Loss-In-Weight Scale Flow Control Without Stabilization Delays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing calibration methods for loss-in-weight scales are time-consuming and imprecise due to the need for extended data stabilization periods and reliance on approximate calibration curves generated from limited data points, leading to material wastage and inefficient flow rate control.
Innovation Solution
A method involving continuous adjustment of control outputs at multiple sampling points, calculating functional relationships between control output and time, material weight and time, and discharge flow rate and control output, allowing precise control without requiring data stabilization time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If control outputs are switched at discrete intervals for calibration, then calibration data can be collected, but data becomes unstable and requires extended stabilization time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by continuously changing the control output parameter instead of using discrete step changes. The control output is varied continuously over time, allowing the system to capture the dynamic relationship between control output and flow rate without requiring stabilization periods at each discrete level. This continuous approach eliminates the time loss associated with waiting for data stabilization at each control level.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by maintaining continuous data collection and continuous control output variation throughout the calibration process. Rather than pausing at each control level to wait for stabilization, the system continuously adjusts the control output and continuously records the corresponding flow rate data, maximizing the useful action throughout the entire calibration duration.
2Stability of the object's composition
If control output is held constant for extended periods to stabilize data, then measurement stability improves, but calibration process becomes time-consuming and material wastage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of holding control output constant at discrete levels with a mathematical/functional approach. Instead of physically maintaining constant control levels and waiting for stabilization, the system uses continuous functional relationships to model the control output-flow rate relationship, eliminating the need for prolonged stabilization periods and improving calibration efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by continuously varying the control output parameter throughout the calibration process rather than maintaining it at fixed levels. This continuous parameter variation, combined with continuous data collection, allows the system to capture the full range of operational characteristics without requiring extended stabilization at each parameter level, thus improving productivity while maintaining adequate measurement stability.
3Ease of manufacture
If calibration is performed using only several discrete data points, then the calibration process is simple, but the generated calibration curve is merely an approximation with low precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the calibration process into continuous temporal segments rather than using a limited number of discrete control levels. By collecting data continuously over time with continuously varying control output, the system effectively segments the operational range into numerous small intervals, creating a much more precise calibration curve while maintaining procedural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A discharge flow rate of a loss-in-weight scale is controlled by continuously changing control outputs to save the time necessary for data stabilization. A curve relating the discharge flow rate and the control output is obtained by using the functional relationship between the control output and time and the functional relationship between the material weight and time. The discharge flow rate can be precisely controlled by directly selecting or inputting a value of the control output, to achieve the objectives of direct controlling and of avoiding the time for data stabilization.