Modular Lubricant Dispensing With Flow Measurement and RFID
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lubrication dispensing systems are inaccurate, costly, and unsafe for hazardous environments, and manual verification methods lead to errors in lubrication tasks, particularly in large industrial sites with complex machinery.
Innovation Solution
A modular lubrication dispensing device with a flow measuring device, RFID technology for identification and data management, and a control module for precise lubrication, ensuring accurate dispensing and remote monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual or electrically powered grease guns are used to dispense lubricant, then the lubrication task becomes easier, but the volume measurement becomes inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement methods (counting pump strokes) with electromagnetic flow measurement technology. The flow meter uses electromagnetic fields to directly measure the volume of lubricant passing through the dispensing system, providing accurate real-time volume data without relying on mechanical pump stroke counting, thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If electrical powered grease guns with integrated measurement systems are used, then lubricant volume can be measured, but the cost increases and adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lubrication system into separate functional modules: the dispensing device (manual or electrical grease gun) remains independent, while the flow measurement and control functions are provided by a separate attachable control unit with flow meter. This modular segmentation allows different grease gun types to be used with the same control system, maintaining adaptability while achieving accurate measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a separate control unit as an intermediary between the grease gun and the lubrication receiver. This control unit contains the flow meter and measurement system, acting as a mediator that interfaces with various grease gun types without requiring integration into each gun's internal mechanism, thereby preserving versatility while enabling precise measurement.
3Ease of operation
If traditional grease guns are used in hazardous locations, then lubrication can be performed, but safety risks increase due to ignition potential
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical powered grease guns with manually operated devices that do not generate electrical sparks. The manual operation eliminates the ignition risk associated with electrical motors in hazardous environments, while the attached flow measurement control unit uses non-electrical or intrinsically safe measurement technology to maintain lubrication capabilities without compromising safety.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a modular device for dispensing a lubricant. A first coupling end is attachable to a source of lubrication. A second coupling end is attachable to a lubrication receiver. A control module is arranged between the first coupling end and the second coupling end. The control module includes a flow measuring device in fluid communication between the first end coupling and the second end coupling. The control module is configured to enable dispensing of the lubricant.