to selectively retrieve at least four light intensity values from each of the multiple sets of light intensity values. Based on the selectively retrieved at least four light intensity values, the controlling unit is configured to determine an initial time reaction rate and a final time reaction rate for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values. The controlling unit further determines a percentage of reaction change based on the initial time reaction rate and the final time reaction rate for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values and compares the determined percentage of reaction change for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values with a threshold value until a pre-defined criteria is satisfied. In response to satisfying the pre-defined criteria, the controlling unit selects a set of light intensity values from the multiple sets of light intensity values and thereby measures the concentration of the particulates in the solution.
[0012] In another aspect of the invention, a method of measuring concentration of particulates in a solution is disclosed. The method includes detecting, by a sensory unit, multiple sets of light intensity values of an emergent light beam subsequent to passing through a solution and scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution. The controlling unit further receives the multiple sets of light intensity values from the sensory unit. Each light intensity value of the multiple sets of light intensity values correspond to a light intensity value detected at a time point within a pre-determined time period. The controlling unit further selectively retrieves at least four light intensity values from each of the multiple sets of light intensity values. Each of the at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved correspond to a light intensity value detected at a pre-set time shift. Based on the selectively retrieved one or more light intensity values, the controlling unit determines an initial time reaction rate and a final time reaction rate for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values. The controlling unit determines a percentage of reaction change based on the initial time reaction rate and the final time reaction rate for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values and further compares the determined percentage of reaction change for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values with a threshold value until a pre-defined criteria is satisfied. In response to satisfying the pre-defined criteria, the controlling unit selects a set of light intensity values from the multiple sets of light intensity values, and thereby measures the concentration of the particulates in the solution.
[0013] Other features and aspects of this invention will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings. The features and advantages described in this summary and in the following detailed description are not all-inclusive, and particularly, many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art, in view of the drawings, specification, and claims hereof. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter, resort to the claims being necessary to determine such inventive subject matter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in the accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. The accompanying figures, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, are illustrative of one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and together with the description explain various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and are intended to be illustrative. Further, the accompanying figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale, and any values or dimensions in the accompanying figures are for illustration purposes only and may or may not represent actual or preferred values or dimensions. Although the invention is generally described in the context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an apparatus to measure concentration of particulates in a solution, according to one or more embodiments of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of the apparatus of FIG. 1 to measure concentration of particulates in the solution using a first light source and a second light source of a lighting unit, according to one or more embodiments of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 3A is a graphical representation of a reaction data for test solutions to determine a pre-determined time period;
[0018] FIG. 3B is a graphical representation of a reaction data for test solutions to determine crossover points;
[0019] FIG. 3C is a graphical representation of a reaction data for the test solution is plotted to determine time shifts;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of the lighting unit of the apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one or embodiments of the present invention; and
[0021] FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method of measuring concentration of particulates in a solution, according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] Reference will now be made in detail to specific embodiments or features, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, corresponding or similar reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or corresponding parts. References to various elements described herein, are made collectively or individually when there may be more than one element of the same type. However, such references are merely exemplary in nature. It may be noted that any reference to elements in the singular may also be construed to relate to the plural and vice-versa without limiting the scope of the invention to the exact number or type of such elements unless set forth explicitly in the appended claims. Moreover, relational terms such as first and second, and the like, may be used to distinguish one entity from the other, without necessarily implying any actual relationship or between such entities.
[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic representation of an apparatus 100 to measure concentration of particulates in a solution, according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The apparatus 100, as disclosed herein, includes a lighting unit 105 having a plurality of light sources 110. Each of the plurality of light sources 110 is sequentially operated for preset time intervals and is configured to emit a light beam having a predefined wavelength. In a preferred embodiment, the predefined wavelength of the emitted light beam is one of 405nm-450nm and 650nm. In alternate embodiments, the predefined wavelength of the emitted light beam may be within a range of 400nm to 700nm. Each of the plurality of light sources 110 is one of, but not limited to, a solid-state laser, liquid laser, gas laser, and light sources capable of emitting monochromatic light beams without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0024] The apparatus includes a sample holder 115 positioned in line with the lighting unit 105 to receive the emitted light beam from each of the plurality of light sources 110. Further, the emitted light beam from each of the plurality of light sources is guided towards the sample holder 115 via a beam path 120. The sample holder 115 contains a solution therein. The solution within the sample holder 115 is a mixture of a sample and one or more reactants, hereinafter referred to as the reactants. In the preferred embodiment, the sample is one of, but not limited to serum, plasma, urine, cerebral spinal fluid, and any body fluids known in the art. The reactants are one of, but not limited to, ASO reagent1, ASO reagent2, micro albumin reagent1, and micro albumin reagent2. The sample and the reactants are mixed thoroughly to form the solution containing particulates of varying concentration. In order to aid a controlled reaction between the sample and the reactants, the sample holder 115 is maintained at a preset temperature by means of heating elements (not shown) within the apparatus 100.
[0025] As the emitted light beam from each of the plurality of the light sources 110 is directed to the solution contained within the sample holder 115 along the beam path 120, the emitted light beam one of passes through the solution and scatters subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution. In alternate embodiments, the emitted light beam may both pass through the solution and scatter subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution, based on the concentration of the particulates within the solution. In an embodiment, the emitted light beam passing through the solution indicates that the emitted light beam is not scattered/deflected while passing through the solution.
[0026] The apparatus 100 further includes a sensory unit 125 positioned in line with the sample holder 115. The sensory unit 125 detects multiple sets of light intensity values of the emergent light beam. In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the emergent light beam is the light beam which emerges from the sample holder 115 pursuant to one of, passing through the solution and scattering subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution. In an embodiment, the emergent light beam emerging from the sample holder 115 pursuant to passing through the solution is one which is not scattered when passing through the solution.
