Optical Bubble Detection in Fluid Flow Tubes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bubble detection devices in infusion pumps and industrial applications face challenges in accurately detecting bubbles and breaks in fluid flow, which can be harmful to patients or disrupt industrial processes.
Innovation Solution
A bubble detection device comprising a light source, a light sensor, and one or more processors that detect the leading and trailing edges of bubbles by analyzing light motion across the sensor, calculate bubble length based on velocity and time, and determine if a break in fluid flow has occurred.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional bubble detection devices are used, then bubble detection is provided, but measurement precision and reliability are insufficient due to technical challenges and limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or simple optical bubble detection mechanisms with an advanced optical motion detection system. The system uses a light source, light sensor, and processor to detect motion of bubbles through the tube by analyzing changes in light transmission, thereby achieving higher measurement precision and reliability without mechanical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from static light transmission to dynamic motion detection. By tracking the motion of bubbles across the light sensor and calculating velocity and length based on temporal changes, the system achieves more precise and reliable bubble detection compared to traditional static methods.
2Device complexity
If simple light transmission detection is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision for bubble detection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with an optical motion detection system. By using light transmission changes and motion vector analysis, the system achieves precise bubble length and velocity measurements while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from measuring static light transmission to analyzing dynamic motion parameters. By detecting motion vectors and calculating bubble velocity and length from temporal changes in light sensor readings, the system achieves high measurement precision with moderate device complexity.
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 device effectively detects bubbles and breaks in fluid flow, enabling timely corrective action to prevent harm to patients or disruptions in industrial processes, by leveraging optical motion detection methods.
Implementation Method 1
The light source is adapted to be positioned to shine light through a tube through which a fluid flows. The light sensor is adapted to be positioned on an opposite side of the tube from the light source and to receive light from the light source transmitted through the tube.
Data Source
AI summary
A bubble detection device is provided. For example, a bubble detection device comprises a light source, a light sensor, and one or more processors. The light source is adapted to be positioned to shine light through a tube through which a fluid flows. The light sensor is adapted to be positioned on an opposite side of the tube from the light source and to receive light from the light source transmitted through the tube. The processors (i) detect a first motion across the light sensor corresponding to a leading edge of a bubble in the fluid, (ii) detect a second motion across the light sensor corresponding to a trailing edge of the bubble in the fluid, and (iii) calculate a length of the bubble based on (a) a velocity of the bubble and (b) a time between detection of the first motion and detection of the second motion.