DE1598241A1 - Automatic particle size data conversion device - Google Patents

Description

[Dr. Expl.

COULTER ELECTRONICS, LTD. St. Albans, Herta, England

Automatic sharing Krösae data conversion device

The invention relates generally to an apparatus for converting the counting and Qrässeninforraation received from a Tellohenxähl- and QrflfeenraeAvorriohtung received becomes «in one information« which «the quantity distribution The particulate material resembles the size represents "and / or in an information that the Hen *" gene distribution of the particulate material in terms of represents the Oruese and / or the quantitative distribution of the particulate material above a specified OrCsse.

The particle counting and measuring device, in connection with which the application of the invention is particularly

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Teilrtft is the electronic particle size measuring and counting device described in German Patent 96Ί.810. This device has become a universally applied device and has also become known throughout the world under the designation "Coulter counter", while the designation ^M Coulter "principle is used for its operation. Although the device mentioned is known per se, a Brief description of the same facilitates understanding of the invention and emphasizes the type of data obtained from the above-mentioned device in comparison to the data obtained when using the device according to the invention Counting and sizing method *

The following is a reference to two models of the Coulter counter » taken, for the Ib trade the designation "Model A" and "Model B" has become known »These two models operate on the teachings of the aforementioned basic patent 964.81ο, where d * a model B has a significantly improved floodplain « Leadership represents · On the differences between these there is a difference between the two devices, the meaning of which is explained below, namely that the Irapul »- HiShendiskrlminatcr of model A works integrating, while the pulse height discriminator of model 3 B differentiates

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works. Model A therefore provides a single threshold voltage level, which can be set in such a way that all pulses are allowed to pass through, the amplitudes of which exceed the threshold value, while the model D z '^ ei threshold voltage level supplies that are adjustable so that a "window" between its upper and lower limit the amplitude of a pulse must fall in order for it to be passed to the next circuit of the device. The circuit arrangement and the structure of the model D * is in the patent ....... (patent application C 22.169 / 42 1 of 18 * August 196o) described «

The necessity of counting and GrÖSEenmessung-Fenatertcilchen has long been known and it has not done a considerable amount of studies and research for the unit door implementation of the mentioned operations, but also for statistical analysis of the data obtained. In industry, nan has to do with powders, slurries, various types of dust, emulsions and a myriad of other forms of microscopic particles, about which information on manufacturing processes, materials and products obtained from these processes, etc., is of decisive importance is. To. The emergence of the Coulter counter was carried out according to the classical method for determining the size

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division of particle sieves or devices used on the Absetsgo velocities of particles in air or Liquids are based «In the so-called classical ancestors, the principle known as Stokes's law is used and the data obtained were crude Kind as the results obtained on measuring, weighing or scanning large amounts. The Coulter counter has the ability to count particles one at a time, so that much more accurate data is obtained.

The Coulter principle as used in the Coulter counter is based on the difference in conductivity between a suspended particle passing through a «microscopic opening passes through it, and the electrolyte in which the particle is suspended. the Absence in the process and sufficient to ensure that the Particles can pass through freely, but sufficiently small that the fluid displaced by the particles in the opening has a noticeable change in conductivity the opening causes «The Coulter counter plumbs to one Power source switched on, so that an electric current passed through the opening between electrically isolated liquids on opposite sides of the opening can be made, the arrangement being such that the suspension is moved through the opening and the particles takes away and the change in conductivity that goes through

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, Every particle caused is used to create a Activate detection device to generate an electrical signal su that can be counted and measured #

The advantages of the Coulter device over all bieher well-known partial analyzers are very diverse, However, the main advantages as far as this is the use des Coolter-GerStes in connection with the invention relates to the fact that the signal asaplftude of the volumetric size of the particles is independent of the shape is proportional to a large number of particles within a short period of time are counted and measured in their size teaim and the actual counting electrical signals delivers «that can be treated.

/ The invention does not work on data fc * # chrSnkt, dl · through • ine electronic counting and örÖeMna »eeeung unt · * V« r- ' turn of the Coulttr method can be obtained, since the The invention is also applicable to "in counting and size measuring devices" that can generate the necessary signals, however the Coulter counter should be used for purposes according to the invention be particularly suitable «There are also optical counters, but their accuracy leaves a lot to be desired.

With every counting and size measuring device that has been used so far

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verdan and including the Coulter counter the maximum amount of information for statistical evaluation of the particles that were previously achievable from numbers, which are the total number of particles in a given range for represent a given count. A device with a single channel, i.e. with an arrangement which is discriminatory against all particles with the exception of those of a particular size range, the number of particles can indicate which lsi * devices with several channels are present in this size range for a given sample 'only number for each channel that represents the total number of particles in that channel' The one on this Welee obtain". Information is not enough but interpretation of the size distribution without conversion into other forms. and in this connection are known devices inadequate »D & t Model A can only provide« information in Fora a count of all particles in a wide range above a certain size

It is therefore a primary object of the invention to provide one Gerttttes for the »elaborate conversion of data with regard to the örSes · and the quantity that comes from a particle counting and height measurement device are obtained in data from a more detailed and usable form for interpreting the size distribution. Certainly there is no charge

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The information from model A is quite poor. Form, the most useful and the last information sought is the different Hengenvertstellung of the material above a given size. This form of data requires that the user of the known counting and size measuring devices and even the Model A and Model D the amount or volume dea Material calculated by a given counts one given size range. "That was it Problem that people working in the field mentioned regardless of the type of counting and size measurement used. Let from statistical studies known to register the distribution of particles in a given sample old an ordinary linear scale difficult to let because the difference In dej Counting like the particles of a small size and those of larger shape are very large. Because of these large differences, it is common to determine the quantities that occur, which are obtained in the count -directly through graphitch non-linear scales, for example by logarithmic Boiling to represent. The statistical volume data of the particulate material leaves us within their reach to represent the particle size more easily with linear scales, if desired, as the differences are like the nuaerisoheii Amounts small in different areas

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Another main aim of the invention is to provide an apparatus for converting particle number versus particle size data into more easily processable data on the volume or amount of particulate matter above a specified size, and a further object of the invention is to provide an apparatus for \ Conversion: 1st data from particle number versus particle size / in data over da3 volume or the long versus particle / size.

The invention is generally directed to a particle analyzer comprising a particle counting device with an electrical transducer, a number of counters or means for repeated use of the same counter in programmed lines, each counter of the number mentioned being a count for a different range of counts Qröeser.veränderuntsepektruia · provides blaze of the investigated Tel is "the converter formed so as electrical impulses ale result of the movement of particles within the influence of the converter dea erateugt in a manner that is generally produced a pulse for each particle, whose amplitude is proportional the size of the generating particle, means for moving the suspension in the area of influence of the transducer, means for separating the impulses into a group of channels, each channel of the group being in the areas mentioned

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corresponding to a function which progresses in a certain way from the region at one end of the group to the region at the opposite end, and the progressive function is related to the mean particle size of each successive channel, means for examining a given volume. etric amount of suspension for each area when the suspension is moved into the area of influence of the transducer, the counters being connected to the separating means so that they respond to the pulses generated in the channels, and a means which, when counting each successive Channel of the mentioned group comes into operation according to a multiplication factor chosen according to the same particular progressive function , so that the counts registered in the respective counters are directly proportional to the total volume of particulate matter in each of the respective areas assigned to the counters chen, is.

Further objects and features of the invention will emerge from the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of preferred embodiments of the. Invention and the diagrams used to explain the same, namely show:

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Fig. 1 is a graph showing the distribution of two different types of particles, the number of particles plotted against the particle size C3Ge is;

Fig. 2 is a graph showing the distribution of a single particle type, at v / elcher the percentage of the particle volume or weight above one given size and relative particle weight are plotted over the large;

Fig. 3 is a simplified block diagram showing an inventive Arrangement and the main elements for converting data coming from a counting device with differentiating pulse heights di3criminators are obtained into differentiated data (differential data) shows the relative weight or the relative mass versus the size;

a simplified logic diagram showing the way in which raw payments cumulative- type that consists of a device with an integrating Pulse height discriminator can be obtained, for the initial conversion into differential Z «'5hl- • data for eventual conversion to differential

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Al

Gewictits- or i'ass data;

PIr ;. 5 is a simplified block form that uses an analogous form. shows a circuit arrangement using the basic principles of the arrangement of FIG. 1 , it being assumed that the raw Zghiunr used; obtained from a group of integral pulse height analyzers, the output of which is weight3 distribution data of a differential type;

Fi;?., 5a a simple type of circuit for obtaining cumulative data from the circuit arrangement. 5;

Flg. ■ '} a schematic representation of the invention applied to a Coulter counter model B;

Fig. 7 shows a block diagram of a device according to the invention in application to a particle counter with integral pulse discriminators using a digital structure for processing the metering data, the arrangement being economical in terms of the 3in.'irelenente by reusing the same

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Chain for processing the counts on all channels, is;

Pig ;, 8 a lilockschema, soft «- a. IeI 1 of a device represents _t in which the multiplication, the counting occurs in several channels;

Figure 9 is a partial elevational view of a Rpehanic worker Arrangement for the resulting factor for use in connection with the device of FIG. 6, with parts crawled away;

Pig, Io is a sectional view of a fitting according to the invention Achieving sun pension dilutions.

