Terahertz Refractive-Index Sensing for Solidified Strand Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods struggle to accurately determine the geometric parameters of strand- or plate-shaped objects that are not yet completely solidified, leading to deviations from the actual parameters in the solidified state, which hinders timely process adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A method that determines the relationship between the refractive index and shrinkage during solidification, allowing for the prediction of geometric parameters in the solidified state by measuring the refractive index and geometric parameters in the not yet completely solidified state, using terahertz radiation to account for material composition and production conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If geometric parameters are determined shortly after exiting the extrusion system when the object is not yet completely solidified, then the measurement speed is improved and early process intervention is enabled, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to deviations from actual solidified parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing the geometric parameter measurement while the object is still in the not-yet-completely-solidified state, before the solidification process completes. This enables early detection of parameter deviations so that process adjustments can be made promptly, preventing the accumulation of defects and reducing waste, even though the measurement is taken before final solidification
2Measurement precision
If geometric parameters are determined after the object is completely solidified, then the measurement precision is improved by obtaining accurate solidified state parameters, but the loss of time increases due to delayed process intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement is performed in advance during the cooling process before complete solidification, enabling early process intervention. The system captures geometric parameters at an intermediate state, allowing sufficient time for process adjustments to be made while still achieving acceptable measurement accuracy for process control purposes
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
Enables reliable prediction of geometric parameters in the solidified state, facilitating early process adjustments and reducing material waste by allowing for precise control of production parameters.
Implementation Method 1
the refractive index and at least one geometric parameter of a strand- or plate-shaped object can be determined by irradiating the objects with terahertz radiation and receiving the terahertz radiation reflected by the objects
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed for determining at least one geometric parameter of an object comprising a molten component. The method includes determining a relationship between a refractive index of the object and a shrinkage occurring during a solidification of the object. The refractive index and at least one geometric parameter of the object comprising the molten component is determined using a measuring apparatus. At least one geometric parameter of the solidified object from the refractive index and the at least one geometric parameter of the object comprising the molten component is determined using the measuring apparatus and taking into account the determined relationship between the refractive index of the object and the shrinkage occurring during the solidification of the object.