Fine Channel Flowmeter Using Electrical Conduction Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flowmeters face challenges in accurately measuring fluid flow through fine channels due to pressure drop resistance variations, making it difficult to achieve constant flow, and size reduction is hindered by the need for precise laser beam convergence, complicating the manufacture of analyzer cartridges.
Innovation Solution
A fine channel flowmeter using at least two electrode groups with a conduction detector to measure fluid flow by detecting electrical conduction between partially exposed electrodes, allowing for accurate flow measurement without the need for constant flow mechanisms and enabling size reduction by simplifying the design and manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the cross section of the channel is made small to reduce the size of the analyzer cartridge, then the size reduction is achieved, but the accuracy of laser beam convergence and irradiation position becomes more difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical measurement system (laser beams, lenses, light-receiving apparatus) with an electrical measurement system (electrodes, conduction detector). This substitution eliminates the need for precise optical alignment and laser beam convergence, thereby resolving the contradiction between size reduction and manufacturing precision requirements.
2Measurement precision
If a conventional flowmeter with laser beams is used to measure fluid flow, then flow measurement is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex optical system with a simple electrical conduction detection system. The electrodes detect changes in electrical conduction as fluid flows through the channel, providing accurate flow measurement without requiring complex optical components, laser beam convergence mechanisms, or precise alignment systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the unnecessary constant flow mechanism from the system. By using electrical conduction detection to measure flow, the system no longer requires active flow control mechanisms, thereby simplifying the overall device structure and reducing manufacturing complexity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a constant-flow pump is provided to achieve constant flow, then flow stability is improved, but the device complexity and pressure drop resistance variations become more problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical constant-flow pump system with an electrical detection system. Instead of actively controlling flow to be constant, the system passively detects flow by measuring electrical conduction changes, thereby achieving flow measurement without the complexity of active flow control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid itself serves as the conductor for electrical detection. The change in electrical conduction is directly caused by the fluid's presence and movement, allowing the system to measure flow using the fluid's own properties without requiring external control mechanisms.
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
The flowmeter accurately measures fluid flow through fine channels, facilitating size reduction of analyzer cartridges and eliminating the complexity of constant flow requirements, while maintaining hygiene and reducing manufacturing difficulties.
Implementation Method 1
a conduction detector for detecting electrical conduction between the paired electrodes included in each of the electrode groups
Data Source
AI summary
A fine channel flowmeter A1 is provided for measuring the amount of a blood sample DS through a channel 10. The flowmeter includes at least two electrode groups 62Aa, 62Ab each including a pair of electrodes 62a, 62b, and a conduction detector 7 for detecting electrical conduction between the paired electrodes 62a, 62b included in each of the electrode groups 62Aa, 62Ab. Each of the electrodes 62a, 62b is exposed in the channel 10 at least partially, and the electrode groups 62Aa, 62Ab are spaced from each other in the flow direction of the channel 10.