The invention is essentially characterized in that any forir. an execution to process the is provided, which is obtained from a count and size it, for continuous and selective operation Converting to data showing the particle volume or P. v / ichtrepresent »Dan haves from achieving this goal Knowledge and the application of various principles to one type of particle counting and size measuring device,

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the exact counts of the particles according to their size can deliver. Before explaining the principles and showing the manner and circumstances in which this invention are used, some definitions are given below.

Since the Coulter counter generates electrical impulses related to the particular volume of each particle which are within the control of the trader, the words "volume", "size" and "weight" are used for purposes of illustration considered synonymous. The signal from the transducer of a device that works according to the Coulter principle does not discriminate to any substantial degree between different shapes of particles, so the geometry of the particles is of no importance to Volurv-n-aessur ^ Irst . Furthermore, since the weight can be assumed to be directly proportional to the total volume of the particle, the Inpulsair.plitude is proportional to the weight sov. ^r is the volume.

As regards the '.'ort ^p CrL'sse " , this also has no Jc.zlehun.i zuz- Qeonetrie and it can be ancenonunen for all purposes, since the previous particles are perfect spheres fixed "tellchenfürmlccm" .iaterial, since the behavior of the converter3 is calibrated on this assumption

ces Coulter-Geriitea alo in most cases true

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has shown.

In the present study, a Annahne, "ku hit four of. That r! ^M as used is aterial homogeneous his physical. Iron shaft with respect and therefore the density per Volunenein-ness is known or ascertainable.

The general desire for dates in ¹⁷ Om; of a percentage above a specified size and the percentage * of the particulate material according to the size is less: the previous use of Stokessclier methods is a cache of habit. The persons working in the field of particle investigation are better acquainted with the classical data display methods than with data which can be obtained in a more direct way with modern particle counting and size measuring devices. There are good arguments in favor of such classical representations based on convenience and effectiveness, including the fact that they are not dealing with astronomical numbers. The difficulty of converting data of the exact kind that the Coulter counter provides was, until the invention, a laborious calculation and a great deal of writing.

The Stokeai Jöher methods of particle examination were never uehr junau, slow and sensitive to shape and density.

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Circumstantial and empirical corrections made the application these '! methods difficult. The invention enables classic representation, but with a much larger one > -roughness than was previously possible with an Otokess device was.

Venn first considered the type of particle investigation becomes, especially in the industrial field, the immediately falls enormous dynamic range the size of ordinary particles on. In Fig. 1 two curves are shown, each of which plotted the number of particles in a given sample represents over the size of the particles in this sample As can be seen, the vertical axis is logarithmic and extends relatively over a distance small total area, while the dispersion of 0.1 microns in diameter to about 1,000 microns in diameter.

I> ie "i'urve Io represents a sample of erythrocytes (red blood cells) in a liquid suspension, whereby, as can be seen, the total distribution of the particle size is rather narrow. In fact, most biological particles usually do not pose any problems Use of the ₍ «simple data enumeration compared to large metrics *

Particle systems of the kind represented by the curve Io

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can without the need to convert the data to be examined. Linear scales are usually not impracticable, as can be easily seen from a literary review can be determined by means of various medical and biological examinations using the Coulter device reported.

However, curve 12 shows a very different picture. here it is a system of industrial particles » whose size range is such that the largest particle Io ooo times larger than the smallest 1st and with which several Io million times eo Many fcleine particles of example wise several microns in diameter as there are particles of several loo microns in the Dux * ah * ne »ser. This great diversity there is a fairly general difference between numbers and large numbers in 'Aufschlümmungen, dust, etc.,' as they are in occur in industry,

In Fig. 2 two curves 14 and 16 are shown which are much easier are to be treated. This is a sample of clay, with the vertical axis on the left the total volume construction * represents the total weight of the particulate material « which is above the particle size shown in the horizontal axis is applied, as is most often the

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If the smallest particle size is chosen as the size above which 100 % particulate material is present, so that the remainder of the curve "is proportionally correct. This curve is denoted by 14". Curve 16 represents the distribution of the particulate material in the various ranges so that the vertical axis on the right represents the volume of the particulate material in some suitable units for a given size range. These two curves can be derived from one another by mathematical methods. Curve 16 is normally referred to as the differential curve, while curve Ik is called the pro * ent "atz ~ r-an" * £ eb # "- Ufrasee or integral curve

These curves IM and 16 are of the type, age of one has to do it on de "field of Tellch <munt" rsttchuaf zn, and they must in Any way be achieved regardless ^v of the urfrüngllchen source · and the type of raw data , neglecting the "wage systems that have narrow dynamic ranges"

According to the invention, the data for plotting the curves in fig «2 aas 4em partial, counting and size measuring device entnoeaen or they can actually be directly deduced from this »Qer, Ät

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be applied. This can either be achieved by doing this that a device is used as an accessory to the currently available Coulter counters, or by that an independent device is built using the Coulter principle and the output of which is data of the masseper size range type are. .

Objectives that are not specifically mentioned above are to create a facility through which the counting and height measuring device simpler, more economical and more useful will. Taking into account that the processing of the material measure data as opposed to actual counts avoids the need to have a large number of digits Sometimes the circuit arrangement is simpler to store and process, and the counting rules are smaller.

The aterial mass in a given size range below the. Assumption of a constant density, as is practically always the pail, is the mathematical product of the number of Particles in the mentioned size range multiplied by the Masaa of the average particle in the same size range. The Coulter counter is a very special one Device suitable daa carries out such a process, as to the difference from other ZiJhI- and Grtfvorriehtungen, which respond to the Tellchenquerachnittsf.Uiche, the

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Coulter-Oer8t responds to the particle volume, v; elches
^ the most precise and most important faF, for the gr'isse ir.t.

It is now a particle system, that is, a suspension of frogs
of particles for investigation of the kind that is often seen in industry and in which the dynamic range of particles is quite large, since a large one
Number of particles of small size and 3 very few particles
of very large clrösae are present. This auditory area of the particles can be divided into a group of adjacent areas
divided into areas 1, 2, 3, etc. are denoted, while the mass of the average particle
can be designated in the respective areas with Ml, M2, M3 etc. ». If the total number of particles in each
Area N1, N2 »N5 usvr ·, then amounts to the total volume or the total mass in the areas

Ml x Nl * TVl β total mass of the particulate material

in area 1
M2 x N2 = TV2 = total acidity of the particulate material

In area 2
? "3 χ H3 s TV3 * a« g * iatn »ese of the particulate iteterlals

in area 3 etc. «

It εΐηά Coultex 'counter in use, which is from the multiple channel *

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Batiart are, that is, these devices provide particle counts in many different ranges, each of which ¹ is electrically processed through a separate channel. Therefore, an accurate particle count of a selected size range can easily be achieved. This gives the fourth of M1, N2, M3, etc. In order to obtain the values of M1, M2, M3, etc., the ranges must be precisely defined and calibrated so that the average particle size in each range is known. The calculation for the values of TV1, TV2, TV3, etc. can then be carried out. These calculations are made by laboratories using Coulter devices which can be a variety of channels and of various types including type "where a single channel can be provided" whose limits are adjustable by means of variable threshold voltages. In this latter type, a differential irapulse height disk is used. The user performs the count for each channel by changing the setting of the threshold voltages, with a separate determination (or several for averaging) of the count for each Channel is preserved «In other designs, there is an electronic pulse separation, so that the data for all channels are recorded simultaneously, which avoids the need for multiple series of measurements.

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In any case, according to the invention, the limitations are met each area chosen so that they have a geometrically progressive change (either increasing or decreasing) in order to obtain a "given function that corresponds to the mean volumetric! * size, i.e." mass, in the successive Channels is related. A practical and advantageous puncture is a geometric progression through a paktor Two (or one half in the opposite direction.). Therefore, if the mean size of the particles in the range ac is chosen to be half the mean size of the Particles in the range 2 is, and the mean size of the Particles in area 2 is chosen so that they are half the mean QrCsa · of the particles in region 3 is »and this puncture is performed over the ganxe group of areas, the maace of the middle particle in the areas wi «follows to be defined

for the range 1 - Ml

fttr the area 2 - M2 * Ml / 2

for the range 3 - M3 ^s Ml / 4

for the range H - M4 «Ml / 8

VJIe 'jx'wfihnt, it is only used to find the total mass

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it is necessary to count each channel by the middle one Multiply the mass of the particles in the area represented by the channel, so that we get:

TvI = Ml χ Nl TV2 = ul χ Ν2 2 =: α χ M? 4th TV4 = MJ. χ, Ν4

what is the same as

TVl * MlHl / 2 °

TV2 β

j.

