Image Recognition and Analysis System and Software

Abstract

A method of analyzing bubbles, cells, cell viability, or other particles or agglomerates in a process liquid contained in a vessel is provided. Images of bubbles, cells or other particles in the liquid are obtained in-situ with a vision probe extending through a wall of the vessel. The images are analyzed with image recognition software. The software measures at lease one of bubble, cell or particle size, mean diameter, surface area, flow rate, flow pattern, population distribution, viability, agglomerates or clumping, color change, viscosity, Sauter mean, ratio of surface area of bubbles relative to volume of bubbles, gas hold-up ratio of gas volume to volume of liquid, or interfacial area. The software distinguishes valid or viable bubbles, cells or particles that should be included in an analysis from invalid or non-viable bubbles, cells or particles that should not be included. The software can be configured to provide an analysis of the valid bubbles, cells or particles that fall within pre-set size and shape or viability parameters.

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