Intestine End Detection Using Electrical Conductivity Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting the ends of intestines during processing are cumbersome, requiring multiple cameras or laser setups that are prone to issues with lighting and water interference, and existing apparatuses like those in EP 1623628 A2 are not suitable for intestine detection in processing devices.
Innovation Solution
An intestine detector comprising a first and second end detector with an intermediate detector, configured to measure electrical quantities such as resistance or current to identify the ends of intestines, and a detection unit using an electrically conducting sleeve-shaped surrounding portion to detect leakage holes by measuring electrical quantities between the surrounding portion and pressurized liquid inside the intestine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical sensors such as cameras are used for detecting the end of an intestine, then the detection can be performed visually, but multiple cameras are required to cover all sides and complex lighting is needed which increases device complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical detection systems (cameras and lighting) with an electrical detection system. A sensor detects electrical properties (such as capacitance or conductivity changes) of the intestine as it passes through the processing device, eliminating the need for multiple cameras and complex lighting arrangements while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the detection function from complex optical systems and implements it through a simple electrical sensor that measures changes in electrical properties of the intestine, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving the essential detection capability
2Reliability
If cameras are used for detection, then visual detection is achieved, but water from the intestine may splash on the cameras requiring wiping to maintain data quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces vulnerable optical cameras with an electrical sensor that is not affected by water splashing. The sensor measures electrical properties of the intestine through non-contact or minimal-contact means, eliminating the need for wiping or protective measures against water
3Measurement precision
If laser beams are used for detection, then the end of the intestine can be determined by detecting beam interruption, but the alignment of laser source and detector must be exact and they must be kept clean from water droplets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the laser beam interruption method with an electrical detection system that measures changes in electrical properties (capacitance, conductivity) of the intestine. This eliminates the need for precise alignment between laser source and detector, and removes the requirement to keep them clean from water droplets
4Reliability
If electrical potential between filling pipe and sensor is used for detecting sausage casing end, then detection is achieved, but the method is not suitable for identifying the end of an intestine being processed in a processing device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adapts the electrical detection principle by changing the measurement parameters from electrical potential (voltage) to other electrical properties such as capacitance or conductivity changes. This modification makes the detection method suitable for intestines in processing devices where the filling pipe method is not applicable
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 reliable and efficient detection of intestine ends and leakage holes without the need for complex lighting or precise alignment, reducing false alarms and improving processing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the intermediate detector will be electrically connected to any intestine suspended on the end detectors... measure an electrical quantity between the end detector and the intermediate detector
Implementation Method 2
measuring an electrical quantity which is established between the surrounding portion and the pressurised liquid inside the intestine
Data Source
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AI summary
An intestine detector comprising a first end detector and a second end detector arranged in a non-zero distance from the first end detector, wherein the intestine detector comprises an intermediate detector arranged and distanced between each of the end detectors in such a configuration that the intermediate detector will be electrically connected to any intestine suspended on the end detectors and extending between the first end detector and the second end detector.