TV3 = Η1Ν3 / 2 ²
TV4 * mirt / 2 ³

In most of the particle investigations, the real thing is l. interest not in the actual mass, but in the relative liasse. As all given above Equations contain a factor Ml, which is the mass

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it is toSftsShMHiicheh haggle from area 1 * falls this'? Saltier aitsi Ea lot therefore possible, only that of Üij N2 | N3 ü * si * u * which are readily achievable j to it dit the reciprocal power of 2 in a Progreiiidh »ti multiply * where 1/2 ° wirdι for the first region begoMth άίέ Potent 2 is progressively increased and the ErgSbfiii is a group of values which can be plotted against the magnitude in order to obtain the characteristic differential curve 16 in FIG. 2, or which in order to construct the curve 1H in rig. 2 for percent-above-the-specified-size accumulated «.

Angenönaafen that those representing the progressive puncture Pactors both on the correct choice of area limits and the counter can be used, the counting device provides the blank data for each area Channels representative of the total mass of particulate material in this area. With andaxcB Words, if the * ranges are chosen in such a way that the mean particle size varies from one range to the next geometrically changed, either increasing or decreasing (example 1, 2, * 1, 8 etc.w "or 1/2, 1/4, 1/8 etc.) and also a multiplying or dividing element in each counter Factor is incorporated that works on the actual count generated by the channel that

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operated this counter so that the same function also When such an operation is carried out from channel to channel, the output numbers on the counters represent the relative Represents the total mass or the relative total volume in each channel.

Pur © Ine geometric progression of 2, for example, _{g is} the aweekm to be very has proven & SSGIs, the potency van takes two at the beginning of each group of areas not positive yet Kull to be · In a given group, for example, the first to agree to be divided by a number and the remainder can be multiplied »for example in the perfectly usable progreealon 2" »2, Z ₉ 2 °, 2 * 2 , 2 * etc. The range factor in this case is obviously a * progression of 2.

It is not essential, although ββ may be less useful * can that the progreason factor is 2. Area factors of for example 3 * Ί or any number η can be used will. It is also not essential that the progression is based on a completely geometric basis. If the Progression to a determinable and thus known mathenmtiachen Law follows, i.e., if the verandas of area »u area follow a special puncture, must be calibrated the multiplication operator for each number in a channel

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is counted who serve a given area, change according to an adapted function (ratching function), so that the off ^ ans of the counter exactly the relative volume or the relative hatred of the particulate matter in indicates the respective areas «

In other words, to illustrate the foregoing, in the case of a Coulter device having a plurality of channels, the mean size of which varies according to a known progression, means for processing the count of the channels by some factor can easily be employed, either with the Area is started which has the largest particles and thus the lowest number of areas in a group, or at any suction channel from which one can walk in both directions * In other words, it is assumed that ten channels representing ten areas are present and that the number of small particles is very many times greater than the number of larger particles. It can be started by applying the operation factor to a reference area chosen as area 5, the count of which comes through the fifth channel, which factor 2 ° 1st · For the channels which serve areas of smaller particles than in area 5, 1st is the Operation then the division «The count in area 4 that occurs in channel 4 is divided by 2 that occurs in channel 3.

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Stepping area-3 count is divided by four that Counting in channel 2 in area 2 is divided by eight, while the count from area 1 is divided by sixteen before it appears as a reading on the channel 1 counter. In the partial areas for larger ones Particles are counted using a multiplication operator. Ira area 6 will be counting it with two multiplied, for area 7 the count is multiplied by four, etc. «

- The Coulter counter best for use with the The aforementioned type of operation is suitable, let a device in which means are provided for changing the limits of the visual wave voltage, between which pulses are counted and outside which impulses are rejected " Differential pulse height discriminators are used in such a device. As mentioned, the device knows several such * <8tn51a or have a single channel. In the multi-channel device, the limitations need not being easily adjustable «Ideally, a Coulter counter that has come to be known as Model B is with its Circuits set and calibrated in such a way that for "in ge · gtbanee window" of a single pulse height diakrirainator (This can be done, for example, by setting κν · 1 values on the adjustment scales, which are separated from each other by a »-

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This amount is separated, is selected) successive stages of the hole current switch or gain switch changes in the Gerfit that represent a geometric progression using an area factor of 2 » In the same way, the threshold circuits (threshold circuits) are designed so that the numerical display on actually represents the relative momentum amplitudes on the scales, which are accepted or rejected.

Therefore, a window formed by the threshold scales pointing to 2o and. ¹ Jo are set, impulses pass through, which on average have half the size of a window that is formed by setting the threshold scales to Ίο and 8o.In the same way, with a given window setting, a movement of the gain switch or the perforated current switch results to a change in the sensitivity of the device, ura the size of the particles that are accepted or rejected in order to "decrease or increase a factor 2" mentioned, the progression with the power of 2 proved to be very versatile and easy to build up.

After once the relationship between the areas as-puncture the geometric progression has been established,

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When taking a measurement of the number of particles in each region, the number must be processed to obtain a fourth representing the relative mass. There are several possibilities for this, which can be used alone or in combination. For example, one arrangement has two ways of processing the raw count. One is to vary the time of the count from area to area, while the other is to multiply the count by a factor which varies from area to area corresponding to the same puncture. In the device ^; t are funds for the use of the two methods in combination or on their own.

For explanation it was mentioned that, w # nn with the first area is started and a count is made for T seconds when the next range has an average particle size which is equal to half the particle size of the first region, and mari the QerSt only during a period of time counting of T / 2 seconds, get the same result is like when counting in the second area for T seconds. However, the pulses are processed so that Every second is rejected, in other words, the count divided by 2. It can be used by the whole group of Areas can be continued by changing the time

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uncl an electronic division for the alternate Areas performed to get the results you want to achieve. Furthermore, if each result were recorded separately, data would be obtained for the differential curve are counted in each channel, if assumed that is served by an area, and the areas are adjacent. '.7enn with that find the Group of holidays started with the large particle streams will and wan the ZHilun ^ en al kurr.ulleren and iode reading is recorded, one would use the total accumulated mass at each point, divide by the number recorded for the last count to obtain the data for plotting the graph of the percentage against the specified size.

With the use of suitable logic circuits, it is possible to carry out the desired operations using a Multiple channels or a single channel pulse height discriminator to be changed in such a way that he thinks about a sequence or series of size ranges extends. The multiplication or division can be done with the help of binary circuits or flip-flop generators, the single output pulse for each input pulse pair generate »a chain τοη binary connections of this kind

* enables easy division by powers of awei.

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The simplest circuit form is of the type shown in Fig. 3. Fig. 3 shows an amplifier 2o which responds to all pulses generated in the converter of a Coulter counter, not shown, 30 da £. the entire spectrum of pulse heights occurs at the output shown schematically at 22, Da3 spectrum is broken down into regions by means of differential pulse height incriminators 2 * »of the type in model B, five of which are shown and labeled PHD1 to PKD5, each of which is the channels forms, which are five adjacent areas. The threshold voltage level or the sensitivity of the pulse height discriminators are chosen so that there is a factor of 2 between adjacent discriminators · Ks five channels are shown, each of which works in a counter 26 *

From the uppermost channel is denoted by 5, can be taken that his discriminator is set to be responsive to a band or a range of the largest particles, the next channel is set as nourishing, he daft to particles of half Gröese responsive U3 * w ·· the Kiiml 5 amines output feeds directly into the payer C5. All other channels use the binary divider or plin-flop pattern Ρ.Θ, These are Kit B reported * Every lower channel has one of these binary dividers B more than the channel immediately above, eo «ia the channel 1 four Symphonic

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plate has. "Sixteen input pulses are required in channel 1, so that the counter registers a digit. The other channels react according to the number of binary elements, which everyone has, however, the effect is obviously that the respective channel payments through a geometric PrcgreErf-on are divided «It is obvious that the Operation factor can be a multiplication or division, and that known computing devices can be used to produce the desired results.

'With the in PIg. 3, a counter 26 is provided for a new channel ufcd Each channel processes the pulses from one area. In the same way, the conditions under which the counts are made can be such that a single pass of the suspension through the transducer provides all the data for the pass at the same time. In other words, for a given pass, all of the channels are working and all counts are being made at the same time. Every d «r * Irapttlshöheäkrlrainator <in 2H normally has the effect of" Ines impulse t "nster, ie impulses with a greater amplitude than the lower threshold level. E ir.ee given DIslcrminators and with a smaller amplitude than the upper visual wave level are alone dixroh the. Discriminator not let through. The readings on similar dialers

BATH ORIGINAL

26 provide the data for creating the differential curve 16 in FIG. 2. On the other hand, instead of using a separate pulse height discriminator 2h for each channel or size range for simultaneous data recording, only a single one can be provided, v; ie with the Coulter-Z; ■ ' he model L ₉ and for each area for which the sensitivity or the window is changed, the next number of binary elements is switched to in order to obtain the correct operator. ^'I' IE is apparent from the Mach below, the invention provides the use of agents prior to saving Bina'relementen and other circuits.

