WO2024057341A1 - An automatic temperature compensated milk analyzer using ultrasonic sensors for variety of sample temperature - Google Patents
An automatic temperature compensated milk analyzer using ultrasonic sensors for variety of sample temperature Download PDFInfo
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- WO2024057341A1 WO2024057341A1 PCT/IN2023/050865 IN2023050865W WO2024057341A1 WO 2024057341 A1 WO2024057341 A1 WO 2024057341A1 IN 2023050865 W IN2023050865 W IN 2023050865W WO 2024057341 A1 WO2024057341 A1 WO 2024057341A1
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- milk
- ultrasonic
- temperature
- analyzer
- interface
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- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 5
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Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N33/00—Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups G01N1/00 - G01N31/00
- G01N33/02—Food
- G01N33/04—Dairy products
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N29/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object
- G01N29/02—Analysing fluids
- G01N29/024—Analysing fluids by measuring propagation velocity or propagation time of acoustic waves
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N29/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object
- G01N29/22—Details, e.g. general constructional or apparatus details
- G01N29/24—Probes
- G01N29/2437—Piezoelectric probes
- G01N29/245—Ceramic probes, e.g. lead zirconate titanate [PZT] probes
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N29/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object
- G01N29/34—Generating the ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves, e.g. electronic circuits specially adapted therefor
- G01N29/348—Generating the ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves, e.g. electronic circuits specially adapted therefor with frequency characteristics, e.g. single frequency signals, chirp signals
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
- G01N2291/02—Indexing codes associated with the analysed material
- G01N2291/022—Liquids
- G01N2291/0228—Aqueous liquids
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N2291/00—Indexing codes associated with group G01N29/00
- G01N2291/04—Wave modes and trajectories
- G01N2291/044—Internal reflections (echoes), e.g. on walls or defects
Definitions
- the present invention relates to an ultrasonic milk analyzer. More particularly, the present invention relates to an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature.
- the present invention is designed to measure milk composition at a temperature between 4°C to 40°C for variety of milk samples.
- the present invention due to having an arrangement of Dynamic Temperature Compensation system along with multipass scanning of milk samples at different temperatures, provides better results and reproducibility.
- the microfilter used in the said milk analyzer removes unwanted bubbles from the milk to avoid false estimation of milk composition.
- Milk is a crucial food source, particularly for kids and new-borns.
- Adults all around the world consume a lot of milk products in their diets. More than 6 billion individuals are thought to drink milk and milk products at this time.
- milk is regarded as a crucial element in enhancing nutrition and lowering malnutrition.
- advances in dairy technology and cattle breeding have been made to produce more milk.
- the milk is routinely examined after it is collected from the animals to measure milk components and to evaluate. Milk is analysed quantitatively by counting the amount of different milk constituents such fat, solid non-fat (SNF), proteins, lactose, water.
- SNF solid non-fat
- the milk is a liquid which is having certain self-age.
- the component of milk can only be measured under certain temperature conditions. Hence maintaining the constant temperature during measurement is key requirements for the precise estimation of milk component.
- the invention represent here is to overcome the temperature requirement of sample before measurement.
- the Milk composition analysis is a necessary link for the quality of raw milk purchase and product quality monitoring during the production process.
- Traditional milk component analysis uses chemical analysis technology, which requires chemical analysis of milk fat, solids, density, and protein content.
- the analysis of fat content is based on the difference in density between fat and other components and is determined after separation by a milk fat separator; solid content is measured by weighing after drying; density is measured by densitometer; protein is measured by Kjeldahl method Determination.
- the entire analysis process often takes 1.2 days, time-consuming and laborious. At the same time, it requires the help of various chemical reagents, nitrogen analyzers, drying ovens, densitometers, milk fat separators and other chemical analysis equipment, which are complicated to operate and random errors. High, not conducive to product quality monitoring and production management.
- the principal object of the present invention is to obviate the problems faced by the prior art technologies.
- Further object of the present invention is to provide an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature and method of milk analysis using the said milk analyzer.
- Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an automatic temperature compensated milk analyzer having no manual intervention for the calibration of milk analyzer and analysis of the milk, ensuring it is free from the errors induced by a person who conducts the milk analysis manually.
- Figure- 1 Block diagram of milk analyzer as per the present invention.
- Figure-2 Dynamic Temperature Compensation Circuit with ultrasonic measuring cell of the present invention.
- Figure-3 Flow diagram of a method of analysis using an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer [100].
- the present invention relates to an ultrasonic milk analyzer. More particularly, the present invention relates to an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature.
- the present invention is designed to measure milk composition at a temperature between 4°C to 40°C for variety of milk samples.
- the present invention due to having an arrangement of Dynamic Temperature Compensation system along with multipass scanning of milk samples at different temperatures, provides better results and reproducibility.
- the microfilter used in the said milk analyzer removes unwanted bubbles from the milk to avoid false estimation of milk composition.
- FIG. 1 has shown the block diagram of milk analyzer [100] as per the present invention.
- an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer [100] using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature the said milk analyzer mainly comprises:
- USB Interface for Firmware Update and PC Interface [104] interfaced with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [117] and driven from it;
- Ultrasonic Box Assembly consist of ultrasonic measuring cell [120];
- Storage Unit [111] to store primary and secondary calibration information and other measurement information
- Ultrasonic Noise Filter and Reception Module [112]; micro fiber filter [113]; milk bucket [114] on the stand placed at the front side of system [100] to hold milk sample for analysis purpose; and ultrasonic measuring cell [120] placed in ultrasonic assembly box [107].
- the Present invention is driven by 32 Bit microcontroller [101] which is clocked at 120Mhz frequency capable to capture frequency of desired range for the Piezo electric crystals. It is the Central Processing Unit of the device. It is responsible for operating (A) 20x4 liquid crystal display [102] (B) 8 Key Matrix Keyboard [103] (C) USB Interface [104], 2x RS 232 Serial Interface [105] and Wireless Interface through Communication Unit [117] (D) EEPROM [118] and SD Card [119] through Storage Unit [111] (E) Milk Suction Pump [108] (F) Function Generator [109] (G) Dynamic Temperature Compensation Circuit [110] (H) Ultrasonic Noise Filter and Reception Module [1 12]. It is operated by Power Regulator/ Amplifier [115] driven through Power Supply (AC 230v / 12VDC) [116]. It is faster and secure microcontroller.
