WO2020167391A1 - Processes and apparatus for the modular analysis of a fluid sample - Google Patents
Processes and apparatus for the modular analysis of a fluid sample Download PDFInfo
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- WO2020167391A1 WO2020167391A1 PCT/US2020/012732 US2020012732W WO2020167391A1 WO 2020167391 A1 WO2020167391 A1 WO 2020167391A1 US 2020012732 W US2020012732 W US 2020012732W WO 2020167391 A1 WO2020167391 A1 WO 2020167391A1
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- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 231
- 238000004458 analytical method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 55
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- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 16
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 9
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 8
- PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N Nickel Chemical compound [Ni] PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 8
- ZLMJMSJWJFRBEC-UHFFFAOYSA-N Potassium Chemical compound [K] ZLMJMSJWJFRBEC-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 8
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 8
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- 229910052802 copper Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000010949 copper Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 229910052742 iron Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000011591 potassium Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 229910052700 potassium Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000004071 soot Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- CWYNVVGOOAEACU-UHFFFAOYSA-N Fe2+ Chemical compound [Fe+2] CWYNVVGOOAEACU-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 7
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000006396 nitration reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 7
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- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000000196 viscometry Methods 0.000 description 2
- OYPRJOBELJOOCE-UHFFFAOYSA-N Calcium Chemical compound [Ca] OYPRJOBELJOOCE-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000004566 IR spectroscopy Methods 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N33/00—Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups G01N1/00 - G01N31/00
- G01N33/26—Oils; Viscous liquids; Paints; Inks
- G01N33/28—Oils, i.e. hydrocarbon liquids
- G01N33/2888—Lubricating oil characteristics, e.g. deterioration
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N35/00—Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups G01N1/00 - G01N33/00; Handling materials therefor
- G01N2035/00178—Special arrangements of analysers
- G01N2035/00326—Analysers with modular structure
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N2201/00—Features of devices classified in G01N21/00
- G01N2201/02—Mechanical
- G01N2201/024—Modular construction
Definitions
- the modular fluid analysis device can include 2, 3, 4, 5, or more modules. In some examples, the modular fluid analysis device can include at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, or at least 5 modules. In some examples, the modular fluid analysis device can include from 2 modules to 3, 4, 5, or 6 modules. In some examples, each module can include 1, 2, 3, or 4 sensors for determining, estimating, or otherwise measuring properties of the fluid sample. The modules can include the same or different numbers of sensors. The modules can each include different types of sensors. In some examples, a module can be free of a sensor. Modules that do not have sensors can include processors, displays, pumps, heaters, or other components described herein. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the number of sensors in each module and the number of modules can be tailored to address a user’s specific needs.
- the normal values of these properties can be compared to values measured by the sensors. If the measured value of the sensors is outside the normal range, an alert can be displayed.
- the alert can include a recommended course of action.
- the recommended course of action can be determined by the measured property as well as how far the measured property is from the normal range of that property.
- the processor can be integrated into one of the modules or can be external to the modules.
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- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Medicinal Chemistry (AREA)
- Oil, Petroleum & Natural Gas (AREA)
- General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Food Science & Technology (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
- Biochemistry (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Immunology (AREA)
- Pathology (AREA)
- Investigating Or Analysing Materials By Optical Means (AREA)
Abstract
In some examples, a first property and a second property of a fluid sample can be selected to measure using a modular fluid analysis unit. A first module of the modular fluid analysis unit can be fluidly connected to a second module of the modular fluid analysis unit. The fluid sample can be introduced into the first module. The first property of the fluid sample can be measured with a first sensor in the first module. The fluid sample can be introduced into the second module, and the second property of the fluid sample can be measured with a first sensor in the second module.
