Universal Sensor Fitting for Sterile Fluid Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In biopharmaceutical and fluid handling processes, existing pressure measurement devices are bulky, intrusive, and not compatible with sterile environments, making it difficult to maintain microbial contamination control while measuring fluid characteristics effectively.
Innovation Solution
A universal fitting with a sensor housing and probe aperture for in-line fluid measurement, designed for minimal microbial contamination, using lightweight materials compatible with gamma radiation or chemical sterilization, and adaptable to various fluid handling systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional in-line pressure gauges or stainless steel pressure transmitters are used, then pressure measurement capability is provided, but the device becomes bulky, weighty, and too intrusive for lightweight flexible tubing applications
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure measurement system is segmented into a permanent miniature fitting (lightweight body with ports and sensor housing) and a separate sensor assembly that can be detached. This allows the main fitting to remain lightweight while the sensor provides measurement capability when attached.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly nests within the sensor housing of the fitting. The housing is specifically sized to receive the sensor assembly, creating a compact integrated measurement device that combines the lightweight fitting structure with the sensor functionality.
2Reliability
If sterilization is required for single-use process components, then microbial contamination control is improved, but many single-use components are not compatible with moist heat sterilization temperatures requiring separate sterilization of process sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is designed with universal compatibility for multiple sterilization methods (moist heat, gamma radiation, chemical sterilization). The same fitting structure can be sterilized along with single-use process components using their compatible method, eliminating the need for separate sensor sterilization processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly is integrated with the fitting in such a way that they can be sterilized together as a single unit. The sensor housing and fitting body form an integrated assembly that can undergo the same sterilization process as the single-use process components.
3Measurement precision
If a pressure measurement device with sanitary fitting flange is connected to a process stream, then pressure measurement is enabled, but it becomes cumbersome to connect and requires critical cleaning of all product contact parts
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting provides multiple connection options (hose barbs, threaded portions, sanitary fittings) that can be selected based on the specific application, eliminating the need for cumbersome flange connections. The segmentation of connection types allows optimal selection for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting is designed with universal adaptability to accommodate different connection types and sensor assemblies. This multi-functionality allows the same fitting design to work with various connection methods, simplifying installation across different applications without requiring critical cleaning of specialized flange interfaces.
4Weight of moving object
If lightweight flexible tubing is used in process applications, then ease of handling and reduced weight are achieved, but traditional in-line measurement devices are too bulky and intrusive
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is segmented into a miniature fitting that can be directly integrated with flexible tubing using appropriate connections (hose barbs, threads), eliminating the need for bulky in-line devices. The fitting itself is designed to be lightweight to match the tubing.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly nests within a compact sensor housing that is integrated with the miniature fitting, creating a compact measurement device that does not protrude significantly from the tubing, thus maintaining the flexibility and lightness of the overall system.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a universal fitting for in-line fluid measurement in a process application. The fitting includes an inlet and outlet port for in-line coupling to the process application. Also, a fluid flow passage provides fluid communication between the ports. At least one sensor housing extends outwardly away from a wall of the fluid passage. Also, the housing is sized to receive a sensor assembly which assembly measures at least one characteristic of the fluid. A base of the housing is integrally formed with the wall and includes a sensor seat for receiving a portion of the sensor assembly. Further, at least one probe aperture is provided for receiving a probe portion of the sensor assembly. The probe aperture is disposed in the wall of the fluid passage and extends from the fluid passage through the sensor seat into the housing.