Differential Capillary Viscometer Dynamic Measurement Window
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing differential capillary viscometers are time-consuming and resource-wasteful due to fixed time-based measurement durations and inefficient sample loading processes, which prolong the total sample measurement time by a factor of 2 to 4.
Innovation Solution
A differential capillary viscometer with a first and second pressure module, fluid injectors, and a controller that generates a pressure ratio signal to determine the end time of a transition period, allowing for a defined measurement window to calculate viscosity, thereby reducing the total cycle time and minimizing material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed time-based measurement durations are used, then measurement consistency is maintained, but total measurement time increases and resources are wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic measurement duration by using a controller to monitor pressure ratio signals in real-time and automatically determine when equilibrium is reached. The measurement window is dynamically adjusted based on the actual transition completion rather than using fixed predetermined times, allowing measurements to end as soon as equilibrium is achieved while maintaining consistency through automated detection criteria.
2Ease of operation
If six-port valve loading process is used, then sample injection is achieved, but total cycle time increases by factor of 2 to 4
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for preliminary sample loading into a fixed-volume loop by injecting samples directly into the capillary. The controller manages direct injection from reservoirs through the capillary, removing the intermediate loading step that required valve toggling between load and inject states, thereby significantly reducing cycle time while maintaining injection capability.
3Manufacturing precision
If fixed-volume loop is used, then precise sample delivery is ensured, but valve toggling increases measurement time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the fixed-volume loop component from the system architecture. Instead of using a loop that requires valve toggling for loading and injection, the system uses direct capillary injection controlled by the controller, which monitors pressure signals to determine when injection is complete, thereby eliminating the time-consuming valve operations while maintaining precision through electronic control.
4Reliability
If post-hoc analysis is performed, then measurement validation is achieved, but time and resources are wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback control by continuously monitoring pressure ratio signals during the measurement process. The controller analyzes the pressure signals as they are generated and automatically determines when equilibrium is reached based on predefined criteria, providing immediate validation without requiring post-hoc analysis. This real-time feedback approach maintains measurement reliability while eliminating wasted time on subsequent validation steps.
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
This approach significantly shortens the total cycle time for each measurement, enabling more cycles in the same timeframe and reducing the amount of materials needed, resulting in cost savings and improved efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first pressure sensor that generates first pressure data indicative of a pressure drop across the capillary
Implementation Method 2
a first fluid injector that introduces a first fluid into the first pressure module such that the first fluid flows through the first capillary
Data Source
AI summary
A viscometer includes first and second capillaries and a valve. In a first state, the valve connects the second capillary to a first fluid injector via the first capillary. In a second state, the valve connects the second capillary to a second fluid injector. A controller receives data indicative of respective pressure drops within the first and second capillaries, and generates a pressure ratio signal therefrom. The controller analyzes the pressure ratio signal to determine an end of a transition between a first equilibrium when the valve is in the first state, and a second equilibrium when the valve is in the second state. The controller defines a measurement window based on the transition end, and therein determines a viscosity of the second fluid based on the pressure ratio signal. The first fluid is a solvent, and the second fluid is a solution of a same solvent and a solute.