Description
PROCESSES AND APPARATUS FOR THE MODULAR ANALYSIS OF A FLUID
SAMPLE
FIELD
[0001] Embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to monitoring one or more properties of a fluid. More particularly, such embodiments relate to the use of a modular system to measure properties of a lubricant sample.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Fluids, in particular lubricants such as, hydraulic fluids, engine oils, compressor oils, turbine oils, metal working fluids, bunker fuels and greases, are frequently sampled and analyzed in order to monitor one or more properties of the fluid, e.g. to determine whether the fluid needs to be replaced or whether abnormal wear is occurring in the machine in which the fluid is used. Typically, a sample of a fluid will be sent to a laboratory for analysis. For example, a lubricant sample is taken from the equipment in which it is used and is sent to the laboratory for analysis, where several analytical tests are performed to determine a number of chemical and physical properties. Sending lubricant samples to a laboratory for analysis, however, does not provide the equipment operator any immediate information about the properties of the lubricant. This lapse in time can be critical to the operation of the equipment. However, the tests that need to be run on the fluid samples can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of fluid, the type of equipment the fluid was sampled from, what the machine is doing, and the location of the machine.
[0003] To help minimize the time required to obtained analytical results, various on-site or on line devices have been proposed to monitor the condition of the lubricant as well as the wear status of the equipment being lubricated. These devices include multiple analyzers, but none of these devices are modular and an entirely new analyzer is required if the user wants to ran a test that their current device does not perform.
[0004] There is need, therefore, for improved processes and apparatus that allows the user to add on to or change the analyzers that are used to perform fluid analysis, dependent on application type.
SUMMARY
[0005] Processes for the modular analysis of a fluid are provided. In some examples, a process can include selecting a first property and a second property of a fluid sample to measure using a modular fluid analysis unit. A first module of the modular fluid analysis unit can be fluidly connected to a second module of the modular fluid analysis unit. The fluid sample can be introduced into the first module. The first property of the fluid sample can be measured with a first sensor in the first module. The fluid sample can be introduced into the second module, and the second property of the fluid sample can be measured with a first sensor in the second module.
[0006] In some examples, a modular fluid analysis unit can include a first module having an inlet configured to receive a fluid sample from a fluid sample holding tank. The modular fluid analysis unit can include a first conduit, where the first conduit of the first module is in fluid communication with the inlet of the first module and is configured to convey the fluid sample within the first module. The modular fluid analysis unit can include a first valve in fluid communication with the first conduit of the first module, the first valve of the first module configured to introduce the fluid sample into an inlet of a second modular unit when the first module is connected to the second module and into a second conduit of the first module when the first module is not connected to the second module. The modular fluid analysis unit can include at least one sensor, wherein the at least one sensor of the first module is configured to measure at least one property of the fluid sample, the at least one property selected from the group of an iron content, a copper content, a potassium content, a lead content, an aluminum content, a viscosity, a dielectric constant, a capacitance, and an inductance.
[0007] In some examples, a process can include fluidly connecting a first module of a modular fluid analysis unit to a second module of the modular fluid analysis unit. A fluid sample can be introduced into the first module. A viscosity and a dielectric constant of the fluid sample can be measured with a fluid property sensor in the first module. An iron content, a copper content, a potassium content, a lead content, an aluminum content, or a combination thereof can be measured with an elemental sensor in the first module. The fluid sample can be introduced into the second module. An authenticity, a particle count, a particle size distribution, a water content, an oxidation level, a nitration level, a soot content, a ferrous particle content, a pH, an infrared spectrum, a base number, an acid number, or a combination thereof can be measured with a first sensor in the second module. At least one measured property of the fluid sample can be compared to a normal range of the measured property of the fluid sample and an alert can be displayed if the measured property is outside the normal range. A recommended action to address the alert can be displayed. At least one piece of metadata of the fluid sample can be entered, wherein the metadata is used to determine the normal range of the measured property of the fluid sample.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments.
[0009] FIG. 1 depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative modular fluid analysis device, according to one or more embodiments described.
[0010] FIG. 2 depicts a top view of another illustrative modular fluid analysis device, according to one or more embodiments described.
