NL2021132B1 - Storage control system comprising a supercontinuum laser source. - Google Patents
Storage control system comprising a supercontinuum laser source. Download PDFInfo
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- NL2021132B1 NL2021132B1 NL2021132A NL2021132A NL2021132B1 NL 2021132 B1 NL2021132 B1 NL 2021132B1 NL 2021132 A NL2021132 A NL 2021132A NL 2021132 A NL2021132 A NL 2021132A NL 2021132 B1 NL2021132 B1 NL 2021132B1
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- Prior art keywords
- storage space
- storage
- gas
- control system
- controller
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Classifications
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- G01N21/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of optical means, i.e. using sub-millimetre waves, infrared, visible or ultraviolet light
- G01N21/17—Systems in which incident light is modified in accordance with the properties of the material investigated
- G01N21/25—Colour; Spectral properties, i.e. comparison of effect of material on the light at two or more different wavelengths or wavelength bands
- G01N21/31—Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry
- G01N21/35—Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light
- G01N21/3504—Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing gases, e.g. multi-gas analysis
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- A23—FOODS OR FOODSTUFFS; TREATMENT THEREOF, NOT COVERED BY OTHER CLASSES
- A23B—PRESERVING, e.g. BY CANNING, MEAT, FISH, EGGS, FRUIT, VEGETABLES, EDIBLE SEEDS; CHEMICAL RIPENING OF FRUIT OR VEGETABLES; THE PRESERVED, RIPENED, OR CANNED PRODUCTS
- A23B7/00—Preservation or chemical ripening of fruit or vegetables
- A23B7/14—Preserving or ripening with chemicals not covered by groups A23B7/08 or A23B7/10
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- A23B7/152—Preserving or ripening with chemicals not covered by groups A23B7/08 or A23B7/10 in the form of gases, e.g. fumigation; Compositions or apparatus therefor in a controlled atmosphere comprising other gases in addition to CO2, N2, O2 or H2O ; Elimination of such other gases
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01J—MEASUREMENT OF INTENSITY, VELOCITY, SPECTRAL CONTENT, POLARISATION, PHASE OR PULSE CHARACTERISTICS OF INFRARED, VISIBLE OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT; COLORIMETRY; RADIATION PYROMETRY
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- G01J—MEASUREMENT OF INTENSITY, VELOCITY, SPECTRAL CONTENT, POLARISATION, PHASE OR PULSE CHARACTERISTICS OF INFRARED, VISIBLE OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT; COLORIMETRY; RADIATION PYROMETRY
- G01J3/00—Spectrometry; Spectrophotometry; Monochromators; Measuring colours
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- G01N33/0027—General constructional details of gas analysers, e.g. portable test equipment concerning the detector
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- G—PHYSICS
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- G01N1/02—Devices for withdrawing samples
- G01N1/22—Devices for withdrawing samples in the gaseous state
- G01N1/2202—Devices for withdrawing samples in the gaseous state involving separation of sample components during sampling
- G01N1/2214—Devices for withdrawing samples in the gaseous state involving separation of sample components during sampling by sorption
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- G01N21/84—Systems specially adapted for particular applications
- G01N2021/8411—Application to online plant, process monitoring
- G01N2021/8416—Application to online plant, process monitoring and process controlling, not otherwise provided for
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- G—PHYSICS
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Abstract
The invention provides a storage control system for controlling a storage space parameter of a storage space for produce, the storage control system comprising a (i) controller and (ii) a gas sensor system configured to analyze a storage space gas sample, wherein the gas sensor system comprises (a) a light source comprising a supercontinuum laser source, (b) a gas cell for part of the storage space gas sample, and (c) a sensor, wherein the light source is configured to provide light source radiation to the gas cell, and wherein the sensor is configured to sense radiation emitted from the gas cell and to provide a corresponding sensor signal to the controller, wherein the controller is configured to control the storage space parameter dependent on the sensor signal.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a storage control system for controlling a storage space parameter of a storage space. The invention further relates to an arrangement comprising a storage space and such storage control system. The invention yet further relates to a method for controlling a storage space parameter of a storage space.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Storage control systems are known in the art. US20030150334, for instance, relates to a method for regulating a controlled atmosphere for the storage of plant products in at least one storage or transport room. The method comprises the following steps: a) measuring, at at least two different intervals, the concentration of at least one trace gas that is produced by the plant products and whose share in the controlled atmosphere is less than 1%, b) deriving from the sequence of at least two measured values the degree of the change in concentration of the trace gas as a measure for the rate at which the plant product produces said trace gas, c) determining the adjustment values for the composition of the controlled atmosphere depending on the degree of the change in concentration of the trace gas, and d) adjusting the composition of the controlled atmosphere in accordance with the adjustment values.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The agri-food sector is an important industrial sector with high economic value. However, a significant part of the fruit and vegetables production may be lost during the post-harvest process, i.e. losses due to spoilage and degradation during handling, storage and transportation between farm and distribution centers. Important products that may currently be stored may include produce such as fruit (apples, pears), onions and potatoes. During or after storage, physiological or pathological disorders may develop, which may greatly diminish the commercial value of the produce due to spoilage or quality classification downgrading, and may limit consumer acceptation. The optimization of the storage conditions and timing in order to maximally preserve the quality of the produce may be a major challenge due to restricted access to stored products for quality inspection under strict storage regimes. In addition, to enable decision making, it may be of the utmost importance to have relevant information about the status of the stored products. Information about the actual ripening stage and the possible occurrence of fungal infections may influence the decisions about the best moment in time to open stores and sell the products.
