Abstract: An on-line sampling and analysis system and method in which a sampling line inlet pipe receives a continuous flow of a suspension or a slurry having particulates, such as grains, seed or phosphate rock, for rapid analysis of the contents therein in a flowing stream. A sample presentation area such as a window is positioned below the flow of the suspension or slurry in an assembly allowing for the depositing of a sample of solid content from the suspension or slurry which is collected for viewing by a computer controlled video camera. The camera is provided for imaging the sample of the solid content collected at the sample presentation area, and a personal computer analyzes images provided by the camera to characterize the content of the fluid media.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 23, 2001
Date of Patent:
October 21, 2003
Assignee:
Cargill, Incorporated
Inventors:
Stephen C. Pegram, Scott P. Klein, Christopher L. Davidson, Stanley A. Patterson, Thomas L. Coulter, John R. Schmedeman