[0011] FIG. 3 depicts a process flow illustrating the use of an illustrative modular fluid analysis device, according to one or more embodiments described.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] It is to be understood that the following disclosure describes several exemplary embodiments for implementing different features, structures, and/or functions of the invention. Exemplary embodiments of components, arrangements, and configurations are described below to simplify the present disclosure; however, these exemplary embodiments are provided merely as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various exemplary embodiments and across the Figures provided herein. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various exemplary embodiments and/or configurations discussed in the Figures. Moreover, the exemplary embodiments presented below can be combined in any combination of ways, /.<?., any element from one exemplary embodiment can be used in any other exemplary embodiment, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
[0013] As used herein, the term“sensor” means a device, in a small form factor, that can detect or measure a physical and/or chemical and/or electrical property and records, indicates, or otherwise responds to that property, indicating the quantity and/or quality of that property.
[0014] As used herein, the term“fluid property sensor” means a device, in a small form factor, that can detect or measure more than one property of a fluid, such as measuring both a viscosity and a dielectric constant.
[0015] As used herein, the term“metadata” means a set of data that describes and gives information about other data. In some examples, metadata for a fluid sample can be the hours of service, the year/make/model of asset it is used in, miles on engine (odometer reading), asset id (which could be unique to the fleet, or a VIN), miles/hours since last fluid change, type of fluid, fluid composition, whether any fresh fluid was added to the sump, asset location, types of filters, or whether a filter change was done or not.
[0016] In some examples, properties of a fluid sample can be analyzed using a modular fluid analysis device by selecting a first property and a second property of the fluid sample to measure. A first module of the modular fluid analysis unit can include a sensor for measuring the first
property and can be fluidly connected to a second module of the modular fluid analysis unit that can include a sensor for measuring the second property. The fluid sample can be introduced into the first module where the first property of the fluid sample can be determined with the sensor in the first module. The fluid sample can be introduced into the second module where the second property of the fluid sample can be determined with the sensor in the second module.
[0017] The modular analysis unit disclosed herein can be configured by a user to measure or otherwise determine any combination of properties of a fluid. The modular analysis unit can allow a user to minimize the use of unnecessary sensing devices while still acquiring the data that they need for a given fluid. Typically, analytical devices that include multiple sensors do not have the preferred combination of sensing devices that a user needs, thus requiring the user to either not obtain all the data needed or to pay for sensors that are unnecessary. A modular device can allow the user to cost-effectively construct an analytical device that includes only the desired sensors.
[0018] In some examples, the modular fluid analysis device can include 2, 3, 4, 5, or more modules. In some examples, the modular fluid analysis device can include at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, or at least 5 modules. In some examples, the modular fluid analysis device can include from 2 modules to 3, 4, 5, or 6 modules. In some examples, each module can include 1, 2, 3, or 4 sensors for determining, estimating, or otherwise measuring properties of the fluid sample. The modules can include the same or different numbers of sensors. The modules can each include different types of sensors. In some examples, a module can be free of a sensor. Modules that do not have sensors can include processors, displays, pumps, heaters, or other components described herein. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the number of sensors in each module and the number of modules can be tailored to address a user’s specific needs.
[0019] The sensors can be configured to measure one or more chemical properties and/or one or more physical properties and/or one or more electrical properties of the fluid sample. Additionally, the sensors can facilitate evaluation of one or more contaminants due to fuel and/or water leakage and/or wear metals that may be indicative of the overall operating condition of the apparatus from which the fluid was sampled. By way of example, the sensors can include spectroscopic sensors, fluid property sensors, mass flow sensors, volume flow sensors, ultrasonic sensors, induction sensors, light scattering/extinction sensors, viscosity sensors, conductivity sensors, impedance sensors, elemental analysis sensors, magnetic sensors, resonant sensors, or any other suitable sensor, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the sensors can measure a content of one or more elements, an authenticity, a viscosity, a dielectric constant, a particle count, a pH, an infrared spectrum, a base number, an acid number, a conductivity, a resistivity, an impedance, a permittivity, a particle size distribution, a water content, an oxidation level, a nitration
level, a soot content, a ferrous particle content of the fluid sample, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the sensors can measure an iron content, a copper content, a potassium content, a lead content, an aluminum content, or a combination thereof. The authenticity of a fluid sample can be measured by comparing a spectroscopic analysis of the fluid sample to the spectroscopic analysis of the original or reference fluid. In some examples, an original fluid can be doped with a composition that would not otherwise be present and is difficult to replicate allowing spectroscopic analysis of the fluid sample to determine whether or not the fluid sample is authentic. In some examples, the sensors can utilize techniques such as, but not limited to, infrared (IR) spectroscopy, x-ray fluorescence (“XRF”) spectroscopy, laser induced plasma spectroscopy (“LIPS), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (“ICP”), radio frequency spectroscopy, rotating disk electrode atomic emission (“RDE”) spectroscopy and flow viscometry (e.g., Hele Shaw flow viscometry), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, gas chromatography, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography, including high performance liquid chromatography, supercritical fluid chromatograph, liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, impedance spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance or any other suitable technique, or combinations thereof to evaluate chemical, electrical, and physical properties of the fluid sample.
