Real-Time Fluid Analysis via Optical Sampling and Neural Networks

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current fluid analysis systems, particularly for oil and water, are inefficient, inaccurate, and costly, with issues including contamination, lengthy analysis times, environmental impact, limited analysis capabilities, and ineffective data management, leading to delayed preventative actions and potential health risks due to contamination.

Innovation Solution

A real-time fluid analysis system with a sampling and analytical system connected via cloud-based data logging, enabling immediate data collection, processing, and comparison to identify fluid conditions, using neural network models for predictive analysis and providing proactive maintenance, while reducing environmental impact and costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional fluid analysis systems are used, then analysis capabilities are limited and data management is ineffective, but analysis time is lengthy and accuracy is poor

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanalysis accuracyVSAvoidanalysis time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical/chemical analysis methods with optical detection systems (spectroscopy, fluorescence, absorbance) and electronic data processing. The sampling system uses optical probes and sensors to detect fluid properties in real-time, substituting lengthy manual or laboratory-based mechanical analysis with rapid optical measurement and neural network-based electronic interpretation of spectral data.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces cloud-based data logging and neural network models as intermediaries between the sampling system and analysis output. The sampling system collects real-time data, which is then processed through cloud-based neural networks that compare spectral patterns against known fluid signatures, enabling rapid accurate identification without traditional lengthy analytical procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If traditional sampling methods are used, then contamination is reduced, but environmental impact increases and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample contamination controlVSAvoidenvironmental impact

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The sampling system performs self-contained real-time analysis directly at the fluid source without requiring external laboratory processing. The integrated optical sensors and on-board processing enable the system to autonomously detect and identify fluid conditions, eliminating the need for sample collection, transportation, and external analysis that generate environmental waste and contamination risks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the analysis function from traditional laboratory settings and integrates it directly into the field sampling system. By taking out the analytical capabilities and placing them within the portable sampling device with cloud connectivity, the system eliminates the need for physical sample transport and external processing, reducing environmental impact while maintaining contamination control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional analysis systems are used, then costs are reduced, but analysis capabilities are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanalysis capabilitiesVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sampling system is designed as a universal multi-functional platform that can detect multiple fluid types (water, oil, chemicals) and parameters (contaminants, composition, properties) using a single integrated system. The optical detection array and neural network framework can be configured to analyze different fluid matrices, providing versatile analysis capabilities across multiple applications without requiring separate specialized equipment for each fluid type.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple detection technologies (spectroscopy, fluorescence, absorbance) and data processing functions into a single integrated sampling system. By combining optical detection arrays, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, and cloud-based neural network processing into one unified device, the system achieves comprehensive analysis capabilities while managing complexity through integrated design rather than separate standalone systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10578548B2Systems, apparatuses, and methods for fluid analysis and monitoring

Publication Date: 2020.03.03 VIRTUAL FLUID MONITORING SERVICES LLC

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for systems, apparatuses, and methods for real-time fluid analysis. Embodiments include a removable and replaceable sampling system and an analytical system connected to the sampling system. A fluid may be routed through the sampling system and real-time data may be collected from the fluid via the sampling system. The sampling system may process and transmit the real-time data to the analytical system. The analytical system may include a command and control system that may receive and store the real-time data in a database and compare the real-time data to existing data for the fluid in the database to identify conditions in the fluid.