Aseptic Pipeline Pig with Encased RFID Tag
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipeline pigs for aseptic processing lack reliable methods for identification, monitoring, and positioning within pipelines, especially those without visible inspection means, and existing solutions are limited by the use of permanent magnets or require specialized pipeline designs for radiofrequency identification, which are not suitable for harsh sterilization conditions.
Innovation Solution
A pipeline pig with an axially symmetrical, elongate main body made of solid material, featuring at least one radiofrequency identification tag fully encased within, allowing for identification, monitoring, and positioning without permanent magnetic materials, and capable of withstanding high temperatures and pressures for aseptic cleaning and product recovery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If permanent magnets are used for pig detection, then the pig can be located by magnetic field sensors, but no information about pig identity or status can be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines magnetic field sensors for location detection with RFID tags for identification and status monitoring into a single integrated pig system. The magnetic sensors detect the pig's position while the RFID tag simultaneously provides unique identification and operational data, resolving the contradiction by merging two separate functionality sets into one unified device.
Solution Approach 2:
The pig is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both magnetic field sensing capabilities for location tracking and RFID tagging for identification. This universal design allows the single pig device to perform multiple functions: location detection, identification, and status monitoring, eliminating the need for separate systems.
2Loss of information
If acoustic or electromagnetic communication systems are used in pigs, then data about pig location and status can be provided, but these systems are limited to large pipelines and require sensors for physical property measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential identification function from complex acoustic or electromagnetic communication systems, retaining only the RFID tagging capability. This extraction removes unnecessary complexity while preserving the core functionality of providing pig identification and status information, making the system suitable for various pipeline sizes without requiring additional physical property sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex acoustic or electromagnetic communication systems with a simpler RFID tagging system. This substitution maintains the ability to provide pig location and status data while significantly reducing device complexity and eliminating the need for additional sensors for physical property measurements.
3Loss of information
If RFID tags are used for pig identification, then pig identity can be tracked, but the tags must withstand harsh sterilization conditions including high temperatures and pressures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by selecting RFID tags with specific operational parameters designed to withstand sterilization conditions. The tags are chosen or modified to operate reliably at high temperatures and pressures, changing the operational parameters from standard conditions to sterilization-resistant conditions, thereby maintaining identification capability while ensuring reliability under harsh conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material construction for the RFID tag housing and components, combining materials that resist high temperatures, pressures, and chemical exposure during sterilization. This composite approach ensures the RFID tag maintains its identification functionality while withstanding the harsh sterilization environment required in food and pharmaceutical pipeline applications.
4Reliability
If pigs are designed without visible inspection means, then aseptic processing is maintained, but reliable detection and monitoring of pig status becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visible inspection means with electronic detection systems. Instead of requiring physical visual inspection that would compromise aseptic conditions, the system uses magnetic field sensors and RFID readers to detect and monitor pig status, position, and identification electronically. This substitution maintains aseptic integrity while enabling reliable monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic field sensors and RFID readers as intermediary detection devices that allow monitoring of pig status without direct physical contact or visible inspection. These intermediaries transmit information about pig position and condition through the pipeline wall, enabling remote monitoring that preserves aseptic conditions while providing reliable detection capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables remote identification and monitoring of the pipeline pig's status and position, facilitating aseptic processing by providing a seamless and sterile environment, with the radiofrequency identification tag remaining functional under sterilization conditions, thus improving pipeline maintenance and product recovery efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the pig comprises at least one radiofrequency identification tag
Data Source
AI summary
A pipeline pig (5) for cleaning pipelines (6) and/or for recovering products from a pipeline is disclosed. The pipeline pig (5) comprises at least one radiofrequency identification tag (4a, 4b) as a means for identification and for the sending, receiving and storing of data. The pipeline pig (5) may be used in pipeline systems used for the production of sterile food or pharmaceutical products.