Flow Cell Assembly with Gravity Overflow for Fluid Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid flow systems face challenges in accurately measuring parameters like pH, chlorine, and dissolved oxygen due to logistical issues with sensor mounting, variable pressures, and flow rates, which lead to inconsistent and costly measurements, and exposure to air alters fluid composition.
Innovation Solution
A flow cell assembly with a housing that includes a flow regulator and meter, featuring measuring chambers with inlet apertures and gravity overflows, allowing sensors to be positioned proximate to the fluid flow for controlled measurement, ensuring consistent exposure to the fluid and minimizing pressure and flow changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are inserted directly into the fluid flowing system for in-situ measurement, then measurement accuracy is improved, but logistical issues with sensor mounting and variable pressures cause measurement inconsistency
Solution Approach 1:
A flow cell assembly is introduced as an intermediary device between the fluid system and the sensor. The flow cell includes a measuring chamber with controlled flow characteristics, mounting features for secure sensor positioning, and pressure regulation capabilities. This intermediary structure provides a stable, controlled environment for the sensor while maintaining connection to the fluid system, thereby achieving both measurement accuracy and consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow cell assembly modifies flow parameters by creating a controlled measuring chamber environment. The chamber design regulates flow velocity and pressure conditions around the sensor, transforming the variable fluid stream into consistent measurement conditions. This parameter control ensures reliable and accurate measurements despite variations in the upstream fluid system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are mounted at separate locations for fluid measurement, then measurement capabilities are improved, but cost and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple measurement components (sensor mounting structures, flow control elements, pressure regulation features, and electrical connection points) are merged into a single integrated flow cell assembly. This consolidation allows multiple sensors to be mounted at different locations within one housing unit, providing versatile measurement capabilities while simplifying installation to a single location in the fluid system.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow cell assembly is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate various types of sensors (pH, chlorine, dissolved oxygen, etc.) through standardized mounting interfaces. The multi-functional design includes integrated flow control, pressure regulation, and electrical connections, allowing a single device to perform multiple measurement functions without requiring separate installations for each sensor type.
3Ease of operation
If fluid samples are removed from the sampling line for measurement, then sensor accessibility is improved, but fluid composition changes due to air exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The flow cell assembly serves as an intermediary measurement chamber that allows sensor access to the fluid without requiring removal from the closed system. The chamber provides a controlled interface where sensors can be positioned in direct contact with flowing fluid while the system remains sealed, preventing air exposure and composition changes.
4Device complexity
If conventional flow cells allow fluid stream to flow directly to waste outlet, then simplicity is maintained, but pressure and flow velocity fluctuations cause measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The flow cell assembly modifies flow parameters by creating a controlled measuring chamber environment. The chamber design regulates flow velocity and pressure conditions around the sensor, transforming the variable fluid stream into consistent measurement conditions. This parameter control ensures reliable and accurate measurements despite variations in the upstream fluid system.
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 flow cell assembly enables in-situ measurement of fluid properties with improved accuracy and reduced costs by maintaining controlled fluid flow and pressure, preventing composition changes when sampling, and allowing for precise sensor placement within the fluid flow system.
Implementation Method 1
a first gravity overflow area spaced apart from the inlet aperture
Data Source
AI summary
A flow cell assembly for fluid sensors is provided. The assembly includes a housing configured to couple to an external source of fluid for measurement. The assembly further includes a flow regulator and a flow meter disposed within the housing to facilitate controlled fluid. The housing defines one or more measuring chambers each configured to receive a fluid sensor. Each measuring chamber includes an inlet aperture and a gravity overflow spaced apart from the inlet aperture. Each measuring chamber is configured to receive a fluid sensor such that a sensing end of the fluid sensor is disposed proximate to an inlet aperture of the measuring chamber, thereby ensuring controlled fluid pressure proximate to the sensing end.