Interactive Workshop: Classical and AI-Based Spray Measurement Technology
Spray processes are highly dynamic and often difficult to characterize using conventional measurement techniques. In this interactive workshop, we present advanced real-time spray measurement technology based on the TSTOF principle and demonstrate how classical optical diagnostics can be combined with modern AI-based evaluation methods.
The TSTOF technology was originally invented at Technical University Darmstadt and was first presented to a broader audience at ACHEMA 2012 in the university’s start-up area. Since then, it has been continuously developed and introduced under different product and technology names, including SprayQuantAI®, SpraySpy® and ParticleTensorAI®.
This gives the workshop a unique perspective: more than a decade after its first public presentation, we now showcase the next generation of TSTOF technology, extending classical droplet-resolved measurements toward AI-assisted spray and process monitoring.
Link to DECHEMA Workshop: https://dechema.de/en/DECHEMAFORUM2026
The workshop introduces two complementary approaches for spray characterization:
Classical single-droplet measurement
Participants will learn how individual droplets within a spray can be optically detected and analyzed in real time. The method provides droplet-resolved information such as droplet size, velocity, and statistical spray characteristics.
AI-based spray characterization
We will also present innovative AI-supported approaches using SprayQuantAI® and ParticleTensorAI®. These methods extend classical measurement concepts and enable advanced process monitoring based on complex light-scattering signals and statistical ensemble behavior.
The concepts behind SprayQuantAI® and ParticleTensorAI® are protected by patents filed in 2024 and 2025. Further information can be found here:
A central focus of the workshop is the connection between individual droplet analysis and the characterization of the spray as a whole. Participants will gain insight into how optical signals are interpreted, how statistical information is extracted, and how AI can unlock new possibilities for spray monitoring in both research and industrial applications.
The workshop also explores new application areas for TSTOF technology beyond established techniques such as laser diffraction, particularly where real-time, process-oriented, and material-sensitive spray diagnostics are required.
What participants will learn
Participants will gain a practical understanding of:
- the TSTOF measurement principle
- classical single-droplet spray diagnostics
- AI-based spray analysis with SprayQuantAI® and ParticleTensorAI®
- statistical evaluation of sprays as droplet ensembles
- new application areas beyond established methods such as laser diffraction
- next-generation real-time spray and process monitoring technologies
Target audience
This workshop is intended for researchers, engineers, developers, and application specialists working with spray processes, atomization, coating technology or process monitoring.
Why join?
The workshop combines fundamental measurement principles, practical spray diagnostics, and AI-based data interpretation. It offers participants a direct introduction to modern spray measurement technology and demonstrates how classical optical methods can be expanded to meet future requirements in process monitoring and automation.
At the same time, the workshop tells the development story of a measurement technology that originated at TU Darmstadt, was first presented at ACHEMA 2012, evolved into systems such as SprayQuantAI®, SpraySpy® and ParticleTensorAI®, and is now entering its next generation through AI-driven methods for spray characterization and process monitoring.