Fluid quality control using broad spectrum impedance spectroscopy
US7049831B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 16, 2004 |
| Grant date | May 23, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 16, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N33/2888
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system and method for monitoring and controlling the properties of fluids is disclosed. The inventive concept employs impedance spectroscopy (IS) measurements, and is suitable for real-time, in situ, monitoring and quality control operations, such as quality control during the manufacture of blended lubricants. IS data are obtained for three or more frequencies, where the lowest frequency is less than 1 Hz and the highest frequency is greater than 1 Hz. These data may be interpreted according to statistical techniques such as Principal Component Regression, analytical techniques such as equivalent circuit modeling, or by a combination thereof. The data analysis provides characteristics, or IS signatures, relating to the properties of the fluid. IS signatures for a test fluid are compared to IS signatures for calibration fluids to determine whether the properties of the test fluid fall within specified limits. Quality control adjustments to the test fluid properties may be performed based on the IS signatures.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.