Inline Flow Meter Calibration for Accurate Liquid Dispensing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current calibration and auditing techniques for liquid dispensing systems are inefficient, requiring multiple iterations and exposing personnel to concentrated chemicals, and lack real-time monitoring capabilities to ensure accurate dilution ratios.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising flow meters connected in-line with liquid inputs and a controller to provide real-time liquid flow data for accurate calibration and auditing, with optional additional flow meters at the output for verification and pressure dampening to prevent inaccuracies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If graduated liquid collection devices or scales are used for calibration, then measurement capability is provided, but the process requires multiple iterations and exposes personnel to concentrated chemicals
Solution Approach 1:
A flow meter is introduced as an intermediary device between the liquid dispensing system and the calibration process. The flow meter measures liquid flow directly in the dispensing line without requiring collection devices, eliminating the need for personnel to handle concentrated chemicals while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical calibration methods (graduated collection devices and scales) with an electronic flow measurement system. The flow meter uses electronic sensors and digital display to provide real-time flow data, substituting the manual mechanical process with an automated electronic system that improves safety and precision.
2Measurement precision
If multiple iterations of testing are performed to calculate dilution ratio, then calibration accuracy is improved, but calibration time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow meter is pre-configured with the necessary measurement capabilities and is installed in the dispensing line before calibration is needed. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for multiple iterative testing sessions, as the device provides immediate accurate flow measurements that can be used to calculate dilution ratios in a single calibration event.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow meter provides real-time feedback on liquid flow rates during dispensing operations. This continuous feedback allows for immediate verification of dilution ratios without requiring multiple separate testing iterations, reducing calibration time while maintaining accuracy through ongoing monitoring and adjustment.
3Reliability
If real-time monitoring of liquid flow is implemented, then dilution ratio consistency is ensured, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow meter is designed to perform multiple functions: it measures liquid flow rates, displays real-time data, and provides the information needed to calculate and verify dilution ratios. This multi-functionality allows real-time monitoring without requiring separate complex systems for each function, thereby maintaining reliability while limiting the increase in overall system complexity.
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 quick and accurate calibration, real-time monitoring, and reduced exposure to chemicals, ensuring consistent dilution ratios and efficient operation of liquid dispensing systems.
Implementation Method 1
a flow meter having an inlet with a quick-connector adapted for connecting the inlet of the first flow meter in-line to a first liquid input
Implementation Method 2
The flow meter may include means for dampening pressure pulses in an liquid line
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, method and system providing for calibration and/or control of a liquid dispensing system is disclosed. The hand-held calibration auditing tool includes a flow meter (36-37) with inlets adapted for quick connection to one or more liquid inputs and/or liquid outputs of a liquid dispensing system (10). A sensor (94-95) having a data output of liquid flow information for a liquid input to the dispensing system (10) is operably connected to a controller (12) to receive the liquid flow information for the liquid input. The controller (12) provides a dilution rate and other liquid flow information for a liquid product input to a dispenser. The tool may include any number of flow meters, and may also include a flow meter connected to an outlet of a dispenser (22) for providing flow information.