JPH1019760A - Particle size distribution measuring apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a particle size distribution measuring apparatus which enables quickly redoing of the results of measuring a particle size distribution following an altered value of a relative refractive index for particles of a measuring sample. SOLUTION: In an apparatus in which light intensity distribution data for particle groups of a measuring sample are detected by a laser light detection sensor while the results of measuring a particle size distribution are visually displayed on a TV monitor 19 according to particle size data, which are already determined by a particle size distribution computing/determining section 14 based on light intensity distribution data and a relative refractive index of particles, repeated computation and determination of the particle size data based on the relative refractive index newly indicated are simultaneously executed for a plurality of samples while the corresponding results of the measurement of the particle size distribution are automatically updated according to the results obtained of the repeated determination.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a particle size distribution measuring apparatus for measuring the particle size distribution of a group of particles (for example, powder) as a measurement sample by a laser diffraction / scattering method, and relates to a relative refractive index of particles of the measurement sample. The present invention relates to a technology for efficiently performing recalculation and finding of a particle size distribution measurement result in accordance with a change in the value of.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In a particle size distribution measuring apparatus using a laser diffraction / scattering method, particles having a certain particle size and a certain ratio (relative particle amount with the whole being 100%) in a particle group as a measurement sample. Whether it is included is a basic measurement item. In a conventional particle size distribution measuring device, a laser light source irradiates a laser beam to a particle group as a measurement sample, and a scattered light detection sensor arranged around the particle group detects diffraction / scattered light by the particle group, The arithmetic calculation unit is configured to perform data processing based on the spatial light intensity distribution data of the diffracted / scattered light obtained from the scattered light detection sensor to obtain the particle size distribution data for the measurement sample.

[0003] There is a one-to-one relationship between particle size and spatial light intensity distribution pattern. That is, as shown in FIG. 17A, when a laser beam is applied to the particles, FIG.
As shown in the figure, the spatial light intensity distribution pattern of the diffracted / scattered light shows a unique pattern corresponding to the particle diameter. According to optical theory, if the particle size is sufficiently large compared to the wavelength of the laser beam, basically the Fraunhofe
r) Diffraction theory is dominant, and if the particle size is about the same as or smaller than the wavelength of the laser beam,
e) Scattering theory is dominant. On the other hand, since the light intensity distribution pattern of a particle group (measurement sample) composed of particles having a large number of particles has a superimposed relationship with each light intensity distribution pattern of the particles having various particle sizes, the light intensity distribution pattern of the measurement sample is obtained. Is detected, and the particle size distribution data of the particle group of the measurement sample is obtained from the calculation by calculation. In the calculation process for obtaining the particle size distribution data, the relationship S = A · f is applied. S is the light intensity distribution, A is the conversion coefficient determined by the relative refractive index of the particles (and the medium), and f is the particle size distribution.

The particle size distribution measuring apparatus using the laser diffraction / scattering method has a very wide particle size range to be measured, and uses not only a wet measurement for dispersing particles in a medium but also a medium ( It is a very useful device that can perform dry measurement and plate type measurement (the medium is a gas such as air), has a short measurement time, and has excellent reproducibility and operability. In various fields, such as food and pharmaceutical products, evaluation of developed products at the research stage,
It is widely used for quality control of products at the manufacturing stage.

[0005]

In the above-mentioned conventional particle size distribution measuring apparatus, when the relative refractive index value of the particles is not appropriate, the relative refractive index value (estimated value) is changed and the calculation is performed again to perform the particle size distribution measurement. Although the results must be re-examined, there is a problem that when there are a plurality of measurement samples (there are usually a plurality of samples), it is difficult to re-produce the particle size distribution measurement results quickly. If you change the relative refractive index,
In the conventional apparatus, the particle size distribution measurement results are re-produced one by one for each measurement sample, and it takes time and effort. On the other hand, since the relative refractive index of the particles is not a predetermined invariable value but an assumed value determined by the measurer in consideration of various conditions, the value is often not appropriate, and the re-examination of the particle size distribution measurement result is often good. Therefore, the problem that it is difficult to promptly return the measurement result of the particle size distribution is not a small problem for the particle size distribution measuring device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of the above circumstances, it is an object of the present invention to provide a particle size distribution measuring device capable of promptly re-producing a particle size distribution measurement result accompanying a change in the relative refractive index value of particles of a measurement sample. And