- the Present invention uses 20X4 Character liquid crystal display to provide better user interface. It is interfaced directly with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] and driven from it. User can easily view up to 6 properties of analyzed milk at a glance in a single screen. It provides better navigation of different menu items, so that user can easily configure and calibrate device without any confusion in a few time. User can view milk analysis progress, cleaning and calibration logs very easily.
- the Present invention uses 8 Key matrix Keyboard with introduction of 4 dedicated keys which improves operating speed of end user. It is interfaced directly with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] and driven from it. It has four basic keys (Menu, Up, Down and Enter) for operating entire device. It has three dedicated keys for directly measuring milk sample in particular channel (Cow, Buffalo or Mix Milk) without scrolling back and forth. It has one dedicated key for initiating cleaning process, which saves operating time of end user.
- the Present invention uses USB interface for Firmware Update facility which is interfaced with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [117] and driven from it. It provides the facility of upgrading device thorough USB pen drive instead of reprogramming it. This will ease the upgradation of device at end user place without any extra effort.
- the Present invention uses two RS 232 Serial Interface to provide communication between existing device and third party device or PC. Both RS 232 Serial Interface are interfaced with 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [1 17] for transmit and receive data between devices. One RS 232 Serial Interface is provided at the back side of device to connect third party device or personal computer through interface cable for data transfer. Second RS 232 Serial Interface is provided inside device to enable Wifi communication between device and Mobile application for future use.
- the Present invention uses Wireless Interface to provide wireless communication with third party devices.
- Wireless Interface is connected with 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [117]. It is used to transmit Milk Sample analysis data to third party device. It will eliminate the use of RS 232 communication interface cable.
- Ultrasonic Box Assembly consist of either one or two Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120]. Overall milk sample analysis measurement time depends on number of Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120] used. If one Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120] is used than temperature Compensation is done serially one after another so, it will take 10 seconds more as compared to two Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120]. If two Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120] is used than temperature Compensation is done parallel so, it will perform milk analysis faster.
- Milk Suction Pump is an assembly equipped with DC motor which is connected to one plastic plate with screw mechanism which provides linear forces to the air bubble.
- the Plastic plate is attached with DC motor’s shaft so when DC motor rotate the shaft pushes plate to forward direction which causes plastic air bubble to form the air pressure for the milk suction and discharge.
- This form of assembly is cost effective and works longer over the peristaltic pump which is causing issue after longer uses as it transfers liquid inside pipe through rollers by squeezing the hose.
- the constant squeezing the hose caused pipe breakage which may cause liquid leakage inside the system or apparatus.
- the function of air bubble is to generate air pressure in both directions. The resulting air pressure helps to suction milk from the Milk Bucket [114].
- the Position of plate which is connected to air bubble is adjusted using hall sensor which ensure the sufficient air suction is generated to fill the Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107].
- the Milk Suction Pump [108] works in two directions. To suction milk from The Milk Bucket [114] in to Ultrasonic Box Assembly
- the Suction Pump [108] reverse the direction to create air suction in air bubble and to empty The Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107] it pushes plate to forward direction.
- the Speed of Milk Suction Pump [108] is adjusted based on laboratory measurements which ensured slow and steady suction of milk through Micro Fiber Filter [113] to avoid air bubble and hence ensure the accuracy of measurement.
- the Dynamic Temperature Compensation [1 10] instructs the 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] about the desired temperature has been achieved in Ultrasonic Measuring Cells [120].
- the 32-Bit Microcontroller [101] has to start the measurement activity by energizing The PZT attached to transmitter side of the Ultrasonic Measuring Cells [120].
- the Function generator [109] generates the fix amplitude pulse to energize the PZT.
- the PZT emit the Pulse to measuring cell which is again received by recipient PZT.
- the recipient side PZT converts the ultrasonic pulse to energy which is again pass through Ultrasonic Noise Filter [112].
- the output of Noise Filter [112] which is again given feedback to Function generator [109].
- the purpose of taking feedback to tune the Function generator [109] such that Noise in the receiver side minimized and proper frequency can be received which is further used by 32 Bit Microcontroller [101].
- FM/AM chipset In one of the prior art references, i.e. CN1194225C, they are using FM/AM chipset to generate frequency for PZT.
- This method requires PZT with higher static capacitance and resonant frequency which has complex interfacing and noise issues.
- the inventor uses FM/AM chipset as a frequency generator to generate the desired frequency between 535-1605 kHz in the steps of 10kHz to apply as input to PZT. This is one of the way but required complex component to support FM/AM chipset to build the auto tune system.
- This method of generating frequency for the PZT is limited by the cost and availability of FM/AM chipset as it may get discontinued or new standard of FM/AM can cause the invention to redesign.
- Present invention introduces lower frequency bands in kHz to achieve the better result with accuracy.
- Lower capacitance results in higher electrical impedance at a given frequency. This is beneficial to match the acoustic impedance of milk. More over lower capacitance turns in to faster electrical response as we need to tune the frequency based on the continuous feedback. It uses customized PZT elements with lower static capacitance and lower resonance frequency for better results and hence reduces noise and pulse echo problem. This is again easily incorporated with the current system with no complex component required.
- FIG. 1 shows the block diagram of Dynamic Temperature Compensation Circuit [1 10] with ultrasonic measuring cell [120] of the present invention.
- the Present invention is related to measuring milk parameters such as Fat, Solid Non-Fat, Protein, Lactose, Density and Added Water.
- the device has to heat the milk at the certain temperature before the actual ultrasonic measurement starts.
- the main challenge here is the milk has variety of temperatures based on the outside conditions such as weather and places too.
- the normal temperature or RAW milk is between 20°C to 30°C in normal season and in winter season and hilly area is between 10°C to 15°C. Sometimes It is also required to measure the chilled milk having temperature around 4°C. So, a mechanism required to measures the milk sample with temperature range of 4°C - 40°C.
- the Milk Suction Pump [108] instruct 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] once milk is inside The Ultrasonic Measuring Cells [120]. As a part of measuring process, it is required to heat the milk at two different temperatures.