[0027] With reference to FIG. 1, the sensory unit 125 includes multiple sensing units positioned therein to detect multiple sets of light intensity values of the emergent light beam. The emergent light beam is guided towards the multiple sensing units of the sensory unit 125 via channels. In the preferred embodiment, the emergent light beam, subsequent to passing through the solution without being scattered, is guided towards the sensory unit 125 via a first channel 135. Likewise, the emergent light beam, scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates within the solution, is guided toward the sensory unit 125 via a second channel 140. The first channel 135 is positioned at a predetermined angle from the second channel 140. In alternate embodiments, the apparatus 100 may include multiple channels placed at multiple predetermined angles from each other to guide the emergent light beam towards the sensing unit 125. The sensory unit 125 is one of a photoelectric sensor or any sensor known in the art capable of detecting light intensity values of the light beam without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0028] Accordingly, the multiple sensing units of the sensory unit 125 is configured to detect a set of light intensity values for the emergent light beam of each of the plurality of light sources guided towards the sensory unit 125 through one of the first channel 135 and the second channel 140. Further, each light intensity value of the set of light intensity values of the multiple sets of light intensity values, corresponds to a light intensity value detected at a time point within a pre-determined time period.
[0029] The apparatus 100 further includes a controlling unit 145. In one embodiment, the controlling unit 145 may include at least one processor 150, an input/output (I/O) interface 155, and a memory 160. The at least one processor 150 may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the at least one processor 150 is configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory 160.
[0030] The I/O interface 155 may include a variety of software and hardware interfaces, for example, a web interface, a graphical user interface, and the like. The I/O interface 155 may allow a user to interact with the controlling unit 145 directly or through a user device. Further, the I/O interface 155 may enable the controlling unit 145 to communicate with other computing devices, such as web servers and external data servers (not shown). The I/O interface 155 may facilitate multiple communications within a wide variety of networks and protocol types, including wired networks, for example, LAN, cable, etc., and wireless networks, such as WLAN, cellular, or satellite. The I/O interface 155 may include one or more ports for connecting a number of devices to one another or to another server.
[0031] The memory 160 may include any computer-readable medium known in the art including, for example, volatile memory, such as static random access memory (SRAM) and dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as read only memory (ROM), erasable programmable ROM, flash memories, hard disks, optical disks, and magnetic tapes.
[0032] In the preferred embodiment, the controlling unit 145 is an integral part of the apparatus 100. In alternate embodiments, the controlling unit 145 may be located at a remote location accessible to the user. The controlling unit 145 is communicably coupled to each of the lighting unit 105 and the sensory unit 125. More specifically, the controlling unit 145 is communicably coupled to each of the plurality of light sources 110 of the lighting unit 105 and the sensory unit 125.
[0033] As mentioned earlier, each of the plurality of light sources 110 is sequentially operated for preset time intervals. Accordingly, the controlling unit 145 operates one of the plurality of light sources 110 with respect to the pre-set time intervals. The controlling unit 145 receives the multiple sets of light intensity values detected by the sensory unit 125. On receiving the multiple sets of light intensity values, the controlling unit 145 is configured to selectively retrieve at least four light intensity values from each of the multiple sets of light intensity values. Each of the at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved by the controlling unit 145 correspond to the light intensity value detected at a pre-set time shift.
[0034] Based on the selectively retrieved at least four light intensity values, the controlling unit 145 is configured to determine an initial time reaction rate and a final time reaction rate for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values. The initial time reaction rate of each of the multiple sets of light intensity values correspond to a logarithmic functional ratio of a light intensity value selectively retrieved at a higher pre-set time shift to a light intensity value selectively retrieved at a lower pre-set time shift. The final time reaction rate of each of the multiple sets of light intensity values correspond to a logarithmic functional ratio of a light intensity value selectively retrieved at a higher pre-set time shift to a light intensity value selectively retrieved at a lower pre-set time shift.
[0035] Subsequently, the controlling unit 145 determines a percentage of reaction change based on the initial time reaction rate and the final time reaction rate for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values. The controlling unit 145 is further configured to determine an optical density of each of the multiple sets of light intensity values.
[0036] The controlling unit 145 is further configured to compare the determined percentage of reaction change for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values with a threshold value until a pre-defined criteria is satisfied. In order for the pre-defined criteria to be satisfied, the determined percentage of reaction rate for the multiple sets of light intensity values is to be greater than the respective threshold value. The controlling unit 145 is further configured to select the set of light intensity values from the multiple sets of light intensity values for which the determined percentage of reaction rate is greater than the respective threshold value for measuring the concentration of the particulates in the solution.
[0037] In view of the above, the controlling unit 145 stores at the storage unit one of the multiple sets of light intensity values which was selected in response to one of the multiple sets of light intensity values satisfying the pre-defined criteria. Further, the controlling unit 145 stores data corresponding to the selected set of light intensity values which includes the wavelength of one of the plurality of light sources 110 utilized which resulted in the set of light intensity values and further a type of particulates in the solution. By storing the data as mentioned above, for any subsequent measurements of concentrations of the particulates in the solution, the controlling unit 145 checks whether any previous measurement tests were performed involving the same type of particulates in the solution from the data stored at the storage unit. Accordingly, the controlling unit 145 fetches the specific data which includes the wavelength of one of the plurality of light sources 110 for the specific type of particulates in the solution. Subsequently, the controlling unit 145 selects the light source from the plurality of light sources 110 of the lighting unit 105 of the apparatus 100 having a similar wavelength to measure the concentration of particulates of the solution. By selecting only one light source from the plurality of light sources 110 having a specific wavelength, the controlling unit 145 advantageously takes lesser time to process the results and in turn enhances the linearity and accuracy of measurement of concentration of particulates.
[0038] In response to satisfying the pre-defined criteria, the controlling unit 145 is further configured to select the optical density of the set of light intensity values selected from the multiple sets of light intensity values. Subsequently, the controlling unit 145 inputs the optical density of the set of light intensity values in a calibration curve model to measure the concentration of the particulates in the solution. The functional and operational characteristics of the controlling unit 145 of the apparatus 100 will be explained in detail with reference to a first light source 205 and a second light source 210, as shown in FIG. 2.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 2, FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic representation of the apparatus 100 to measure concentration of particulates in the solution using the first light source 205 and the second light source 210 of the lighting unit 105. The first light source 205 and the second light source 210 are sequentially operated for preset time intervals. The second light source 210 is arranged at a proximal distance from the first light source 205. In the illustrated embodiment, the second light source 210 is positioned perpendicular to the first light source 205. In alternate embodiments, the second light source 210 may be positioned at any angle with respect to the first light source 205. In the preferred embodiment, the first light source 205 is configured to emit a first light beam having a wavelength of 650nm and the second light source 210 is configured to emit a second light beam having a wavelength of 450nm.