[0007]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a particle size distribution measuring apparatus for irradiating a particle group, which is a measurement sample, with a laser beam. Light detection means for detecting diffraction / scattered light by
An operation for performing data processing based on spatial light intensity distribution data of diffracted / scattered light obtained from the light detection means and a relative refractive index of particles separately specified to obtain particle size distribution data for the sample. In a particle size distribution measuring device comprising a calculating means and an image display means for displaying an image of a particle size distribution measurement result obtained in accordance with the calculated particle size distribution data, a group of measurement samples for which the particle size distribution measurement result has already been obtained. For the sample selected by the designated operation from among the above, the re-calculation of the particle size distribution data based on the newly specified relative refractive index is performed, and the particle size distribution measurement result of the selected sample is re-calculated. It is provided with a particle size distribution re-calculating means that automatically updates in accordance with the above.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a particle size distribution measuring apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein each particle size distribution graph of several measurement samples is superimposed and projected on a screen of an image display means. A superimposition drawing means is provided, and collective designation of recalculation execution by the particle size distribution recalculation means is performed on all of the several measurement samples by an input operation on a screen on which the respective particle size distribution graphs are superimposed and projected. It is configured to be made.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a particle size distribution measuring apparatus as set forth in the first or second aspect, wherein each particle size distribution graph of several measurement samples is individually displayed on a screen of an image display means. A distribution individual drawing means is provided, and the re-calculation execution by the particle size distribution re-calculating means can be individually designated for each measurement sample by an input operation on a screen on which the respective particle size distribution graphs are projected. ing.

[0010]

The operation of the particle size distribution measuring apparatus according to the present invention for measuring the particle size distribution is as follows. Claim 1
In the particle size distribution measuring device of the invention of the invention, in measuring the particle size distribution of the particle group, while the laser beam is irradiated from the light irradiation means to the particle group which is the measurement sample, by the light detection means arranged around the particle group Laser light that has been diffracted / scattered by the particle group is detected. Then, the calculation and calculation unit performs data processing based on the spatial light intensity distribution data of the diffracted / scattered light obtained from the light detection means and the relative refractive index of the particles specified separately, and performs processing on the measurement sample. After the particle size distribution data is obtained, the result of the particle size distribution measurement is displayed on the screen of the video display means (in the form of a graph or a numerical table) according to the obtained particle size distribution data.

The operation of re-extracting the particle size distribution measurement results when the relative refractive index value of the particles is not appropriate is as follows. While the relative refractive index of the particles is re-designated to the new assumed value, one or more samples are specified as targets for re-examining the particle size distribution measurement results from the group of measurement samples for which the particle size distribution measurement results have already been obtained. Then, the particle size distribution recalculating means executes a recalculation calculation of the particle size distribution data based on the newly designated relative refractive index for each designated sample, and then recalculates a particle size distribution measurement result of each sample. It is automatically updated according to the result of. In other words, it is possible to collectively carry out re-examination of the particle size distribution measurement results for a plurality of samples.

In the particle size distribution measuring device according to the present invention, when the particle size distribution graphs of some measurement samples are superimposed and displayed on the screen of the image display means by the particle size distribution superimposing drawing means, each particle size distribution graph is displayed. If the input operation is performed on the screen with superimposed display, batch specification of re-outputting the particle size distribution measurement result by the particle size distribution recalculation means has been performed for all the measurement samples corresponding to all graphs being superimposed. become. Then, when the result of re-examination of the result of the particle size distribution measurement by the particle size distribution re-determining means is obtained, all the particle size distribution graphs being superimposed and displayed on the screen are automatically updated accordingly. Of course, if the particle size distribution measurement result is output in the form of a numerical table other than the graph, this is also automatically updated.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, when the individual particle size distribution graphs of several measurement samples are individually displayed on the screen of the image display means by the individual particle size distribution drawing means, the respective particle size distribution graphs are displayed. If an input operation is performed on the projected screen, designation of re-outputting the particle size distribution measurement result by the particle size distribution re-calculating means is performed for the measurement sample corresponding to the particle size distribution graph displayed on the input operated screen. It will be. Then, when a result of re-examination of the particle size distribution measurement result by the particle size distribution re-determining means is obtained for a sample (in some cases) corresponding to the screen on which the input operation has been performed, the screen on which the input operation has been performed in accordance therewith Is automatically updated. After all, if the particle size distribution measurement result is output in the form of a numerical table other than the graph, this is also automatically updated.

