Electrolyte Inspection Using NIR for Real-Time Composition Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring electrolyte solutions in aircraft engine component processing are complex and time-consuming, leading to continuous quality fluctuations and lack of real-time data, making it difficult to ensure consistent processing quality.
Innovation Solution
The use of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) for continuous, real-time analysis of electrolyte solutions, allowing for qualitative and quantitative determination of components without manual sampling, enabling immediate integration into process control and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual sampling and laboratory analysis using wet chemical methods or ion chromatography are used, then comprehensive composition analysis can be achieved, but the analysis process becomes complex and time-consuming, preventing continuous monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical sampling and wet chemical analysis methods with automated optical sensing (NIR spectroscopy). This substitution eliminates the need for manual sample collection, transport, and laboratory analysis, enabling direct in-line measurement that provides rapid results without compromising compositional accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate measurement system (NIR spectrometer with specific wavelength ranges) that acts as a mediator between the electrolyte solution and the control system. This intermediary enables indirect but accurate determination of electrolyte composition and quality parameters through optical properties, avoiding direct chemical analysis while maintaining precision.
2Loss of information
If manual analysis methods are used, then detailed composition data can be obtained, but continuous monitoring and real-time control are prevented, leading to quality losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous monitoring by positioning the NIR spectrometer to measure electrolyte properties in real-time as the solution flows through the processing system. This continuous optical measurement provides uninterrupted quality information, enabling immediate detection of composition changes and continuous adjustment of processing parameters without interruption to production flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback loop where NIR measurement results are immediately transmitted to the control system, which then adjusts processing parameters based on real-time electrolyte quality data. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that composition variations are detected and corrected promptly, maintaining optimal processing conditions throughout production.
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 enables rapid, reliable, and non-destructive analysis of electrolyte solutions, ensuring consistent quality and composition, reducing process disruptions and quality losses by providing immediate feedback for adjustments, thus ensuring high-quality processing of aircraft engine components.
Implementation Method 1
the examination is carried out according to the invention by means of near-infrared spectroscopy. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is an examination method in which the interaction between light in the near-infrared range (NIR, 780 to 2500 nm or approximately 13,000 to 4,000 cm−1) of the electromagnetic spectrum and the constituents of the electrolyte solution is investigated using a near-infrared spectrometer. This interaction between light and the components induces overtone and combination band molecular vibrations that can be detected with NIRS.
Data Source
AI summary
Method for examining an electrolyte solution (22) for processing a component (12), in particular a component or component material of an aircraft engine, using near-infrared spectroscopy.