[0020] Data from the sensors can be acquired via data acquisition circuitry. The data acquisition circuitry can associate the sensors with a control system, such as a display or workstation, where additional processing and analysis can be performed. The data acquisition circuitry can be within the modules of the modular fluid analysis device. The data acquisition circuitry can be in the form of a sensor reader, which may be configured to communicate wirelessly with the modules and/or the workstation. For example, the sensor reader can be a battery-operated device.
[0021] In addition to displaying the data, the control system can control the above-described operations and functions of the modular fluid analysis device. The control system can include a processor having one or more processor-based components, such as general purpose or application specific computers. In addition to the processor-based components, the processor can include various modules or subsystems (e.g., software systems implemented as computer executable instructions stored in a non-transitory machine readable medium such as memory, a hard disk drive, or other short term and/or long term storage) that can be used to estimate the fluid sample degradation and forecast remaining useful life for the fluid sample. The memory can be used for storing programs and routines (e.g., code or instructions) for performing the techniques described herein that can be executed by the operator workstation or by the associated components of the
system. Alternatively, the programs and routines can be stored on a computer accessible storage and/or memory remote from the control system, but accessible by network and/or communication interfaces present on the processor. In some examples, the programs and routines stored on the memory of the modular fluid analysis device can be updated remotely. For example, algorithms and correlations stored on the memory of the modular fluid analysis device can be updated by a master correlation database. The master correlation database can receive data from at least two modular fluid analysis devices that are connected remotely to the master correlation database. The master correlation database can update algorithms and correlations based on the data received from the modular fluid analysis devices.
[0022] The processor can also include various input/output ( I/O) interfaces, as well as various network or communication interfaces. The various I/O interfaces can allow communication with user interface devices, such as a display, keyboard, mouse, phone, handheld device, and printer, that may be used for viewing and inputting metadata of the fluid sample and/or for operating the system. Examples of metadata of the fluid sample that can be inputted include the composition of the fluid sample, the number of hours of use of the fluid sample, the type of asset using the fluid sample, asset identification number, amount of fresh fluid added, job reference numbers, type of filters, time since last filter change, or any combination thereof. The metadata can be used by the processor to generate a range of normal values for one or more of the properties being measured. The normal values of these properties can be compared to values measured by the sensors. If the measured value of the sensors is outside the normal range, an alert can be displayed. The alert can include a recommended course of action. The recommended course of action can be determined by the measured property as well as how far the measured property is from the normal range of that property. The processor can be integrated into one of the modules or can be external to the modules.
[0023] In some examples, the various network and communication interfaces can allow connection to local and/or wide area intranets and/or storage networks as well as the Internet. The various I/O and communication interfaces can utilize wires, lines, or suitable wireless interfaces, as appropriate or desired. The display can show the number of modules, types of sensors that are being used, data generated by the sensors (some or all of the data), data capable of being measured (either by existing sensors or through the addition of new modules), alerts, recommended actions, remaining life of the fluid sample, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the display can change when modules are added or removed from the modular fluid analysis device.