[0014]

An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing an entire configuration of an embodiment of a particle size distribution measuring apparatus using a laser diffraction / scattering method according to the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a main portion of a main body of the embodiment apparatus. FIG.

The particle size distribution measuring apparatus according to the embodiment uses a diffraction / irradiation / irradiation laser beam as a basis for calculating and calculating the particle size distribution data.
A measuring device main body 1 for obtaining spatial light intensity distribution data of scattered light is provided. As shown in FIG. 2, the measuring device main unit 1 includes a laser light source (light irradiating unit) 4 that irradiates a laser beam to a particle group 2 of a measurement sample via a collimator 3.
And a scattered light detection sensor (light detection means) 5 for detecting diffraction / scattered light by the particle group 2 is provided around the particle group 2. The scattered light detection sensor 5 includes a forward scattered light sensor 5a using a ring detector or the like, a side scattered light sensor 5b, and a back scattered light sensor 5c. A ring-shaped diffraction / scattered image is formed on the detection surface 7a. The detection surface 7 of the forward scattered light sensor 5a is divided corresponding to the ring-shaped diffraction / scattered image 8, and has a structure in which spatial light intensity distribution data can be obtained. Normally, as the particle size of the particle group 2 becomes smaller, the amount of light detected from the side scattered light sensor 5b to the back scattered light sensor 5c increases.

The apparatus according to the embodiment includes a light intensity distribution data memory unit 10 for storing the detection output of the scattered light detection sensor 5 (after A / D conversion) as light intensity distribution data, and for calculating and obtaining the particle size distribution data. Is provided with a coefficient holding unit 11 for holding a matrix-like conversion coefficient used for (1). Although the light intensity distribution data can be directly taken into the light intensity distribution data memory unit 10 by a direct method, the measurement device main unit 1
A storage device such as a magnetic disk is provided on the side, and the detection output (original data) of the scattered light detection sensor 5 is temporarily stored in the storage device, and then transferred to the light intensity distribution data memory unit 10 in a timely manner. It may be an indirect form. The coefficient holding unit 11 holds a large number of conversion coefficients corresponding to the relative refractive indexes of the particles (and the medium), and the relative refractive index of the particles specified and input by the operator from the console 12 or the so-called mouse 13. A conversion coefficient corresponding to the value of is selected.

The apparatus according to the embodiment includes a particle size distribution data calculation / calculation section 14 for calculating particle size distribution data using light intensity distribution data and a conversion coefficient corresponding to the relative refractive index of particles. A particle size distribution graphing unit 15 for performing a process for generating a particle size distribution graph in accordance with the obtained particle size distribution data, and a particle size distribution related number table generating unit 16 for performing a process for numerical tabulation corresponding to the particle size distribution graph. . In the calculation of the particle size distribution data, the relation S = Af is applied in the particle size distribution data calculation calculating section 14. S is a light intensity distribution vector, A is a matrix form conversion coefficient from the coefficient holding unit 11, and f is a particle size distribution vector. That is, the operation of f = (A ^T A) ^-1 A ^T S is substantially performed. The light intensity distribution data is converted into a particle size distribution vector f by a calculation, and then sent to the particle size distribution graphing unit 15 and the particle size distribution related number tabulating unit 16. In addition,
The relative refractive index of the particles input and designated by the measurer from the mouse 13 or the like is not a fixed or invariable value, but an assumed value determined to be appropriate by the measurer. The particle size distribution data is subjected to knitting processing required for a graph and a numerical table as a particle size distribution measurement result, which will be described in detail later, by a particle size distribution graphing unit 15 and a particle size distribution related number tabulating unit 16, respectively. It is sent to the virtual display sheet setting unit 17.

Further, the apparatus of the embodiment includes a light intensity distribution graphing section 20 for performing a process for forming a light intensity distribution graph according to the light intensity distribution data stored in the light intensity distribution data memory section 10, and a light intensity distribution graph. And a light intensity distribution related number tabulation unit 21 for performing a process for tabulating a numerical value corresponding to. The light intensity distribution data is stored in the light intensity distribution graphing unit 20.
In addition, the light intensity distribution number tabulation unit 21 performs a knitting process necessary for a graph and a numerical table as a light intensity distribution measurement result, which will be described in detail later, and further sends the virtual display sheet setting unit 17 to be described later.