[0040] The lighting unit 105 further includes a dichroic beam combiner 215 positioned along a path of the first emitted light beam and the second emitted light beam. The dichroic beam combiner 215 guides each of the first emitted light beam and the second emitted light beam towards the sample holder 115 via the beam path 120 at their respective pre-set time intervals.
[0041] As mentioned earlier, the sample holder 115 receives the sample and the reactants. The sample and the reactants, so received, are mixed thoroughly to form the solution containing particulates of varying concentrations. Subsequently, each of the first emitted light beam and the second emitted light is directed towards the solution in the sample holder 115 via the beam path 120. As the first emitted light beam is directed toward the solution contained within the sample holder 115 along the beam path 120, the first emitted light beam one of passes through the solution and scatters subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution. In alternate embodiments, the first emitted light beam may both pass through the solution and scatter subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution, based on the concentration of the particulates within the solution.
[0042] Similarly, as the second light beam is directed to solution contained within the sample holder 115 along the beam path 120, the second emitted light beam one of passes through the solution and scatters subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution. In alternate embodiments, the second emitted light beam may both pass through the solution and scatter subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution, based on the concentration of the particulates within the solution.
[0043] Each of the first emitted light beam and the second emitted light beam, subsequent to either passing through the solution and scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution emerge from the sample holder 115 to form the first emergent light beam and the second emergent light beam.
[0044] As mentioned earlier, the sensory unit 125 includes multiple sensing units to detect multiple sets of lights intensity values of the plurality of light sources 110. More specifically, with respect to the illustrated embodiment, the sensory unit 125 includes a first sensing unit 220 and a second sensing unit 225 to detect multiple sets of light intensity values of each of the first light source 205 and the second light source 210.
[0045] The first sensing unit 220 includes a first sensor 230 to detect the light intensity values of each of the first emergent light beam and the second emergent light beam, a gain amplifier 235 to amplify the light intensity values detected by the first sensor 230, and a first Analog to Digital convertor (ADC) 240 to convert the amplified light intensity values. Likewise, the second sensing unit 225 includes a second sensor 245 to detect the light intensity values of each of the emergent first light beam and the emergent second light beam, a gain amplifier 250 to amplify the light intensity values detected by the second sensor 245, and a second Analog to Digital convertor (ADC) 255 to convert the amplified light intensity values.
[0046] The second emergent light beam, subsequent to passing through the solution, is guided toward the first sensing unit 220 via a first channel 135. As such, the first sensor 230 of the first sensing unit 220 detects a first set of light intensity values of the second emergent light beam subsequent to passing through the solution contained in the sample holder 115. The second emergent light beam, scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates within the solution, is guided toward the second sensing unit 225 via a second channel 140. As such, the second sensor 245 of the second sensing unit 225 detects a second set of light intensity values of the emergent second light beam scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution.
[0047] The first emergent light beam, subsequent to passing through the solution, is guided toward the first sensing unit 220 via a first channel 135. As such, the first sensor 230 of the first sensing unit 220 detects a third set of light intensity values of the first emergent light beam subsequent to passing through the solution contained in the sample holder 115. The first emergent light beam, scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates within the solution, is guided toward the second sensing unit 225 via a second channel 140. As such, the second sensor 245 of the second sensing unit 225 detects a fourth set of light intensity values of the emergent second light beam scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution. Each light intensity value of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values correspond to the light intensity value detected at the time point within the pre- determined time period.
[0048] In order to determine the pre-determined time period, multiple test solutions having concentration level ranging from a lowest sensitivity to a highest sensitivity of the reactants are subjected to the first emitted light beam and the second emitted light beam and further monitored by the controlling unit 145. The multiple test solutions are one of, but not limited to, a first test solution, a second test solution, and a third test solution. The sample having a concentration level proximal to a sensitivity of the reactants and the reactants are mixed to form the first test solution. Further, the sample having concentration level proximal to a linearity of the reactants and the reactants are mixed to form the second test solution. Furthermore, the sample having concentration level medial to a sensitivity of the reactants and the reactants are mixed to form the third test solution. Each of the first test solution, the second test solution, and the third test solution are subjected to the first emitted light beam and the second emitted light beam and further monitored by the controlling unit 145.
[0049] Accordingly, reaction data for each of the first test solution, the second test solution, and the third test solution are plotted with log values along y-axis and time along x-axis, as graphically illustrated in FIG. 3A. In order to plot the log values multiple log values are calculated, and the calculated log values are plotted on the graph. For the purpose of description, the multiple log values are restricted to a first log value, a second log value, and an Nth log value.
[0050] Initially, a first light intensity value detected at a first time point is taken as a base light intensity value. The first log value is a logarithmic function of a ratio of the first light intensity value to the base light intensity value and the resultant first log value is plotted on the graph. Similarly, the second log value is a logarithmic function of a ratio of a second light intensity value, detected at a second time point, to the base light intensity value and the resultant second log value is plotted on the graph. Likewise, the Nth log value is calculated for the Nth light intensity value and the corresponding Nth log value is plotted on the graph.
[0051] A time at which the reaction data for each of the first test solution, the second test solution, and the third test solution is stable is defined as a first measurement time M1, as illustrated in FIG. 3A. A time at which the reaction data for each of the first test solution, the second test solution, and the third test solution undergoes a phase change is defined as a second measurement time M2, as shown in FIG. 3A. The time between the first measurement time M1 and the second measurement time M2 is defined as the pre-determined time period. The light intensity value corresponding to the value at M1 is considered as the base ADC value. It is to be further noted that the determination of the pre-determined time period is explained with respect to the test solutions as mentioned above only for the purposes of the description and should nowhere be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.
[0052] The time point corresponds to a specific instant of time within the pre-determined time period. In an embodiment of the invention, the time point is pre-set within the pre-determined time period. For instance, if the pre-determined time period is 150 seconds, and the time point is set to “for every 1 second”, then the light intensity value is detected at each second within the pre-determined time period, i.e. the light intensity value is detected at time points 1, 2, 3, 4, …150 seconds respectively within the pre-determined time period of 150 seconds.
