Automated Fluid Dispensing System with Pressure Feedback Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current sealant dispensing systems are labor-intensive and prone to uneven dispensing due to manual operation, with variations in pressure and cartridge handling being time-consuming and complicated.
Innovation Solution
An automated fluid dispensing system that uses a sensor system and controller to monitor pressure and temperature data, adjusting the dispensing rate through a mechanical or pneumatic tool to maintain a constant pressure and facilitate easy cartridge insertion and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used to control sealant dispensing, then the operator can adjust pressure and control the dispensing process, but the dispensing rate becomes uneven and the operation is more time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical pressure control with an automated system that uses a pump to deliver sealant at a controlled rate. The system substitutes human operator control with electronic control mechanisms, including a processor that receives sensor data and controls the pump operation, thereby eliminating the uneven dispensing caused by manual pressure variation while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback control system where sensors monitor the dispensing process and provide data to a processor. The processor uses this feedback information to adjust pump operation in real-time, ensuring consistent dispensing rates. This closed-loop feedback mechanism eliminates the dispensing uniformity problems associated with manual operation while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Speed
If a mechanical plunger is moved at constant speed to dispense sealant, then the plunger movement is controlled, but the sealant pressure varies and the extruded volume is not constant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical plunger system with an electronically controlled pump. Instead of relying on constant-speed mechanical movement that cannot maintain consistent pressure and volume, the system uses an electronic controller to regulate pump operation based on real-time sensor feedback, thereby achieving both controlled movement and consistent extruded volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from constant mechanical speed to variable electronic control based on pressure and flow feedback. The processor adjusts pump operation parameters dynamically to maintain consistent sealant pressure and extruded volume, overcoming the limitation of constant-speed plunger movement.
3Manufacturing precision
If automated sensing and control is implemented to maintain constant pressure, then dispensing consistency is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single centralized processor that handles sensor data acquisition, analysis, and pump control. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise be separate complex subsystems, achieving constant pressure control while minimizing overall system complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-regulating control where the processor automatically adjusts pump operation based on sensor feedback without requiring external intervention. This self-service capability eliminates the need for additional manual control mechanisms or complex external control systems, achieving pressure consistency through autonomous operation.
4Ease of operation
If sealant cartridges are manually inserted and replaced, then the process is flexible, but it requires more time and human intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual cartridge handling with an automated mechanism that detects cartridge status and performs insertion or replacement operations. The system uses sensors to monitor sealant levels and automatically triggers cartridge replacement when needed, eliminating manual intervention and significantly increasing productivity while maintaining operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary monitoring of sealant levels and proactively prepares for cartridge replacement before the cartridge is fully depleted. This preliminary action allows for seamless, uninterrupted operation by pre-positioning replacement cartridges and automating the swap process, thereby increasing productivity without sacrificing flexibility.
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 system ensures consistent and accurate dispensing of sealant, reducing labor and time required for operations while automating the process of inserting and replacing cartridges.
Implementation Method 1
The pressure sensor may be configured to measure a pressure of the fluid being dispensed from the dispensing device to generate pressure data for the fluid
Implementation Method 2
The temperature sensor may be configured to measure a temperature of the fluid being dispensed from the dispensing device to generate temperature data for the fluid
Implementation Method 3
The controller may be further configured to use the pressure data, the temperature data, and a feedback control algorithm to generate a number of commands to control the tool
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for controlling a dispensing device. Sensor data about fluid that is being dispensed through the dispensing device may be received. A pressure of the fluid may be identified using the sensor data. A tool configured to move the fluid from a fluid source to the dispensing device based on the pressure identified to control a rate at which the fluid flows from the fluid source to the dispensing device may be controlled.