Further, the apparatus according to the embodiment includes a statistical sheeting unit 22 for performing processing for obtaining a statistical sheet or a time series sheet as an accompanying result obtained by secondary processing of the particle size distribution data or the light intensity distribution data. Sheeting unit 23
It also has. The accompanying result is not limited to a statistical sheet or a time-series sheet, but may also be a characteristic sheet indicating the correspondence between the relative refractive index and the average particle diameter. The particle size distribution data and the light intensity distribution data are stored in a statistical sheeting unit 22 and a time series sheeting unit 23.
Thus, after the knitting process necessary for a graph or a numerical table as an accompanying result, which will be described in detail later, is performed, it is sent to the virtual display sheet setting unit 17 in the subsequent stage. The statistic sheet and the time series sheet are accompanied by one or both of a graph and a numerical table.
Performs the knitting process necessary for graphing and numerical tabulation.

On the other hand, a virtual display sheet setting section 17 provided in the embodiment apparatus virtually sets a display sheet corresponding to one display section defined on a screen of a TV monitor (video display means) 19 using a CRT. The number of the virtual display sheet setting units 17 provided in the embodiment apparatus basically corresponds to the number of display sections defined on the screen of the TV monitor 19. Then, it is sent from the particle size distribution graphing unit 15 and the particle size distribution related number tabulating unit 16, the light intensity distribution graphing unit 20 and the light intensity distribution number tabulating unit 21, the statistical sheet forming unit 22, the time series sheet forming unit 23, and the like. The virtual display sheet setting unit 17 arranges and holds the graph and the numerical value table displayed in one display section on the same virtual display sheet in accordance with the received knitting processing result. Therefore, the types of graphs include a particle size distribution graph, a light intensity distribution graph, a statistical graph,
Time-series graphs and the like are given, and numerical tables corresponding to the respective graphs are given. Furthermore, in addition to the fact that only one graph is displayed in one display section, multiple graphs are superimposed and displayed in one display section, and graphs can be displayed in three dimensions as necessary. The image may be displayed, and an image is virtually set on the virtual display sheet according to each of these modes. The type of the graph, the drawing form, or the format of the numerical table can be designated from the operation unit 12 or the mouse 13.

Further, the apparatus of the embodiment is provided with a display control section 18 for controlling the screen of the TV monitor 19 in accordance with designation from the operation section 12 or the mouse 13 or an instruction of a control program for the entire apparatus. The display control unit 18 establishes one or a plurality of display sections on the screen according to an operation from the operation unit 12 or the mouse 13. This corresponds to opening a window by a so-called window program. The display control unit 18 also has a function of superimposing display sections and individually setting the position and size of each display section as necessary according to the operation from the operation unit 12 and the mouse 13. A part or all of the image set in the corresponding virtual display sheet setting unit 17 is displayed in the display section defined by the display control unit 18. A function of superimposing and displaying each particle size distribution graph of some measurement samples by the screen control by the display control unit 18 and the above-described various data knitting processing and the virtual image setting by the virtual display sheet setting unit 17. Particle size distribution superimposition drawing function)
Alternatively, a function of individually displaying each particle size distribution graph of some measurement samples (particle size distribution individual drawing function) may be provided.

Further, the apparatus of the embodiment can select and specify an arbitrary sample from a group of measurement samples for which particle size distribution measurement results have already been obtained. When a new relative refractive index is input and specified for the selected sample, a recalculation operation of the particle size distribution data based on the relative refractive index is executed,
A particle size distribution recalculation function (particle size distribution recalculation means) for automatically updating the particle size distribution measurement result of the selected sample in accordance with the recalculation result is provided.

When the particle size distribution graphs of some measurement samples are superimposed and displayed on the screen (one display section) of the TV monitor 19 by the particle size distribution superimposing function, the respective particle size distribution graphs are superimposed and displayed. Control panel 1
With the input operation using the mouse 2 or the mouse 13, the re-calculation execution by the particle size distribution re-calculation function is designated collectively for all the measurement samples corresponding to all the graphs being superimposed and displayed. When the particle size distribution is calculated again, all the particle size distribution graphs being superimposed on the screen are automatically updated accordingly. Of course, if the particle size distribution measurement result is output in the form of a numerical table other than the graph, this is also automatically updated.

