Viscometer Phase-Locking for Stable Frequency Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current viscometers face issues with slow and unstable frequency control, which results in low yield and inefficient viscosity measurement processes.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a phase-locking method instead of frequency-locking, where the excitation signal is phase-locked to a predetermined value relative to the reception signal, allowing the oscillating element to oscillate at its natural frequency in free oscillations, and determining the optimal phase shift for maximum amplitude measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If frequency-locking control is used to maintain the oscillating element at resonance frequency, then the oscillation frequency is stabilized, but the control becomes slow and unstable with low measurement yield
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional frequency-locking approach by implementing phase-locking instead. Rather than locking the frequency and measuring phase effects, the system locks the phase of the excitation signal to the reception signal and allows the frequency to vary naturally. This inversion resolves the contradiction by achieving frequency stability through phase locking, which is faster and more stable than conventional frequency-locking methods.
2Reliability
If frequency-locking control is implemented to maintain resonance frequency, then the oscillation frequency is controlled, but the computing capacity requirement increases causing low yield
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex frequency-locking control system with a simpler phase-locking system. By substituting the frequency control mechanism with phase control, the system achieves the same frequency stability with reduced computing requirements. The phase-locking circuitry is less computationally intensive than frequency-locking algorithms, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable frequency control.
3Measurement precision
If the excitation signal is phase-shifted by optimal phase shift relative to reception signal, then the oscillation amplitude is maximized, but the phase control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the phase relationship between the excitation signal and the reception signal. The system measures the phase difference and automatically adjusts the excitation signal phase to maintain the optimal phase shift. This feedback mechanism simplifies phase control by using automatic phase-locked loop (PLL) circuitry that self-regulates the phase relationship, thereby achieving maximum oscillation amplitude without significant control complexity.
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 approach leads to faster, more stable, and more precise viscosity measurements with reduced energy consumption, resulting in higher yield and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The oscillating element oscillates at its natural frequency and the oscillations are free. The phase shift between the reception signal and the excitation signal substantially corresponds to the optimal phase shift allowing to have a maximum amplitude of the oscillations.
Implementation Method 2
In most currently known viscometers, the oscillating element is set into oscillations at its resonance frequency by means of a coil receiving a signal, which will be called 'excitation signal' in the remainder of the description.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and system for determining the viscosity of a product, employing a measuring device comprising an oscillating element set in motion by means of an excitation signal. The oscillation of the oscillating element generates a received signal from which the viscosity of the product is determined. The invention provides phase control of the oscillating element by imposing a substantially fixed phase shift between the excitation signal and the received signal. This phase shift, referred to as the optimal phase shift, corresponds to a maximum oscillation amplitude. The system further includes means for digitally managing the measuring device and integration of the system according to the invention into a single, portable unit.