Viscosity Measurement in Arbitrary Continuous Flow Fields
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring viscosity in complex fluids with arbitrary geometry are limited, requiring simple shapes and assuming specific viscosity models, which restricts their application to only simple flow fields and static mixers.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that calculate flow numbers to measure viscosity by determining the average energy dissipation rate and effective shear rate using flow rate and pressure drop measurements in continuous flow fields with arbitrary geometry, allowing on-site in-situ measurement without pre-defining the viscosity model.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing viscosity measurement methods (flat plate shear or micro-tube pressure flow) are used, then measurement precision is achieved for simple geometries, but adaptability to arbitrary geometry flow fields is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by developing a viscosity measurement method that works across multiple flow field geometries (static mixers, extruders, injection molds, etc.) using a unified approach based on energy dissipation rate and flow numbers, rather than requiring geometry-specific measurement techniques
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by introducing dimensionless flow numbers and energy dissipation rate as universal parameters that characterize flow fields of arbitrary geometry, allowing viscosity measurement across different geometries through parameter transformation rather than direct geometric measurement
2Adaptability or versatility
If Metzner-Otto method is applied to static mixers, then measurement capability is extended, but the method is still limited to specific flow field types and requires pre-defining viscosity models
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends universality beyond static mixers to all continuous flow fields with inlet and outlet, including extruders, injection molds, and other processing equipment, making the measurement method universally applicable across diverse industrial applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential feature of energy dissipation rate from the Metzner-Otto method and applies it to any continuous flow field, separating the measurement approach from the specific static mixer configuration, thereby simplifying the measurement system while expanding applicability
3Ease of operation
If power-law fluid model is assumed in advance, then measurement procedure is simplified, but measurement precision is reduced for unknown viscosity models
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by measuring flow numbers and energy dissipation rate before determining viscosity characteristics, allowing the viscosity model to be identified after the fact based on the measured data rather than assuming a model in advance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the measured flow numbers and energy dissipation rate to determine the appropriate viscosity model and characteristics, allowing the measurement system to adapt to the actual fluid behavior rather than being constrained by a pre-assumed model
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 easy and accurate measurement of viscosity behaviors in complex fluids across various geometries and flow fields, expanding the application range beyond simple shapes and static mixers, and allowing for real-time monitoring during continuous processes.
Implementation Method 1
calculating an average energy dissipation rate; and deriving the viscosity of the fluid for an effective shear rate based on the average energy dissipation rate and the flow numbers in the flow field
Implementation Method 2
measuring a flow rate and pressure drop of the fluid in the flow field
Data Source
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AI summary
In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a method and/or system which can easily measure viscosity behaviors of fluid by preparing two flow numbers in an arbitrary geometry of continuous flow field and measuring only a flow rate and pressure drop. In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a method and/or system which can easily predict a pressure drop or flow rate in an arbitrary geometry of continuous flow field, once only two flow numbers of the flow field and the viscosity behaviors of non-Newtonian fluid flowing in the flow field are prepared.