- 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] instructs Temperature Pulse Generator [210] circuit to start the first phase of lower temperature compensation.
- the Temperature Pulse Generator [210] is connected with winding of Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120] which is copper, manganin coil cross winded on brass pipe. The constant amplitude pulse generates the heat over the coil which resulted to heating of milk.
- the other end of coil winded on Ultrasonic measuring cell [120] is connected to Comparator Circuit [240] which check the desired temperature has achieved or not by comparing Reference set by Temperature Tuning Circuit [220] once the desired temperature achieved the Feedback Circuit [250] triggers the input of Temperature Pulse Generator [210] and 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] to stop the heating.
- the Microcontroller performs the Ultrasonic Measurement and instructs Temperature Pulse Generator [210] for second phase of temperature compensation which is higher temperature then the first phase. The same process has been followed and 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] performs Ultrasonic measurement.
- the Ultrasonic Milk Analyzer [100] Known as current invention required to store primary and secondary calibration information and other measurement information.
- the current invention provides two form of storage devices one is EEPROM [118] and other is SD Card [119].
- the primacy calibration information is stored in EEPROM [118]. This device provides more reliable form of storing data which prevents data loss or data corruption.
- the SD Card [119] is used to store machine measurement data and other required logs such as cleaning information, calibration change data. The critical errors information and other measurement data.
- the PZT are the ultrasonic transducers used for the transmission methods or ultrasonic measurement.
- the Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120] contains the pair of PZT, One act as transmission and other act as receiver. The main use of this module to remove the noise from the reception side of PZT. The noise is generated due to various reasons such as, pulse-echo method, error in PZT transducers as well. Moreover, each PZT has different specification and behavior which created problem in device calibration.
- the Ultrasonic Noise Filter [112] is R-C Filter circuit which is used in line with receiver side PZT characteristic.
- R-C filters in ultrasonic systems can be used in the receiving path to isolate the ultrasonic frequency of interest, in the transmitting path to ensure only the desired frequency is emitted, or in power supply lines to reduce noise that could interfere with ultrasonic measurements.
- a short pulse of ultrasonic waves is transmitted into milk, and the reflected waves (or echoes) are received. Reflecting surfaces which are close to each other, the echoes from these surfaces may overlap and making it difficult to distinguish between them, So the designed R-C filter circuit filters unwanted frequency responses and provides only desired frequency responses which is given to reception module [112].
- the Reception module [112] is connected to a Function generator [109] which helps Function generator [109] to re tune its output pulse given to transmission size PZT.
- the Reception Module [112] is connected to 32 Bit Microcontroller [101]’s input capture pin to measure the parameters such as time of flight, velocity and pulse width which later utilized by 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] to predict the Fat, Solid Non Fat and other milk parameters.
- Milk is highly viscous liquid contains various fat and non fat material. Along with this during animal milking process, the milk also contains dust and other elements. If this is not removed before measurement The Ultrasonic measurement can lead to wrong result. Apart from this raw milk also contains air bubbles which if not removed from the milk can lead to wrong ultrasonic measurement. Normally industry suggest ultrasonic stirrer to remove the air bubbles from the milk which is required separate instruments. To avoid this and to achieve minimum cost, inventors have used filter made of nylon or woven net, the said micro fiber filter is having mesh size between 50 to 180 microns, preferably 60 to 100 microns mesh openings. The Micro fiber Filter [113] is attached to the inlet nozzle of Milk Bucket [1 14]. During Milk Suction, the milk is passed through this Filter [1 13] which removes air bubble and other dust outside of filter and only milk is passed through the filter.
- Milk Bucket is a container which can hold milk up to 25ml.
- Milk is filled in the Milk Bucket and placed on the stand provided at the front side of device.
- Milk Suction Pump [108] into Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107].
- Power Regulator / Amplifier drains power from Power Supply [116] and produce regulated output (5V, 3.3V) needed to operate different ICs and Peripherals. Also amplified input signal to desire value to generate pulse for PZT sensor.
- Present invention can be operated using either 230V AC Power supply or 12V DC Power Supply.
- Communication Unit is responsible for controlling communication peripheral such as USB Interface [104], RS 232 Serial Interface [105] and Wireless Interface [106]. It is driven by 32 Bit Microcontroller [101].
- EEPROM Electrical Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
- SD CARD SD card is a memory unit of the device. It is responsible to store milk sample analysis related information for future analysis. It is driven by Storage Unit [111] using 32 Bit Micro controller [101].
- FIG-2 shows the block diagram of Dynamic Temperature Compensation Circuit [1 10] with ultrasonic measuring cell [120] of the present invention.
- the present invention is based on Ultrasonic measurement technique.
- ultrasonic methodologies exist. In the current invention we are using transmission method of ultrasonic waves which required transmitter and receiver on both end of the measuring cell.
- the Ultrasonic Cell [120] contains brass pipe with two holes for inlet and outlet of milk. The end of pipe is sealed by Plastic enclosed PZT sensors of different specification. The Pair of PZT sensors are selected such as to match impedance of the material for maximum energy transfer through the liquid medium.
- the brass pipe required to heat by The Temperature compensation circuit [110].
- the heating principal is based on copper coil which is wounded on brass pipe serially over layer wired by manganin cable.
- One end of copper coil is connected to Temperature Pulse Generator [210] and other end of Manganin cable is connected to Comparator Circuit [240].
- the desired temperature is achieved by detecting change in resistance with respect to temperature and detected by Comparator Circuit [240].
- the Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120] is placed in Ultrasonic Assembly Box [107],
- the present invention is driven by 32bit Microcontroller CPU [101], it is powered by 120Mhz of crystal capable of generating frequency of desired range for the Piezo electric crystals.
- the CPU [101] is connected 8 Key keyboard [103] and LCD [102] interface for the human machine interface.
- the Invention is designed to provide connectivity options to legacy and system and for the future system. Hence It is connected to USB [104] Interface for firmware upgrade and other peripheral communications. It is also having capability to provide legacy communication interface over 2x RS232 [104] Interface which is used to transfer the measure results over serial port for the third-party system integration such as printer, wall mount display or computer.