For the cumulative determination, the count from the counters Ζβ can be accumulated from counter to counter, as described, so that data are obtained for the curve IH for the percentage of the cash register versus a specified particle size. This data needs to be changed from relative numbers to percentages, but that is a simple matter. Fs is only required to divide the accumulation of each counter by the total count in the last counter C1.

The Coulter counter model A has no differential momentum «

, eo that he has all impulses above tine to which the discriminator is set

BATHROOM _{0 RIGfNAL}

-33-

is summed up. Such a discriminator can be referred to as an "Intecral ^M " discriminator. This means that when a determination is made in the manner that the largest particles are prudent and the threshold level is lowered, another calculation is made to convert the count data into This takes into account the fact that the second count includes all particles above the first and second threshold levels, while the third includes all particles above all three threshold levels, and so on can be derived from the first count, the second count from the third count, etc. In this way, the areas between the levels are set up and the correct number is obtained, which is later processed in the device. By using separate integral Iir.pulshShendi skr indr.atoren to achieve a large number of levels at the same time is _v svGclcr ^ 'salg, but does not eliminate this computation problem #

4 is a greatly simplified form of a device shown at which.v. the pulse height discriminators 24 voir. Inte ^ ral type. are, so that a Xanal v.'eniser as impulse-'vühediskrinlnatoren is available. The device includes summing networks before, which are generally designated 25 and the "n

109804/0257 bad original

The task is to subtract the count of the previous IrpulshFhediskrinir.ator from each subsequent count. '\. Ooll with regard to the ^ rßr-tsn particles which are to be grounded in the sample -jesMhl, if the r c ^ l on one another, the channel delimited by this supply a vine count which only represents those particles which occur between the levels, The Zi-hlunj .; from PHD5 is subtracted from the count from PKD ^, urr. at 27 an output ία is obtained which represents only the raw count in the first channel. The Suznraiernetzwerk SUM ^ l carries out this calculation .

All of these outputs 2? are equivalent to the outputs from the pulse height leakers 2 ¹ »in Fig. 3 ·» 'ie in the case of FIG deliver. The large block 29 can represent sets of binary elements, as shown in FIG. 3 at 26, for digital dividing.

"09" l * / 0iS7 ^BAD

which can be applied.

If "counters" are never mentioned in the foregoing or in the following, this is to be understood as any suitable target device, for example mechanical registers, electrical / mechanical transmission devices, and memory devices. Such counters can optionally give a visual indication of the count. Arrangements in which the count is not visible are Macr.et Minder, Perrltkernrnatriaen, electronic analog switching or other storage devices whose data can be added to other stored data at will. from which they can be soaked "

Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing the use of a particular type of summing network to obtain differential counting data from a variety of integral pulse height discriminators, fernex '"dttel r., To convert this data into relative differential counting data of a differential type and Finally, means for converting the differential POS data into cumulative mass data for plotting the curve I ¹ ) in Pis · 2. In each case, the arrangement is analogous in nature and uses so-called pump circuits of the type shown in FIG. This pump

109884 / 02S? bad original

ecircuits have a pump capacitor C, which is attached to his The input receives rectangular impulses from an upstream univibrator and is charged when the leading edge rises. The diode Dl contributes to the storage of the charge, while the diode D2 is blocked. When the tension on the trailing edge falls, the diode D2 becomes conductive, while the diode D1 is blocked, so that the charge from the capacitor C one Current flow in the <next circuit results in a Is an integrator. The charge is therefore pumping. By reversing the diode polarities, this circuit becomes a negative pump.

If <$ ie .S "03Pd3UtB ^ according to Ftf * 5 concerns, differences are obtained in actual operation, if the process of converting these counts into differential data with regard to weight or mass takes place simultaneously with the sutation "in other words, the integral ImpulshöhediskriiJitisatcren 24 drive Univibratoren to the Hechteckimpulse achieve su that Pumpschaltunge'n, the designated P-nei ate and at least part of the summing corr ^ chtid the Suimnlerelementen 25 in Pig" 4 form, act Adding and subtracting for the individual channels, while the integrators carry out the necessary processing of the data for the division in accordance with the desired progressive function. This in-

BATH ORIGINAL

103884/025?

Integrators and denoted by I ₁ to I ^, however, carry the reference units 26, as they are generally the equivalent of the aforementioned counters . The upper terminal Term 4 receives the data from the channel 4 connected to it, the data being supplied via a low-resistance resistor RH4. The data from channel 3 are transmitted via a resistor RH3. The next terminal Term 3 is supplied, which is connected to ground via a resistor RL3. , Furthermore, neither. the Klennae Tern 3 carries the data from the channel 4 via a resistor tülHl , therefore all four exit resistors RH * 3, RH32, R1I21 yxid BHl add up in the case of K & iml.

In the arrangement according to FIG. 5, the circuit constants chosen so that the correct sunaaing and operation is obtained. The electrical pump circuits generate currents, which are proportional to the counts that produce them, and have an ötckward and a predecessor for each integrator, so that the integrator will accumulate the difference k & j: in "where the line account & ntea of the integrator eelbet eo b «iTiOBs must be that by awei, four, eight u *« w. divided Obviously, part of the division may diwoh Voltage division by means of a suitable choice of resistors

109884 / 02S7 _bado _R1G1N al

153324!

happen in the Akkumulaticnsjnatrlx. The choice of components and the structure of the analog circuit are determined by stray capacitance, pulse shape accuracy, etc. certainly,

Fig. 6 shows a practically implemented device in use the arrangement according to the Coulter counter model B «The representation is greatly simplified and in a scheraatic form. In the ? ig. The arrangement shown in FIG. 6 is economical with regard to the components and the counters, since there is only one single counter is used, a single adjustable differential pulse height discriminatoi? 24 is used and a divislonsnetzwsrk 3o is designed so that the counting accordingly is divided by a desired factor.

The reference numeral 32 generally designates a stand of a type known per se ^{which carries a Profcen vessel 3 1} I in which there is a suspension 36, a valve 58 and a conduit * jC being provided for connection to a vacuum source for a liquid pumping arrangement for examination a given volumetric amount of the suspension. The suspension is set in motion by an agitator 38 in order to maintain its honey. Furthermore, a Coulter-Loehröhre ^ o with a hole H2 _t that is open to the sample suspension 1 ( and the usual electrodes

BATH ORIGINAL

109894/0257

mAf I ¹ W * IJiH

-39-

^J i4 and ^ 6 provided. The electrodes are connected to a housing which contains an amplifier 2c, which has various I'troai circuits of the type now known per se from Coulter counters For the sake of simplicity, air. a looser Llock 5o is shown with a control button 52, through which the Gtroir.zufuhr can be changed. The ability to change the power supply is provided in order to ensure a stable hole flow through the hole 42 according to the! Coulter principle to be able to receive. A change in the hole current changes the sensitivity of the device and thus the amplitude of the impulse which is generated as a result of the passage of a particle through the hole.

The sensitivity can also be changed by influencing the amplification of the amplifier by various means known per se, for example by potentiometers. can be controlled. For the Model B Coulter Counter, the controller 53 is like this. formed, ά & Α by a control button 5 ^ the amplitude of the "raeugter" in the stand. Ifflpulec can be changed in stages »The β« · »ktinnEichneten of the stages result in a 2 ι 1 change,» o; that the gain can be changed from run to run and therefore the size areas can be artificially created in this way. If the Imyulehöhediskrliainator "24

109ββ4 / 0-57

1599241

βο has been set so that it does not have pulses on Io volts responds in height and the amplification is so reduced that a particle which previously received an impulse of Has generated Io volts, now only generates an impulse of 5 volts, a particle twice as large as before is required, so that the pulse height discrirainator lets him through.

As can be seen, the usual manometer and measuring device is not shown, but instead is the perforated tube ^ o directly above a line 56, in which a manually operated valve 58 is located immediately with connected to a vacuum source. When determining the relative volume or the relative mass of particulate material, all runs can be carried out for the same period of time or the same amount of suspension If the quantity is a criterion, the measuring device known for use as a Coulter device is advantageous. Otherwise, a simple timer connected to any For example, the timer 60 can be used with a setting element 62 for regulating the time during which the counter 26 receives pulses and counts them.

The threshold value circuit 64 and its controls 66 determine BATH ORIGINAL

109884/0257

159 * 2 * 1

the response limit or the response limits of the differential pulse height discriminator 24. Model B has two such controls, one for the lower limit and one for. the upper one, so that a window is obtained. The circuit 64 with the control element 66 therefore ensures that the associated counter 26 is programmed repeatedly.