For produce, the respiratory quotient (ratio between CO2 produced and O2 consumed) - indicating aerobic metabolism (respiration) and/or anaerobic metabolism (including fermentation) - may be an important parameter that may serve for adjusting the oxygen concentration in the storage space. Other important gaseous compounds, including volatiles, released by stored produce may include ethylene, which may be a marker for ripening, and ethane, which may be an indicator of damage such as chilling injury. In addition, ethanol, acetaldehyde and ethylacetate may be well known volatile markers for fermentation while methanol and acetone may serve as rotting process indicators. More specifically, the development of fungal infections (potentially dangerous for the consumer’s health via mycotoxins) during storage may be detected by measuring rotting volatiles in combination with low levels of fermentation volatiles. Therefore, the continuous monitoring of such gaseous compounds may be important not only for food quality but also for food safety control.
The above mentioned gases may often be released in trace amounts and hence long accumulation periods may be needed to obtain detectable concentrations when using standard techniques such as gas chromatography. During accumulation, the levels of many compounds in and outside the product may change, thereby possibly altering its metabolism. It may therefore be needed that accumulation periods are minimized and real-time monitoring may be a prerequisite.
Currently there may be no equipment to reliably and simultaneously measure several relevant gaseous compounds with sufficient sensitivity in the storage atmosphere in a relatively simple, non-invasive and cost-efficient way. Products may mainly be stored under Controlled Atmosphere (CA) conditions which may involve storage at low temperature, decreased oxygen and increased carbon dioxide concentrations. However, the optimization of the storage conditions and timing in order to maximally preserve the quality of the stored products may be a major challenge due to restricted access to the products for quality inspection.
The state-of-the-art technology in the fresh produce storage industry may have one or more drawbacks. These drawbacks may include: sample preparation; timeintensive analyses; manpower-intensive analyses; costly equipment; elaborate methodology; insufficient sensitivity; insufficient selectivity; invasiveness; necessity for reference gases; indirectness measurement; bulky instrumentation; ionization problems; necessity of further separation, e.g., by mass chromatography (MC); no continuous monitoring; difficulties in detection of small hydrocarbons; unspecific patterns; insufficient time resolution; cross-reactivity; memory effects; no multispecies identification; and restriction to single mode operation.
Hence, it is an aspect of the invention to provide an alternative storage control system, which preferably further at least partly obviates one or more of abovedescribed drawbacks.
Monitoring of product-produced gaseous compounds, including volatiles, in the storage atmosphere may be a promising way for getting information about the physiological and pathological status of the stored products in order to gain better control over the quality of the stored products and thus mitigate losses. The invention is based on the integration of state-of-the-art and beyond state-of-the-art subsystem components into a integrated storage system which may offer impacting solutions for the food sector (process control) with early detection of food degradation and spoilage (food safety), thus it may preserve food quality at reduced costs and it may ensure food safety for consumers.
Therefore, in a first aspect the invention provides a storage control system for controlling a storage space parameter of a storage space for produce, the storage control system comprising a (i) controller and (ii) a gas sensor system configured to analyze a storage space gas sample, wherein the gas sensor system comprises a light source comprising a supercontinuum laser source, a gas cell for the storage space gas sample, and a sensor, wherein the light source is configured to provide light source radiation to the gas cell, and wherein the sensor is configured to analyze radiation emitted from the gas cell and to provide a corresponding sensor signal to the controller, wherein the controller is configured to control the storage space parameter dependent on the sensor signal.
The invention enables optimizing storage conditions including storage space parameters (“storage conditions”) in real-time dependent on storage space gas composition, including gaseous compounds, such as volatile compounds (“volatiles”), with e.g. a concentration below 100 ppbv. Rather than having prescribed storage conditions dependent on the stored produce, the storage control system according to the present invention may continuously monitor the stored produce via analysis of the storage space gas sample and update the storage conditions for a desired outcome. A desired outcome may be to maximize the storage time; alternatively, a desired outcome may be to minimize the perishing of produce; yet alternatively, a desired outcome may be a specific ripening stage of the stored produce on a predefined date. It will be clear to a person skilled in the art that the invention as described herein may be suitable for many more potentially desired outcomes.
The term “produce” herein refers to all agricultural products including food and feed and any other substances and materials grown or obtained through farming. Produce comprises both fresh and non-fresh products. Hence, produce comprises fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, dairy products, etc. Especially, produce comprises fruits vegetables, cereals, roots, tubers, oilseeds, pulses, and nuts. For example, produce comprises apples, pears, onions, berries, oranges, mandarins, bananas, lemons, limes, grapefruit, pineapple, dates, grapes tomatoes, cabbages, lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, avocados, berries, wheat, rice, barley maize, oats, potatoes, soybeans, sunflower seeds, rape, and olives.
The invention is primarily described in terms of a storage control system for controlling a storage space parameter of a storage space for produce, i.e., a storage control system for agricultural products. The invention is, however, not limited to embodiments wherein the storage space is configured for produce. For example, a storage control system according to the invention may also be suitable for controlling a storage space parameter of a storage space for other biological material, as well as for a storage space for chemicals or art. It will be clear to a person skilled in the art that a storage control system according to the invention may be suitable for many applications.
The storage control system provides a dynamic storage space for produce. The storage space may be continuously monitored such that the status of the produce is known at all times, and such that a storage space parameter may be automatically and/or manually adjusted in response to the status of the produce.
In embodiments, the storage control system may be configured to control one or more of spoilage, rotting, fermentation, respiration, and ripening of the produce by controlling the storage space parameter.
The stored produce may release a gaseous compound into the storage space gas (also “storage gas’’ or “storage air”). Additionally or alternatively, microorganisms growing in and/or on the stored produce may release a gaseous compound into the storage space gas. Hereinafter, phrases such as “produce may release a gaseous compound” also refer to micro-organisms growing in and/or on the produce. The (concentration of the) gaseous compound may be an indicator for a process occurring in and/or on the stored produce. The gaseous compound may comprise, for example, ethanol, acetaldehyde, ethylacetate, methanol, acetone, ethylene, CO2, O2, and ethane. Ethylene may indicate ripening of produce. Ethane may indicate damage of produce. CO2 may indicate metabolic activity of produce and/or microorganisms. Ethanol, acetaldehyde and ethylacetate may indicate (microbial) fermentation processes. Methanol and acetone may indicate spoilage and/or rotting.
