Method and apparatus for measuring and controlling solids composition of a magnetorheological fluid
US6893322B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 14, 2004 |
| Grant date | May 17, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 14, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S137/909
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system for dispensing magnetorheological fluid to an MR finishing machine includes a pump for pressurizing the system; a first magnetic valve for regulating MR fluid flow by magnetically varying the structure and apparent viscosity of the fluid through a first flow passage; a similar second magnetic valve magnetically controlling a second flow passage in line with the first valve and flow passage; a pressure sensor disposed between the first and second valves; and an electronic control means. MR fluid flow through the system is controlled to a predetermined flow rate solely by the first valve. When the second valve is deactivated, a reference pressure is determined and saved. When the second valve is activated, a second pressure is determined and saved. From the pressure difference, the solids concentration of the fluid is determined, and a computer algorithm adds a calculated amount of water to the fluid reservoir as needed. The second valve is deactivated, and the measurement cycle is repeated, as may be desired.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.