When carrying out an examination of a particle system (a dilution is made and placed in the vessel 34, the counter 26 is reset, the threshold value scale tew. -Scales 66 are set to values that are expected to be OaS) the desired results are obtained based on experience supply, and suitable values are chosen for the scales 54 and 52. The timer or time switch 6o is set to a desired value, which is usually as low as possible, in order to ensure a good statistical determination. The regulating organs have been set in such a way * that the device can only respond to the largest particles, whereby the change takes place in stages in order to obtain the desired data »

The valve 5 # * is opened and the timer 6o in go sits. You can see through the opening 42 are counted by the counter 26 when they are *

generated impulses are sufficiently strong to avoid the impulse dis-

109884/0287 or original

-Discriminator Zk to be read through. The divider 3o is now used for processing the pulses that kornnien from the pulse discriminator 2 * i. The counter 26 generates a number that can be recorded. If necessary, the counter 26 can be cleared and reset or it can accumulate the other counts.

For the next run, one or more of the control elements 5 ^ # 52 and 66 are changed so that the next one Passage takes place with particles whose mean size half of that of the particles from the first pass is. In practice, nan leaves the visual wave value regulating organs practically in the same state or changed aie a lot '. ■ renig. Most of the changes are made to achieve the geometric progression (which in this case waits after made on the hole flow and on the gain · The time switch Co remains at the same value while the divider 3o must be set by its regulating body 66 ao that ' Every count that passes through the discriminator Divided by Jtvei is «Dl · reading d« s payer »can will now be recorded «This is a Value * that depends on the size range «Which durel» the set window of the Itrpulshfihediskriminatore is pictured. Ee is the relative weight or the relative

BATH ORIGINAL

109884/0257

18112 (1 '

ΙΟ-

Since the ittipul height discriminator is of the type with one , it only processes the pulses within the limits of the selected area and the numerator only gives the value which represents the relative mass of the particulate material in this area. This is the differential value To determine the cumulative fourth, it would be necessary to add this value to the value obtained first.

To carry out the determinations, the counting of the pulses obtained from the Itnpuishöhediskriminafcor IH, as SiOH from Fig. Shows, dureh electronic divider 30, which may be of digital or analog type, divided, or it may be by the use of a Time switch, which * only allows the counter operation during half the time during which the counter was in operation for the · "*" preceding determination *

In a practical embodiment of the invention an accessory for use with a "Coulter counter" Model B In an aecha & Uebeti A »* tigervorriehtung 68, the

in more suitable '.'olae by mechanical · means, such as by. the dashed lines 7o and 7t shown with the R? ^ E! Button 62 and 66 is coupled so that the operator any button or one. Combination of the two for the

BATH ORIGINAL

1S98241

Execution of a complete cycle can be used. The display device 63, operated simultaneously, provides the resulting factor by which the count is multiplied (or divided) so that the user does not need to keep a record of which button has been moved and which reading is taken.

In summary , in processing a given count for the Hth region of a spectrum, if region 1 is considered to have the largest particles and if it is assumed that the mean particle size is halved in the subsequent regions, then the count division must be 2 , while the number of flip-flops or binary components must be K-l. (A time switch that can cut the counting time in half is the equivalent of a binary operation element) t

For a large number of areas, the number of Binary elements are quite large, so that the device becomes very expensive. To be precise, the set of binary elements for a such "system is equal to the series 1 + 2 + 3 + ··" + K-I. For a twelve-channel device that is quite small is the Number of binary elements at least 55

A VhB.se of the invention is based on creating a novel

109884/0257 b ^ad original

Circuit arrangement for performing the operations directed to the raw counts and Fig. 7 shows an arrangement which is quite economical for this purpose as the same chain of binary elements does the dividing for all channels. In this arrangement there are twelve channels, twelve counters, and it is desired that the counters can be read directly to give curve 14 in Pig x 2.

The arrangement shown is a modification of a Coulter counter, which is so built that it has twelve canals, the modification being that of the part which gives it to the counters 26, which are designated with Cl to CB, giving cumulative values The signals from the stand are transmitted through a main amplifier 2o fed to a line 22, which eptist all pulse height limiters 24, which are excluded with Ρ.Η, Ρ.1 - 12 · Diet · All integral discriminators are discriminators. It should be noted here that the channel for the largest particles In * this device is assigned as channel 12 and the corresponding AiideröK components are labeled with similar numbers «Pi · Pulse height discriminators beeitzen a circuit arrangement to regulate the threshold voltages, to amplify the actual pulses, etc. " The ElSoke DUVl - DUVl2 are delay multivibrators of a known type. As can be seen, the Output from each »block 2 * 1 in one of the delay mwltivibrm-

BAO ORIGINAL 109884/0257

gates are fed in via a line denoted rait TE for the trailing edge and the output of the delay multipliers and circuits 76, which are denoted by Gl - GIl. Bl to BIL are binary elements 28 "It is a further group of binary elements 23 ^f provided, which are denoted by B12 to B22. The OR elements between the binary elements 28 ′ are denoted by 78. The circles G12 to G22 normally represent closed gates Bo, which are controlled by the binary elements 2 ^ so that when an element 28 closes a gate 76, it simultaneously opens a gate 80. For example, when the binary element BH closes the gate GN , it opens gate GH + 1 at the same time.

? It is now the * 11 considered that particles of two different Gröasen _t duroh as * hole Hi hlndurohtreten and Λ impulses erzeug '', one of which * sufficient groÄ ibt so as the lower Begrenaung; de · preparation · marriage · chreitet about 1, but not Groft sufficient exceed au around the upper Begreneuuf this range _t of the angenomeen is, they daft -salt the lower boundary de 'areas · 2 zusaamenfällt. The pulse generator PHDI supplies a pike-corner pulse, the duration of which is equal to the time during which the pulse has exceeded the lower limit of range 1. The trailing edge of this pulse triggers the delay unit

109ίβ4 / 0267 BAD ORIGINAL

vibrator DUVi * The And-Schaltuhg Gl is connected to the binary elements Bi. This binary element is a veto flip flap and remains in a standby state until the pulse exceeds the threshold value of the lower end of range 2 (upper end of range i). The AND connections Jv> allow errors to pass through, v; At the end of this controlling Pini'.rele & eht 23 ir.i ready sheep tazuetand is "so" the Ir.pulse from the particle through the undelection £ Gl to. Binary element B12 passes through, whereby the state of the latter is changed. The next time a similar pulse passes through it, it will return B12 to its original state, changing the state of 313. It should be mentioned here that the binary elements 28 * are connected as a binary sensor chain from B12 to B22 with Cder circuits 78 lying between them. These OR circuits enable the binary element located above it to be actuated either by the binary element located below or by the verruiig binultivibrator 1H "which is also connected to the OR system" VOa binary element BIS or changed by a signal from the multivibrator DUV2 via the ünd circuit G2

After 2.oijS Teilcheti have stepped through it

and generated a signal that made its way through channel 1

has found, the binary element B22 changes its state for the second half, so that it emits a pulse which is fed to the AND-Söhaltung Ϊ2 and from this via a line 84 to all Ünd-circuits So. It should be mentioned here that all of these gates are kept closed by the binary elements, so that the only counter that causes an all-out count is counter C1. No delay signal is fed to this.

As for the wide type of pulse generated by a particle within the boundaries of area 6, does not result in an pulse with an amplitude sufficient to produce the circuit PHD? au influence "All of the eech channels preceding the lowest threshold values Atr have been passed over" Therefore, each of the circuits PHDlUs FHD5 b "i £ orai <tn _t oilnon R" K5ht "ckls! $> ulf and the demand & nHcn dletar!" pulses have the Binary elements B1 to 65 ßetritgerv. These ZXeiaenta Bl bli B5 block the AND-Sii positions Gi to (15, so that the gates Ql2 ble GIß are now open. ΑΙΙβε Ate · happens as a result of the increasing in the channel «!} InpuXeee Runs out, it triggers the Vereögerupgffmultivibrator DÜV6. Since the And-Schaltunjj Q6 is the only gate that has not been blocked by the next higher channel and B6 is generally ready to

103S84 / 0257

is located, the binary element B17 is triggered by the leading edge of the DUV6 output pulse via its OR circuit 78 between itself and the binary element BI6. Since it is six binary levels higher than B12 in the binary chain | it has 64 times more influence, that is, it has the effect of receiving 64 impulses on channel 1 from area 1. Therefore, when 64 particles pass through the hole, an impulse is applied to binary element B22. If this impulse immediately before the transition of the binary element B22 to its ready-to-operate state occurs, B22 delivers a pulse to all AND-circuits G12 to G22. Only the AND circuits G12 to Giß are kept open by their corresponding binary elements B1 to B5, so that only the counters C1 to C6 are incremented.