[0024] In some examples, the modular fluid analysis device can predict and/or forecast fluid sample and/or equipment health based on data obtained from the sensors, the metadata, and a
mathematical algorithm or correlation. That is, the processor can combine both real-time sensor measurements with model computed parameters to estimate fluid sample and/or equipment status. In this way, the degradation or quality of the fluid sample and/or equipment can be estimated, remaining life of the fluid sample can be predicted at a suitable confidence interval, and alerts can be issued based on the fluid sample properties.
[0025] In some examples, the fluid sample can be a lubricant. The lubricant can be a lubricating base oil. In some examples, the lubricating base oils can be oils of mineral, synthetic, or vegetable origin as well as mixtures thereof. The mineral or synthetic oils can belong to one of the Groups I to V according to the definitions in the API classification (or their equivalents according to the ATIEL classification) as summarized below. The API classification is defined in American Petroleum Institute 1509“Engine oil Licensing and Certification System” 17th edition, September 2012. In some examples, the fluid sample can be a petroleum-derived product, such as a fuel, a lubricant, a grease, a wax, other oils, or a mixture thereof. In some examples, the fluid sample can be a grease, coolant, water, or a mixture thereof.
[0026] FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative modular fluid analysis device 10. The modular fluid analysis device 10 can include a first module 100 and a second module 200. The first module 100 can include a fluid sample holding tank 102. The fluid sample can be introduced into the fluid sample holding tank 102. A pump or other device 104 can pump the fluid sample from the fluid sample holding tank 102 into conduit 106. Conduit 106 can include an elemental analysis sensor 108 configured to analyze the fluid within the conduit 106. Sensor 108 can include an x-ray source 110 and an x-ray detector 112 that can detect the concentration of one or more metals in the fluid sample. Conduit 106 can include a fluid property sensor 109 that can detect the viscosity and dielectric constant of the fluid sample. Conduit 106 can include a heater 114 disposed or located in proximity to conduit 106 that can adjust the temperature of the fluid sample in conduit 106 as required by any of the sensors in the device 100. For example, a user can adjust the temperature of the fluid sample to measure the viscosity of the fluid sample at a given temperature, e.g. viscosity at 40 °C. The first module 100 can also include a valve 116 that can direct the fluid sample in conduit 106 into an inlet 202 of the second module 200, to conduit 118, or to both inlet 202 and conduit 118. In some examples, the valve 116 can rotate from a first position where the fluid sample is directed from conduit 106 into inlet 202 of the second module 200 when the second module 200 is connected to the first module 100 to a second position where the fluid sample is directed into conduit 118 when the first module 100 is not connected to the second module 200. In some examples, where a user does not need the fluid sample to go into the second module when the first module 100 is connected to the second module 200, the user can
rotate valve 116 to direct the fluid sample from conduit 106 into conduit 118. The first module 100 can include a valve 120 that can be connected to the conduit 118, conduit 122 and the inlet 124. Valve 120 can rotate from a first position where the fluid sample is directed from the outlet 204 through the inlet 124 to conduit 122 when the second module 200 is connected to the first module 100 to a second position where the fluid sample is directed from conduit 118 to conduit 122 when the first module 100 is not connected to the second module 200. In some examples, a user can open, close or rotate any of the valves, either manually or using a controller (not shown). The controller can be intergraded into the first module 100 or it can be external to the first module. For example, a user can rotate any of the valve discussed above to direct the fluid sample away from a connected module as outlined above. Conduit 122 can carry the fluid sample back to the fluid sample holding tank 102 or to a separate fluid sample disposal tank (not shown) or to both. Additionally, conduit 122 can carry the fluid sample outside the first module 100, where the fluid sample can be disposed through any appropriate fluid disposal system (not shown). Additionally, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the location of the sensors, pumps, and valves and the number of sensors, valves, pumps, conduits in each module can be adjusted in any of the modules. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, sensor 108 is in conduit 106, however, sensor 108 could have been in conduit 118 or 122. In some examples, sensors that materially alter one or more properties of the fluid sample can be located after the sensors that do not materially alter one or more properties of the fluid. In some examples, the fluid sample does not recycle back to the first module 100. The fluid sample can be removed from any of the modules of the modular analysis unit.
