Flow Path Sterilization Control Using Optical Contamination Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional filtration apparatuses lack the ability to identify and respond to the degree of contamination by organic and inorganic substances in filtered liquid, leading to inefficient or untimely cleaning and sterilization of the flow path.
Innovation Solution
A filtration apparatus equipped with optical sensors and light sources to detect organic and inorganic contamination, and a processor to control cleaning and sterilization based on detected contamination levels, adjusting the duration and method of these processes accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cleaning and sterilization are performed at regular intervals, then the flow path is maintained clean, but cleaning may be performed unnecessarily frequently or not in a timely manner when contamination occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where optical sensors continuously monitor contamination levels in the flow path and provide real-time data to the controller. The controller adjusts cleaning and sterilization operations based on actual contamination conditions rather than fixed schedules, resolving the contradiction by performing maintenance only when needed while ensuring reliability through continuous monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static, predetermined cleaning intervals to dynamic, condition-based cleaning operations. The cleaning frequency and intensity are adjusted in real-time based on contamination sensor readings, allowing the system to adapt to actual flow path conditions and optimize maintenance timing
2Productivity
If contamination detection capabilities are added to the filtration apparatus, then cleaning and sterilization can be optimized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical contamination detection methods with optical sensing technology. Optical sensors use light absorption and scattering principles to detect organic and inorganic contamination without mechanical contact, simplifying the detection mechanism while enabling precise contamination level measurement for optimized cleaning operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces optical sensors as intermediary detection devices between the flow path and the control system. These sensors act as mediators that convert contamination conditions into electrical signals that the controller can process, enabling intelligent decision-making without requiring direct mechanical interaction with the flow path
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 apparatus effectively identifies and responds to contamination levels, optimizing cleaning and sterilization of the flow path to maintain water quality and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first light source configured to emit a first light including ultraviolet (UV) light
Implementation Method 2
The processor is configured to receive a first signal from the first optical sensor while the first light source emits the first light
Implementation Method 3
a second light source configured to emit a second light including visible light or infrared light
Implementation Method 4
a second light source configured to emit a second light including visible light or infrared light
Implementation Method 5
an electrolysis device provided on the flow path, The processor is configured to control the at least one valve and the electrolysis device to sterilize the flow path
Data Source
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AI summary
A filtration apparatus includes a flow path, a valve provided on the flow path, a first light source configured to emit a first light including ultraviolet (UV) light toward the flow path, a second light source configured to emit a second light including visible light or infrared light toward the flow path, a first optical sensor located out of a path of the first light and the second light, electrodes provided on the flow path, and a processor electrically coupled to the valve, the first light source, the second light source, the first optical sensor, and the electrodes. The processor is configured to alternately operate the first light source and the second light source, receive a first signal from the first optical sensor while the first light source emits the first light, and control the valve and the electrodes to sterilize the flow path based on the first signal.