The sensor signal may comprise information regarding the storage space gas, especially regarding the storage space gas sample. In general, the sensor signal comprises information regarding the storage space gas, especially regarding the storage space gas sample. The sensor signal may comprise concentration-related information in relation to a gaseous compound, especially (an estimate of) a concentration of a gaseous compound, especially (estimates of) concentrations of a plurality of gaseous compounds. Especially, the (estimate of) the concentration of a gaseous compound may be zero, i.e., the sensor signal may indicate that the concentration of the gaseous compound is zero and/or below a detection threshold.
The storage space gas sample is representative of the storage space gas, especially the storage space gas sample is substantially identical to the storage space gas. Hence, an analysis of the storage space gas sample may be considered representative of an analysis of the storage space gas. Hereinafter references to “storage space gas” should also be read as “storage space gas sample”.
The storage space parameter may comprise one or more of a CO2 concentration, an O2 concentration, an N2 concentration, an inert gas concentration, an ethylene concentration, a temperature, a pressure, a gas flow and a (relative) humidity of the storage space gas, a storage time, and an illumination of the storage space. The storage space parameter may be selected dependent on the stored produce. Especially, the storage space parameter may further be customized in relation to (information pertaining to) a specific type of produce. It will be clear to a person skilled in the art which storage space parameter may be important for which type of produce. It will further be clear to a person skilled in the art how such storage space parameter may be controlled.
The controller may be configured to control a storage space parameter dependent on a sensor signal, especially the controller may be configured to control the storage space parameter dependent on a predetermined relation between the storage space parameter and the sensor signal. For example, the controller may reduce an O2 concentration when the sensor signal indicates fermentation is taking place in and/or on the produce. In embodiments, the gas sensor system may be configured to sense a gaseous compound, and the sensor signal may comprise concentration-related information in relation to a gaseous compound in the storage space gas. Hence, the controller may be configured to control a storage space parameter dependent on concentration-related information in relation to a gaseous compound in the storage space gas, especially the controller may be configured to control a plurality of storage space parameters, alternatively or additionally especially dependent on concentrationrelated information in relation to a plurality of gaseous compounds in the storage space gas.
The phrase “control a storage space parameter” refers to directly or indirectly adjusting and/or maintaining the value of a storage space parameter. Hence, the controller may comprise or be functionally coupled to a device configured to adjust a storage space parameter. Especially, the controller may control a device configured to adjust a storage space parameter. For example, the controller may comprise or be functionally coupled to a temperature control element, such as a heating element or a cooling element, and may control the temperature control element to adjust a temperature in the storage space. Hence, the storage control system may comprise a parameter actuator device configured to control a storage space parameter, wherein the controller is configured to control the parameter actuator device. In embodiments, the parameter actuator device may amongst others comprise one or more of a temperature control element, a gas control element, an airflow control element, or a humidity control element. It will be clear to a person skilled in the art how a storage space parameter may be controlled, especially adjusted.
In embodiments, the controller may inform a person dependent on the sensor signal, especially it may inform the person of a suggested action dependent on the sensor signal. The person may then execute the suggested action, especially a suggested action involving adjusting a storage space parameter. Hence, the controller may be configured to control a storage space parameters with intervention of a person. Additionally or alternatively, the controller may be configured to control a (different) storage space parameter without intervention of a person.
The term “controlling” and similar terms herein especially refer at least to determining the behavior or supervising the running of an element, especially wherein the element is configured to adjust a storage space parameter. Hence, herein “controlling” and similar terms may e.g. refer to imposing behavior to the element (determining the behavior or supervising the running of an element), etc., such as e.g. measuring, displaying, actuating, opening, shifting, changing temperature, etc.. Beyond that, the term “controlling” and similar terms may additionally include monitoring. Hence, the term “controlling” and similar terms may include imposing behavior on an element and also imposing behavior on an element and monitoring the element. The controlling of the element can be done with a controller. The controller and the element may thus at least temporarily, or permanently, functionally be coupled. The element may comprise the controller. In embodiments, the controller and element may not be physically coupled. Control can be done via wired and/or wireless control. The term “controller” may also refer to a plurality of different controllers, which especially are functionally coupled, and of which e.g. one controller may be a master controller and one or more others may be slave controllers.
The storage space comprises storage space gas. The storage space gas comprises one or more gases and/or gaseous compounds. In embodiments, the storage space gas may comprise air. In alternative embodiments, the storage space gas may substantially consist of one or more of oxygen, CO2 and N2. In embodiments, the storage space gas at the start of storage may, for example, comprise 1-3% oxygen, 0-3% CO2 and 94-100% N2. During storage, the stored products, such as produce, may release a gaseous compound into the storage space gas. Hence, the storage space gas then further comprises the gaseous compound. The storage space gas may thus change in composition during storage.
The storage space may be configured to contain a product, especially produce. The storage space may be a generic storage space. Alternatively, the storage space may be configured for the storage of a specific product, especially produce, such as a specific type of produce. The storage space may be configured for stationary storage, such as a storage room in a warehouse. Additionally or alternatively, the storage space may be configured for mobile storage, such as a shipping container or the back of a (dedicated) van or truck. Hence, the size of the storage space may be between 0.5 m3 and 5000 m3. The term “storage space” may also refer to a plurality of (different) storage spaces. Hence, the storage controller may control a storage space parameter of a plurality of storage spaces, especially a plurality of storage spaces for produce. The storage spaces may be configured for the storage of different products, such as different types of produce. Especially, the storage spaces may be configured for the storage of the same product.
