Multi-analyte optical computing system

摘要

The present subject matter relates to methods of high-speed analysis of product samples. Light is directed to a portion of a product under analysis and reflected from or transmitted through the product toward an optical detector. Signals for the detector are compared with reference signals based on a portion of the illuminating light passing through a reference element to determine characteristics of the product under analysis. The products under analysis may be stationary, moved by an inspection point by conveyor or other means, or may be contained within a container, the container including a window portion through which the product illuminating light may pass.

主权项

1. A method for high-speed analysis of product samples comprising:
transmitting an illumination light through a analyte multivariate optical element to form an analyte light, the multivariate optical element being positioned on a chopper wheel; illuminating a sample at an inspection point with the analyte light; transmitting the illumination light through a reference optical element to form a reference light different from the analyte light, the reference optical element being positioned on the chopper wheel and configured to correspond to the multivariate optical element; illuminating the sample with the reference light; providing a light sensitive detector, the detector producing an output signal based on received light; directing light from the sample toward the light sensitive detector, the light from the sample carrying information about the sample; and analyzing output signals produced by the detector, the analysis being based on a comparison of an output signal produced by the analyte light and an output signal produced by the reference light.