Micro-fluidic Viscosity Measurement via Pressure Differential
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining absolute viscosity of fluids, especially in micro-fluidic systems, face challenges in accuracy at high ambient pressures and lack the ability to measure without prior knowledge of flow rate, particularly for non-Newtonian fluids and in down hole environments.
Innovation Solution
A micro-fluidic device with differential and absolute pressure sensors, along with flow rate sensors, measures pressure drops and flow rates across multiple sections with varying geometries to calculate rheological properties, including viscosity, using MEMS technology and data processing to handle both Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional viscosity measurement methods are used, then measurements can be performed with simple equipment, but the measurements are limited to narrow viscosity ranges and are equipment-specific
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical rotational viscometers with a micro-fluidic pressure-driven flow system. By measuring pressure drop across a micro-channel and calculating viscosity from flow rate and pressure differential, the system achieves broader viscosity measurement range without complex mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from rotational mechanics to pressure-flow dynamics by measuring viscosity through pressure differential in a micro-fluidic channel. This dimensional shift allows the system to handle both low and high viscosity fluids effectively.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pressure sensors are added to measure uncontrolled flow rates, then viscosity can be measured in down hole environments, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The micro-fluidic device integrates multiple functions into a single platform: it can measure both controlled and uncontrolled flow rates, accommodate different fluid types (Newtonian and non-Newtonian), and operate in various environments including down hole conditions. The same pressure sensors serve multiple measurement purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system can operate in uncontrolled flow environments by using pressure sensors to measure both upstream and downstream pressures, automatically calculating flow rate from the pressure differential and known channel geometry. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external flow control equipment.
3Measurement precision
If multiple pressure sensors are used to measure pressure drops in micro-fluidic channels, then accurate viscosity measurement is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses identical pressure sensors at multiple locations in the micro-fluidic channel. By replicating the same sensor design and using the same measurement principle at both upstream and downstream positions, the system achieves accurate pressure differential measurement while reducing the impact of manufacturing variations.
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
Enables accurate measurement of absolute viscosity in various conditions, including high pressures and uncontrolled flow rates, providing reliable data for fluid characterization in diverse applications such as oil services and quality control.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a pressure drop of the fluid across a first section of the fluid channel that extends from a first pressure site to a second pressure site utilizing a differential pressure sensor
Implementation Method 2
A first flow rate sensor formed in the substrate and in fluid communication with the fluid channel
Data Source
AI summary
A micro-fluidic device and methods for measuring one or more rheologic properties of a fluid. The micro-fluidic device includes a substrate and at least one cover bonded to a surface of the substrate with a fluid channel formed in at least one of the cover or the substrate. Further, the micro-fluidic device includes a first differential pressure gauge that can have a first differential pressure sensor in fluid communication with both a first pressure site and a second pressure site. Further still, the micro-fluidic device includes the first pressure site and the second pressure site that can be spaced apart by a first section of the fluid channel. Also, the micro-fluidic device includes a data processor communicatively coupled to the first differential pressure sensor, so as to receive data generated by the first differential pressure sensor.