In addition, the apparatus according to the present invention is not limited to the case where the respective particle size distribution graphs of some measurement samples are individually displayed on the screen (each display section) of the TV monitor 19 by the individual particle size distribution drawing function. By using the operation unit 12 or the mouse 13 to input an individual screen on which each particle size distribution graph is projected, a recalculation of the particle size distribution is performed for the measurement sample corresponding to the graph displayed on the input operation screen. It is also configured so that the outgoing designation can be made individually. Furthermore, in the case of the embodiment apparatus, even if the displayed graph is not a particle size distribution graph but a light intensity distribution graph, if an input operation is performed, designation of recalculation calculation can be performed in the same manner as in the case of the particle size distribution graph. The sample can be specified quickly and easily for recalculating the particle size distribution.

In addition, the apparatus of the present embodiment displays graphs and numerical tables as the results of the particle size distribution result, the light intensity distribution measurement result, and the accompanying result on the same screen (display section) of the TV monitor 19 as necessary. A multi-display function (multi-display means) for displaying in various combinations while allowing superimposed display (of the display section) and setting of size and arrangement is provided. In each virtual display sheet setting unit 17, a graph and a numerical table as each result are set as virtual images, respectively, and these are displayed by a display section opening function and a display section superimposing function of the display control unit 18. Multi-display is freely performed by the individual setting function of the position and size of the display section.

In the particle size distribution measuring apparatus shown in FIG. 1, a particle size distribution data calculation and calculation unit 14, a particle size distribution graphing unit 15, a particle size distribution related number table creating unit 16, a light intensity distribution graphing unit 20, a light intensity distribution related number table The conversion unit 21, the statistical sheet conversion unit 22, the time series sheet conversion unit 23, the virtual display sheet setting unit 17, and the display control unit 18 are mainly configured by a CPU (microprocessor) and software (program). It is. In addition, the above-mentioned particle size distribution re-calculation function and multi-display function, as well as the particle size distribution superimposing drawing function and the particle size distribution individual drawing function are provided with an operation console 12 and a mouse 13 for input operation for performing necessary designations. It is carried by a wide range of components from the above-mentioned particle size distribution data calculation obtaining unit 14 to the display control unit 18 for execution.

Next, the operation of displaying the measurement results by the embodiment apparatus having the above-described configuration will be described with reference to the drawings showing specific graphs and numerical tables.
First, the state of displaying the particle size distribution graph of the measurement sample and a numerical table corresponding to the particle size distribution graph on the display section defined on the screen of the TV monitor 19 will be described.

By the measurement / calculation processing on the sample, the virtual display sheet setting unit 17 in the embodiment apparatus converts the image of both the particle size distribution graph G1 and the numerical table T1 corresponding to one sample to the same virtual display sheet. While the TV is controlled by the display controller 18.
One display section (window) is defined and opened on the screen of the monitor 19. At present, as shown in FIG.
It is assumed that the monitor 19 is opened so as to occupy the entire screen. First, the particle size distribution graph G1 is displayed in the display section P1.
Only is projected. In the particle size distribution graph G1, the frequency value and the integrated value at each particle size are shown with the relative particle amount as the vertical axis. When it is desired to display the numerical value table T1, the scroll bar SB is clicked with the mouse 13 to perform a scroll operation. With the scroll operation, the display portion of the virtual display sheet changes, and as shown in FIG.
1 shows only the numerical value table T1 instead of the particle size distribution graph G1. Particle size, integrated value,
Difference values and the like are shown. In the virtual display sheet setting unit 17, the particle size distribution graph G1 and the numerical value table T1 are arranged vertically, but the particle size distribution graph G1 and the numerical value table T1 may be arranged right and left. Good.

In the apparatus of the embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG.
The screen may be divided and opened on the screen of the monitor 19. The size of the image is 1 in the three display sections P3 to P5.
Other than / 4, one particle size distribution graph and a numerical value table are displayed so as to be switchable and displayable by a scroll operation as in the case of FIGS.
The graph G2 and the numerical value table T2 are displayed so that they can be switched and displayed by a scroll operation. In the graph G2 in the display section P2, several particle size distribution graphs are displayed in a superimposed manner.

