Fluid Metering Component with Turbine Flow Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spraying apparatuses lack efficient monitoring and data collection capabilities for the quantity and flow rate of liquids dispensed, as well as real-time environmental data integration to prevent undesirable spraying locations and volatilization.
Innovation Solution
A portable spraying apparatus equipped with an intelligent metering device that includes a turbine-based flow meter, Hall Effect sensor, thermistor, GPS, and cellular components to monitor and record the quantity and flow rate of liquids, communicate with electronic devices for real-time data processing, and provide feedback to prevent undesirable spraying based on location and environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional spraying apparatuses are used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision of liquid quantity and flow rate is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (flow rate measurement via turbine, temperature measurement via thermistor, location tracking via GPS) into a single integrated metering device housing, achieving precise measurement of multiple parameters simultaneously while managing device complexity through unified design
Solution Approach 2:
The metering device is designed as a multi-functional unit that simultaneously performs flow rate measurement, temperature monitoring, location tracking, and data communication, allowing one device to replace multiple separate instruments and improve overall measurement capability
2Reliability
If real-time data collection and communication components are added, then the reliability of spraying control is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the microprocessor continuously receives data from sensors (Hall Effect sensor for flow rate, thermistor for temperature, GPS for location) and uses this information to provide real-time control recommendations to the operator, improving spraying reliability through informed decision-making
Solution Approach 2:
The metering device autonomously performs data collection, processing, and communication functions without requiring external intervention, with the microprocessor automatically analyzing sensor data and generating control recommendations, reducing the need for additional active components
3Object-affected harmful factors
If environmental monitoring and feedback systems are implemented, then the object-affected harmful factors are reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary assessment of environmental conditions by continuously monitoring temperature, location, and flow rate data before spraying occurs, allowing the microprocessor to predict potential harmful effects (such as volatilization risk) and provide preventive control recommendations to the operator
Solution Approach 2:
The metering device acts as an intermediary between the spraying apparatus and the environment, using sensors to detect environmental parameters and the communication system to transmit control recommendations that mediate between operational desires and environmental constraints, reducing harmful effects through informed control
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 monitoring and recording of liquid dispensation, real-time environmental data integration for volatilization prediction, and prevents undesirable spraying by providing user feedback, enhancing the accuracy and safety of pesticide application.
Implementation Method 1
the metering assembly includes a turbine rotationally mounted within the fluid conduit
Implementation Method 2
the electronics assembly includes a PCB board, a microprocessor, a Hall Effect sensor... the Hall Effect sensor is positioned in close proximity to the turbine so as to sense a change in the magnetic field as the turbine rotates
Implementation Method 3
the thermistor is secured within a portion of the housing and nearby the fluid conduit... the temperature of the fluid can be measured and collected in real time as it passes through the fluid conduit
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid metering device including a housing, an isolated fluid conduit, a metering assembly, an electronics assembly, and a power assembly. An electronic device can be wirelessly connected to the metering device so as to quantify the fluid that is passing through the isolated fluid conduit. Portable spraying apparatuses are also disclosed and can include the fluid metering device. In example embodiments, other data can be captured and/or calculated such as location of spray, type of fluid sprayed, images of the intended-to-be-sprayed subject, and/or other information pertinent as desired. In some example embodiments, the electronic device D in combination with the fluid metering device can predict the chances of volatilization of the fluid based on specific environmental conditions and the fluid temperature.