[0027] The first module 100 can connect to the second module 200 via quick connectors where the female ends 206, 208 can releasably connect to the male ends 124,126. Illustrative quick connectors can include those disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,542,712; and 6,026,855. Additionally, any type of connector that can allow the passage of a fluid from the first module 100 into the second module 200 can be used. In some examples, each module can have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 connectors that connect the fluid output of one of the modules to the fluid input of another module. The connectors can also include wiring to allow the modules to be in electrical communication with each other.
[0028] The fluid sample can be introduced into the second module 100 via inlet 202. The second module can have a conduit 208 that is connected to inlet 202. The first conduit 208 can have a valve 210 that can direct the fluid sample to an inlet 302 of a third module 300, to conduit 212, or to both inlet 302 and conduit 212. In some examples, valve 210 can rotate from a first position where the fluid sample is directed from conduit 208 to the inlet 302 of the third module 200 when the second module 200 is connected to the third module 300 to a second position where
the fluid sample is directed to conduit 212 when the second module 200 is not connected to the third module 300. The second module 200 can have a valve 214 that can be connected to the second conduit 212, third conduit 216 and the inlet 218. Valve 214 can rotate from a first position where the fluid sample is directed from the outlet 304 through the inlet 218 to conduit 216 when the second module 200 is connected to the third module 300 to a second position where the fluid sample is directed from conduit 212 to conduit 216 when the second module 200 is not connected to the third module 200. Conduit 216 can carry the fluid sample to outlet 204 to inlet 124 of the first module 100. Conduit 216 can have a light scattering sensor 218 that measures a particle count or particle size distribution of particles in the fluid sample having a light source 222 and a receiver 224. Conduit 216 can have a magnetic sensor 226 that measures the number and type of ferrous particles in the fluid sample. The third module 300 and fourth module 400 can have similar valve, conduit, and connectors as the second module 200. The third module 300 can have an infrared sensor 302 having an IR source 304 and a receiver 306. The infrared sensor 302 can measure the water content, oxidation, nitration, authenticity, or soot loading in the fluid sample. The fourth module 400 can have a radio frequency sensor 402 having a radio frequency source 402 and a radio frequency antenna 404. The radio frequency sensor can measure the soot content in the fluid sample.
[0029] FIG. 2 shows a top view of the exterior of an illustrative modular fluid analysis device 100. The first module 100 can have a fluid sample insertion opening 150 and a display 160. Connected modules can be secured to each other using a latch 170.
[0030] FIG. 3. shows an illustrative flow diagram of the use of the modular fluid analysis device.
[0031] Additional Embodiments include the following:
[0032] Embodiment 1. A process comprising; introducing a fluid sample into a first module of a modular fluid analysis unit; measuring at least one of an iron content, a copper content, a potassium content, a lead content, a calcium content, , a chromium content, a nickel content, a molybdenum content, and an aluminum content of the fluid sample with an elemental analysis sensor in the first module; and measuring at least one of a viscosity and a dielectric constant of the fluid sample with a fluid property sensor in the first module.
[0033] Embodiment 2. The process of embodiment 1, further comprises connecting a second module of the modular fluid analysis unit to the first module, wherein the first module and second module are in fluid communication with each other.
[0034] Embodiment 3. The process of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, further comprises connecting a second module of the modular fluid analysis unit to the first module, wherein the first module and second module are in electrical communication with each other.
[0035] Embodiment 4. The process of any of embodiments 1 to 3, further comprising measuring an authenticity, a particle count, a particle size distribution, a water content, an oxidation level, a nitration level, a soot content, a pH number, an infrared spectrum, a base number, an acid number, an impedance spectrum, a conductivity, a resistivity, or a ferrous particle content of the fluid sample with a second sensor in the second module.
[0036] Embodiment 5. The process of any of embodiments 1 to 4, further comprising comparing at least one measured property of the fluid sample to a normal range of the measured property of the fluid sample and displaying an alert if the measured property is outside the normal range.