It should be noted that both the particle size distribution graph and the numerical value table can be simultaneously displayed on each of the display sections P1 to P5 (the entire image placed on the virtual display sheet is displayed). Numerical values and characters are small and difficult to see, so if the particle size distribution graph and the numerical value table are selectively displayed as described above so that they can be seen large, the displayed numerical values and characters are easy to see. In the case of the apparatus according to the embodiment, the numerical value table T1 projected by the scroll operation always correctly corresponds to the corresponding particle size distribution graph G1, and there is no fear of mistaking the correspondence between the numerical value tables of other graphs.

Next, a description will be given of a display operation in which the light intensity distribution graphs of a plurality of samples are superimposed and projected on one display section defined on the screen of the TV monitor 19. As a measurement sample, a mixed particle group of three glass beads having a particle diameter of 30 μm, glass beads having a particle diameter of 60 μm, and glass beads having a particle diameter of 100 μm is used. Of course, in the case of this mixed particle group, FIG.
As shown in (5), the particle size distribution graph G3 can be displayed on the TV monitor 19, but information other than the particle size distribution information cannot be obtained on the screen. On the other hand, a light intensity distribution graph G4 of the mixed particle group is as shown in FIG. In the light intensity data of the light intensity distribution graph G4, the sensor element numbers up to 65 are from the forward scattered light sensor 5a, and the sensor element numbers exceeding 65 are the side and back scattered light sensors 5b. , 5c.
The portion of the light intensity data of the light intensity distribution graph G4 where the element number of the sensor is less than about 40 well reflects the particle size distribution, while the part where the element number of the sensor is about 40 or less reflects the particle group ( Although the physical property (other than the particle size) is well reflected, it is difficult to grasp the physical property information only by looking at a single light intensity distribution graph G4. Therefore, in the embodiment apparatus, as shown in FIG. 8, each light intensity distribution graph G5 for a plurality of samples is displayed on the screen (display section) of the TV monitor 19.
a to G5-1 are superimposed and projected so that differences in physical properties between the particle groups can be sufficiently grasped.

Further, light intensity distribution graphs G5-a to G5
If, for example, the light intensity distribution graph G5-f of -l is that of a standard sample, the other samples show the overall physical property deviation from the standard sample. For example, when the standard sample is a raw material powder that has produced a good product, the quality of the raw material of the sample powder can be more accurately determined, including overall physical properties, and sufficient production management can be performed. Note that the light intensity distribution graph may be superimposed and projected in a three-dimensional display as shown in FIG. Of course, it goes without saying that the particle size distribution graph for each sample can also be superimposed on the TV monitor 19 as shown in FIG.

Next, the operation for recalculating the particle size distribution will be described. For a sample for which the calculation of the particle size distribution has been once determined, a different relative refractive index may be newly designated and the particle size distribution may be re-issued. If the assumed relative refractive index of the particle specified first is not appropriate, an abnormal peak (such as a ghost peak) appears in the particle size distribution graph, or the line bends unnaturally. Find the appropriate particle size distribution data by specifying the refractive index again. Of course,
According to the recalculated particle size distribution data, the results such as the particle size distribution graph and the numerical table are automatically updated.

The first specified relative refractive index (1.90-0.1
For each of the twelve samples for which the particle size distribution measurement results were obtained in 0i), for example, as shown in FIG.
The display section P6 of the four display sections P6 to P9 that divide the screen of FIG.
While the integrated values of the particle size distribution graphs of the two samples are superimposed and displayed, the subsequent display sections P7 to P9 show the particle size of three of the twelve samples (by the particle size distribution individual drawing function). The distribution graphs are individually displayed one by one.

If it is determined that the first designated relative refractive index (1.90-0.10i) is not appropriate for all the samples, a new relative refractive index (1.40) is changed by the console 12 or the mouse 13. If a screen input operation for designating −0.00i) and designating a re-calculation of the particle size distribution is performed on the display section P6 in which all graphs are superimposed, 1
The particle size distribution data of all the two samples is calculated again, and as shown in FIG. 12, the graphs of the display sections P6 to P9 are all updated according to the reappearance result.