The gas sensor system comprises a gas cell (“cell”), a light source comprising a supercontinuum laser source, and a sensor. The gas sensor system may be configured to analyze a gas, especially a storage space gas, more especially a part of the storage space gas, such as a part of the storage space gas in the gas cell. During operation, a gas, such as a storage space gas, may continuously pass through the gas cell. Alternatively, the gas cell may be configured such that a gas, such as a storage space gas, may become temporarily trapped in the gas cell. Yet alternatively, the storage space gas may be continuously or periodically sampled and provided to a (remote) gas cell, especially provided via tubing.
The gas cell may especially be configured for storage space gas. Hence, in embodiments, the gas cell may be arranged in the storage space. Alternatively, the gas cell may be arranged external from the storage space and the storage space gas may, for example, flow to the gas cell. The gas cell may be configured such that storage space gas continuously flows through. Alternatively, the gas cell may be configured such that storage space gas in the gas cell is periodically refreshed. The term “gas cell” may also refer to a plurality of gas cells. Especially, embodiments of the storage control system may comprise a plurality of gas cells for storage space gas, especially wherein each gas cell is configured for storage space gas of a different storage space.
In embodiments, the gas cell may comprise a multipass gas cell (also: “multipass spectroscopic absorption cell” or “multipass cell”). A multipass gas cell may provide a prolonged optical path through a (small) constant volume of typically about 0.5 liter. Specifically, a multipass gas cell may comprise a plurality of mirrors configured such that incident light, such as light source radiation, especially a supercontinuum laser beam, that passes through the multipass gas cell is reflected multiple times within the multipass gas cell prior to exiting the multipass gas cell. Hence, the multipass gas cell may provide an optical path having a length multiple times exceeding a length of the multipass gas cell, such as 2-1000 times. A multipass gas cell is especially suitable for trace gas analysis as a longer optical path length may result in an increased sensitivity.
The light source may be configured to provide light source radiation to the gas cell, i.e., the light source may be configured to provide light source radiation that enters the gas cell, especially wherein at least part of the light source radiation enters the gas cell. As the radiation passes through the gas in the gas cell the radiation may interact with a gaseous compound, especially specific wavelengths may interact with the gaseous compound, such as being absorbed by the gaseous compound. Hence, a wavelength distribution of radiation emitted from the gas cell may differ from a wavelength distribution of radiation, such as light source radiation, entering the gas cell, especially the wavelength distribution of the radiation emitted from the gas cell may have lower intensities for one or more (specific) wavelengths due to absorbance of (specific) wavelengths by a gaseous compound. The sensor may be configured to sense radiation emitted from the gas cell and to provide a corresponding sensor signal to the controller. In yet a further aspect, the invention also provides the gas sensor system per se.
In embodiments, the gas sensor system may be configured to sense a gaseous compound selected from the group consisting of ethanol, acetaldehyde, ethylacetate, methanol, acetone, ethylene, CO2, O2, and ethane. Especially, the gas sensor system may be configured to simultaneously sense a plurality of gaseous compounds selected from the group consisting of ethanol, acetaldehyde, ethylacetate, methanol, acetone, ethylene, CO2, O2 and ethane.
Herein the phrase “to sense a gaseous compound” and similar phrases refer to the measuring of a parameter related to a gaseous compound. In general, the gas sensor system is configured to sense radiation at wavelengths where absorption by gaseous compounds (of interest) may take place. Hence, the phrase may refer to the determination of absorption bands in a gas, wherein the adsorption bands relate to (concentrations of) a gaseous compound.
The light source may comprise a supercontinuum laser source. Hence, the light source radiation may comprise a supercontinuum, especially a supercontinuum laser beam (“supercontinuum laser”). Therefore, the light source may be configured to provide a supercontinuum laser beam to the gas cell, i.e., the light source may be configured to provide a supercontinuum laser beam that enters the gas cell.
In embodiments, an optical path for the light source radiation in the gas cell may be selected from the range of 1 - 500 m, such as at least 2 m, such as at least 5 m, especially at least 10 m, such as at least 50 m, more especially at least 100 m. Especially, in embodiments the gas cell may comprise a multipass gas cell, wherein an optical path for the light source radiation in the multipass gas cell is at least 2 m, such as 5 m, especially 10 m, such as 50 m.
As the light source radiation passes through the gas cell, a gaseous compound in the storage space gas may interact with specific wavelengths of the light source radiation, i.e. the gaseous compound may absorb wavelengths in a compoundspecific manner. Hence, the wavelength distribution of the light source radiation downstream of the gas cell may differ from the wavelength distribution of the light source radiation upstream of the gas cell as a function of the concentrations of one or more gaseous compounds. The wavelength distribution of the light source radiation downstream of the gas cell can thus be used to estimate concentration-related information of a gaseous compound, especially of a plurality of gaseous compounds.
A supercontinuum laser source provides radiation, such as a supercontinuum laser beam, having a relatively smooth spectral continuum, i.e., a supercontinuum laser source provides radiation having about the same power over a range of wavelengths, such as a maximal power difference selected from the range of 0 - 20 dB, such as a value selected from the range of 0 - 10 dB. Especially, the supercontinuum laser source comprises one or more of a near-IR (1.5 - 2.0 pm) supercontinuum laser source, a mid-IR (2 - 20 pm) supercontinuum laser source, or a far-IR (20 - 200 pm) supercontinuum laser source, especially a mid-IR supercontinuum laser source configured to provide a supercontinuum of 2 - 20 pm, such as 2 to 10 pm, especially 2 to 4 pm. Hence, in embodiments the light source radiation may comprise supercontinuum laser light having wavelengths in a range of 2 - 20 pm, such as 2 - 4 pm.