[0037] Embodiment 6. The process of embodiment 5, further comprising displaying a recommended action to address the alert.
[0038] Embodiment 7. The process of any of embodiments 5 or embodiment 6, further comprising entering at least one piece of metadata of the fluid sample, wherein the metadata is used to determine the normal range of the measured property of the fluid sample.
[0039] Embodiment 8. The process of embodiment 7, wherein the metadata incudes at least one of a composition of the fluid sample, a number of hours of use of the fluid sample, and a type of asset using the fluid sample.
[0040] Embodiment 9. A process comprising; fluidly connecting a first module of a modular fluid analysis unit to a second module of the modular fluid analysis unit; introducing a fluid sample into the first module; measuring a viscosity and a dielectric constant of the fluid sample with a fluid property sensor in the first module; measuring an iron content, a copper content, a potassium content, a lead content, a chromium content, a nickel content, a molybdenum content, an aluminum content, or a combination thereof with an elemental sensor in the first module; introducing the fluid sample into the second module; and measuring an authenticity, a particle count, a particle size distribution, a water content, an oxidation level, a nitration level, a soot content, a ferrous particle content, a pH number, an infrared spectrum, a base number, an acid number, an impedance spectrum, or a combination thereof with a first sensor in the second module comparing at least one measured property of the fluid sample to a normal range of the measured property of the fluid sample and displaying an alert if the measured property is outside the normal range; displaying a recommended action to address the alert; entering at least one piece of metadata of the fluid sample,
wherein the metadata is used to determine the normal range of the measured property of the fluid sample.
[0041] Certain embodiments and features have been described using a set of numerical upper limits and a set of numerical lower limits. It should be appreciated that ranges including the combination of any two values, e.g., the combination of any lower value with any upper value, the combination of any two lower values, and/or the combination of any two upper values are contemplated unless otherwise indicated. Certain lower limits, upper limits and ranges appear in one or more claims below. All numerical values are "about" or "approximately" the indicated value, and take into account experimental error and variations that would be expected by a person having ordinary skill in the art.
[0042] Various terms have been defined above. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined above, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in at least one printed publication or issued patent. Furthermore, all patents, test procedures, and other documents cited in this application are fully incorporated by reference to the extent such disclosure is not inconsistent with this application and for all jurisdictions in which such incorporation is permitted.
[0043] While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow.
Claims
1. A process comprising:
selecting a first property and a second property of a fluid sample to measure using a modular fluid analysis unit;
fluidly connecting a first module of the modular fluid analysis unit to a second module of the modular fluid analysis unit;
introducing the fluid sample into the first module;
measuring the first property of the fluid sample with a first sensor in the first module; introducing the fluid sample into the second module; and
measuring the second property of the fluid sample with a first sensor in the second module.
2. The process of claim 1, wherein the first property is selected from the group of an iron content, a copper content, a potassium content, a lead content, a chromium content, a nickel content, a molybdenum content, and an aluminum content.02
3. The process of claim 2, wherein the iron content, the copper content, the potassium content, the lead content, or the aluminum content is measured using an elemental sensor.
4. The process of any of claims 1 to 3, further comprising selecting a third property of the fluid sample to measure using the modular fluid analysis unit and measuring the third property of the fluid sample with a second sensor in the first module.
5. The process of claim 4, wherein the third property is selected from the group of viscosity and dielectric constant and the second sensor in the first module is a fluid property sensor.
6. The process of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second property is selected from the group of an authenticity, a particle count, a particle size distribution, a water content, an oxidation level, a nitration level, a conductivity, a resistivity, a soot content, a pH, an infrared spectrum, a base number, an acid number, and a ferrous particle content.
7. The process of claim 6, wherein the first sensor in the second module is selected from the group of a radio frequency sensor, a light scattering sensor, an infrared sensor, a magnetic sensor.
8. The process of any of claims 1 to 7, further comprising comparing at least one measured property of the fluid sample to a normal range of the measured property of the fluid sample and displaying an alert if the measured property is outside the normal range.