- the CPU Is hosting Memory [111] module to provide storage of configuration and calibration information, password and other parameters required to perform the measurement.
- the Suction Pump [108] is used to transfer milk to Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107] via micro filter[l 13] which is used to remove dust or bubbles from the milk sample.
- the Suction Pump [108] is adjusted such a way it takes sufficient volume of milk to Ultrasonic Box assembly [107].
- suction pump [108] reverse the motion to empty the Ultrasonic Box Assembly.
- the Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107] filled with Milk by suction Pump[108] the Pump [108] provide the feedback to CPU to initiate the measurement.
- the CPU instruct the Dynamic temperature compensation module [110] achieve the desired milk temperature before measurement start.
- the temperature compensation module communicates the RTD wires to measure the milk temperature and start the heating the coil to achieve the desired temperature ranges.
- Dynamic temperature compensation module [110] instruct the CPU about the first temperature achievement,
- the CPU instruct the function generator [107] to generate fix number of constant amplitude pulse with amplified signals. These signals are given to Piezoelectric Crystals to induce the ultrasound waves which is then passed to milk. The ultrasound signals passed through milk is reflected in milk and captured in receiver end.
- Ultrasonic Noise Filter and Reception Module [112] is connected to receiver sides capture the signals from the Piezoelectric Sensors remove noise and convert signals to pulses which then measure by CPU.
- the CPU compared the transmission frequency and receives frequencies and used multivariate analysis to measure the Fat, Density, Solid Non Fat and Water Parameters.
- the invention is designed to measure milk composition at a temperature between 4°C to 40°C of milk sample.
- EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
- PZT Lead zirconate titanate ultrasonic transducers
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- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Immunology (AREA)
- Pathology (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Food Science & Technology (AREA)
- Medicinal Chemistry (AREA)
- Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
- Ceramic Engineering (AREA)
- Investigating Or Analyzing Materials By The Use Of Ultrasonic Waves (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention relates to an ultrasonic milk analyzer. More particularly, the present invention relates to an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature. The present invention is designed to measure milk composition at a temperature between 40°C to 400°C for variety of milk samples. The present invention due to having an arrangement of Dynamic Temperature Compensation system along with multipass scanning of milk samples at different temperatures, provides better results and reproducibility. The microfilter used in the said milk analyzer removes unwanted bubbles from the milk to avoid false estimation of milk composition.
Description
TITLE OF THE INVENTION
“An Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature”
[DESCRIPTION]
FIELD OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
The present invention relates to an ultrasonic milk analyzer. More particularly, the present invention relates to an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature. The present invention is designed to measure milk composition at a temperature between 4°C to 40°C for variety of milk samples. The present invention due to having an arrangement of Dynamic Temperature Compensation system along with multipass scanning of milk samples at different temperatures, provides better results and reproducibility. The microfilter used in the said milk analyzer removes unwanted bubbles from the milk to avoid false estimation of milk composition.
BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
Milk is a crucial food source, particularly for kids and new-borns. Adults all around the world consume a lot of milk products in their diets. More than 6 billion individuals are thought to drink milk and milk products at this time. As a result, milk is regarded as a crucial element in enhancing nutrition and lowering malnutrition. With the development of technology, advances in dairy technology and cattle breeding have been made to produce more milk. In a dairy farm, the milk is routinely examined after it is collected from the animals to measure milk components and to evaluate. Milk is analysed quantitatively by counting the amount of different milk constituents such fat, solid non-fat (SNF), proteins, lactose, water.
The milk is a liquid which is having certain self-age. The component of milk can only be measured under certain temperature conditions. Hence
maintaining the constant temperature during measurement is key requirements for the precise estimation of milk component. The invention represent here is to overcome the temperature requirement of sample before measurement.
The Milk composition analysis is a necessary link for the quality of raw milk purchase and product quality monitoring during the production process. Traditional milk component analysis uses chemical analysis technology, which requires chemical analysis of milk fat, solids, density, and protein content. The analysis of fat content is based on the difference in density between fat and other components and is determined after separation by a milk fat separator; solid content is measured by weighing after drying; density is measured by densitometer; protein is measured by Kjeldahl method Determination. The entire analysis process often takes 1.2 days, time-consuming and laborious. At the same time, it requires the help of various chemical reagents, nitrogen analyzers, drying ovens, densitometers, milk fat separators and other chemical analysis equipment, which are complicated to operate and random errors. High, not conducive to product quality monitoring and production management.
There are various prior arts available on milk analyzer and method of milk analysis. One such method is available in which the milk analyzer is transferred to any certified calibrating and analysis laboratory for analysis. The analysis is done by the manual process in which the different types of the samples of milk are needed for example cow milk. In analysis the two known values of the milk parameters are need i.e. high sample value and low sample value and the samples are measured for several times. The limitation of this manual process is, it is very lengthy and tedious method. Moreover, in this method, there is a possibility of data manipulation.
The need to rapid and accurate method to analyze the composition of milk is required. The other methods such as NIR and Mid IR is available but it is
very complex and expensive technology to estimate the milk composition, and also required very sophisticated users and environment.
There are several other problems also associated in the analysis of milk samples collected from different types of animals i.e. cow mik, buffalo milk, goat milk, camel milk at various temperature between 4°C to 40°C.
Hence to overcome the problems associated with milk analysis it is long felt need to provide an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature.
OBJECTIVES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
The principal object of the present invention is to obviate the problems faced by the prior art technologies.
It is also an object to provide an ultrasonic milk analyzer and a method of analysis of milk at various temperature between 4°C to 40°C.
Further object of the present invention is to provide an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature and method of milk analysis using the said milk analyzer.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an automatic temperature compensated milk analyzer having no manual intervention for the calibration of milk analyzer and analysis of the milk, ensuring it is free from the errors induced by a person who conducts the milk analysis manually.
There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more important features of the invention in order that the detailed description thereof that follows may be better understood and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
Figure- 1: Block diagram of milk analyzer as per the present invention. Figure-2: Dynamic Temperature Compensation Circuit with ultrasonic measuring cell of the present invention.
Figure-3: Flow diagram of a method of analysis using an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer [100].