In embodiments, the light source may provide stable light source radiation, i.e., the light source radiation is substantially identical over time, such as a change in intensity ΔΙ/Ι < 10'\ such as ΔΙ/Ι < 104, averaged over a time period selected from the range of 1 - 300 seconds, such as from the range of 1-150 seconds, especially from the range of 1-10 seconds. In general, the light source provides an averaged stable light source radiation. In embodiments, the light source may comprise a pulsed laser,
i.e., a pulsed laser providing stable light source radiation averaged over a time period selected from the range of 1-300 seconds.
The sensor is configured to sense radiation emitted from the gas cell and to provide a corresponding sensor signal to the controller. The sensor may be configured to sense wavelengths in the range of wavelengths in the light source radiation. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor may be configured to sense wavelengths not in the range of wavelengths in the light source radiation. In general, the sensor may be configured to sense wavelengths in about the same range as produced by the light source. The sensor may comprise a detector, such as an infrared detector, such as one or more of a near-IR detector, a mid-IR detector, or a far-IR detector. The choice of detector may also depend whether e.g. an upconverter is applied (see also below). In embodiments, the detector may comprise a camera.
In embodiments, the storage control system may further comprise an optical element. Especially, the gas sensor system may further comprise an optical element. An optical element is any device or structure that causes an alteration in a radiation, such as in light source radiation, when placed in an optical path of the radiation. These alterations include alterations selected from the group of refraction, diffraction, dispersion, attenuation, (selective) blocking, wavelength modifications, polarization, etc.
In embodiments, the optical element may comprise one or more of a virtual imaged phase array (“VIPA”), a collimator, a mirror, a cylindrical mirror, a (diffraction) grating, an imaging lens, a cylindrical lens, a parabolic mirror, a prism. In embodiments, the diffraction grating may comprise a rotatable diffraction grating. The term “optical element” may also refer to a plurality of optical elements. Hence, in embodiments, the gas sensor system may comprise a plurality of optical elements configured sequentially along an optical path.
In embodiments, an optical element may be configured downstream of the light source and upstream of the sensor. Alternatively or additionally, an optical element may be configured downstream of the light source and downstream of the gas cell and upstream of the sensor. Yet alternatively or additionally, an optical element may be configured downstream of the light source and upstream of the gas cell and upstream of the sensor. Further alternatively or additionally, the light source may comprise an optical element. Yet further alternatively or additionally, the sensor may comprise an optical element. Even yet further alternatively or additionally, the gas cell may comprise an optical element. The term “optical element” may also refer to a plurality of (different) optical elements.
In embodiments, the gas sensor system, especially the sensor, may comprise a converter configured to convert at least part of the radiation emitted from the gas cell into converted radiation. The converter may comprise a photon upconverter or a photon downconverter. In such embodiment, the gas sensor system, especially the sensor, may further comprise a detector configured to sense the converted radiation and to provide a corresponding sensor signal to the controller.
A photon upconverter (downconverter) refers to an optical element that when placed in an optical path of radiation causes photon upconversion (downconversion). Herein the term “photon upconversion” (“photon downconversion”) refers to any process resulting in the non-linear conversion of a first type of photons into a second type of smaller (larger) wavelength photons. For example, the term “photon upconversion” herein also refers to similar processes such as second-harmonic generation or sum frequency generation (the latter using an additional light source). Herein, an upconverter may be based on the principle(s) of sum frequency generation in a non-linear crystal, using an additional light source or second-harmonic generation. A photon downconversion may be based on difference frequency generation in a nonlinear crystal.
The sensor may comprise a photon upconverter (“upconverter”) or a photon downconverter (“downconverter”). Hence, in a specific embodiment the sensor may comprise a photon upconverter configured for photon upconversion.
The sensor may further comprise a detector configured to sense converted radiation, especially converted radiation having shorter wavelengths than the light source radiation. Hence, in an embodiment, the light source may comprise a midIR supercontinuum laser and the camera may comprise a near-IR camera. In an alternative embodiment, the supercontinuum laser source may comprise a far-IR supercontinuum laser source, and the camera may comprise a mid-IR camera or a nearIR camera. Such embodiment may be especially advantageous, as a gaseous compound may have a characteristic absorbance spectrum in mid-IR (a “fingerprint region”), while a near-IR camera may have a higher sensitivity.
In embodiments, the sensor may be configured to sense radiation emitted from the gas cell and to provide a corresponding sensor signal to the controller, especially a raw data signal, alternatively a pre-processed or fully processed data signal. Hence, the sensor may be configured to at least partially, such as fully, analyze or process the sensed radiation.
The controller may be configured to control a storage space parameter dependent on the sensor signal. Alternatively or additionally, the controller may be configured to control a storage space parameter dependent on storage information. The storage information may comprise one or more of produce information, storage duration, prior storage conditions and weather conditions. For example, in an embodiment wherein the storage space is configured for plant produce, the produce information may comprise one or more of geographical harvest location, cultivar, cultivar strain, harvest date, desired ripening date, and a desired ripening status. Similarly, in an embodiment wherein the storage space is configured for animal produce, the produce information may comprise one or more of farm location, breed, and a relevant date such as a slaughtering date or a milking date. In general, the storage information may comprise any information that may inform storage conditions, such as information on the produce and/or on the storage space.
In embodiments, the storage control system may comprise or be functionally coupled to a communication device configured to communicate with external systems, especially the controller may comprise or be functionally coupled to the communication device. The communication device may be a wireless communication device. The communication device may be connectable to the internet. In further embodiments, the communication device may provide communication to a remote monitoring center. For example, the communication device may report the status of the produce. Additionally or alternatively, the communication device may be configured to receive communication and/or to provide the communication to the controller. The communication may comprise, for example, storage information and/or instructions regarding a desired status of the produce on a specific date.