A counting powder is therefore given out when the total material has passed through the hole, 2.o48 times its volume, has the mass of the average particle in the smallest range. The frequencies with which this ZShl * npul3e to a given channel, 2.B. to the sixth y.anal, and the rest of the smaller channels, u.ti'd by the number of particles within the area 6 beetJoic which pass through the hole. Each particle tx 'contributes to the formation of the counting impulse3 depending on its purpose.

, IJiJ

A particle that is larger than the inner limit of the

BATH ORIGINAL

-5ο-

relches 12 is enough, one count on all counters to cause.

This arrangement can be modified so that, if it is necessary, Data are obtained in incremental form.

There are implementation problems with the use of a Device of this type based on the type of particle grass distribution in many industrial samples * This is particularly true in the case of sponsorship in the

nentt'orm eu, 3 "i" olehen samples are in a reasonable Since nitht enough particles getShlt arising sufficient resolution in c th regions in which most of the particles auftrete "Man 2, o ^ 8 of the smallest particles erfcrdsrlieh einrt" μία "Ine one" to cause counting, and no> ^ iter * change atitt finds until>". O96 Tetlohen das h & tb hindtir-οhgeper" lud, * ost "n, \ xm tint QNi- -

um veniger fcla 1 I tu er «iel» n, 2oll »Soo T * ileben hliid« Started »« in. Ub this high resolution eralelen au in one, in which one-tenth dee particle material "is, would 2.o49 _# ooo of kleir-ste" particles are counted "If only one particle can be per millisecond passed through the hole of coincidence reasons, would take 2.o * t8 seconds or over 36 minutes for this purpose. Hence, shorter times result

109084 / Om BADORIGiNAL

For sample testing, data that are not statistically are desirable or useful.

According to another aspect of the invention, the changes will be made Weight the counts from the various channels fed what a multiplication of the payments from the fields with the larger particles and a division of those from the other areas conditionally · The following tables Soap the way the counts are processed, with it the results discussed are obtained:

Multiply by the factor

12 11 Ie 9 8

alternative

l / l ⁵

1/2 * 1/2 ⁵ 1/2 «

-2

- ¹

i / a

1/2 1/2

l / 2 <1 / 2-

1/2 ²

1/2

" ⁷

It

109884/025?

BATH ORIGINAL

area Fiß »3 alternative 1 alternative 2 3 1/2 ⁹ 1/2 * 1/2 ² 2 1/2 ¹⁰ 1/2 ⁵ 1/2 ³ 1 1/2 ¹¹ 1/2 ^C 1/2 *

The table above shows that these alternatives only differ in the factors for channel 12, which begin with a difference of two powers of 2 »Bei In an arrangement described in more detail below, alternative 2 is used. It should be noted that the factors all multipliers are designated. Since it is in the in most cases it is a reciprocal value of a power of 2, is practically divided when Jedooh the factor eats a reciprocal value of 2 with a negative power, is the

Operator indeed a HuItipiIkAtor. Therefore, for the Channels δ - 12 of alternative 1 which are received in each> case Counting is a whole number multiplied while in In the same alternative, the counts of channels 1 - 6 can be divided by a number.

This arrangement gives a better statistical picture, as the gi-i'asere particles which only occur occasionally ^

109684/0257

BATH ORIGINAL

15982A1

however, a large part of the actual particle mass matter more often, while the smaller ones are paid Particles that occur in larger numbers are less common be paid, it se ?, because that a larger sample was taken vrird.

The changes that result for the purpose of processing the raw count 3 mean values from the pulse height discriminators recommend, are legion, the presentation and description of which would mean lessons. To complete the picture, however to make 1st in Pig. 8 shows part of an arrangement, multiplications can be carried out in the case of chalices.

Ee is assumed that the Impulshöhediskriminatoren 2 ¹ J differential type Bind and that their outputs ilementen the binary "28 performs trains are" The intermediate-Impulsj'crraungseleiirante elnd not shown. Each binary element 28 feeds an AND circuit 82, which also has a sSina & ng on a line 8J from a clock generator BH , the one continuous sequence of pulses ef ** "ug * ^ when sv trlggtrt. 01 · And-Söhaltungen work on aia counter · 26 and auaserdem to the set of alternate or "-Elewenten C ¹ J and binary elements 85. Di 'erstearwähntdn 3inäi * elfeiTjente are denoted by B8 to B12 while the latter LOLT Blo9 to B112 referred are. This set of

109884/0257 BADOR ₁ GINAl

Binary elements is connected to the control binary element 86, which has an output line 87. This line connects the timing oscillator 34 with a trailing edge detector element 88 and hold-off circuits, not shown, which switch off the amplifier 2o (disable) can when activated.

An OR element 89 is connected to all discriminator outputs in order to activate the control binary element 86, and the output of the detector 88 is a line 9o for resetting all of the binary elements 28 and Sk *

y, ^f hen iai Eetrleb a pulse is generated for example from the Diskririnator PHDIo is changed by this the state of Binärelemenfcß · Bio and the AND circuit Io aktiviertr same time gttrlggert over there · Or element 89 the 8inärele "" nt S5, whereby the clocking oeaillator is started. The detector 88 can be a simple thick nanometer, - which does not affect this point in time

Of all Ünd connections 82, the only Ünd switch tjmg 1 « open, «ο da & pulses at the output of the AND circuit Io to * n beginner »to activate the counter CIo, equals which is connected to the Aueganc of the AND circuit Io

BATH ORIGINAL 109884/0257

15982A1

Odei-Sohaltung 8 ¹ I triggered "If every oscillator sucks impulses, the record changes its state, so that eight liflpulses via ElIc ₄ Blo9 and BI08 change the binary element 86 back to its original state. De * · oscillator 8Vwi * »d shut down, so that no more pulses can reach the counter CIo via the undefiöhaltuiig Io. Detector 88 is activated after resetting all binary elements 28 and 85

How etNälchtiifeb have the channels "ine, multiplying by 32 requested for Old Ttsllelien for the channel 12 to h 'rab su 2 for the channel I · - ilcltfft The n chefc under" K * n * JL, d "h * for smaller ^ "Tfdrd * a straight där" h§eh #near channel aein _t while the channels 1 ~ 6 edited by DItIiioae-Bijiftr "l""* nt , ui" Yüraneend described.

Mirkfiiai der Krfindttn "can you order to go doäotlj , that the bar counter C1 a cumulative precedence, with games of the kind shown in Fig. 5, the Gorät contains, if a count iron at ^ lelsweiae d £" r JLooo reached! «ird · The remaining meters need to be applied by the PaOsusntsatsee for the specified

1ÖiS84 / i | it. , _ti ., bad ORIGINAL

Sizes not to be divided. Circuits for one such an arrangement is easy to set up.

Fig. 9 shows an arrangement for use in conjunction with the accessories for the Coulter counter Kodell E or for use as a component of a Coulter device. The seed arrangement is generally designated by SB , reference being made to FIG. 5 for the general theory of operation. As can be seen from Fig. 6 , the division operation carried out on a count is controlled by the button 66 and the count can also be processed by means of a timer β o which in turn is set by the button β 2 . In FIj ;. 9 , the control button 62 is shown on the left and button 66 on the right. Jeäer button can be turned "to the operation" factor% m is a power of two change su * The Seitknopf 52 on the left side moves SiOH in Uhrseiger "reasonable awiftoben d * v tfert 128 and the value 2, as with loe to gegetam * Which represent "4it" 2fthl of the seconds, while rather a ZihXuttg; dfctt Saber 26 can influence Dw fid * vieionefcnopf 66 mt the right side "moves" ion ia tHirseigorslnn from # in * a value 1/2 to a value 1/512 , as indicated at Io2, which directly divides the multiplication operation · (Me number 1/123 means, for example, dividing by 128) · As can be seen, the skftlenwerfc

109884 / 02E7 BAD ORIGINAL

loo and Io2 from the neighboring values by a factor of twelve. Any combination of these results in a resulting overall operation frjctor that can be changed up or down by a power of 2 by turning one or the other of the buttons.

ViIe from Fig. 6 can be seen, it is with the help of a raechanlacnen Coupling that connects every button with the mechanical display device is always possible, the whole thing the resulting operation factor, which influences the count, to show. This is done by the clutches and 72. In the practical embodiment, the clutch 7o a gear wheel Io4, which is attached to a shaft Ιοβ who carries the button 62, and that with a rack of teeth

10 8 2 us we ammen let, which is attached to a slider Ho. DSSR shift; * Xio is arranged so that it can slide surface to surface tuit "inor Vfand 1X2, the dee part casing * of Sählger-Stea may be, however, the slide Ho may or also at a distance from the wall · Plate 112 are located. The means for running the slider Ho can be suitable holders , but preferably the middle slider is sufficient.