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
Below is provided the detailed description of the present invention that should not be construed as a limit to the scope of the present invention.
The present invention relates to an ultrasonic milk analyzer. More particularly, the present invention relates to an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature. The present invention is designed to measure milk composition at a temperature between 4°C to 40°C for variety of milk samples. The present invention due to having an arrangement of Dynamic Temperature Compensation system along with multipass scanning of milk samples at different temperatures, provides better results and reproducibility. The microfilter used in the said milk analyzer removes unwanted bubbles from the milk to avoid false estimation of milk composition.
Figure- 1 has shown the block diagram of milk analyzer [100] as per the present invention.
According to the first embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer [100] using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature, the said milk analyzer mainly comprises:
32 Bit microcontroller [101] working at a frequency of 120Mhz;
20x4 liquid crystal display for Visual Interface [102] interfaced directly with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] and driven from it;
8 Key Matrix Keyboard [103] interfaced directly with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] and driven from it;
USB Interface for Firmware Update and PC Interface [104] interfaced with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [117] and driven from it;
2 RS 232 Serial Interfaces for Legacy interface [105], both connected with 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [117] for transmit and receive data between devices
Wireless Interface [106] connected with 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [1 17];
Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107] consist of ultrasonic measuring cell [120];
Milk Suction Pump [108] equipped with DC motor connected to one plastic plate to generate air pressure in both directions by providing linear forces to the air bubble;
A Function generator for Ultrasonic Frequency [109] for generating the fix amplitude pulse to energize the PZT;
Dynamic Temperature Compensation Circuit [110] to achieve the desire temperature between 4 to 40°C regardless of milk temperature
Storage Unit [111] to store primary and secondary calibration information and other measurement information;
Ultrasonic Noise Filter and Reception Module [112]; micro fiber filter [113]; milk bucket [114] on the stand placed at the front side of system [100] to hold milk sample for analysis purpose; and ultrasonic measuring cell [120] placed in ultrasonic assembly box [107].
Now, each embodiment is described in detail as follows:
32 Bit microcontroller [101]:
The Present invention is driven by 32 Bit microcontroller [101] which is clocked at 120Mhz frequency capable to capture frequency of desired range
for the Piezo electric crystals. It is the Central Processing Unit of the device. It is responsible for operating (A) 20x4 liquid crystal display [102] (B) 8 Key Matrix Keyboard [103] (C) USB Interface [104], 2x RS 232 Serial Interface [105] and Wireless Interface through Communication Unit [117] (D) EEPROM [118] and SD Card [119] through Storage Unit [111] (E) Milk Suction Pump [108] (F) Function Generator [109] (G) Dynamic Temperature Compensation Circuit [110] (H) Ultrasonic Noise Filter and Reception Module [1 12]. It is operated by Power Regulator/ Amplifier [115] driven through Power Supply (AC 230v / 12VDC) [116]. It is faster and secure microcontroller.
20x4 liquid crystal display for Visual Interface [102]:
The Present invention uses 20X4 Character liquid crystal display to provide better user interface. It is interfaced directly with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] and driven from it. User can easily view up to 6 properties of analyzed milk at a glance in a single screen. It provides better navigation of different menu items, so that user can easily configure and calibrate device without any confusion in a few time. User can view milk analysis progress, cleaning and calibration logs very easily.
8 Key Matrix Keyboard [103]:
The Present invention uses 8 Key matrix Keyboard with introduction of 4 dedicated keys which improves operating speed of end user. It is interfaced directly with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] and driven from it. It has four basic keys (Menu, Up, Down and Enter) for operating entire device. It has three dedicated keys for directly measuring milk sample in particular channel (Cow, Buffalo or Mix Milk) without scrolling back and forth. It has one dedicated key for initiating cleaning process, which saves operating time of end user.
USB Interface for Firmware Update and PC Interface [104]:
The Present invention uses USB interface for Firmware Update facility which is interfaced with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [117] and driven from it. It provides the facility of
upgrading device thorough USB pen drive instead of reprogramming it. This will ease the upgradation of device at end user place without any extra effort.
RS 232 Serial Interface for Legacy interface [105]:
The Present invention uses two RS 232 Serial Interface to provide communication between existing device and third party device or PC. Both RS 232 Serial Interface are interfaced with 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [1 17] for transmit and receive data between devices. One RS 232 Serial Interface is provided at the back side of device to connect third party device or personal computer through interface cable for data transfer. Second RS 232 Serial Interface is provided inside device to enable Wifi communication between device and Mobile application for future use.
Wireless Interface [106]:
The Present invention uses Wireless Interface to provide wireless communication with third party devices. Wireless Interface is connected with 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [117]. It is used to transmit Milk Sample analysis data to third party device. It will eliminate the use of RS 232 communication interface cable.
Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107]:
Ultrasonic Box Assembly consist of either one or two Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120]. Overall milk sample analysis measurement time depends on number of Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120] used. If one Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120] is used than temperature Compensation is done serially one after another so, it will take 10 seconds more as compared to two Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120]. If two Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120] is used than temperature Compensation is done parallel so, it will perform milk analysis faster.
Milk Suction Pump [108]:
Milk Suction Pump [108] is an assembly equipped with DC motor which is connected to one plastic plate with screw mechanism which provides
linear forces to the air bubble. The Plastic plate is attached with DC motor’s shaft so when DC motor rotate the shaft pushes plate to forward direction which causes plastic air bubble to form the air pressure for the milk suction and discharge. This form of assembly is cost effective and works longer over the peristaltic pump which is causing issue after longer uses as it transfers liquid inside pipe through rollers by squeezing the hose. The constant squeezing the hose caused pipe breakage which may cause liquid leakage inside the system or apparatus. The function of air bubble is to generate air pressure in both directions. The resulting air pressure helps to suction milk from the Milk Bucket [114]. The Position of plate which is connected to air bubble is adjusted using hall sensor which ensure the sufficient air suction is generated to fill the Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107]. The Milk Suction Pump [108] works in two directions. To suction milk from The Milk Bucket [114] in to Ultrasonic Box Assembly
[107], The Suction Pump [108] reverse the direction to create air suction in air bubble and to empty The Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107] it pushes plate to forward direction. The Speed of Milk Suction Pump [108] is adjusted based on laboratory measurements which ensured slow and steady suction of milk through Micro Fiber Filter [113] to avoid air bubble and hence ensure the accuracy of measurement. The Milk Suction Pump
[108] get the command from CPU to start the measurements. When Milk Suction Pump [108] finishes milk suction activity it provides feedback to 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] to start the further process. Same way when 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] finishes the measurement activity it instructs The Milk Suction Pump [108] to empty the Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107].
