Packaging Machine Gas Measurement via Optical Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional packaging machines face delays and inaccuracies in gas concentration measurement due to the need for a gas sample, which can be contaminated, potentially damaging sensors and leading to unreliable results.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an indicator inside the packaging chamber or gas line that interacts with electromagnetic radiation, allowing for non-invasive, quick, and reliable gas concentration measurement without direct contact with the gas sample, enabling 'clean-in-place' processes and storage of measurement data for quality control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a gas sample is taken via a sample gas line to measure gas concentration, then the gas concentration can be measured, but the measurement is delayed and the sample line may be contaminated with liquid residues or impurities that falsify measured values or damage the gas sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the gas sampling system. Instead of taking a gas sample through a sample line to an external sensor, the measurement capability is integrated directly into the chamber wall via a measuring head with optical sensor that detects gas concentration in situ, eliminating the sample line and its contamination risks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical measurement system that mediates between the gas environment and the sensor. The measuring head with optical sensor acts as an intermediary that allows gas concentration measurement without direct contact between the sensor and the gas sample, using optical properties of the gas to determine concentration
2Measurement precision
If a gas sample is transported through a sample gas line to the gas sensor, then gas concentration measurement is possible, but the measurement time is increased due to the time required for gas sample transport and flushing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the time-consuming gas sampling and transport process entirely by extracting the measurement function to the chamber wall, where gas concentration is measured in situ through the measuring head without requiring sample extraction or line flushing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical gas sampling system (pumps, valves, sample lines) with an optical measurement system. The measuring head uses optical detection to determine gas concentration, eliminating the mechanical transport process and its associated time delays
3Measurement precision
If the gas sensor is exposed to the gas sample through a sample gas inlet, then gas concentration can be measured, but liquid residues or impurities in the gas sample can permanently damage the gas sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary system that allows gas concentration measurement without direct exposure of the sensor to the gas sample. The measuring head with optical sensor detects gas properties through optical interaction, creating a protective barrier that prevents liquid residues and impurities from reaching and damaging the sensor
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct mechanical/electrical gas sensor exposure system with an optical measurement system. The measuring head uses optical detection methods that do not require the sensor to be in direct contact with the gas sample, eliminating the risk of sensor damage from liquid residues
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 method significantly reduces measurement time and increases accuracy by eliminating contamination risks and allowing for post-sealing gas concentration checks, enhancing product shelf life monitoring and liability management.
Implementation Method 1
The measuring device for determining the gas concentration has a measuring head (37) that can read the indicator (39) using electromagnetic radiation
Data Source
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AI summary
The machine has a closed chamber (17) that is sealable in an airtight manner around packages i.e. closed packages. A gas flushing unit (34) flushes the packages contained with gas e.g. oxygen. A gas line (32) is led into or outside the chamber. A measuring device (35) determines concentration of the gas. The measuring device comprises a measuring head (37) for reading an indicator (39) for the concentration of the gas by electromagnetic radiation, where the indicator is arranged at interior parts of the chamber, the packages and/or the gas line.