The controller may comprise or be functionally coupled to a controller interface (“interface”). The controller interface may be configured such that storage information may be manually provided to the controller via the controller interface. Additionally or alternatively, the controller interface may be configured to inform a person of a recommended action in relation to a storage space parameter. Further additionally or alternatively, the controller interface may be configured to enable a person to manually update a storage space parameter. In general, the controller interface is arranged externally of the storage space. In specific embodiments, the controller interface may be located remotely, such as in a remote monitoring center.
In embodiments, the storage control system may comprise an optical element configured to spatially separate wavelengths in the radiation from the cell on a sensor plane of the sensor. Hence, in an embodiment the optical element may comprise a rotatable diffraction grating and an off-axis parabolic mirror. In a further or alternative embodiment, the optical element may comprise a collimator, a cylindrical lens, a VIP A, and a focusing lens. In yet a further or alternative embodiment, the optical element comprises a VIPA and a (diffraction) grating. In yet another further or alternative embodiment, the optical element may comprise a VIPA, a (diffraction) grating and an imaging lens. In yet again another further or alternative embodiment, the optical element may comprise a mirror, a VIPA, a (diffraction) grating, and a parabolic mirror.
In an embodiment, the storage control system may further comprise or be functionally coupled to a gas handling system. Especially, the controller may be functionally coupled to a gas handling system. The gas handling system may be configured to provide storage space gas to the gas cell, i.e., the gas handling system may provide a continuous or periodic airflow through or into the gas cell. In alternative or further embodiments, the gas handling system may provide a calibration gas and a zero air gas to calibrate the gas sensor system. In yet alternative or further embodiments, the gas handling system may provide a device to remove spectroscopically interfering gases from the storage space gas sample, for example by chemical scrubbing or physically removing via cooling of the storage space gas sample. Alternatively or additionally, the gas handling system may be configured to improve storage space gas homogeneity, such as configured to homogenize or equalize the storage space gas.
In embodiments, the controller may be configured to execute a data processing algorithm, especially a data processing algorithm having the sensor signal as input. The data processing algorithm may comprise a (pre-processing) step to remove background noise and/or other (systematic) noise effects from the sensor signal. Additionally or alternatively, the data processing algorithm may comprise an image analysis. Yet additionally or alternatively, the data processing algorithm may comprise an analysis of a wavelength spectrum to obtain concentration-related information in relation to a gaseous compound. Yet further additionally or alternatively, the data processing algorithm may comprise selecting, such as optimizing, a storage space parameter.
The storage controller may be part of or may be applied in e.g. warehouses, trucks, trailers, transport ships, transport containers, train compartments, vans, (household) refrigerators, restaurant cold rooms, farm storage systems, vending machines, hotel cold rooms, but also in laboratories, chemical plants, refineries, car test stations, factories, biochemical plants, space industry, semiconductor industry, art galleries, screening (of cultivars) applications, and wastewater treatment plants. The storage control system is particularly suitable for applications wherein trace gases indicate a product status, and wherein a storage space parameter may be adjusted to affect the product status. The integrated storage system may be especially suited for produce and/or other perishable products.
In embodiments the storage control system may be configured such that stored produce has a desired ripening (stage) on a predefined date. Hence, the storage space parameter may comprise an ethylene concentration, as ethylene may promote the ripening of produce. Therefore, in embodiments, the storage space parameter may comprise at least the ethylene concentration, and the controller may be configured to control ripening of the produce by controlling the ethylene concentration.
In a second aspect, the current invention also provides an arrangement comprising a storage space for produce and the storage control system as defined herein, wherein the storage control system is configured to control a storage space parameter of the storage space.
In a third aspect, the current invention also provides a method for controlling a storage space parameter of a storage space for produce, wherein the method comprises (i) passing supercontinuum light source radiation through a storage space gas sample, (ii) sensing light passed through the storage space gas sample and (iii) providing a sensor signal, (iv) controlling a storage space parameter dependent on the sensor signal.
In embodiments, the method may be performed using the storage control system as described herein. The method is, however, not limited to such embodiments.
The terms “upstream” and “downstream” relate to an arrangement of items or features relative to the propagation of the light from a light generating means (here especially the light source), wherein relative to a first position within a beam of light from the light generating means, a second position in the beam of light closer to the light generating means is “upstream”, and a third position within the beam of light further away from the light generating means is “downstream”.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which:
Fig. 1 schematically depicts an arrangement of a storage space for produce and the storage control system configured to control a storage space parameter of the storage space.
Fig. 2 schematically depicts absorbance spectra of several gaseous compounds.
Fig. 3 schematically depicts an embodiment of the gas sensor system in operation.
Fig. 4 schematically depicts an embodiment of the gas sensor system.
