Lubricant Branch Circuit Sampling for Valid Reservoir Samples
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for obtaining valid lubricant samples from technical systems, such as wind turbines, are limited by poor accessibility and safety concerns, making it difficult to regularly check the state of lubricants at operating temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A lubricant circuit arrangement with a branching line system and integrated reservoir, where the first branch is lockable and releasable, allowing for selective flow through either branch, enabling continuous provision and sampling of valid lubricant samples, and allowing for replacement of samples without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual oil sampling is performed in hard-to-reach locations, then valid lubricant samples can be obtained, but safety risks and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
A remote-operated sampling system with automated valve control and reservoir collection serves as an intermediary between the operator and the difficult-to-reach lubricant source. The system allows sampling of valid lubricant samples without requiring personnel to physically access hazardous locations, eliminating safety risks while maintaining sample validity through automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The lubricant sampling system performs self-service through automated valve actuation and sample collection mechanisms. The system can automatically open valves, collect lubricant samples in reservoirs, and seal samples without human intervention, allowing continuous monitoring while eliminating the need for personnel to access dangerous locations.
2Loss of information
If manual oil sampling is performed, then lubricant state information can be obtained, but time loss and operational interruption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated sampling system enables continuous operation by performing lubricant sampling without interrupting the operational process. Multiple reservoirs can be pre-filled during normal operation, and samples are collected automatically at scheduled intervals, eliminating downtime and ensuring continuous monitoring of lubricant state information.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary sampling actions by pre-filling reservoirs with valid lubricant samples during periods when the system is already operating. This allows samples to be ready for analysis before they are needed, eliminating waiting time and ensuring immediate availability of lubricant state information when required.
3Device complexity
If a single reservoir is used for lubricant sampling, then the structure is simple, but the reservoir must be manually removed and replaced, increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling system is segmented into multiple independent reservoirs that can be individually filled, sealed, and replaced. Each reservoir functions as an independent sampling unit, allowing one reservoir to be in use while another is being prepared or analyzed. This segmentation enables easy replacement without disrupting the overall system or requiring complex manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic action by implementing a sequence of filling, sealing, and replacing reservoirs in a cyclical manner. While one reservoir is being used for sampling, another is being prepared in advance, creating a continuous cycle that eliminates operational interruptions and simplifies the replacement process through standardized periodic procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement forming a lubricant circuit includes at least one lubricant line, at least one line branching that branches the lubricant line into a first branch and a second branch. The arrangement further includes at least one lubricant reservoir integrated into the first branch, and at least one line junction where the first branch and the second branch merge. The first branch is lockable and releasable.