Oil Deterioration Detection via Nyquist Impedance Arc Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing oil deterioration detection methods may fail to accurately evaluate the cause of oil deterioration, leading to incomplete detection of oil performance degradation.

Innovation Solution

An oil deterioration detection device and method that analyze impedances at specific frequencies to calculate an arc of impedance on a Nyquist diagram, determining moisture content by comparing the calculated arc to a reference arc, and calculating the amount of moisture based on the arc's shape when it exceeds a predetermined value.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional oil deterioration detection methods are used, then the detection process is simple, but the detection precision and ability to identify specific deterioration causes is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection precision of oil deteriorationVSAvoidcomplexity of detection method
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the frequency range into multiple specific frequency ranges (first frequency range and second frequency range) and performs impedance measurements at at least three specific frequencies within each range. This segmentation allows the system to distinguish between different types of oil deterioration (moisture contamination vs. other causes) by analyzing impedance characteristics at different frequencies, thereby improving detection precision without requiring a completely complex new detection system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a new dimension of analysis by plotting impedance data on a Nyquist diagram and calculating arcs based on impedance values at multiple specific frequencies. This dimensional transformation from simple impedance measurement to arc calculation in the complex plane enables the system to identify moisture contamination specifically, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If impedance measurement at multiple frequencies is performed, then moisture content can be detected accurately, but the measurement time and processing complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of moisture content detectionVSAvoidmeasurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-defining the first frequency range (50 mHz to 7 MHz) and second frequency range (0.25 mHz to 50 mHz) with specific frequency points. The system measures impedance at at least three specific frequencies within each range, which allows for accurate moisture detection while controlling measurement time through predefined frequency selections rather than continuous sweeping.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the measurement parameters by selecting specific discrete frequencies within defined ranges rather than using continuous frequency sweeping. This parameter discretization allows the system to achieve accurate moisture detection through impedance arc analysis while reducing measurement time and processing requirements compared to full spectral analysis methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This approach allows for more precise detection of oil deterioration, specifically identifying moisture content and its impact on oil performance.

Implementation Method 1

measuring impedances by applying an AC voltage at at least three first specific frequencies selected from a first frequency range to counter electrodes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical Impedance: Electrical Resistance

Implementation Method 2

performing an analysis based on the measured impedances at the at least three first specific frequencies to calculate an arc of impedance on a Nyquist diagram

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Field: Electric Field

Data Source

PatentUS12135321B2Oil deterioration detection device, oil deterioration detection system, and oil deterioration detection method
Publication Date: 2024.11.05 MITSUBISHI HEAVY IND LTD
  • US12135321B2 patent drawing
  • US12135321B2 patent drawing
  • US12135321B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An oil deterioration detection device performs an analysis based on impedances at at least three first specific frequencies selected from a first frequency range to calculate an arc of impedance on a Nyquist diagram, the impedances being measured by applying an AC voltage at the at least three first specific frequencies to counter electrodes when oil to be evaluated passes between the counter electrodes, and when the calculated arc is larger than a reference arc calculated in advance of the oil to be evaluated by a predetermined value or larger, determines that moisture is mixed and calculates the amount of moisture based on the shape of the calculated arc.