The schematic drawings are not necessarily on scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
Fig. 1 schematically depicts an arrangement of a storage space 100 for produce 110 and an embodiment of the storage control system 10 configured to control a storage space parameter of the storage space 100. The produce 110 in the storage space 100 may release a gaseous compound 120 into the storage space gas 130. In this embodiment, a gas handling system 400 is configured to provide storage space gas 130 to the gas cell 220 comprised in the gas sensor system 200, especially to provide a storage space gas sample 131 to the gas cell 220. The gas sensor system 200 comprises (i) a light source 210 comprising a supercontinuum laser source, (ii) a gas cell 220, (iii) a plurality of optical elements 250, and (iv) a sensor 230. The light source provides light source radiation 211, especially light source radiation 211 comprising a supercontinuum laser beam, to the gas cell 220. As the light source radiation 211 travels through the gas cell 220, specific wavelengths may interact with a gaseous compound 120 in part of the storage air 130, especially the part of the storage gas 130 provided to the gas cell 220 by the gas handling system 400. In this embodiment, the gas cell 220 comprises a multipass gas cell configured to provide an optical path having a length multiple times exceeding a length of the multipass gas cell via internal reflection of radiation. Hence, radiation 221 emitted from the gas cell 220 may differ from the light source radiation
211 via interaction with a gaseous compound 120, especially via absorption of specific wavelengths of radiation by a gaseous compound 120. In this embodiment, the radiation 221 passes through three optical elements 250 prior to reaching the sensor 230 at or nearby a sensor plane 231. In particular, in this embodiment the radiation 221 passes a cylindrical lens 250, 255, a VIPA 250, 251, a diffraction grating 250, 252, and an imaging lens 250, 253 prior to reaching the sensor 230. The sensor 230 senses the radiation 221 at a sensor plane 231 and provides a sensor signal 235 to the controller 300. In the depiction, the sensor signal 235 resembles a wavelength spectrum corresponding to supercontinuum light source radiation 211 wherein various wavelengths of light were specifically absorbed in the gas cell 220. The sensor signal 235, may, however, also provide alternative information, including raw data, and/or may provide information in an alternative manner. The controller is configured to control a storage space parameter of the storage space 100 dependent on the sensor signal 235. Hence, in the embodiment, the controller 300 analyses the sensor signal 235 and adjusts a storage space parameter dependent on a predetermined relation between the storage space parameter and the sensor signal 235. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 300 may provide a separate recommended action to a person via the controller interface 310. The recommended action may relate to controlling, such as adjusting, a storage space parameter dependent on the sensor signal 235, but may especially require manual approval or action by a person. Alternatively, a recommended action may, for example, become an automatic action if no person interacts with the controller interface 310 in a predetermined timeframe. The direct and indirect adjustments of a storage space parameter by the controller 300 are indicated by the arrows from the controller 300 to the storage space 100 (via the controller interface 310).
Fig. 2 schematically depicts characteristic absorbance spectra of eight gaseous compounds in terms of absorbance (ppmv * meter) as a function of wavelengths λ in the range of 2.6 - 3.6 pm, i.e. absorbance (ppmv * meter) as a function of wavenumbers v in the range of 2800 - 3800. The eight depicted spectra correspond to the gaseous compounds methanol (Ai), acetone (A2), ethanol (A3), acetaldehyde (A4), ethylacetate (A5), ethylene (Aó), ethane (A?), and CO2 (As). These eight spectra clearly have distinctive patterns, implying that each of these gaseous compounds may have a distinctive effect on radiation, i.e. that each absorbs wavelengths of radiation in a distinctive manner. Hence, the gas sensor system 200 may estimate a concentrationrelated parameter of one or more of aforementioned gaseous compounds 120 based on a weighted combination of the absorbance spectra.
Fig. 3 schematically depicts an embodiment of the gas sensor system 200 in operation. The light source 210 provides light source radiation 211 to the gas cell 220 wherein the radiation is brought into contact with storage space gas 130, and from which radiation 221 is subsequently emitted. The radiation 221 emitted from the gas cell has an optical path sequentially encountering a VIPA 250, 251, a lens 250, 254, a diffraction grating 250, 252, and a sensor plane 231 at or near a sensor 230. The VIPA 250, 251 may be configured to provide an angular dispersion for the radiation 211. The lens 250, 254 may be configured to collect the light onto the detector. The diffraction grating 250 ,252 may be configured to diffract the radiation 221. Hence, the optical elements 250 may cause different wavelengths in the radiation 221 to spatially separate on a sensor plane 231 where the sensor 230 senses the radiation 221. The sensor 230 may then provide a sensor signal 235 to a controller 300. For illustrational purposes only, several example wavelengths λ, (red), Xg (green) and λρ (purple) are depicted to demonstrate how wavelengths may be distinguished in an embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the optical elements 250 may be configured to spatially separate radiation of different wavelengths on a sensor plane 231 for the sensor 230.
Fig. 4 schematically depicts an embodiment of the gas sensor system. The gas sensor system 200 comprises a light source 210 providing light source light 211, a plurality of mirrors, a gas cell 220, a VIPA 250, 251, a diffraction grating 250, 252, a parabolic mirror 250, 258, and a sensor 230. For illustrative purposes, the optical paths of the light source radiation 211 and the radiation 221 emitted from the gas cell 220 are depicted, as well as the optical path of the radiation through the gas cell 220 omitting any optional reflections within the gas cell 220 for illustrative purposes only.
In embodiments, the storage space parameter may comprise at least the O2 concentration and the CO2 concentration, and the controller may be configured to control respiration by controlling the O2 concentration and the CO2 concentration.
In embodiments, the storage space parameter may comprise at least the O2 concentration, and the controller may be configured to control fermentation by controlling the O2 concentration.
Hence, in embodiments, the storage space parameter may comprise at least the O2 concentration, and the controller may be configured to control respiration and/or fermentation by controlling the O2 concentration.
In embodiments, the storage space parameter comprises at least the storage time, and the controller may be configured to control rotting by controlling the storage time. Hence, in embodiments the sensor signal may comprise concentrationrelated information in relation to one or more of acetone and methanol, and the controller may be configured to determine a rotting onset (or “rotting status”), and the controller may be configured to control the storage time based on the rotting onset (“rotting status”). For example, the controller may inform a person that storage should be terminated such that rotting produce can be removed and such that unaffected produce can be stored separately or processed further prior to further rotting onset.
In embodiments, the storage space parameter comprises at least the storage time, and the controller may be configured to control spoilage by controlling the storage time.
In embodiments, the storage control system comprises a gas handling system and controls a storage space parameter of a plurality of storage spaces for produce, i.e., the storage control system separately controls a storage space parameter of a plurality of storage spaces for produce. In such an embodiment, the gas handling system may be configured to alternately provide storage space gas of each storage space to the gas cell. Hence, the gas sensor system may provide a sensor signal corresponding to each storage space to the controller in an alternating manner.