[0053] Accordingly, the first sensor 230 detects light intensity values for the respective time points within the pre-determined time period of each of the first set of light intensity values and the second set of light intensity values. Thereafter, the light intensity values of each of the first and the second set of light intensity values are amplified by the amplifier 235 and subsequently converted by the first ADC 240. The resulting first and the resulting second set of light intensity values are stored in a storage unit of the controlling unit 145.
[0054] Likewise, the second sensor 245 detects light intensity values for the respective time points within the pre-determined time period of each of the third set of light intensity values and the fourth set of light intensity values. Thereafter, the light intensity values of each of the third and the fourth set of light intensity values are amplified by the amplifier 250 and subsequently converted by the second ADC 255. The resulting third and the resulting fourth set of light intensity values are stored in a storage unit of the controlling unit 145.
[0055] Subsequent to storing each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values, the controlling unit 145 selectively retrieves at least four light intensity values from each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values. The controlling unit 145 selectively retrieves each of the at least four light intensity values detected at the pre-set time shift.
[0056] The at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved from the first set of light intensity values correspond to the light intensity values detected at a first pre-set time shift T1, a second pre-set time shift T2, a third pre-set time shift T3, and a fourth pre-set time shift T4 respectively. Similarly, the at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved from the second set of light intensity values correspond to the light intensity values detected at a fifth pre-set time shift T5, a sixth pre-set time shift T6, a seventh pre-set time shift T7, and an eighth pre-set time shift T8 respectively. Further, the at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved from the third set of light intensity values correspond to the light intensity values detected at a ninth pre-set time shift T9, a tenth pre-set time shift T10, an eleventh pre-set time shift T11, and a twelfth pre-set time shift T12 respectively. Furthermore, the at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved from the fourth set of light intensity values correspond to the light intensity values detected at a thirteenth pre-set time shift T13, a fourteenth pre-set time shift T14, a fifteenth pre-set time shift T15, and a sixteenth pre-set time shift T16 respectively.
[0057] In order to determine the pre-set time shifts, a plurality of test solutions having concentration level ranging from the lowest sensitivity to the highest linearity of the reactants are subjected to the first emitted light beam and the second emitted light beam for the pre-determined time and further monitored by the controlling unit 145. Subsequently, the reaction data for the test solutions among the plurality of test solutions having an equal concentration of the reactants are plotted with log values along y-axis and concentration of the reactants along x-axis, as graphically illustrated in FIG. 3B, to determine a first crossover point C1, a second crossover point C2, and a third crossover point C3 from the graph.
[0058] On determination of the first crossover point C1, the second crossover point C2, and the third crossover point C3, samples with concentrations approximately within +10% and -10% of the first crossover point C1, the second crossover point C2, and the third crossover point C3 are mixed with reactants to form multiple test solutions. Each of the multiple test solutions are, thereafter, subjected to the first emitted light beam and the second emitted light beam and further monitored by the controlling unit 145 for the pre-determined time to determine the time shifts.
[0059] Accordingly, the reaction data for each of the multiple test solutions are plotted with log values along the y-axis and time along the x-axis, as graphically illustrated in FIG. 3C. The first pre-set time shift T1 and the second pre-set time shift T2 is selected and plotted on the graph such that the first pre-set time shift T1 is one of equal to the first measurement time M1 and more than the first measurement time M1, and the minimum time interval between the first pre-set time shift T1 and the second pre-set time shift T2 is 20 seconds. In alternate embodiments, the first pre-set time shift T1 is more than the first measurement time M1.
[0060] Further, the third pre-set time shift T3 and the fourth pre-set time shift T4 is selected and plotted on the graph, as illustrated in FIG. 3C such that the third pre-set time shift T3 and the fourth pre-set time shift T4 are greater than the second pre-set time shift T2, is one of lesser than and equal to the second measurement time M2 and the minimum time interval between the third pre-set time shift T3 and the fourth pre-set time shift T4 is less than 20 seconds.
[0061] Similarly, the fifth pre-set time shift T5 and the sixth pre-set time shift T6 is selected such that the fifth pre-set time shift T5 is one of equal to the first measurement time M1 and more than the first measurement time M1, and the minimum time interval between the fifth pre-set time shift T5 and the sixth pre-set time shift T6 is 20 seconds. In alternate embodiments, the fifth pre-set time shift T5 is more than the first measurement time M1.
[0062] Further, the seventh pre-set time shift T7 and the eighth pre-set time shift T8 is selected, such that the seventh pre-set time shift T7 and the eighth pre-set time shift T8 are greater than the sixth pre-set time shift T6, is one of lesser than and equal to the second measurement time M2 and the minimum time interval between the seventh pre-set time shift T7 and the eighth pre-set time shift T8 is less than 20 seconds.
[0063] Similarly, the ninth pre-set time shift T9 and the tenth pre-set time shift T10 is selected such that the ninth pre-set time shift T9 is one of equal to the first measurement time M1 and more than the first measurement time M1, and the minimum time interval between the ninth pre-set time shift T9 and the tenth pre-set time shift T10 is 20 seconds. In alternate embodiments, the ninth pre-set time shift T9 is more than the first measurement time M1.
[0064] Further, the eleventh pre-set time shift T11 and the twelfth pre-set time shift T12 is selected such that the eleventh pre-set time shift T11 and the twelfth pre-set time shift T12 are greater than the tenth pre-set time shift T10, is one of lesser than and equal to the second measurement time M2 and the minimum time interval between the eleventh pre-set time shift T11 and the twelfth pre-set time shift T12 is less than 20 seconds.
[0065] A percentage of the first crossover point C1% is selected as a first threshold value THV1 if C1-10% must be a value more than C1% and C1+10% must be a value lesser than C1%. Similarly, a percentage of the second crossover point C2% is selected as a second threshold value THV2 if C2-10% must be a value more than C2% and C2+10% must be a value lesser than C2%. Similarly, a percentage of the third crossover point C3 is selected as a third threshold value THV3 if C3-10% must be a value more than C3% and C3+10% must be a value lesser than C3%.
[0066] In an exemplary embodiment, a fourth sample having a concentration greater than a prozone limit of a reactant is mixed with the reactant and diluted to have a concentration lesser than the prozone limit to form a fourth test solution. A thirteenth pre-set time shift T13, a fourteenth pre-set time shift T14, a fifteenth pre-set time shift T15, and a sixteenth pre-set time shift T16, value is determined similar to determination of the first pre-set time shift T1, the second pre-set time shift T2, the third pre-set time shift T3 and the fourth pre-set time shift T4. Further a fourth threshold value THV4 is determined similar to determination of the first threshold value THV1, the second threshold value THV2, and the third threshold value THV3.