11 ^ which di "wave Io6 on the left side of the slide Ho On ^ reiit, and d% v center slot 116, the shaft". Elcfce-the Knqf βί tritgt, Over Attacks, from the slide Ho

_ψ · a

'.χι store and guide * The gear Ho limits the movement

109894/0257 _B AD ORIGINAL

on a plane which is parallel to the dor plate 112.

The plate 112 is in its upper part with a rectangular one. . Window 12o, through which part of the surface of the slide Ho is constantly visible. That part of the slide Ho that is visible is provided with a marking 122 in the form of the fraction "1/2", while the upper part of the number 2 is provided with a circular opening through which part of a slide 126 is visible The position of the opening 12 $ is such that if a number appears in this opening, the total number of reciprocal numbers represented by the marking. Is a power of 2. Hence $ is the number 1/2 ^{16 shown} .

Dl * EoechtnJ.scb * Vegtl & dunc 72 let dw previous btnch-rubsfnen J «* er αϊλΙΙαϊι * where« In Sthobenx »126 is used, which is passed through base seats 128 and 13o, which oil shafts 118 and Io6 overlap. The slide 126 rests flat against the slide Ho, but is from the hat 11 ?. separated by the slide Ho, so that no part of the slide 126 is visible through the window 12o with the exception of the opening 12 * 1. Slider 126 bears a series of numbers 132 engraved on its surface at a level in alignment with Cffnuns 12 * 1. One

1 09884/0257 BAD ORONAL

■ ■■■ ■ '■ · ■'. '' '■' -ii '/

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Toothed rack 134 cooperates with a toothed wheel 136 which is mounted on the shaft 2, 1, 8, so that when the knob 66 is turned, the numbers in the opening 124 are changed. The toothed wheel 136 limits the movement of the slide 126,

The mechanical tilting device 68 enables the

Operator to use either button 62 or, 66, lisi the paydays »u process which for the respective Areas to be searched for and an accurate record of the resulting operational factors that is used Hold · Much "probably, the factor here has a progressive function ties * Potent of 2, but this is, as mentioned," a matter of simplicity and expediency

The split arrangement shown here can result in possible changes in the tent and received

Sa 1st & £ g% Lejb direct Diagrajrae of the counter outputs entvreder VOA Olfferentialtyp or integral type by suitable arrangements hemusteilen "In Fig. 5 1st an Stentioaseter 95 beispielsweiee provided, the slider 96 is connected to a chart recorder 97 and through the same Mechanic / itnua is moved, which moves the pen in its horizontal "right axis, as shown by the dashed line 98

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specified. The slide 96 is connected to the pen for the Y-axis display. The terminals Term I, Tern 2, Term 3, Term k and others of the system are connected to taps on the potentiometer.

Sin another mover, for processing the counting of the channels is to change the amount of sample scanned to achieve a mass conversion. This can be done by that the concentration is either increased or decreased by the required function. The following is the Using Sequential Dilution to Achieve Desired Results. Let it be for example a vessel with an initial concentration of a sample of volume K is assumed. If a Coulter counter model B to perform a count in a given time with threshold values covering a 2: 1 range and when the largest particles are set, it becomes a value which represents the cash register in the area of the largest particles.

VJenn this warm concentration around a factor 2 thereby is reduced that a given volume of the initial Dilution an equal volume of diluent is added and a payment (after thorough mixing) of the new concentration during the same time interval (or

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151 * 241

for the same amount of added suspension) the count obtained correctly represents the measure of the material in this second area of largest particles Purely the counting of the relative mass in the third area the other concentration is also diluted by a factor of 2. The dilution and counting sequence is used throughout Area continued. A variety of arrangements for performing such "binary" dilutions are possible and Indeed, a device can be made which allows continuous dilution and counting at the same time enables.

In Fig «Io let in a schematic representation and in section a direction is shown, which is used to carry out the processing of the range counting by dilution; can be used. & nsteil * dav processing of the actual count, as al "by d * m Durahtritt by the Iinpulehohediefcriminatoren ei'h & soldering werdirn that Probeneuspeneion has already been processed even before sie'durch was hlndurchgeieltet the hole to generate the count" impulse. A simple Q * t && 15o aas glass od & ^ - Tajgl. is incinerated with a three-way valve 152 which is rotatable in a housing 154 which is provided in the Anerhluf.ntüok 156. A branch line 158 of the Anochlußötückeo int is provided with a pressure source, while a further branch line 16o is provided with a vacuum pump

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or the like. Is connected. The valve 152 can be rotated will be that its channel 162 is either branch 15 ^ · or the branch line to the top of the chimneys 164 of the vessel 15o connects.

The first concentration of the sample suspension is prepared and placed in a container. The amount is essential greater than the capacity of chamber 164. A count is made. The top 166 of the vessel 15o is immersed in the container and the valve 152 to the vacuum branch line Ιβο is opened. The sample of maxiiral Concentration is drawn into chamber 164 slightly beyond channel 162. The valve 152 is then turned a little » to close the channel 162. The vessel is then brought to a wide container and the valve rotated to the pressure branch, sq that the sample in the second The container is blown · The valve is then closed and the tip ΐβδ In a container of pure diluent brought, filled and emptied this volume into the second container.

The second container now has equal volumes of the initial concentration and the pure diluent, & o that the second container contains a 2: 1 suspension. A count is then made from this dilution.

BATH ORIGINAL

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This process is repeated in other containers, whereby Every time it is diluted by half.

In this way the whole determination is carried out. The counting device only needs the counts in the various Channels with the help of the Irapulshtthedlsl-rininators to separate and the resulting counts to the counter respectively. to lead the counters.

The invention is not limited to those shown and described Execution forms are limited, but can be within of their guardianship »have experienced various changes.

Claims;

BATH ORIGINAL

109884/0257

Claims (1)

