Method and apparatus for detecting viscosity changes in fluids

US5629209A · kind A · utility

Inventors

• Walter Braun · Schorndorf, DE
• Anthony A. Boiarski · Columbus, US
• Walter Braun · Centennial, US
• Steven P. Braun · Peoria, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 19, 1995
• Grant date: May 13, 1997
• Expiry date: Oct 19, 2015

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T436/2575
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

An apparatus for detecting changes in the viscosity of a fluid comprises a cartridge having a fluid receiving/dispensing reservoir, one or more fluid-receiving chambers, and a conduit that permits fluid communication between the fluid receiving/dispensing reservoir and the fluid-receiving chamber. Fluid is introduced into the cartridge through an injection port and fills the reservoir, moving from the reservoir through the conduit into the chamber. An air vent/fluid plug device in fluid communication with the chamber permits air to exit while the fluid enters the system but prevents the fluid from leaving after the chamber is filled. A freely movable ferromagnetic material is placed within the fluid-receiving chamber and is caused to move by an electromagnet. Changes in the viscosity of the fluid are detected by determining the position of the ferromagnetic material in the fluid-receiving chamber.