Rheometer Drive Inversion for Compact Sample Space

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Solution Overview

Problem

Rheometers require a large installation space due to the need for a drive device and transmission element above the sample space, which is disadvantageous for compactness and portability.

Innovation Solution

The drive device is positioned on the side of the first measuring part facing away from the second measuring part, with the transmission element penetrating through the first measuring part, allowing the drive movement to be transferred to the second measuring part without occupying space above it.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the drive device is arranged above the second measuring part, then the drive movement can be directly transferred to the second measuring part, but the installation space above the sample space becomes large

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedrive movement transferVSAvoidinstallation space

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The drive device is inverted from its conventional position above the second measuring part to a position below the first measuring part. The transmission element penetrates through the first measuring part to transfer drive movement from the inverted drive device to the second measuring part, thereby reducing installation space above the sample space while maintaining functional effectiveness

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Ease of operation

If the second measuring part can be raised by a sufficient amount, then the user has sufficient room to place the material sample in the sample space, but the drive device requires a relatively great installation space above the sample space

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample introduction spaceVSAvoidinstallation space

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By inverting the drive device to a position below the first measuring part and having the transmission element penetrate through the first measuring part, the patent enables the second measuring part to be raised for sample introduction while avoiding the need for large installation space above the sample space, thus resolving the spatial conflict

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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 configuration results in a more compact and portable rheometer design by freeing up space above the sample space, enabling a smaller and more handy instrument.

Implementation Method 1

the rotational movement of which is transferred to the second, upper measuring part via a transmission element in the form of a vertical shaft

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical rotation:

Data Source

PatentUS9267871B2Rheometer or viscometer

Publication Date: 2016.02.23 THERMO ELECTRON (KARLSRUHE) GMBH

AI summary

A rheometer or viscometer has a first measuring part and a second measuring part, between which a sample space for receiving a material sample is formed. By means of a drive device, at least the second measuring part can be rotated and/or can be oscillated, it being possible for the drive movement of the drive device to be transferred to the second measuring device via a transmission element. The drive device is arranged on the side of the first measuring part that is facing away from the second measuring part and the transmission element penetrates through the first measuring part, particularly at a through-bore.