EMF Balance Controller Destabilization for Sample Redistribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electromagnetic force (EMF) balance systems require an additional function generator to redistribute free-flowing samples during drying processes, which is inconvenient and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

The controller incorporates an active controller element with a passive detuning element that destabilizes the control circuit, allowing for vibrations of the mechanical system without an external signal, using a PID controller with a detuning resistor to achieve oscillations and even distribution of samples.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If an additional function generator is used to generate external signals for redistributing samples, then the sample redistribution function is achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesample redistribution capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the function generator capability into the existing controller of the electromagnetic force balance. The controller is equipped with a signal output that can generate external signals directly, eliminating the need for a separate function generator device. This merging of functions reduces device complexity while maintaining the sample redistribution capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The controller is designed to perform multiple functions: it not only controls the electromagnetic compensation current but also generates external signals for sample redistribution. This multi-functionality allows the same device to serve both measurement control and sample vibration purposes, reducing the overall number of components needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the control circuit is destabilized to produce vibrations for sample redistribution, then the vibration function is achieved, but the measurement stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevibration functionVSAvoidmeasurement stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between two operational modes: a stable control mode for accurate measurements and a destabilized vibration mode for sample redistribution. The controller can adjust its behavior based on the operational requirements, providing both measurement stability and vibration functionality as needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control circuit is periodically destabilized to generate vibrations for sample redistribution, then restored to its stable state for measurement. This periodic switching between stable and unstable states allows the system to achieve both measurement accuracy and sample redistribution without compromising overall measurement reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 solution eliminates the need for a function generator, ensuring reproducible vibrations and efficient sample redistribution, enhancing the EMF balance system's functionality as a drying scale.

Implementation Method 1

a counterforce of an electromagnet that is supplied with current in a controlled manner

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 2

the electromagnet being able to be excited to such oscillations of its magnetic force that resulting changes in deflection of the transmission lever cause a redistribution of a free-flowing sample positioned on the load holder

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic oscillations: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP2984462B1Weighing equipment
Publication Date: 2016.12.07 SARTORIUS LAB INSTR GMBH & CO KG
  • EP2984462B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2

AI summary

The invention relates to weighing equipment having a load receptacle (12) and a control circuit (30) comprising a controller (34), by means of which a load-dependent deflection, which can be detected by means of a position sensor (32), of a transmission lever (22) coupled to the load receptacle (12) can be compensated by a counter-force of a controlled, powered electromagnet (26, 28), wherein the electromagnet (26, 28) can be excited to oscillations of the magnetic force thereof so that resulting deflection changes to the transmission lever (22) have the effect of a redistribution of a free-flowing sample positioned on the load receptacle (12). The invention is characterized in that the controller (34) has at least one active controlling element (46) which is connected to at last one passive tuning element (48) for tuning at least one control parameter, wherein the controller (34) has at least one passive tuning element (40), which can be connected as an additional or alternative tuning element, wherein the connecting thereof can destabilize the control circuit (30).