Micro-Ingredient Delivery System Using Bulk Density Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing micro-ingredient delivery systems for animal feed are overly complex and costly due to the use of weigh scales, which add complexity and expense, while also requiring multiple data interfaces and special processing equipment to ensure accurate and precise delivery of pharmaceuticals and other micro-ingredients, necessitating a simpler and more economical solution.

Innovation Solution

A micro-ingredient delivery system that uses bulk density measurements in combination with time-based dispensing, eliminating the need for weigh scales and simplifying data interfaces, utilizing dispensing devices like augers, pumps, and sensors to accurately deliver micro-ingredients while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If weigh scales are used to measure micro-ingredient delivery, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemicro-ingredient measurement precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical weigh scales with a bulk density measurement system that uses volumetric measurement and density calculations to determine micro-ingredient amounts. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical weighing equipment while maintaining measurement accuracy through alternative physical principles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the measurement parameter from mass (weight) to density-based volumetric measurement. By measuring bulk density and using this parameter in calculations, the system determines micro-ingredient quantities without requiring weigh scales, thus reducing device complexity while preserving measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If weigh scales and data processing equipment are used, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemicro-ingredient measurement precisionVSAvoidsystem cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive mechanical weigh scales and associated data processing equipment with a bulk density measurement system. This substitution reduces hardware costs while maintaining measurement precision through volumetric measurement and density-based calculations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs simpler, less expensive measurement devices that can be easily replaced or calibrated, avoiding the need for costly weigh scales and specialized data processing equipment. The system uses readily available measurement tools combined with computational methods to achieve accurate micro-ingredient measurement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Measurement precision

If multiple weigh scales are used for different micro-ingredients, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemicro-ingredient measurement precisionVSAvoidnumber of measurement devices

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent develops a universal bulk density measurement system that can measure multiple different micro-ingredients using the same equipment and methodology. By using a single measurement device that operates on density principles, the system eliminates the need for multiple separate weigh scales, reducing device complexity while maintaining precision across different ingredients.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

The system achieves precise and accurate delivery of micro-ingredients, reducing system complexity and cost by using bulk density measurements, allowing for easy integration into existing systems and ensuring compliance with FDA regulations through automated record-keeping and calibration processes.

Implementation Method 1

The amount of each particular micro-ingredient that is to be delivered to a designated feed ration may be determined by a bulk density measurement

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBulk density measurement:

Implementation Method 2

utilizing dispensing devices like augers, pumps, and sensors to accurately deliver micro-ingredients

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTime-based dispensing:

Data Source

PatentUS7762714B2Method and system for administering micro-ingredient feed additives to animal feed rations

Publication Date: 2010.07.27 ANIMAL HEALTH INTERNATIONAL INC

AI summary

A system and method are provided for administering micro-ingredient feed additives or supplements to feed rations. The amount of each particular micro-ingredient to be delivered to a feed ration may be determined by a bulk density measurement. Alternatively, bulk density measurement may be used in combination with existing weight measurement and volumetric metering methods for multiple micro-ingredients. Delivery by bulk density requires determination of a bulk density value along with use of a dispensing device that dispenses a calculated amount of the micro-ingredient ration. The dispensing calculation may be achieved by analysis of delivery time, pulse count, or some other quantitative measure such as magnitude. Use of bulk density as a measurement technique eliminates the requirement for use of scales in the micro-ingredient delivery system.