Using fluorescence measurements for characterizing protein gel-firming processes
AssigneeReflectronics, Inc.
InventorFred Payne
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Abstract
The present invention relates to a method of predicting the cutting-time of coagulating milk based upon time parameters generated from fluorescence measurements. The method includes the steps of (a) measuring a change in the fluorescence response of coagulating milk, (b) generating time parameters from the fluorescence response, and (c) using time parameters and a cutting time prediction equation to predict cutting time. Additionally, an additional method is provided for determining a cutting time prediction equation by regression analysis.
Claims20
A method of generating and using time parameters to predict the cutting time of a milk coagulum comprising:
- measuring, by fluorescence sensor, a fluorescence response change of said milk coagulum;
- generating, by said controller, a first time parameter from said fluorescence response change;
- and
- using, by said controller, said first time parameter and a cutting time prediction equation to predict the cutting time of said milk coagulum.
A method of deriving a cutting time prediction equation of a milk coagulum, comprising:
- developing a coagulation profile of milk using the fluorescence response of a compound within said milk coagulum;
- analyzing said coagulation profile to determine said time parameter;
- recording the endpoint selected by the cheese plant operator;
- and
- deriving said cutting time prediction equation using said time parameters and endpoint selected by the cheese plant operator.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.