9. The process of claim 8, further comprising displaying a recommended action to address the alert.
10. The process of any of claims 1 to 9, further comprising entering at least one piece of metadata of the fluid sample, wherein the metadata is used to determine the normal range of the measured property of the fluid sample.
11. The process of claim 10, wherein the metadata incudes at least one of a composition of the fluid sample, a number of hours of use of the fluid sample, and a type of asset using the fluid sample.
12. The process of any of claims 1 to 11, further comprising viewing a display on the first module, wherein the display is configured to show at least one of the following, at least one measured property, an alert, and a number of connected modules.
13. A modular fluid analysis unit, comprising:
a first module having an inlet configured to receive a fluid sample from a fluid sample holding tank;
a first conduit, wherein the first conduit of the first module is in fluid communication with the inlet of the first module and configured to convey the fluid sample within the first module; and
a first valve in fluid communication with the first conduit of the first module, the first valve of the first module configured to introduce the fluid sample into an inlet of a second modular unit when the first module is connected to the second module and into a second conduit of the first module when the first module is not connected to the second module; and
at least one sensor, wherein the at least one sensor of the first module is configured to measure at least one property of the fluid sample, the at least one property selected from the group of an iron content, a copper content, a potassium content, a lead content, an aluminum content, , a chromium content, a nickel content, a molybdenum content, a viscosity, a dielectric constant, a capacitance, a resistivity, and an inductance.
14. The modular unit of claim 13, wherein the first module further comprises a second valve in fluid communication with a third conduit of the first module, the second valve of the first module configured to introduce the fluid sample into the third conduit from an outlet of the second module and from the second conduit of the first module.
15. The modular unit of claim 13 or claim 14, further comprising, a second modular unit having an inlet configured to receive a fluid sample from the first module;
a first conduit, wherein the first conduit of the second module is in fluid communication with the inlet of the second module and configured to convey the fluid sample within the second module, and
a first valve in fluid communication with the first conduit of the second module, the first valve of the second module configured to introduce the fluid sample into an inlet of a third module when the second module is connected to the third module and into a second conduit of the second module when the third module is not connected to the second module; and
at least one sensor, wherein the at least one sensor of the second module is configured to measure at least one property of the fluid sample, the at least one property selected from the group of an authenticity/genuineness, a particle count, a particle size distribution, a pH, an infrared spectrum, a base number, an acid number, an impedance spectrum, a resistivity, a conductivity, a water content, an oxidation level, a nitration level, a soot content, and a ferrous particle content.
16. The modular unit of claim 15, wherein the second module further comprises a second valve in fluid communication with a third conduit of the second module, the second valve of the second module configured to introduce the fluid sample into the third conduit of the second module from an outlet of the third module and from the second conduit of the second module.
17. The modular unit of any of claims 13 to 16, further comprising a processor
communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor of the first module and configured to compare the at least one property of the fluid sample to a normal range of the at least one property of the fluid sample and displaying an alert if the at least one property is outside the normal range.
18. The modular unit of any of claims 13 to 17, wherein the processor is configured to receive metadata of the fluid sample and use the metadata to determine the normal range of the at least one property of the fluid sample.
19. The modular unit of any of claims 13 to 18, wherein the first module further comprises at least connector that is configured to fluidly connect the first module to the second module.
20. The modular unit of any of claims 13 to 19, wherein the at least one sensor of the first module is selected from the group of an elemental sensor and a fluid property sensor.
21. The modular unit of any of claims 13 to 20, wherein the at least one sensor of the second module is selected from the group of a light scattering sensor, an infrared sensor, a magnetic sensor, conductivity sensor, impedance sensor, and a radio frequency sensor.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US201962803698P | 2019-02-11 | 2019-02-11 | |
| US62/803,698 | 2019-02-11 |
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| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| WO2020167391A1 true WO2020167391A1 (en) | 2020-08-20 |
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Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US2020/012732 WO2020167391A1 (en) | 2019-02-11 | 2020-01-08 | Processes and apparatus for the modular analysis of a fluid sample |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
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| WO (1) | WO2020167391A1 (en) |
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