[0067] On determination of the pre-set time shifts of each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth sets of light intensity values, the controlling unit 145 is configured to determine an initial time reaction rate and a final time reaction rate for each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth sets of light intensity values based on the selectively retrieved at least four light intensity values from each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values.
[0068] As mentioned earlier, the initial time reaction rate of each of the multiple sets of light intensity values correspond to a logarithmic functional ratio of a light intensity value selectively retrieved at a higher pre-set time shift to a light intensity value selectively retrieved at a lower pre-set time shift. With respect to the present embodiment of the present invention, the higher pre-set time shift with respect to the first set of light intensity values is the second pre-set time shift T2, and the lower pre-set time shift with respect to the first set of light intensity values is the first pre-set time shift T1. Similarly, the higher pre-set time shift with respect to the second set of light intensity values is the sixth pre-set time shift T6, and the lower pre-set time shift with respect to the second set of light intensity values is the fifth pre-set time shift T5. Similarly, the higher pre-set time shift with respect to the third set of light intensity values is the tenth pre-set time shift T10, and the lower pre-set time shift with respect to the third set of light intensity values is the ninth pre-set time shift T9. Similarly, the higher pre-set time shift with respect to the fourth set of light intensity values is the fourteenth pre-set time shift T14, and the lower pre-set time shift with respect to the fourth set of light intensity values is the thirteenth pre-set time shift T13.
[0069] The final time reaction rate of each of the multiple sets of light intensity values correspond to a logarithmic functional ratio of a light intensity value selectively retrieved at a higher pre-set time shift to a light intensity value selectively retrieved at a lower pre-set time shift. With respect to the present embodiment of the present invention, the higher pre-set time shift with respect to the first set of light intensity values is the fourth pre-set time shift T4, and the lower pre-set time shift with respect to the first set of light intensity values is the third pre-set time shift T3. Similarly, the higher pre-set time shift with respect to the second set of light intensity values is the eighth pre-set time shift T8, and the lower pre-set time shift with respect to the second set of light intensity values is the seventh pre-set time shift T7. Similarly, the higher pre-set time shift with respect to the third set of light intensity values is the twelfth pre-set time shift T12, and the lower pre-set time shift with respect to the third set of light intensity values is the eleventh pre-set time shift T11. Similarly, the higher pre-set time shift with respect to the fourth set of light intensity values is the sixteenth pre-set time shift T16, and the lower pre-set time shift with respect to the fourth set of light intensity values is the fifteenth pre-set time shift T15.
[0070] More specifically, the initial time reaction rate of the light intensity values denoted as Z1 correspond to a negative logarithmic functional ratio of the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the second pre-set time shift T2 to the light intensity value selectively retrieved at a first pre-set time shift T1. Equation provided below.
Z1= -Log(ADC1@T2/ ADC1@T1) .......................(eq. 1)
[0071] The final time reaction rate of the light intensity values denoted as Z2 correspond to a negative logarithmic functional ratio of the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the fourth pre-set time shift T4 to the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the third pre-set time shift T3. Equation provided below.
Z2= -Log(ADC1@T4/ ADC1@T3) .......................(eq. 2)
[0072] The initial time reaction rate of the set of light intensity values denoted as Z3 correspond to a logarithmic functional ratio of the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the sixth pre-set time shift T6 to the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the fifth pre-set time shift T5. Equation provided below.
Z3= Log(ADC1@T6/ ADC1@T5) .......................(eq. 3)
[0073] The final time reaction rate of the light intensity values denoted as Z4 correspond to a logarithmic functional ratio of the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the eighth pre-set time shift T8 to the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the seventh pre-set time shift T7. Equation provided below.
Z4= Log(ADC1@T8/ ADC1@T7) .......................(eq. 4)
[0074] The initial time reaction rate of the light intensity values denoted as Z5 correspond to a negative logarithmic functional ratio of the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the tenth pre-set time shift T10 to the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the ninth pre-set time shift T9. Equation provided below.
Z5= -Log(ADC1@T10/ ADC1@T9) .......................(eq. 5)
[0075] The final time reaction rate of the light intensity values denoted as Z6 correspond to a negative logarithmic functional ratio of the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the twelfth pre-set time shift T12 to the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the eleventh pre-set time shift T11. Equation provided below.
Z6= -Log(ADC1@T12/ ADC1@T11) .......................(eq. 6)
[0076] The initial time reaction rate of the light intensity values denoted as Z7 correspond to a logarithmic functional ratio of the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the fourteenth pre-set time shift T14 to the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the thirteenth pre-set time shift T13.
Z7= Log(ADC1@T14/ ADC1@T13) .......................(eq. 7)
[0077] The final time reaction rate of the fourth set of light intensity values denoted as Z8 correspond to a logarithmic functional ratio of the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the sixteenth pre-set time shift T16 to the light intensity value selectively retrieved at the fifteenth pre-set time shift T15.
Z8= Log(ADC4@T16/ ADC4@T15) .......................(eq. 8)
[0078] The controlling unit 145 further determines the optical density of each of the first set, the second set, the third set, and the fourth set of light intensity values. The optical density of each of the first set of light intensity values and the third set of light intensity values correspond to negative logarithmic functional ratio of the light intensity value detected at a final time point, more specifically the second measurement time M2 within the pre-determined time period, to the light intensity value detected at an initial time point, more specifically the first measurement time M1 within the pre- determined time period. Similarly, the optical density of the second and the fourth set of light intensity values correspond to a logarithmic functional ratio of the light intensity value detected at a final time point, more specifically the second measurement time M2 within the pre-determined time period to the light intensity value detected at an initial time point, more specifically the first measurement time M1 within the pre-determined time period.
[0079] On determination of the initial time reaction rate and final reaction rate for each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values, the controlling unit 145 is configured to determine the percentage of the reaction change for each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values. The percentage of reaction change R1 for the first set of light intensity values, or more specifically, the percentage of reaction change for the light intensity value of the second emitted light beam by the second light source 210 passing through the first channel 135 is a ratio of the final time reaction rate of the first set of light intensity values to the initial time reaction rate of the first set of light intensity values. Equation provided below.
