Multifunctional Fluid Meter Using Dual Path Spectroscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating the quality of coolants, bio-diesel, and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) are inadequate, particularly in detecting nitrite levels and ethanol content, leading to potential engine damage and emission control issues, as they require frequent supplemental additions and lab analysis, and lack efficient on-site measurement capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A compact, multifunctional fluid meter using a dual path length spectrometer that captures UV and NIR spectral ranges, integrating two light sources and an onboard computer to measure properties such as nitrite levels, boiling point, freezing point, biodiesel percentage, DEF percentage, and ethanol percentage, generating a diagnostic code for fluid integrity assessment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If test strips are used to detect coolant quality, then nitrite levels can be monitored, but comprehensive fluid quality assessment is limited and frequent testing is required
Solution Approach 1:
The spectrometer is designed to perform multiple fluid quality assessments simultaneously - measuring nitrite levels, ethanol content, biodiesel percentage, and other fluid properties through a single device, eliminating the need for multiple separate test methods
2Measurement precision
If lab analysis is used for fluid quality evaluation, then comprehensive measurements can be obtained, but on-site measurement capability is lacking and frequent lab visits are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex laboratory mechanical and chemical analysis systems with a compact spectrometer that uses optical spectroscopy to perform the same fluid quality assessments portably, enabling accurate measurements to be taken on-site rather than requiring laboratory visits
3Adaptability or versatility
If dual path length spectrometer is used, then both UV and NIR spectral ranges are captured, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a dual path length design where the first path length captures UV spectral information and the second path length captures NIR spectral information, adding a dimensional aspect to light propagation that enables broad spectral coverage without requiring multiple separate spectrometer units
4Reliability
If frequent supplemental coolant additions are made, then coolant performance is maintained, but maintenance frequency and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spectrometer provides real-time feedback on coolant quality parameters such as nitrite levels and fluid composition, enabling condition-based maintenance decisions that extend service intervals while maintaining optimal coolant performance, eliminating the need for frequent preventive supplemental additions
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
Provides reliable, on-site, and cost-effective measurements of fluid properties, extending maintenance intervals and ensuring compliance with emission standards by accurately determining the quality of coolants, bio-diesel, and DEF, reducing the risk of engine damage and emission control failures.
Implementation Method 1
a dual path length spectrometer that captures UV and NIR spectral ranges
Data Source
AI summary
A simple and compact apparatus, and a method, for determining the characteristics of a number of fluids used in the truck and automotive industries including coolant, bio-diesel, gas-ethanol and diesel engine fluid (DEF). The apparatus includes a sample container providing optical paths of different lengths for making measurements on a sample. The dual path length design allows the apparatus to capture both NIR and UV spectral ranges. The qualitative and quantitative properties of the fluid under test are compared to test results under normal conditions or to the properties of unused fluid. Two light sources are used within a spectrometer with each source being associated with a different optical path length.