Optical Marking Rheometer Sample Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotational rheometers face challenges in accurately applying and positioning samples due to surface variations and permanent markings that become obscured with multiple layer applications, leading to inconsistent measurement results.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of symmetrical lighting around the upper measuring shaft to create optical markings on the lower measuring part, using light sources like fluorescent tubes or LEDs, which can be adjusted and controlled to provide adaptable shadows for precise sample application, and optionally using lenses to focus light for specific markings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If permanent markings are applied to the measuring part surface to guide sample application, then sample positioning is improved, but the markings become obscured when multiple sample layers are applied, leading to loss of information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces permanent physical markings on the measuring part surface with an optical projection system. A projector casts reference markings (crosshairs, circles, grids) onto the sample surface during application, eliminating the need for permanent surface markings. This substitution resolves the contradiction by providing visible guidance without altering the measuring part surface, thus maintaining marking visibility across multiple sample applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a projector as an intermediary device between the user and the measuring part. Instead of directly marking the measuring part surface, the projector casts virtual reference markings onto the sample or sample application area. This intermediary approach provides persistent visual guidance without the limitations of permanent surface markings, resolving the information loss problem while maintaining positioning precision.
2Measurement precision
If the measuring part surface is processed (polished, coated, or marked) to improve sample application, then sample positioning is improved, but the mechanical properties of the surface are altered, leading to falsification of measurement results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical surface processing (polishing, coating, permanent marking) with an optical projection system. The projector casts reference markings without physically altering the measuring part surface, thus preserving the original mechanical properties and adhesion characteristics. This resolves the contradiction by providing application guidance while maintaining surface integrity and measurement reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies optical markings only in the specific regions where sample application guidance is needed, rather than processing the entire measuring part surface. The projector can target specific zones (center, radii, concentric circles) with reference markings, leaving the rest of the surface unchanged. This localized approach maintains surface uniformity and prevents falsification of measurement results while still improving sample application precision.
3Ease of operation
If a fixed permanent marking is used on the measuring part, then sample application guidance is provided, but the system cannot be adapted to different sample application requirements, reducing adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, fixed permanent markings into dynamic, programmable optical projections. The projector can display different marking patterns (crosshairs, circles, grids, concentric rings) and positions based on software control. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to various sample application requirements without physical reconfiguration, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the single projector device perform multiple functions by programming it to display different marking patterns and configurations. The same hardware can provide center marks, radial lines, concentric circles, or custom patterns depending on the measurement task. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized measuring parts while maintaining ease of operation across different application scenarios.
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 solution enhances the precision and adaptability of sample application, reducing measurement errors by providing clear optical markings that can be adjusted for different sample types and geometries, improving the accuracy of viscoelastic property measurements.
Implementation Method 1
illuminate the measuring system consisting of the upper and lower measuring part. The upper measuring part is illuminated from above (as rotationally symmetrical as possible) along the measuring shaft 4 or axis of rotation 12. In this way, a shadow can be cast on the lower measuring part (3), which serves as an optical marking for the application of the sample.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
The invention relates to a rotational rhometer with at least one measuring motor (1) for driving a measuring shaft (4) which carries an upper measuring element (2) and, in conjunction with a lower measuring element, forms a measuring gap for receiving and rheologically examining viscoelastic samples, wherein the two measuring elements (2, 3) are movable relative to each other and are equipped with a lighting unit (5) which, with at least one light source, illuminates the measuring system symmetrically along the measuring shaft and thus creates an optical marking (6) on the lower measuring element (3) for introducing the sample to be examined into the measuring gap.