However, the first specified relative refractive index (1.90)
If it is determined that −0.10i) is not appropriate only for the sample corresponding to the display section P7, the console 1
2 and the mouse 13 have different relative refractive indices (1.
If 40-0.00i) is specified and a screen input operation is performed to specify the re-calculation of the particle size distribution only for the display section P7, the particle size distribution data of only the sample corresponding to the display section P7 is obtained again. As shown in FIG. 13, only the graph of the display section P7 and the graph of the sample related to the designation of the recalculation of the particle size distribution among the graphs superimposed and displayed on the display section P6 are updated according to the redisplay result. You. Even in this case, if a screen input operation is performed on both of the display sections P7 and P8, it goes without saying that the particle size distribution measurement results are output again for samples corresponding to both screens of the display sections P7 and P8.

As described above, when there are a plurality of samples for which the results of the measurement of the particle size distribution need to be regenerated, the recalculation of the particle size distribution is executed collectively, and the graphs and numerical tables of the particle size distribution results are automatically updated. In this case, an appropriate particle size distribution result can be obtained efficiently. If an appropriate relative refractive index is found for a specific sample after the particle size distribution measurement results are first issued, reappearance of the particle size distribution measurement results as described above can verify the validity of the whole.

Further, a specific example of multi-display of various measurement results in the particle size distribution measuring device will be described. In the apparatus of the embodiment, the graph or numerical value table as each result of the particle size distribution result, the light intensity distribution measurement result, and the accompanying result can be set in various combinations while permitting superimposed display and setting of size and arrangement as necessary. Multi-display can be performed on the screen of the monitor 19. In the multi-display screen shown in FIG. 14, a single particle size distribution graph is displayed in each of four display sections P10 to P13 provided by dividing the screen of the TV monitor 19 into four, and the TV monitor 19 The particle size distribution graphs of some samples are superimposed and displayed on the display section P14 which is defined and opened at the center of the screen of FIG. Each display section P10
The position and size of P14 can be set as necessary.

In the multi-display screen shown in FIG. 15, four display sections P15 to P15 which divide the screen of the TV monitor 19 into four are provided.
18, the light intensity distribution graph is displayed in the display section P15, while the remaining three display sections P16 to P16 are displayed.
In FIG. 18, one particle size distribution graph is displayed one by one when the calculation is performed by changing the designated relative refractive index in the light intensity distribution data of the same sample. Further, the positions and sizes of the display sections P15 to P18 can be set as needed.

On the multi-display screen shown in FIG. 16, various types of measurement results are displayed on the screen of the TV monitor 19 in various forms. That is, in the display section P19, integrated values of some particle size distribution graphs are superimposed and three-dimensionally displayed,
In the display section P20, several particle size distribution graphs are displayed in a superimposed manner. In the display section P21, a statistic sheet having a graph and a numerical table is displayed, and in the display section P22, a time-series sheet having a graph showing a change over time of the frequency value of particles having a specific particle size is displayed. Then, in the display section P23, frequency values of some particle size distribution graphs are superimposed and three-dimensionally displayed. Further, in the display section P24, a time-series sheet having a graph showing a change with time of the average particle diameter is displayed. The display sections P20 and P24 are opened and displayed over other display sections. Each virtual display sheet setting unit 17 corresponding to each of these display sections P19 to P24
In some of the images placed on the virtual display sheet, there is a numerical table corresponding to the graph, and the lower numerical table (not shown in the figure) can be displayed instead of the graph by scrolling. There is no need to misunderstand the correspondence between the graph and the numerical table. In addition, each display section P19 to P24
Can be set as necessary. As described above, when various types of graphs and numerical tables are multi-displayed on the screen of the TV monitor 19, the measured results can be compared and contrasted to examine variously. It is possible to quickly grasp an appropriate measurement result, such as being able to efficiently specify a rate.

The present invention can be modified as follows. (1) In the case of the embodiment, the selection of the sample for which the recalculation is to be performed is performed by a screen input operation to the display section where the graph is displayed, but the recalculation is calculated on the screen. As a modified example, a list of samples that can be displayed is displayed, and a sample to be subjected to recalculation calculation is specified using a console or a mouse.

