Liquid Flow Disruption Detection via Pump Suction Pressure
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing systems lack effective detection and alarm mechanisms to alert operators of disruptions in liquid flow, such as empty chemical containers or pump malfunctions, leading to inadequate chemical supply and potential equipment damage.
Innovation Solution
An automatic detection system with a valve module, alarm module, and computer-driven controller that activates visual, audible, and data alarms upon detecting pressure differentials, allowing for remote control and system restart after disruptions are corrected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If liquid chemical containers are not closely monitored, then the system operates with fewer components and lower complexity, but the chemical supply becomes inadequate and equipment may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing pump's suction action to automatically draw liquid from the container and generate the pressure differential that triggers the alarm, eliminating the need for separate detection mechanisms. The pump serves both its primary function of liquid transfer and the secondary function of flow monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
A tube connects the container outlet to the alarm module, serving as an intermediary that transmits the pressure differential signal from the liquid flow system to the alarm system, enabling indirect monitoring of flow conditions.
2Use of energy by moving object
If pumps run empty, then energy consumption is reduced, but the pumps become damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The alarm module provides feedback about the liquid flow status to the operator through visual, audible, or data signals. When the suction sensor detects a pressure differential indicating empty container or flow disruption, the alarm activates to alert operators to stop operation before pump damage occurs.
3Reliability
If flow disruptions are not detected, then the system requires fewer detection components, but chemical supply becomes inadequate and equipment damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing pump's suction action to automatically draw liquid from the container and generate the pressure differential that triggers the alarm, eliminating the need for separate detection mechanisms. The pump serves both its primary function of liquid transfer and the secondary function of flow monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical flow monitoring mechanisms with a simple pressure differential sensor that detects flow disruptions through pressure changes in the liquid line, converting a mechanical monitoring problem into a pressure sensing solution.
4Reliability
If alarm systems are added to detect flow disruptions, then operational reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing pump's suction action to automatically draw liquid from the container and generate the pressure differential that triggers the alarm, eliminating the need for separate detection mechanisms. The pump serves both its primary function of liquid transfer and the secondary function of flow monitoring.
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
Ensures continuous operation by alerting personnel of flow disruptions and automatically shutting down or switching to alternative containers, preventing under-supply and equipment damage, and facilitating remote monitoring and control.
Implementation Method 1
a suction sensor in the alarm module will sense a pressure differential in the system and will cause the alarms to be activated
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic detection system for detecting disruptions in the flow of liquid from one more liquid containers to a dispensing apparatus. If the system detects an interruption of the flow of liquid to the dispensing apparatus, a visual alarm, an audio alarm, or a data alarm is activated. Three embodiments of the system are disclosed.