CPC G01N 15/1031 (2013.01) [G01N 15/0227 (2013.01); G01N 2015/0053 (2013.01)] | 14 Claims |
1. A particle monitoring system comprising:
a flow passage;
a particle imager to image a targeted particle within the flow passage;
electrodes supported proximate the flow passage;
a power source connected to the electrodes; and
a controller to cause the power source to charge the electrodes so as to (1) apply an electric field balanced with respect to gravity so as to hold, levitate and rotate a targeted particle within the flow passage during imaging and (2) release the targeted particle following the imaging,
wherein the flow passage comprises a floor and a ceiling, wherein the controller is to charge the electrodes to hold, levitate and rotate the targeted particle in a first zone spaced from and between the floor and the ceiling while allowing non-targeted particles to flow past the targeted particle through a second zone between the floor and the ceiling.
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