Fluid Flow Testing Apparatus for Container Pour Profile Analysis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to accurately characterize the flow of liquid from containers in terms of pour profile, which is crucial for determining pour rates and glugging characteristics across different containers.
Innovation Solution
A fluid flow testing apparatus and method utilizing a rotatable container carrier, sensors to measure weight changes over time, and a controller to generate graphical pour profiles, allowing comparison of pour rates and glugging between containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional volumetric measurement methods are used to monitor fluid quantities during pouring, then the pour rate can be established as a function of fluid remaining, but the method fails to accurately characterize the flow of liquid in terms of pour profile, pour rates, and glugging characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional volumetric measurement methods with a weight-based measurement system. Load cells or force sensors measure the weight of the container and fluid, which is then converted to volume using density calculations. This substitution provides more accurate pour profile characterization including pour rates and glugging characteristics, as weight measurements are more precise and can capture dynamic changes during pouring better than volumetric methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational layer that processes raw weight data from sensors. The controller calculates pour rates by differentiating weight over time, determines glugging characteristics through pattern recognition in the weight signal, and generates comprehensive pour profiles. This intermediary processing transforms simple weight measurements into detailed flow characterization without requiring complex physical measurement devices.
2Productivity
If multiple containers are tested to compare pour profiles, then optimization of container design for fluid flow characteristics can be achieved, but the testing process becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal testing apparatus that can accommodate multiple different container types, sizes, and shapes using a single standardized test rig. The system uses a programmable controller that can be configured for different test parameters, and the sensor system can measure various pour characteristics (pour rate, glugging, total pour time) with the same hardware. This multi-functionality allows efficient comparison across container designs without requiring separate specialized equipment for each container type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables rapid testing of multiple containers by allowing quick changes in test parameters through software configuration. The controller can be programmed with different pour angles, rotation speeds, and measurement intervals to optimize testing for each container type. This parameter flexibility allows the system to efficiently adapt to different container geometries and fluid properties without physical reconfiguration, significantly reducing the time required to compare multiple container designs.
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
Enables precise measurement and comparison of pour profiles, determining which containers pour faster or slower and exhibit more glugging, thereby optimizing container design for fluid flow characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
sensors that are configured to sense the weight of the first or second container as fluid is poured from the first or second container
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A fluid flow testing apparatus (10) for measuring the pour profile of a container (C) has a rotatable container carrier (14) and an assembly (16) that rotates the container between a first position allowing fluid to be retained within the container and a second position causing fluid to be poured from the container. Sensors (51-53) that sense the weight of the container as liquid is poured from the container are provided in order to determine the pour profile of the container. A controller (60) receives input signals from the sensors in order to record the weight of the container over time as liquid is poured from the container as the container is rotated. The change of weight of the container over time establishes a pour profile for the container.