Resonant Fluid Property Sensor With Superimposed Vibrations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vibrational fluid property sensors face distortion in readings due to adherent films or solid deposits on their surfaces, especially in static or quasi-static fluid conditions, and struggle with measuring complex non-Newtonian fluids effectively.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a resonant fluid property sensor system that includes a resonant sensor coupled to a sensor chassis, a support structure, and a vibrator. This system operates at specific frequencies to prevent deposit buildup and ensure accurate measurements, even in challenging fluid conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ultrasonic vibrations are applied to the sensor surfaces to prevent deposit buildup, then the self-cleaning effect is improved, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates due to interference with the resonant sensing signal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the vibration function into two independent components: a primary resonant vibration for measurement and a secondary superimposed vibration for self-cleaning. The resonant sensor operates at its natural frequency to measure fluid properties, while a separate vibrator superimposes additional vibrations at a different frequency to prevent deposit buildup. This segmentation allows each function to operate independently without interfering with the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies mechanical vibration in two forms: the resonant vibration of the sensor element itself for measurement purposes, and superimposed vibrations applied through a separate vibrator to create self-cleaning effects. The superimposed vibrations are specifically designed to prevent deposit buildup while the resonant vibrations enable accurate measurement of fluid properties.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If low surface energy coatings are applied to the sensor surfaces to prevent deposits, then the resistance to deposition is improved, but the coating durability deteriorates due to erosion from abrasive material
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses mechanical vibration as an alternative to chemical coatings for preventing deposit buildup. By applying superimposed vibrations to the sensor surfaces, the system creates fluid motion and velocity gradients that discourage deposition without requiring protective coatings. This approach eliminates the durability issues associated with eroding low surface energy coatings while maintaining effective resistance to deposition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the chemical protection mechanism of low surface energy coatings with a mechanical vibration-based protection system. Instead of relying on coating materials that can erode, the system uses vibrational energy to prevent deposit buildup through fluid dynamic effects, thereby eliminating the durability problems inherent in coated surfaces.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the sensor operates in static or quasi-static fluid conditions, then the measurement stability is improved, but the susceptibility to deposit formation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies superimposed vibrations to the sensor surfaces even when measuring in static or quasi-static fluid conditions. This creates artificial fluid motion and velocity gradients around the sensor, which discourages deposit formation while allowing the sensor to operate stably in otherwise static conditions. The vibrations maintain measurement stability while preventing the harmful effect of deposition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic vibrations to an otherwise static measurement environment. By superimposing vibrations on the sensor surfaces, the system creates dynamic fluid motion around the sensor even when the bulk fluid is stationary or moving slowly. This dynamic approach prevents deposit buildup while maintaining the stability benefits of operating in quasi-static conditions.
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 system enables reliable, repeatable, and stable online measurements of fluid properties, including self-cleaning mechanisms that prevent deposit buildup, maintain calibration, and allow for quick recovery, thereby addressing the challenges of measuring complex fluids and avoiding measurement distortions.
Implementation Method 1
a resonant fluid property sensor configured to operate at a first frequency
Implementation Method 2
a vibrator configured to vibrate at a second frequency and transmit vibrations through the chassis to the resonant fluid property sensor
Implementation Method 3
ultrasonic vibrations tend, in light of their high frequencies (upwards of 20 kHz) to produce high shear rates in the fluid in intimate contact with the sensor surfaces so excited
Data Source
AI summary
Fluid property sensors described herein may include a resonator configured to be immersed in a fluid or flowable medium and a vibrator coupled to the resonator, such that vibrations of the vibrator are transmitted to the resonator, e.g., to discourage and/or remove any buildup or deposits on the resonator and/or increase accuracy of the sensors. The frequency of the vibrator is configured to be substantially lower than the frequency of the resonator, such that operation of the resonator is not negatively affected. The vibrator may be located internal to, or external to, a chassis of the device.