A Function generator for Ultrasonic Frequency [109]:
Once The Dynamic Temperature Compensation [1 10] is performed it instructs the 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] about the desired temperature has been achieved in Ultrasonic Measuring Cells [120]. Now the 32-Bit Microcontroller [101] has to start the measurement activity by energizing The PZT attached to transmitter side of the Ultrasonic Measuring Cells
[120]. To Start, The Function generator [109] generates the fix amplitude pulse to energize the PZT. The PZT emit the Pulse to measuring cell which is again received by recipient PZT. The recipient side PZT converts the ultrasonic pulse to energy which is again pass through Ultrasonic Noise Filter [112]. The output of Noise Filter [112] which is again given feedback to Function generator [109]. The purpose of taking feedback to tune the Function generator [109] such that Noise in the receiver side minimized and proper frequency can be received which is further used by 32 Bit Microcontroller [101].
In one of the prior art references, i.e. CN1194225C, they are using FM/AM chipset to generate frequency for PZT. This method requires PZT with higher static capacitance and resonant frequency which has complex interfacing and noise issues. The inventor uses FM/AM chipset as a frequency generator to generate the desired frequency between 535-1605 kHz in the steps of 10kHz to apply as input to PZT. This is one of the way but required complex component to support FM/AM chipset to build the auto tune system. This method of generating frequency for the PZT is limited by the cost and availability of FM/AM chipset as it may get discontinued or new standard of FM/AM can cause the invention to redesign.
In another reference i.e. CN2837841Y, they are using frequency bands is 1.5Mhz which required expensive PZT transducers to handle the high frequency bands.
To overcome this, Present invention introduces lower frequency bands in kHz to achieve the better result with accuracy. Lower capacitance results in higher electrical impedance at a given frequency. This is beneficial to match the acoustic impedance of milk. More over lower capacitance turns in to faster electrical response as we need to tune the frequency based on the continuous feedback. It uses customized PZT elements with lower static
capacitance and lower resonance frequency for better results and hence reduces noise and pulse echo problem. This is again easily incorporated with the current system with no complex component required.
Dynamic Temperature Compensation Circuit [110]:
Figure-2 shows the block diagram of Dynamic Temperature Compensation Circuit [1 10] with ultrasonic measuring cell [120] of the present invention.
The Present invention is related to measuring milk parameters such as Fat, Solid Non-Fat, Protein, Lactose, Density and Added Water. To measure these parameters as a standard process of laboratory methods, The device has to heat the milk at the certain temperature before the actual ultrasonic measurement starts. The main challenge here is the milk has variety of temperatures based on the outside conditions such as weather and places too. The normal temperature or RAW milk is between 20°C to 30°C in normal season and in winter season and hilly area is between 10°C to 15°C. Sometimes It is also required to measure the chilled milk having temperature around 4°C. So, a mechanism required to measures the milk sample with temperature range of 4°C - 40°C. Hence Present Invention has introduced a dynamic temperature compensation system which ensure the system will achieve the desired temperature regardless of milk temperature. The Milk Suction Pump [108] instruct 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] once milk is inside The Ultrasonic Measuring Cells [120]. As a part of measuring process, it is required to heat the milk at two different temperatures. To Do So, 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] instructs Temperature Pulse Generator [210] circuit to start the first phase of lower temperature compensation. The Temperature Pulse Generator [210] is connected with winding of Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120] which is copper, manganin coil cross winded on brass pipe. The constant amplitude pulse generates the heat over the coil which resulted to heating of milk. The other end of coil winded on Ultrasonic measuring cell [120] is connected to Comparator Circuit [240] which check the desired temperature has achieved or not by comparing Reference set by
Temperature Tuning Circuit [220] once the desired temperature achieved the Feedback Circuit [250] triggers the input of Temperature Pulse Generator [210] and 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] to stop the heating. The Microcontroller performs the Ultrasonic Measurement and instructs Temperature Pulse Generator [210] for second phase of temperature compensation which is higher temperature then the first phase. The same process has been followed and 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] performs Ultrasonic measurement.
Storage Unit [111]:
The Ultrasonic Milk Analyzer [100], Known as current invention required to store primary and secondary calibration information and other measurement information. The current invention provides two form of storage devices one is EEPROM [118] and other is SD Card [119]. The primacy calibration information is stored in EEPROM [118]. this device provides more reliable form of storing data which prevents data loss or data corruption. The SD Card [119] is used to store machine measurement data and other required logs such as cleaning information, calibration change data. The critical errors information and other measurement data.
Ultrasonic Noise Filter and Reception Module [112]:
The PZT are the ultrasonic transducers used for the transmission methods or ultrasonic measurement. The Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120] contains the pair of PZT, One act as transmission and other act as receiver. The main use of this module to remove the noise from the reception side of PZT. The noise is generated due to various reasons such as, pulse-echo method, error in PZT transducers as well. Moreover, each PZT has different specification and behavior which created problem in device calibration. The Ultrasonic Noise Filter [112] is R-C Filter circuit which is used in line with receiver side PZT characteristic. R-C filters in ultrasonic systems can be used in the receiving path to isolate the ultrasonic frequency of interest, in the transmitting path to ensure only the desired frequency is emitted, or in power supply lines to reduce noise that could interfere with ultrasonic
measurements. In this method, a short pulse of ultrasonic waves is transmitted into milk, and the reflected waves (or echoes) are received. Reflecting surfaces which are close to each other, the echoes from these surfaces may overlap and making it difficult to distinguish between them, So the designed R-C filter circuit filters unwanted frequency responses and provides only desired frequency responses which is given to reception module [112]. The Reception module [112] is connected to a Function generator [109] which helps Function generator [109] to re tune its output pulse given to transmission size PZT. The Reception Module [112] is connected to 32 Bit Microcontroller [101]’s input capture pin to measure the parameters such as time of flight, velocity and pulse width which later utilized by 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] to predict the Fat, Solid Non Fat and other milk parameters.
