Fluid Sensors for Industrial Process Control
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept applies the core technology of the original fluid sensor patent to new industrial process control applications, enabling real-time monitoring and control of fluid flow, pressure, and quality in various industries.
Background and Problem Solved
The original fluid sensor patent addressed the need for accurate fluid characterization in medical applications. However, there exists a broader need for fluid sensors in industrial process control, where real-time monitoring and control of fluid flow, pressure, and quality are critical. The inventive concept solves this problem by adapting the core technology to new applications, such as brewery fluid quality monitoring, water treatment contamination detection, chemical processing fluid flow monitoring, hydraulic system pressure monitoring, and compressed air system leak detection.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a fluid sensor configured to detect air bubbles, pressure changes, and fluid flow rates in various industrial process control applications. The fluid sensor includes an ultrasonic transmitter and a pressure sensor, which work in tandem to provide accurate and real-time measurements. The system can be integrated with controllers to shut off fluid transfer lines, generate alarm signals, or adjust fluid pressure in response to detected anomalies. The inventive concept can be implemented in various industries, including brewery, water treatment, chemical processing, hydraulic systems, and compressed air systems.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The inventive concept's novelty lies in its application of the original fluid sensor technology to new industrial process control applications, which were not contemplated in the original patent. The inventive step is the recognition of the potential for the fluid sensor technology to be adapted to these new applications, and the development of specific configurations and systems to address the unique challenges of each industry.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include different sensor configurations, such as using optical or capacitive sensors instead of ultrasonic and pressure sensors. Variations could also include different system architectures, such as wireless or cloud-based systems, to enable remote monitoring and control.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including brewery, water treatment, chemical processing, hydraulic systems, and compressed air systems. The market for industrial process control sensors is growing rapidly, driven by the need for increased efficiency, safety, and quality control. The inventive concept is well-positioned to capture a significant share of this market, with potential applications in manufacturing, oil and gas, and other industries.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61M5/16854 |
| A | A61 | A61M5/365 |
| A | A61 | A61M39/08 |
| G | G01 | G01N29/02 |
| G | G01 | G01N29/222 |
| A | A61 | A61M2005/16863 |
| A | A61 | A61M2205/332 |
| A | A61 | A61M2205/3331 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,760 |
|---|---|
| Title | Fluid sensor |
| Assignee(s) | HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC. |