Fluid Measurement Device Using Conductivity and Voltage Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid measuring devices for dairy animals are inefficient and inaccurate due to the need for multiple sensors, which can affect measurement accuracy and increase equipment failure, especially in milking systems where fluid flow mechanics can alter the shape of the fluid, leading to incorrect data.
Innovation Solution
A fluid measurement device with a conduit containing a conductivity sensor and a voltage sensor with rings or plates that measure electrical conductivity and capacitance, allowing for accurate volume and weight calculation of the fluid, using a single sensor setup and a processor to interpolate values from look-up tables, and optionally including a hose with a shutoff valve for velocity determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used to determine fluid flow height, then measurement coverage is improved, but device complexity and equipment failure risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensor functions into a single integrated sensor assembly that measures both fluid height and flow rate simultaneously. The sensor assembly includes a voltage sensor for height measurement and a conductivity sensor for flow rate measurement, eliminating the need for separate sensors and reducing system complexity while maintaining comprehensive measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single sensor assembly performs multiple measurement functions: the voltage sensor measures fluid height, the conductivity sensor measures flow rate, and together they provide comprehensive fluid flow characterization. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple dedicated sensors.
2Reliability
If multiple sensors are installed in the conduit, then measurement reliability is improved, but maintenance requirements and equipment failure risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating all sensing functions into a single assembly that can be easily removed and replaced as one unit, the patent simplifies maintenance. The combined sensor assembly is designed to be installed and removed from the conduit without disassembling multiple separate sensors, reducing maintenance time and complexity.
3Device complexity
If conventional height measurement methods are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but measurement accuracy is reduced due to fluid shape changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces purely mechanical height measurement methods with an electrical measurement system. The voltage sensor measures fluid height through electrical conductivity changes in the fluid, and the conductivity sensor measures flow rate through electrical properties, eliminating mechanical contact and improving accuracy while maintaining relative simplicity.
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 device provides efficient and accurate measurement of fluid volume and weight, reducing maintenance needs and improving reliability in dairy automation systems, enabling optimal milk production and quality monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
The conductivity sensor is configured to determine an electrical conductivity or voltage of the fluid
Implementation Method 2
The second ring, probe, or plate is configured to detect a capacitance or second voltage. The value of the capacitance or second voltage corresponds to an amount of the fluid in the conduit
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid measurement device and methods of manufacturing and using the same are disclosed. The fluid measurement device includes a conduit configured to transport a fluid, a conductivity sensor in the conduit, and a voltage sensor in the conduit and having first and second rings, probes, or plates. The conductivity sensor is configured to determine the conductivity of the fluid. The voltage sensor is configured to receive a first voltage on the first ring, probe, or plate and detect a capacitance or a second voltage on the second ring, probe, or plate. A value of the capacitance or second voltage corresponds to the amount of fluid in the voltage sensor. The total amount of fluid through the conduit may be determined from amount of fluid in the voltage sensor, the fluid flow rate, the fluid velocity, and the number of samples or the sampling rate.