Sterilizing Fluid Nozzle Fouling Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing preform sterilization machines face issues with ensuring reliable sterilization due to potential clogging of sterilizing fluid injection nozzles, which can lead to insufficient fluid introduction and contamination risks, especially in opaque preforms where optical control methods are ineffective.
Innovation Solution
A device with a light-based detection system that emits and receives light radiation through the sterilizing fluid supply pipe to determine the degree of clogging, using semiconductor components, infrared radiation, and optical means like Fresnel lenses, allowing for continuous monitoring and real-time prevention of defects during the sterilization process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical systems are used to check each preform for the presence of sterilizing fluid film, then sterilization control is achieved, but the system becomes complex and expensive, and cannot control opaque preforms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement approach by monitoring the sterilizing fluid supply system (pipes and nozzles) rather than directly measuring the preforms. This intermediary monitoring of fluid flow and nozzle condition serves as a proxy to ensure proper sterilization without requiring complex direct preform inspection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the proposed optical inspection system with a mechanical/flow-based monitoring system that detects nozzle clogging through fluid dynamics measurements. This substitution avoids the complexity of optical systems while achieving reliable sterilization control through alternative physical principles.
2Reliability
If optical systems are used to check preforms, then sterilization can be verified, but the method cannot be implemented with opaque preforms or multi-layer preforms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent measures sterilization efficacy through an intermediary system that monitors the sterilizing fluid supply chain (pump, pipes, nozzles) rather than directly inspecting the preforms. This intermediary approach is universally applicable to all preform types regardless of their optical properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the sterilization verification into separate functional segments: fluid supply monitoring, nozzle condition detection, and flow rate measurement. This segmentation allows each component to be monitored independently, ensuring universal compatibility across different preform types while maintaining verification reliability.
3Productivity
If sterilizing fluid circulation continues without monitoring, then the system operates continuously, but deposits form in the supply pipe causing flow disturbances and clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring the sterilizing fluid supply system and using this information to detect nozzle clogging conditions. The system provides real-time feedback on fluid flow status, enabling timely intervention before complete clogging occurs and maintaining reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary detection of nozzle clogging conditions through continuous monitoring of fluid supply parameters. By detecting early signs of deposits and flow disturbances, the system takes preliminary action to prevent complete clogging and maintain continuous reliable operation.
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
Ensures reliable and efficient sterilization by detecting clogging in the sterilizing fluid supply lines, preventing defects in preforms and maintaining sterility across various preform types, including opaque materials, through continuous monitoring and real-time feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a control unit for determining the degree of clogging of the supply pipe by comparing the intensity of the light radiation emitted which is introduced by one end inside said supply pipe and the intensity of the light radiation which is received by the receiving means at the other end of the supply pipe
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a machine (10) for sterilizing plastic preforms for the manufacture of containers, characterized in that the machine (10) comprises a device (50) for detecting the fouling of at least one sterilizing-fluid conveying line (38) extending fully or partially through an injection nozzle (30), said detection device (50) comprising at least emitter means (52), receiver means (56) and a control unit (70) for determining the degree of fouling of said conveying line (38) by comparing the intensity of the light radiation emitted at one (40, 48) of the ends thereof with that received at the other (40, 48) of the ends thereof.