Patent ID: 6195160
Filing Date: 2001-02-27
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A refractometer having a body housing, a sample cover assembly, a prism assembly and measuring assembly for measuring the composition and density of a substance, said refractometer comprising:a) a light source;b) a power source for operating said light source;c) operating means for selectively activating the light source;d) said light source, power source and operating means together defining an illuminator assembly for supporting the light source in a position on or about said prism assembly to illuminate a fluid substance to be measured, wherein said light source is mounted forward of the prismatic element to introduce light at grazing incidence to the measuring surface of said prism;e) said light source being housed in the refractometer body and on or about said prism assembly; andf) wherein said measuring assembly includes a reticle and an eyepiece for making a quantitative determination of a physical property of a substance directly related to its refractive index.