Micro Fiber Filter [113]:
Milk is highly viscous liquid contains various fat and non fat material. Along with this during animal milking process, the milk also contains dust and other elements. If this is not removed before measurement The Ultrasonic measurement can lead to wrong result. Apart from this raw milk also contains air bubbles which if not removed from the milk can lead to wrong ultrasonic measurement. Normally industry suggest ultrasonic stirrer to remove the air bubbles from the milk which is required separate instruments. To avoid this and to achieve minimum cost, inventors have used filter made of nylon or woven net, the said micro fiber filter is having mesh size between 50 to 180 microns, preferably 60 to 100 microns mesh openings. The Micro fiber Filter [113] is attached to the inlet nozzle of Milk Bucket [1 14]. During Milk Suction, the milk is passed through this Filter [1 13] which removes air bubble and other dust outside of filter and only milk is passed through the filter.
Milk Bucket [114]:
Milk Bucket is a container which can hold milk up to 25ml. In order to analyze the milk sample, Milk is filled in the Milk Bucket and placed on the
stand provided at the front side of device. During Milk sample analysis process, milk is being suck from this Milk Bucket using Milk Suction Pump [108] into Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107].
Power Regulator/ Amplifier [115]:
Power Regulator / Amplifier drains power from Power Supply [116] and produce regulated output (5V, 3.3V) needed to operate different ICs and Peripherals. Also amplified input signal to desire value to generate pulse for PZT sensor.
Power Supply (AC 230V / DC 12V) [116]:
Present invention can be operated using either 230V AC Power supply or 12V DC Power Supply.
Communication Unit [117]:
Communication Unit is responsible for controlling communication peripheral such as USB Interface [104], RS 232 Serial Interface [105] and Wireless Interface [106]. It is driven by 32 Bit Microcontroller [101].
EEPROM [118]:
EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) is a memory unit of the device. It is responsible to store configuration settings, primary and secondary calibration values and cleaning history of the device. It is driven by Storage Unit [111] using 32 Bit Micro controller [101]. SD CARD [119]: SD card is a memory unit of the device. It is responsible to store milk sample analysis related information for future analysis. It is driven by Storage Unit [111] using 32 Bit Micro controller [101].
Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120]:
Figure-2 shows the block diagram of Dynamic Temperature Compensation Circuit [1 10] with ultrasonic measuring cell [120] of the present invention. The present invention is based on Ultrasonic measurement technique. There are various ultrasonic methodologies exists. In the current invention we are using transmission method of ultrasonic waves which required transmitter and receiver on both end of the measuring cell. The Ultrasonic Cell [120] contains brass pipe with two holes for inlet and outlet of milk.
The end of pipe is sealed by Plastic enclosed PZT sensors of different specification. The Pair of PZT sensors are selected such as to match impedance of the material for maximum energy transfer through the liquid medium. The brass pipe required to heat by The Temperature compensation circuit [110]. The heating principal is based on copper coil which is wounded on brass pipe serially over layer wired by manganin cable. One end of copper coil is connected to Temperature Pulse Generator [210] and other end of Manganin cable is connected to Comparator Circuit [240]. The desired temperature is achieved by detecting change in resistance with respect to temperature and detected by Comparator Circuit [240]. The Ultrasonic Measuring Cell [120] is placed in Ultrasonic Assembly Box [107],
According to the second embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of analysis of milk using an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature.
As shown in figure- 1, 2 & flow diagram of figure-3, there is provided a method of analysis of milk using an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer [100].
Referring the figure-3 - “Flow diagram of a method of analysis using an Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer [100]”, a method of analysis using an automatic temperature compensated milk analyzer [100] may be described as follows:
Fill Milk Bucket [114] with Milk and place it on the stand provided at the front side of the device. Press Enter Key to start Milk Analysis. As milk analysis process starts, it will first suction milk into Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107] using Milk Suction Pump [108]. If there is any error during milk suction it will display error on 20X4 Character LCD [102]. Once milk is suctioned into Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107], device will initiate temperature compensation process. During temperature compensation
process, ultrasonic measuring cell [120] is heated to achieve desired temperature. If there is any error during temperature compensation process it will display temperature related error on 20X4 Character LCD [102]. Once temperature compensation is achieved, it will compare ultrasonic pulse related data received on ultrasonic measuring cell. If received data is not in desired range than it will display ultrasonic cell related error on 20X4 Character LCD [102] otherwise it will perform multi linier calculation on received data and milk constituents such as fat, solid non-fat (SNF), proteins, lactose, added water are derived from it. To correct the reading with reference methods further slop correction applied if saved in the device and then result is displayed on the 20X4 Character LCD [102]. After result is displayed on the screen, The Milk Suction Pump[108] eject the milk from Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107].
Thus, the present invention is driven by 32bit Microcontroller CPU [101], it is powered by 120Mhz of crystal capable of generating frequency of desired range for the Piezo electric crystals. The CPU [101] is connected 8 Key keyboard [103] and LCD [102] interface for the human machine interface. The Invention is designed to provide connectivity options to legacy and system and for the future system. Hence It is connected to USB [104] Interface for firmware upgrade and other peripheral communications. It is also having capability to provide legacy communication interface over 2x RS232 [104] Interface which is used to transfer the measure results over serial port for the third-party system integration such as printer, wall mount display or computer. The CPU Is hosting Memory [111] module to provide storage of configuration and calibration information, password and other parameters required to perform the measurement. The Suction Pump [108] is used to transfer milk to Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107] via micro filter[l 13] which is used to remove dust or bubbles from the milk sample. The Suction Pump [108] is adjusted such a way it takes sufficient volume of milk to Ultrasonic Box assembly [107]. When measurement is finished
suction pump [108] reverse the motion to empty the Ultrasonic Box Assembly. When The Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107] filled with Milk by suction Pump[108], the Pump [108] provide the feedback to CPU to initiate the measurement. The CPU instruct the Dynamic temperature compensation module [110] achieve the desired milk temperature before measurement start. The temperature compensation module communicates the RTD wires to measure the milk temperature and start the heating the coil to achieve the desired temperature ranges. Dynamic temperature compensation module [110] instruct the CPU about the first temperature achievement, The CPU instruct the function generator [107] to generate fix number of constant amplitude pulse with amplified signals. These signals are given to Piezoelectric Crystals to induce the ultrasound waves which is then passed to milk. The ultrasound signals passed through milk is reflected in milk and captured in receiver end. Ultrasonic Noise Filter and Reception Module [112] is connected to receiver sides capture the signals from the Piezoelectric Sensors remove noise and convert signals to pulses which then measure by CPU. The CPU compared the transmission frequency and receives frequencies and used multivariate analysis to measure the Fat, Density, Solid Non Fat and Water Parameters.
ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
• The invention is designed to measure milk composition at a temperature between 4°C to 40°C of milk sample.
• The Dynamic Temperature Compensation system of the said milk analyzer along with multipass scanning of milk at different temperatures provide better results and reproducibility.
• The microfilter used in the milk suction remove unwanted bubbles from the milk to avoid false estimation of milk composition
LIST OF PARTS AND REFERENCE NUMERALS
100: An automatic milk analyzer of the present invention
101 : 32 Bit microcontroller
102: 20x4 liquid crystal display for Visual Interface
103: 8 Key Matrix Keyboard
104: USB Interface for Firmware Update and PC Interface
105: RS 232 Serial Interface for Legacy interface
106: Wireless Interface 107: Ultrasonic Box Assembly
108: Milk Suction Pump
109: A Function generator for Ultrasonic Frequency
110: Dynamic Temperature Compensation Circuit
111 : Storage Unit
112: Ultrasonic Noise Filter and Reception Module
113: Micro Fiber Filter
114: Milk Bucket
115: Power Regulator/ Amplifier
116: Power Supply (AC 230v / VDC)
117: Communication unit
118: EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory)
119: SD CARD
120: Ultrasonic Measuring Cell
PZT: Lead zirconate titanate ultrasonic transducers
210: Temperature Pulse Generator
220: Temperature Tuning Circuit
230: reference signal generator
240: comparator circuit
250: feedback circuit
Claims
1. An Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer [100] using Ultrasonic Sensors for variety of sample temperature, the said milk analyzer comprises:
32 Bit microcontroller [101] working at a frequency of 120Mhz;
20x4 liquid crystal display for Visual Interface [102] interfaced directly with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] and driven from it;
8 Key Matrix Keyboard [103] interfaced directly with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] and driven from it;
USB Interface for Firmware Update and PC Interface [104] interfaced with 32 Bit microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [117] and driven from it;
2 RS 232 Serial Interfaces for Legacy interface [105], both connected with 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [117] for transmit and receive data between devices
Characterized in that one RS 232 serial interface is provided at the back side of milk analyzer [100] to connect third party device through interface cable for data transfer and second RS 232 serial interface is provided inside the milk analyzer [100] to enable wifi communication between milk analyzer [100] and mobile application;
Wireless Interface [106] connected with 32 Bit Microcontroller [101] through Communication Unit [117];
Ultrasonic Box Assembly [107] consist of ultrasonic measuring cell [120];
Milk Suction Pump [108] equipped with DC motor connected to one plastic plate
Characterized in that the said plastic plate is connected to DC motor’s shaft to provide linear forces to the air bubble enabling air bubble to form air pressure for the milk suction and discharge;
A Function generator for Ultrasonic Frequency [109] for generating the fix amplitude pulse to energize the PZT;
Dynamic Temperature Compensation Circuit [110] to achieve the desire temperature between 4 to 40°C regardless of milk temperature
Characterized in that the said dynamic temperature compensation circuit [110] comprises temperature pulse generator [210], temperature tuning circuit [220], reference signal generator [230], comparator circuit [240] and feedback circuit [250];
Storage Unit [111] to store primary and secondary calibration information and other measurement information;
Ultrasonic Noise Filter and Reception Module [112]
Characterized in that Reception Module [112] is connected to a function generator [109] and to 32 Bit microcontroller [101] wherein connection of reception module [112] with function generator [109] helps function generator [109] to retune its output pulse give to transmission size PZT and connecting reception module [112] with 32 Bit microcontroller [101]’s input capture pin helps to measure the parameters helps in predicting results of parameters analyzed by milk analyzer [100]; micro fiber filter [113] characterized in that the said micro fiber filter [113] is attached to the inlet nozzle of milk bucket [114] to remove air bubble and dust from milk during milk suction; milk bucket [114] on the stand placed at the front side of system [100] to hold milk sample for analysis purpose; and ultrasonic measuring cell [120] placed in ultrasonic assembly box [107] Characterized in that the said ultrasonic measuring cell [120] comprises a brass pipe having two holes for inlet and outlet of milk and the end of brass pipe is sealed by plastic enclosed PZT sensors, the said brass pipe is heated by the temperature compensation circuit [110] using the copper coil wounded on brass pipe serially over layer wired by manganin cable wherein the one end of copper coil is connected to temperature
pulse generator [210] and the other end of manganin cable is connected to comparator circuit [240].
2. An Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer [100] as claimed in claim- 1 wherein storage unit [111] is selected from EEPROM [118] OR SD CARD [1 19] or both.
3. An Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer [100] as claimed in claim- 1 wherein milk suction pump [108] works in two directions characterized in that the milk suction pump [108] suctions milk through micro fiber filter [113] from the milk bucket [114] into ultrasonic box assembly[107] and ensure the accuracy of measurement results of milk analyzer [100] and to reverse the direction to create air suction in air bubble and to empty the ultrasonic box assembly [107] by pushing the plastic plate in forward direction.
4. An Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer [100] as claimed in claim- 1 wherein R-C circuit is kept as ultrasonic noise filter Characterized in that R-C circuit filters unwanted frequency response and provides desired frequency response which is given to reception module [112].
5. An Automatic Temperature Compensated Milk Analyzer [100] as claimed in claim- 1 wherein micro fiber filter [1 13] is made of nylon or woven net, the said filter is having mesh size between 50 to 180 microns.
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