1596241 ? ate η tahs ρ r ü che: Apparatus for analyzing particles in suspension for deriving particle counting indications of the number of particles in an assigned size range in relation to the total volume of the suspended particles with a particle counting device comprising an electrical transducer, a number counter or an arrangement for repeated use of the same Counter in a programmable manner, whereby each counter of the mentioned range serves to provide a count which relates to a different range of particle sizes, which extends over a range of changes in size of the particles to be examined, which transducer is formed in this way is _# dafe «r eloctric impulses of oil a consequence of the. Movement of particles within the Elnflueses dee WAndlcra generates, in general, an impulse for, each particle, the amplitude of the impulse e grease of the generating particle is proportional, and a liquid pump is provided through which the suspension under the influence of the transducer 109884/0257 bad original is brought, characterized in that a number of impulse discriminators (2 * 0 cum separating the impulses into a group of channels are provided, each of which ends in a counter (26) and represents one of the mentioned areas corresponding to a puncture in a certain V / he progresses from the area at one end of the group to the area at the opposite end, and the progressive puncture is related to the mean size of the particles in each successive channel given volumetric amount of suspension is provided for each area, when the suspension is moved under the influence of the transducer, the counters (26) alt Jtdea of the channels connected aiml, eo that "it on dl" la d * n channels generate *** pulses respond , vena regulating organ · (60; 3o), which work on the count of each successive channel of the mentioned group according to a multiplication factor, which is selected according to the same determined progressive puncture, so that the counts registered on the respective teeth are directly proportional to the men of the particulate material in each of the respective areas assigned to the counters. 109884/0257 ORIGINAL BATHROOM 2, device according to claim 1, characterized in that the Regulating organs working on the channel counting a tent afterthought (6o) to change the time of the respective Uniformed counts according to the multiplication factor mentioned, 3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the 'control organs for working on the channel counts comprise an electrical Multlpllkationsgchaltung (66) and means which connect the pulse separator with the multiplication circuit. 2Y. Device according to claim 3, characterized in that the Multiplication circuit has at least one binary element (8). 5, device according to claims 1, 2, 3 and H for each area, characterized in that the device has connections (7o, 72) for supplying the resulting processed counts from the working organs to the respective counters * 6. Girat according to claim 1, characterized in that there is a 109884/0257 bad original Counter (26) is provided for each area and that Device connections (7O | 72) for the supply of the i <* gu3. * animal gate. processed payments from the labor regulators in a progressive and cumulative manner to the Counting the relative volume of the particulate Display material above a specified size 7 · Device according to claim 1 _9, characterized by an arrangement in which the mentioned number of integral pulses /hediskrintnatcren (5 ^) can be calibrated to determine the limits of the mentioned ranges and the number "of discriminators are arranged so that they are circuits for To show the counts of neighboring Iiapuleliöbedlekriminatojrea and to subtract a smaller one from the larger one, including an euamierte count: to obtain a differential count in the "Bartich, which is delimited between the mentioned Dieki'iminatoren" Device nf> .ch claim J _t characterized in that the processing and summing circuits are formed by electronic circuitry (29) > ground. ίο ·· »/» ». ^BATH . "* ■ 9. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the mentioned regulating bodies by electronic integrators (2o) are formed whose constants correspond to the multiplication factor mentioned are selected. Io " Particle analyzer" characterized by a transducer (32) of the type that supplies electrical impulses which represent particles which come under the influence of the transducer and which impulses each have an amplitude that goes to the respective parts through which they are generated is proportional, a differential pulse height discriminator (2h) with adjustment circuits to form a window of variable width only for the passage of certain pulses through the discriminator, which converter is connected so that the pulses are fed to the discriminator, "in a counter (26), who responds to the outcome of the "Diekrinatcrs, which latter can be adjusted to form a series of windows * which pass counts in a series of areas related to each other according to a particular progressive puncture of mean particle size" , and an adjustable control device for programming cer operation of the EM hler in repeated words, 1Q9884 / 02S7 bad original -69- and processing the BereichzShlungen corresponding to said function, which control device cooperates with the Sereichaählerarbeitsweise ·, so that the meter reads numbers for each region having a different particle volume-verhSltnis. 11. Device according to claim Io, characterized by an amplifier (2o) and elae circuit arrangement (53) for changing the en ^ findliohkeit of the device at least susätilich au the SHnffcellaohaltungen to change the penster width, which SehaltünseanorÜnung an area additionally forms by the adaptation of the formed . * : * - Overslide the test Io and Vk _% so that the Bareiohtahlunea regulating organs have controllers (60} but the % * &,% a * y counts "* 13. Device according to the Auepröchen Io _t 11 and 12, characterized in that the range counting regulating organs have a variable electronic multiplier (30) on the counting counter 109884 / 02R7 1518241 -7ο- lM, device according to claims Io - 13, characterized in that the area counting regulating elements comprise a time switch (dfio) and an electronic multiplier (3o) which is connected to change the counts jointly or separately. 15 * Device according to claims 12-14, characterized in that that special rule arrangement · !! to change the time switch »(62) or the electronic multiplier (66) are provided and also a display device (68) is provided for the resulting factor, as well as a coupling (7o, 72) between each of the control arrangements for simultaneous drive of the display device of the resulting factor 16 · Particle analyzer for which arrangements are provided are that allow impulses to pass through in a row of areas * whose mean particle size varies from area to area changed according to a certain progressive function, and also facilities are provided that serve to process the resulting pulse count and include a timer and an electronic multiplier, common or independent of each other 109884/0257 bad original work, characterized by a first control element (62) for changing the permitted by the timer Counting time, a second control element (66) for changing the multiplication effect of the multiplier, and a device (68) for displaying the resultant factor, driven by the regulating members simultaneously will. 17. Device according to the parts Io - 15 "characterized" in that the display device for the resulting Paktor has two parallel planar parts (Ho, 112), one of which is an opening (12 ² O and a label (122) adjacent Opening to represent part of the resulting factor to be displayed "has, while the other" has a series of markings (132) which are flush with the opening and each of which represents a second part of the resulting factor to be displayed "and coupling elements ( 13 ^ »136), which connect the plane parts with the regulating organs (62, SC) , & o that for each position of each regulating organ its marking appears in the mentioned opening, which forms a complete resultant factor in the mentioned first part, which by the Respective positions BATH ORIGINAL 109804/0257 of the regulating organs is generated. 18. Method of converting electrical impulses, polygamy represent the passage of particles within the sphere of influence of a transducer which generates a single pulse for every particle is generated whose amplitude is the size of the Particle is substantially proportional, in numbers representing the volume of the particulate material, characterized in that the pulses are separated into a plurality of size ranges of a particular value v / earth, the respective mean momentum of which is a certain Have relation to each other ^ and processed the pulse numbers according to a puncture of this relation to obtain, among other things, values that indicate the volume of the particulate material in the mentioned size range ^ n represent. 19 «The method according to Anapruch 13, characterized in that · the processing is carried out before the separation · 2c, method according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that ν. the values mentioned · are accumulated in order to obtain further VJer-re that correspond to the total particulate 109884/0287 -73- ilaterial above a specified size in relation «Teher .. 21. The method according to claim 18, 19 or 2o, characterized in that that the amount of the size ranges from area to area according to a certain geometric Progression changed. Method according to Claim 21, characterized in that the specific geometric progression is obtained in that the number of particles which are brought into the area of influence of the transducer is changed. 25. The method according to claims 18-22, in which the particles are in a liquid suspension, characterized in that the amount of the size ranges is changed according to a geometric progression and the progression is achieved in that the ) .n the. Area of influence of the transducer brought volume of the suspension is changed. 2 '\. Method according to claims 10 - 23 » characterized by shows that the function from the progression 1/2 10988A / 0257 BAD where H is a series of consecutive integers. Method according to Claim 24, characterized in that the Uert can comprise N negative numbers. 26. Apparatus for carrying out the method according to claim 18. 27. Apparatus for carrying out the method according to claim 19. 28. Apparatus for performing the method according to claim 2o. 29. Apparatus for carrying out the method according to claim 21. 30. Device according to claims 1-9 «characterized in that the progressive function is a reciprocal value of the integer 2 Isi, which is raised to the η-th power , where η is a consecutive whole number for each range * 31. Apparatus according to claims 1-9, characterized in that the areas adjoin one another. BATH ORIGINAL 109884/0257 3? .. DatenunTiaf andlunpiSÄe advises use with a particle counting device, the latter serving to generate a plurality of electrical pulses as a result of the counting of particles in a sample, each pulse having an amplitude proportional to the size of the generating particle, and the device comprises an impulse discriminator for regulating the passage of impulses in areas corresponding to a certain progressive puncture which is related to the mean size of the particles in the successive areas; Has binary elements (28) for processing the mentioned impulses of the respective areas according to the mentioned progressive function and counter (26) for generating the impulses after processing to obtain data that are related to the hate of the particulate material in the areas " 35. Apparatus according to claim 32, characterized in that the processing organs are formed by a number of bin elements (28) are formed, which are arranged in the form of a strand are, where »i the one element of the number mentioned with an associated pulse height discriminator for each 109884/0257 BADORiGlHAL -Tire I connected 1st while the other items are like that are connected that they certain elements of the strand use to divide the counts depending on the area counts processed, so that with each operation at most the same strand is used for division. Device according to claims 31 * 32 or 33, characterized in that the processing elements mentioned comprise a multiplication circuit with a number of AND circuits (82), one of which is connected to the pulse height discriminator (2 $) for a single area wherein LUttoi are provided, open on occurrence of a Teilcheniiapulssa in a particular area, the AND circuit door * the area, without opening the other, further a linpitle oscillator (8 * 1) is provided let through a Inpule Getrlgßsrt Vi2? D, which from the pulse height discriminator comes to allow a set of impulses through the Uiiä-Sohn & Xtung for the area hindurehasoen, aowie ein e / nent (86) is provided, which by the part a & ngstrigs «rt is to deactivate the oscillator after a number of pulses sent to the processing actuator stand in connexion, through the AND circuit 10 9884/0257 ^BAD Step 1st, and means which the AND circuits with connect the meters » 35 »Device according to claim 3 ¹ **, characterized in that connections are provided for switching off the particle counting device (26) when an AND gate is opened by a particle pulse. 36, device according to claims 32-35 »characterized in that a writer (97) is provided through which the stored processed pulses plotted as a graph of particulate material versus size will, 3? «T ^ iloh« ndat # ja «ü! A» reniilun2 »rorriahtunx, in which one counter delivers words which the integral course of the particle volume versus the flow and ί vorjeiehen the Inpulse are _t produce which TeJ lehen * äiiluiVjE Stand in Besiebunf and deliver this mn uvvanalungvorrichtung, thereby gkknnteiehix t » that Sperreelwltungen (84, 88) are provided by the counter with the highest value can be operated if «Ine certain power of Io is stored to the momentum · 109884/0257 ORIGINAL BATHROOM 1S982A1 to deactivate generating circuits (2o) so that the mentioned values points on a curve for the percentage against a specified quantity with the exception of the Form decimal point position. 38. Apparatus according to claim 32, characterized in that the said counters are formed by electrical circuits (26) each of which has at least one input • terminal, and the data mentioned are formed by electrical potentials that apply to the output cycles mentioned can be derived, the values of which lead to a differential curve of the particle race versus the Great relationships 39, device according to claims 32-38, characterized in that a network is provided which has at least a number of resistors (RL4 _# RL5) which are connected as a matrix for the potential accumulation, which network is connected to the above mentioned network to deliver to this second potentials which are related to the integral curve of the percentage of the particulate material against a specified Gr (We. 109884/0257 ORIGINAL BATHROOM ¹ yo. Apparatus according to claim 39 »characterized in that a potentiometer (95, 96) is provided which is connected to a recorder (97) for plotting the aforementioned integral curve, the last-mentioned terminals being taps (term I, term 2, term 5) on the Form potentiometer. BAD ORIGINAL 10988 ^ / 0257