%R1 change= Z2/Z1 ...................(eq. 9)
[0080] The percentage of reaction change R2 for the second set of light intensity values, or more specifically, the percentage of reaction change for the light intensity value of the second emitted light beam by the second light source 210 passing through the second channel 140 is a ratio of the final time reaction rate of the second set of light intensity values to the initial time reaction rate of the second set of light intensity values. Equation provided below.
%R2 change= Z4/Z3 ...................(eq. 10)
[0081] The percentage of reaction change R3 for the third set of light intensity values, or more specifically, the percentage of reaction change for the light intensity value of the first emitted light beam by the first light source 205 passing through the first channel 135 is a ratio of the final time reaction rate of the third set of light intensity values to the initial time reaction rate of the third set of light intensity values. Equation provided below.
%R3 change= Z6/Z5 ...................(eq. 11)
[0082] The percentage of reaction change R4 for the fourth set of light intensity values, or more specifically, the percentage of reaction change for the light intensity value of the first emitted light beam by the first light source 205 passing through the second channel 140 is a ratio of the final time reaction rate of the fourth set of light intensity values to the initial time reaction rate of the fourth set of light intensity values.
%R4 change= Z8/Z7 ...................(eq. 12)
[0083] On determination of the percentage of reaction change for each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values, the percentage of reaction change for each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values is compared with the first threshold value THV1, the second threshold value THV2, the third threshold value THV3 until the pre-defined criteria is satisfied. The pre-defined criteria pertain to the determined percentage of reaction rate for one of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values greater than the respective first threshold value THV1, the second threshold value THV2, the third threshold value THV3, and the fourth threshold value THV4 respectively.
[0084] The controlling unit 145 selects the set of light intensity values from one of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values in response to one of the first, the second, the third and the fourth set of light intensity values satisfying the pre-defined criteria, for measuring the concentration of the particulates contained within the solution. Thereafter, the controlling unit 145 selects the optical density of the set of light intensity values selected from the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values and further utilizes the selected optical density of the selected set of light intensity value in the calibration curve model to measure the concentration of the particulates contained in the solution.
[0085] In view of the above, the controlling unit 145 stores at the storage unit one of the first, the second, the third and the fourth set of light intensity values which was selected in response to one of the first, the second, the third and the fourth set of light intensity values satisfying the pre-defined criteria. Further, the controlling unit 145 stores data corresponding to the selected set of light intensity values. The data includes, but is not limited to, the wavelength of one of the first light source 205 and the second light source 210 utilized which resulted in the selection of the set of light intensity values and the specific type of particulates in the solution.
[0086] By storing the data as mentioned above, on any subsequent measurements of concentrations of the particulates in the solution, the controlling unit 145 checks whether previous measurement tests were performed involving the identical type of particulates in the solution from the data stored at the storage unit. If the specific data as per the check by the controlling unit 145 is found, then the controlling unit 145 fetches the data pertaining to, but not limited to, wavelength of the light source for the specific type of particulates in the solution. Subsequent to fetching the data of the wavelength of one of the first light source 205 and the second light source 210 used, the controlling unit 145 selects one of the first light source 205 and the second light source 210 of the lighting unit 105 of the apparatus 100 having a similar wavelength to measure the concentration of particulates of the solution. By selecting only one light source having a specific wavelength, the controlling unit 100 advantageously takes lesser time to process the results and in turn enhances the linearity and accuracy of measurement of concentration of particulates.
[0087] Referring to FIG. 4, FIG.4 illustrates a schematic representation of a lighting unit 405 of the apparatus 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. According to the illustrated embodiment, the lighting unit 405 includes the plurality of light sources 410. The plurality of light sources 410 includes, but is not limited, to a first light source 415, the second light source 420, a third light source 425, and a fourth light source 430. Advantageously, the plurality of light sources 410 are utilized for pre-set time intervals. In the illustrated embodiment, the second light source 420 is positioned perpendicular to the first light source 415, the third light source 425 is positioned parallel with respect to the second light source 420 and perpendicular to the first light source 415, and the fourth light source 430 is positioned parallel with respect to the second light source 420 and the third light source 425 and perpendicular to the first light source 415. In alternate embodiments, the second light source 420, the third light source 425, and the fourth light source 430 may be positioned at any angle with respect to the first light source 415.
[0088] The lighting unit 405 further includes a first dichroic beam combiner 435, a second dichroic beam combiner 440, and a third dichroic beam combiner 445 to guide the first light beam emitted by the first light source 415¸ the second light beam emitted by the second light source 420, a third light beam emitted by the third light source 425, and a fourth light beam emitted by the fourth light source 430 towards the sample holder 115 via a first beam path 450, a second beam path 455, a third beam path 460.
[0089] Description with reference to working and operation of the apparatus 100 as illustrated in FIG. 4 to measure the concentration of the particulates in the solution is same or similar to the working and operation of the apparatus 100 as described for FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 above. Hence, for the sake of brevity, similar description related to the working and operation of the apparatus 100 as illustrated in FIG. 4 has been omitted to avoid repetition. The limited description provided for FIG. 4, should not be construed as a limitation to the scope of the present embodiment with reference to FIG. 4, but should be read with the description as provided for FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 above.
[0090] Various embodiments disclosed herein are to be taken in the illustrative and explanatory sense and should in no way be construed as limiting of the present disclosure.
Industrial Applicability
[0091] The present disclosure provides the apparatus 100 for measuring the concentration of the particulates in the solution. The apparatus 100 includes the lighting unit 105, the plurality of light sources 110, the sample holder 115, the sensory unit 125, and the controlling unit 145. The controlling unit 145 is communicably coupled to the lighting unit 105 and is configured to switch between the plurality of light sources 110 within the lighting unit 105 so as to allow sequential operation of each of the plurality of light sources 110 for preset time intervals. The emitted light beam from each of the plurality of light sources 110 are directed toward the solution contained within the sample holder 115. The emitted light beam one of passes through the solution and scatters subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution and is further guided toward the sensory unit 125 via the first channel 135 and the second channel 140, respectively. The multiple sensing units of the sensory unit 125 is configured to detect the set of light intensity values for the emergent light beam of each of the plurality of light sources. The controlling unit 145 receives each of the multiple sets of light intensity values and further processes the multiple sets of light intensity value to measure the concentration of the particulates in the solution.
