Oscillating Tube Density Meter Bubble Detection via Video Scanning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing density measurement instruments using oscillating tubes face challenges in accurately detecting small bubbles and particulates due to their small size and the inconvenient viewing environment, leading to measurement errors.
Innovation Solution
A video camera and display system is integrated to provide a magnified, remote view of the oscillating sample, reducing the required display size and camera resolution by focusing on a smaller area adjacent to the sample node, allowing for real-time monitoring of bubble and particulate entry and exit, and enabling automated detection through image processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If clear glass oscillators and viewing windows are used to allow visual scanning of the sample, then bubble and particulate detection capability is improved, but the physical size of small bubbles makes visual detection difficult and the viewing environment becomes inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from direct visual inspection to a remote viewing dimension by integrating a video camera and display system. The camera captures images of the oscillator interior, and the display presents magnified views to the operator, effectively moving the detection process to a different spatial dimension that overcomes the limitations of direct viewing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy of the oscillator's interior by using a video camera to capture images and a display to present them. This optical copy allows operators to examine bubbles and particulates without directly viewing the small oscillator, solving the problem of detecting small bubbles while maintaining viewing convenience.
2Measurement precision
If the entire oscillator length is viewed to detect small bubbles, then detection coverage is improved, but the required display size and camera resolution become prohibitively large and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the viewing task into segments by focusing the camera on specific portions of the oscillator rather than attempting to view the entire length simultaneously. The display can show multiple segmented views or magnified views of critical areas, reducing the resolution requirements while maintaining comprehensive detection coverage through systematic scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by focusing detection efforts on the most critical areas where bubbles are most likely to form and affect measurements, particularly near the oscillator walls and measurement zones. This selective focusing reduces the required display size and camera resolution compared to viewing the entire oscillator at equal detail.
3Measurement precision
If real-time video monitoring is implemented to detect bubbles and particulates, then measurement accuracy is improved, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by using the existing oscillator structure and sample handling system to work with the video monitoring system. The oscillator's transparent walls and existing sample flow paths are utilized without requiring major structural modifications, allowing the video system to integrate seamlessly and reduce overall system 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
This solution ensures the sample is free from bubbles and particulates, reducing measurement errors and allowing for improved loading techniques to prevent microscopic bubble adherence and cavitation issues, thus enhancing the accuracy and reliability of density measurements.
Implementation Method 1
A video camera and display system is integrated to provide a magnified, remote view of the oscillating sample
Implementation Method 2
A common form of density measuring instrument is the vibrating tube type wherein a hollow oscillator is filled with a sample under test. The density is determined from a parameter of the oscillator, typically the frequency or period of oscillation.
Data Source
AI summary
An oscillatory measurement system is disclosed that includes a visual recorder for detecting irregularities such as bubbles in a fluid to be measured. Techniques are provided for scanning the recorder across the oscillatory tube.