(2) A configuration in which the particle size distribution measuring apparatus of the embodiment is equipped with a printer for printing and outputting the same image output as that displayed on the screen of the TV monitor is also a useful modification of the present invention. .

(3) A variation of the present invention in which the particle size distribution measuring device uses a liquid crystal display monitor instead of a CRT monitor as a monitor for display means can also be mentioned.

[0044]

As is apparent from the above description, according to the particle size distribution measuring device of the first aspect, the particle size distribution recalculating means causes a change in the relative refractive index of the particles for a plurality of samples. Since the re-distribution of the particle size distribution measurement results can be performed collectively, the re-distribution of the particle size distribution measurement results can be efficiently and promptly performed.

Further, according to the particle size distribution measuring device of the second aspect, the user only needs to perform an input operation on the screen on which the particle size distribution graphs of some measurement samples are superimposed and displayed. Since batch re-designation of the particle size distribution measurement result can be performed for the sample, the particle size distribution measurement result can be re-exported more efficiently.

Further, according to the particle size distribution measuring device of the third aspect, only by performing an input operation on the screen on which the respective particle size distribution graphs of several measurement samples are individually displayed, it is possible to correspond to each displayed graph. Since the re-execution of the particle size distribution measurement result can be individually designated for each sample, the particle size distribution measurement result can be re-exported more efficiently.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a particle size distribution measuring device according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating a configuration of a main part of a main body of the embodiment device.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a particle size distribution graph in the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a view showing an example of a display screen of a numerical value table related to particle size distribution in the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for simultaneously displaying a plurality of particle size distribution graphs in the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a single particle size distribution graph in the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of a single light intensity distribution graph in the embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a light intensity distribution graph superimposed display screen according to the embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a superimposed three-dimensional display screen of a light intensity distribution graph according to the embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a superimposed display screen of a particle size distribution graph according to the embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen before execution of particle size distribution recalculation in the embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of an update display screen after execution of collective particle size distribution recalculation in the embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an update display screen after execution of individual particle size distribution recalculation in the embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multi-display screen in the example device.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating another example of the multi-display screen in the example device.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing another example of the multi display screen in the apparatus of the embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a diagram provided for explanation of a light intensity distribution pattern of particles having various particle diameters.

[Explanation of symbols]

 2 ... particle group (measurement sample) 4 ... laser light source (light irradiation means) 5 ... scattered light detection sensor (light detection means) 10 ... light intensity distribution data memory unit 11 ... coefficient holding unit 12 ... operation console 13 ... mouse 14 ... Particle size distribution data calculating unit 15: Particle size distribution graphing unit 17: Virtual display sheet setting unit 18: Display control unit 19: TV monitor (video display means)

Claims (3)

[Claims] 1. A light irradiation means for irradiating a laser beam to a particle group as a measurement sample, a light detection means for detecting diffraction / scattered light by the particle group, and a diffraction / scattered light obtained from the light detection means. A calculating means for performing data processing based on the spatial light intensity distribution data and the relative refractive index of the particles separately specified to determine the particle size distribution data for the sample; and the calculated particle size distribution In a particle size distribution measuring device having an image display means for displaying an image of the particle size distribution measurement result obtained according to the data, for a sample selected by a designated operation from a group of measurement samples for which the particle size distribution measurement result has already been obtained, The re-calculation of the particle size distribution data based on the newly designated relative refractive index is executed, and the particle size distribution measurement result of the selected sample is automatically updated in accordance with the re-calculation result. A particle size distribution measuring device comprising a degree distribution recalculation means. 2. The particle size distribution measuring device according to claim 1, further comprising a particle size distribution superimposing drawing means for superimposing and displaying respective particle size distribution graphs of some measurement samples on a screen of an image display means. The particle size distribution measurement is configured such that, by performing an input operation on a screen on which the respective particle size distribution graphs are superimposed and projected, all of the some measurement samples are collectively designated to execute recalculation by the particle size distribution recalculation means. apparatus. 3. The particle size distribution measuring apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a particle size distribution individual drawing unit for individually displaying each particle size distribution graph of some measurement samples on a screen of the image display unit. A particle size distribution measuring device configured to be able to individually specify re-calculation execution by a particle size distribution re-calculating means for each measurement sample by performing an input operation on a screen on which the respective particle size distribution graphs are projected.