[0092] FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a method 500 of measuring concentration of the particulates in the solution, according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. For the purpose of description, the method 500 is described with the embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0093] At step 502, the method 500 includes detecting, by the sensory unit 125, the multiple sets of light intensity values of the emergent light beam subsequent to passing through a solution and scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates in the solution.
[0094] With reference to FIG. 2, the sensory unit 125 includes the first sensing unit 220 and the second sensing unit 225. The second emergent light beam, subsequent to passing through the solution, is guided toward the first sensing unit 220 via a first channel 135. As such, the first sensor 230 of the first sensing unit 220 detects a first set of light intensity values of the second emergent light beam. The second emergent light beam, scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates within the solution, is guided toward the second sensing unit 225 via a second channel 140. As such, the second sensor 245 of the second sensing unit 225 detects a second set of light intensity values of the emergent second light beam. The first emergent light beam, subsequent to passing through the solution, is guided toward the first sensing unit 220 via a first channel 135. As such, the first sensor 230 of the first sensing unit 220 detects a third set of light intensity values of the first emergent light beam. The first emergent light beam, scattered subsequent to contact with the particulates within the solution, is guided toward the second sensing unit 225 via a second channel 140. As such, the second sensor 245 of the second sensing unit 225 detects a fourth set of light intensity values of the emergent first light beam. Each light intensity value of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values correspond to the light intensity value detected at the time point within the pre- determined time period.
[0095] At step 504, the method 500 includes receiving by the controlling unit 145 the multiple sets of light intensity values from the sensory unit 125. Each light intensity value of the multiple sets of light intensity values correspond to the light intensity value detected at the time point within the pre-determined time period.
[0096] With reference to FIG. 2, the controlling unit 145 receives the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values and stores the same in the storage unit of the controlling unit 145.
[0097] Table 1: Light intensity values
Reading First Set of light intensity values
ADC1 Second Set of light intensity values
ADC2 Third Set of light intensity values
ADC3 Fourth Set of light intensity values
ADC4
1 126448 50450 128056 51510
2 126250 50455 127445 52220
3 126139 50285 126956 53004
4 125996 50280 126420 53670
5 125838 50380 126062 54299
6 125645 50290 125733 55013
7 125429 50292 125400 55590
8 125249 50278 124900 56176
9 125037 50279 124535 56865
10 124866 50291 124128 57415
11 124690 50269 123721 57900
12 124522 50274 123417 58420
13 124358 50276 122771 59173
14 124228 50292 122697 59513
15 124043 50286 122368 60038
Table 1
[0098] Referring to Table. 1, the light intensity values of each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values as detected by each of the first sensing unit 220 and the second sensing unit 225 at the time point within the pre-determined time period is shown.
[0099] At step 506, the method 500 includes selectively retrieving the at least four light intensity values from each of the multiple sets of light intensity values by the controlling unit 145. Each of the at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved correspond to the light intensity value detected at the pre-set time shift.
[00100] With reference to FIG. 2, the controlling unit 145 is configured to selectively retrieve the at least four light intensity values from each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values. The at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved from the first set of light intensity values correspond to the light intensity values detected at the first pre-set time shift T1, the second pre-set time shift T2, the third pre-set time shift T3, and the fourth pre-set time shift T4 respectively. Similarly, the at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved from the second set of light intensity values correspond to the light intensity values detected at the fifth pre-set time shift T5, the sixth pre-set time shift T6, the seventh pre-set time shift T7, and the eighth pre-set time shift T8 respectively. Further, the at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved from the third set of light intensity values correspond to the light intensity values detected at the ninth pre-set time shift T9, the tenth pre-set time shift T10, the eleventh pre-set time shift T11, and the twelfth pre-set time shift T12 respectively. Furthermore, the at least four light intensity values selectively retrieved from the fourth set of light intensity values correspond to the light intensity values detected at the thirteenth pre-set time shift T13, the fourteenth pre-set time shift T14, the fifteenth pre-set time shift T15, and the sixteenth pre-set time shift T16 respectively.
[00101] Referring to Table. 2, the pre-set time shift at which the at least four light intensity values is to be selectively retrieved from each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values, and the first, the second, the third, and the fourth threshold value are shown.
[00102] Table 2: Time shift values
T1 10 sec
T2 40sec
T3 120sec
T4 150sec
T5 20sec
T6 50sec
T7 90 sec
T8 120sec
T9 10sec
T10 40 sec
T11 110sec
T12 150sec
T13 10sec
T14 50sec
T15 100sec
T16 140sec
THV1 40%
THV2 60%
THV3 53%
THV4 32%
Table 2
[00103] At step 508, the method 500 includes determining by the controlling unit 145 the initial time reaction rate and the final time reaction rate for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values, based on the selectively retrieved one or more light intensity values.
[00104] With reference to FIG. 2, the controlling unit 145 is configured to determine the initial time reaction rate and the final time reaction rate for each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth sets of light intensity values based on the selectively retrieved at least four light intensity values from each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values.
