Intestine End Detection Using Electrical Conductivity Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting the ends of intestines during processing, such as optical detection and laser beam detection, are cumbersome, require complex lighting, and are prone to interference from water, necessitating a more reliable and efficient alternative.
Innovation Solution
An intestine detector system using a first and second end detector with an intermediate detector, configured to measure electrical resistance or current between them, and a detection unit with a sleeve-shaped surrounding portion to detect leakage holes in intestines suspended on a tubular member by measuring electrical quantities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical sensors (cameras) are used to detect the ends of the intestine, then the detection can be performed, but multiple cameras are required and complex lighting is needed, increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical detection systems (cameras and lighting) with an electrical detection system. Conductive elements are positioned to detect the intestine through electrical conductivity changes when the intestine contacts them, eliminating the need for multiple cameras and complex lighting arrangements while achieving reliable end detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces conductive elements as intermediaries between the intestine and the detection system. These conductive elements detect the presence of the intestine through electrical contact or proximity, serving as a mediator that translates the physical presence of the intestine into detectable electrical signals without requiring complex optical systems
2Reliability
If cameras are used for detection, then detection can be performed, but water from the intestine may splash on the cameras, requiring wiping to maintain data quality, reducing ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical cameras that are vulnerable to water contamination with electrical conductive elements. These conductive elements detect the intestine through electrical properties and can be designed to be water-resistant or positioned to minimize water exposure, eliminating the need for wiping operations and maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive elements serve as intermediaries that can be positioned or designed to be less susceptible to water contamination than cameras. They detect the intestine through electrical contact or proximity changes, providing a detection mechanism that maintains reliability without requiring manual intervention to remove water
3Reliability
If laser beams are used to detect the intestine ends, then detection can be performed, but precise alignment between laser source and detector is required, increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces laser beam detection with electrical conductive element detection. The conductive elements detect the intestine through electrical conductivity changes when the intestine contacts or approaches them, eliminating the need for precise alignment between laser source and detector while maintaining reliable detection
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive elements act as intermediaries that detect the intestine through electrical contact or proximity. This approach does not require the precise alignment that laser systems need, as the electrical field or contact detection is less sensitive to positional variations, thereby reducing device complexity
4Reliability
If laser source and detector are used, then detection can be performed, but they must be kept clean from water droplets to avoid refraction, reducing ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces laser sources and detectors that are sensitive to water droplets with electrical conductive elements. These conductive elements can be designed to be water-resistant or positioned to minimize water exposure, and they detect the intestine through electrical properties rather than light transmission, eliminating the need to keep them clean from water droplets
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
Provides 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 intestine detector comprises an electrical circuitry configured to detect the electrical resistance between the intermediate detector and any of the end detectors
Implementation Method 2
the detection unit comprises an electric circuitry arranged and configured to measure an electric quantity which is established between the surrounding portion and the liquid pressurizing the intestine
Data Source
AI summary
An intestine detector comprising a first end detector and a second end detector arranged 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.