Concentration monitor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conductivity type concentration monitors are not effective for newer generations of detergents, requiring multiple probes for different detergent classes, which is costly and disruptive, and cannot adapt to changes in detergent products without swapping out probes.
Innovation Solution
A concentration monitor that uses a single probe with a controller calculating concentration based on measured resistivity and temperature using a predetermined algorithm, allowing adaptation to various products and temperatures without needing multiple probes, enabling easy switching between different detergent types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single probe is used for traditional detergents, then the measurement precision is adequate, but it cannot measure newer generations of detergents with low conductivity
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is designed with a standardized interface and electrical connection that can work with different detergent types. The system achieves universality by combining a single probe design with software-based adaptability through predetermined algorithms that adjust measurement parameters based on the detected detergent type, allowing one probe to serve multiple functions across different detergent classes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes measurement parameters such as frequency, voltage amplitude, and algorithm selection based on the detected detergent type. The controller automatically adjusts these parameters when a detergent type change is detected, enabling the same probe to accurately measure both traditional high-conductivity detergents and newer low-conductivity formulations without physical modification.
2Measurement precision
If multiple probes are stocked for different detergent classes, then measurement precision is maintained, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring multiple specialized probes, the system uses a single universal probe design that can measure all detergent types. The complexity is shifted from hardware (multiple probes) to software (algorithm selection and parameter adjustment), reducing the number of physical components while maintaining measurement capability across different detergent classes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates virtual differentiation through software algorithms rather than physical probe variations. Each detergent type has an associated algorithm model stored in memory that replicates the measurement characteristics needed for that specific detergent class, allowing the same physical probe to emulate the behavior of multiple specialized probes through software copying of measurement approaches.
3Measurement precision
If probes are swapped when detergent type changes, then measurement precision is maintained, but loss of time and disruption to operations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the detergent type automatically upon insertion or during initial measurement. Once the detergent type is identified, the appropriate algorithm and measurement parameters are pre-loaded and activated, eliminating the need for manual probe swapping. This preliminary automated detection and configuration prevents operational disruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects detergent type changes and self-adjusts measurement parameters and algorithms without requiring user intervention for probe replacement. The controller monitors conductivity patterns and automatically selects the appropriate measurement mode, enabling the system to serve itself by adapting to different detergent types in real-time without manual intervention.
4Device complexity
If existing probes are used for newer detergents, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to low conductivity
Solution Approach 1:
The system compensates for low conductivity in newer detergents by changing measurement parameters such as increasing voltage amplitude, adjusting frequency, or extending measurement time. The controller automatically detects when a low-conductivity detergent is present and adjusts these parameters to maintain adequate signal levels and measurement precision while using the same simple probe hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces hardware-based precision maintenance (specialized probes) with software-based compensation algorithms. By using computational methods to adjust for low conductivity conditions, the system maintains measurement precision without requiring complex mechanical or electrical modifications to the probe itself.
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 cost-effective and non-disruptive monitoring and adjustment of detergent concentrations across a wide range of products and temperatures, eliminating the need for multiple probes and reducing stock requirements.
Implementation Method 1
A resistivity probe adapted for use with the use solution for taking a measurement related to the resistivity of the use solution
Implementation Method 2
A temperature sensor adapted for use with the use solution for taking a measurement related to the temperature of the use solution
Implementation Method 3
the conductivity of the use solution will increase as the percentage amount of concentrate is increased in the use solution
Data Source
AI summary
A concentration monitor for monitoring a concentration of a plurality of use solutions, each of the plurality of use solutions being, at least, a concentrate in a diluent, each of the plurality of use solutions having a resistivity which varies as a function of both temperature and an amount of the concentrate contained in a given amount of the diluent. A resistivity probe is adapted for use with at least one of the plurality of use solutions for taking a measurement related to the resistivity of the at least one of the plurality of use solutions. A temperature sensor is adapted for use with the at least one of the plurality of use solutions for taking a measurement related to the temperature of the at least one of the plurality of use solutions. A controller calculates the concentration of the at least one of the plurality of the use solutions based upon a predetermined algorithm using the resistivity and the temperature for the particular one of the at least one of the plurality of use solutions, the algorithm being based upon knowledge of the at least one of the plurality of use solutions being measured.