[00105] As per table 1 and table 2: ADC1 (CST2) =125996, ADC1 (CST1) = 126448, and as per equation 1, the initial time reaction rate for the first set of light intensity values, Z1=- log (125996/126448)
Z1=0.001555207
[00106] As per table 1 and table 2: ADC1 (CST4) = 124043, ADC1 (CST3) = 124522, and as per equation 2, the final time reaction rate for the first set of light intensity values, Z2=- log (124043/124522)
Z2=0.001673826
[00107] As per table 1 and table 2: ADC2 (CST6) = 50380, ADC2 (C2ST1) = 50455, and as per equation 3, the initial time reaction rate for the second set of light intensity values, Z3= log (50380/50455)
Z3=-0.000646047
[00108] As per table 1 and table 2: ADC2 (CST8) = 50274, ADC2 (CST7) = 50279, and as per equation 4, the final time reaction rate for the second set of light intensity values, Z4= log (50274/50279)
Z4=-0.0000431906
[00109] As per table 1 and table 2: ADC3 (CST10) =126420, ADC3 (CST9) = 128056 and as per equation 5, the initial time reaction rate for the third set of light intensity values, Z5= -log (126420/128056)
Z5=0.0055841459
[00110] As per table 1 and table 2: ADC3 (CST12) = 122368, ADC3 (CST11) = 123721 and as per equation 6, the initial time reaction rate for the third set of light intensity values, Z6= -log (122368/123721)
Z6=0.004775559694
[00111] As per table 1 and table 2: ADC4 (CST14) = 54299, ADC4 (CST13) = 51510, and as per equation 7, the initial time reaction rate for the fourth set of light intensity values, Z7= log (54299/51510)
Z7= 0.0229002815778
[00112] As per table 1 and table 2: ADC4 (CST16) = 59513, ADC4 (CST15) = 57415, and as per equation 8, the final time reaction rate for the fourth set of light intensity values, Z8= log (59513/57415)
Z8= 0.0155864740733
[00113] The step 508 of the method 500 further includes determining by the controlling unit 145 the optical density for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values, and more specifically each of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values. Accordingly, the controlling unit 145 is configured to determine the optical density of each of the first, the second, and the third set of light intensity values. The optical density of each of the first set of light intensity values and the third set of light intensity values correspond to negative logarithmic functional ratio of the light intensity value detected at a final time point within the pre- determined time period to the light intensity value detected at an initial time point within the pre- determined time period.
[00114] Similarly, the optical density of the second and the fourth set of light intensity values correspond to a logarithmic functional ratio of the light intensity value detected at a final time point within the pre- determined time period to the light intensity value detected at an initial time point within the pre- determined time period.
[00115] The optical density for the first set of light intensity values correspond to:
OD1= -log(ADC1@reading 15/ADC2@reading1)
OD1= -log(-log (124043/126448)
OD1= 0.008339703
[00116] The optical density for the second set of light intensity values correspond to:
OD2 = log(ADC2@reading 15/ADC3@reading1)
OD2= log (50286/50450)
OD2= -0.00141407
[00117] The optical density for the third set of light intensity values correspond to:
OD3 = -log(ADC3@reading 15/ADC3@reading1)
OD3= -log (122368/128056)
OD3= 0.01973207
[00118] The optical density for the fourth set of light intensity values correspond to:
OD4 = log(ADC4@reading 15/ADC4@reading1)
OD4= -log (60038/51510)
OD4 = 0.06653466
[00119] At step 510, the method 500 includes determining, by the controlling unit 145, the percentage of reaction change based on the initial time reaction rate and the final time reaction rate for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values. With reference to FIG. 2, the controlling unit 145 determines the percentage of reaction change for each of the first, the second, and the third set of light intensity values.
[00120] The percentage of reaction change R1 for the light intensity value of the first light beam emitted by the first light source 205 passing through the first channel 135 is the ratio of the final time reaction rate of the first set of light intensity values to the initial time reaction rate of the first set of light intensity values. As per the equation 7,
%R1 change = (-0.001673826/-0.001555207)*100
R1=107.627%
[00121] Similarly, the percentage of reaction change for the light intensity value of the second light beam emitted by the second light source 210 passing through the first channel 135 is the ratio of the final time reaction rate of the second set of light intensity values to the initial time reaction rate of the second set of light intensity values. As per the equation 8,
%R2 change = (-0.0000431906/-0.000646047)*100
R2=6.6853%
[00122] Further, the percentage of reaction change for the light intensity value of the first light beam emitted by the first light source 205 passing through the second channel 140 is the ratio of the final time reaction rate of the third set of light intensity values to the initial time reaction rate of the third set of light intensity values. As per the equation 9,
%R3 change =Z6/Z5
%R3 change = (-0.004775559694/0.0055841459)*100
R3=85.5199%
[00123] Furthermore, the percentage of reaction change for the light intensity value of the second light beam emitted by the second light source 210 passing through the second channel 140 is a ratio of the final time reaction rate of the second set of light intensity values to the initial time reaction rate of the second set of light intensity values. As per the equation 12,
%R4 change =Z8/Z7
%R4 change =0.0155864740733/0.0229002815778
R4=68.0623687%
[00124] At step 512, the method 500 includes comparing, by the controlling unit 145, the determined percentage of reaction change for each of the multiple sets of light intensity values with the threshold value until the pre-defined criteria is satisfied. Accordingly, with reference to FIG. 2, the percentage of reaction change for each of the first, the second, and the third set of light intensity values is compared with the first threshold value THV1, the second threshold value THV2, and the third threshold value THV3 until the pre-defined criteria is satisfied. In order for the pre-defined criteria pertain to be satisfied, the determined percentage of reaction rate for one of the first, the second, and the third set of light intensity values is to be lesser than the first threshold value THV1, the second threshold value THV2, and the third threshold value THV3 respectively.
[00125] At step 512, the method 500 selecting, by the controlling unit 145, the set of light intensity values from the multiple sets of light intensity values in response to satisfying the pre-defined criteria, and thereby measure the concentration of the particulates in the solution.
[00126] With reference to FIG. 2, the controlling unit 145 selects the set of light intensity values from the first, the second, the third, the fourth set of light intensity values in response to satisfying the pre-defined criteria. Since, percentage of reaction range for the second set of light intensity values (%R2) fails to satisfy the pre-defined criteria, the controlling unit 145 selects the measurements of the first laser source 205. More specifically, the percentage of reaction range for the light intensity value of the second light beam emitted by the second light source 210 passing through the first channel 135 fails to satisfy the pre-defined criteria, hence the controlling unit 145 selects the third and the fourth set of light intensity values of the first laser source 205.
[00127] The controlling unit 145 further selects the optical density of the set of light intensity values selected from the multiple sets of light intensity values in response to satisfying the pre-defined criteria. Since, percentage of reaction range for the second set of light intensity values (%R2) fails to satisfy the pre-defined criteria, the controlling unit 145 selects the optical density of one of the, first, the third, and the fourth set of light intensity values. The controlling unit 145 further utilizes the determined optical density of one of the first, the third and the fourth set of light intensity values in a calibration curve model to measure the concentration of the particulates in the sample.
[00128] While aspects of the present invention have been particularly shown and described with reference to the embodiments above, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various additional embodiments may be contemplated by the modification of the disclosed machines, systems and methods without departing from the scope of what is disclosed. Such embodiments should be understood to fall within the scope of the present invention as determined based upon the claims and any equivalents thereof.