In embodiments, an arrangement comprising a storage space for produce and the storage control system may relate to a warehouse. The warehouse may comprise a storage space, and the storage control system may be configured for controlling a storage space parameter of the storage space. The warehouse, especially the storage space, may comprise (part of) the storage control system. For example, in an embodiment, the storage space may comprise the gas handling system, and the warehouse may comprise the gas sensor system externally from the storage space, and the controller interface may be configured external from the warehouse. In such an embodiment, the gas handling system may be configured to provide the storage space gas sample to the gas sensor system via tubing. The warehouse may, for example, comprise a storage space of about 500 - 5000 m3 controlled by the storage control system. In further embodiments, the warehouse may comprise a plurality of storage spaces and one or more storage control systems may be configured for controlling a storage space parameter of the plurality of storage spaces.
In alternative embodiments, an arrangement comprising a storage space for produce and the storage control system may relate to a transport system, such as one or more of a track, a trailer, a ship, or a train. The transport system may comprise a storage space, such as a container or a train compartment, and the storage control system may be configured for controlling a storage space parameter of the storage space. In such an embodiment, the storage control system may be configured to be small in size and/or lightweight and/or to have robust performance despite perturbations caused by movement.
The term “plurality” refers to two or more.
The terms “substantially” or “essentially” herein, and similar terms, will be understood by the person skilled in the art. The terms “substantially” or “essentially” may also include embodiments with “entirely”, “completely”, “all”, etc. Hence, in embodiments the adjective substantially or essentially may also be removed. Where applicable, the term “substantially” or the term “essentially” may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%.
The term “comprise” includes also embodiments wherein the term “comprises” means “consists of”.
The term “and/or” especially relates to one or more of the items mentioned before and after “and/or”. For instance, a phrase “item 1 and/or item 2” and similar phrases may relate to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term comprising may in an embodiment refer to consisting of' but may in another embodiment also refer to containing at least the defined species and optionally one or more other species.
Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.
The devices, apparatus, or systems may herein amongst others be described during operation. As will be clear to the person skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to methods of operation, or devices, apparatus, or systems in operation.
It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.
In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim.
Use of the verb to comprise and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.
The article a or an preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.
The invention may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements, and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a device claim, or an apparatus claim, or a system claim, enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.
The invention also provides a control system that may control the device, apparatus, or system, or that may execute the herein described method or process. Yet further, the invention also provides a computer program product, when running on a computer which is functionally coupled to or comprised by the device, apparatus, or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such device, apparatus, or system.
The invention further applies to a device, apparatus, or system comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description 5 and/or shown in the attached drawings. The invention further pertains to a method or process comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings.
The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined in order to provide additional advantages. Further, the person skilled in the art will understand that 10 embodiments can be combined, and that also more than two embodiments can be combined. Furthermore, some of the features can form the basis for one or more divisional applications.
Funding statement This patent is funded via the Interreg North-West Europe programme under the application number NWE 363, entitled: ‘Real-time 15 Quality Control in fresh Agro Products (QCAP).
Claims (17)
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2021132A NL2021132B1 (en) | 2018-06-15 | 2018-06-15 | Storage control system comprising a supercontinuum laser source. |
| PCT/NL2019/050366 WO2019240582A1 (en) | 2018-06-15 | 2019-06-14 | Storage control system comprising a supercontinuum laser source |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2021132A NL2021132B1 (en) | 2018-06-15 | 2018-06-15 | Storage control system comprising a supercontinuum laser source. |
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| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| NL2021132B1 true NL2021132B1 (en) | 2019-12-20 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2021132A NL2021132B1 (en) | 2018-06-15 | 2018-06-15 | Storage control system comprising a supercontinuum laser source. |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
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| NL (1) | NL2021132B1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2019240582A1 (en) |
Citations (3)
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| US20030150334A1 (en) * | 2000-03-20 | 2003-08-14 | Gaebler Ralph | Climate control for the transport and storage of persihables |
| CN106872402A (en) * | 2017-03-22 | 2017-06-20 | 河北大学 | Gas-detecting device and method based on super continuous spectrums laser |
| EP3259994A1 (en) * | 2015-02-27 | 2017-12-27 | Daikin Industries, Ltd. | Gas supply device and refrigeration device for container provided with said gas supply device |
Family Cites Families (2)
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| US4578762A (en) * | 1983-07-01 | 1986-03-25 | Tri-Med Inc. | Self-calibrating carbon dioxide analyzer |
| CN206114518U (en) * | 2016-10-11 | 2017-04-19 | 河南农业大学 | Fruit maturity nondestructive detection system based on infrared light reputation register for easy reference |
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2018
- 2018-06-15 NL NL2021132A patent/NL2021132B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
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2019
- 2019-06-14 WO PCT/NL2019/050366 patent/WO2019240582A1/en active Application Filing
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| US20030150334A1 (en) * | 2000-03-20 | 2003-08-14 | Gaebler Ralph | Climate control for the transport and storage of persihables |
| EP3259994A1 (en) * | 2015-02-27 | 2017-12-27 | Daikin Industries, Ltd. | Gas supply device and refrigeration device for container provided with said gas supply device |
| CN106872402A (en) * | 2017-03-22 | 2017-06-20 | 河北大学 | Gas-detecting device and method based on super continuous spectrums laser |
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| "Near infrared spectroscopy of food systems using a supercontinuum laser", 2017, UNIVERSITY OF COPENHAGEN - FACULTY OF SCIENCE - DEPARTMENT OF FOOD SCIENCE, Denmark, Copenhagen, article T RINGSTED, pages: 1 - 150, XP055524040 * |
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| WO2019240582A1 (en) | 2019-12-19 |
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