U.S. patent application number 16/655874 was filed with the patent office on 2020-02-20 for fluid monitoring and management devices.
This patent application is currently assigned to LogiLube, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is LogiLube, LLC. Invention is credited to William J. Gillette, II, Harish Muralidhara, Charles E. Ogden.
Application Number | 20200056971 16/655874 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58488368 |
Filed Date | 2020-02-20 |
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20200056971 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gillette, II; William J. ;
et al. |
February 20, 2020 |
Fluid Monitoring and Management Devices
Abstract
A fluid monitoring and management device that includes a housing
with a fluid passageway. The fluid monitoring and management device
further includes a fluid property sensor with a sensing element in
the fluid passageway. A valve is in the fluid passageway of the
fluid monitoring and management device. A removable bottle mount is
aligned with the valve to be selectively in fluid communication
with the fluid passageway.
Inventors: |
Gillette, II; William J.;
(Fort Collins, CO) ; Ogden; Charles E.; (Laramie,
WY) ; Muralidhara; Harish; (Laramie, WY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LogiLube, LLC |
Fort Collins |
CO |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
LogiLube, LLC
Fort Collins
CO
|
Family ID: |
58488368 |
Appl. No.: |
16/655874 |
Filed: |
October 17, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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14877896 |
Oct 7, 2015 |
10466152 |
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16655874 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01N 11/00 20130101;
F16N 2250/36 20130101; G01N 2011/0013 20130101; G01N 2001/2071
20130101; F16N 2250/08 20130101; F01M 11/10 20130101; F01M 11/0458
20130101; G01N 1/2035 20130101; G01N 33/2888 20130101; G01N
2011/0006 20130101; G01N 11/08 20130101; F01M 11/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G01N 11/00 20060101
G01N011/00; F01M 11/10 20060101 F01M011/10; G01N 11/08 20060101
G01N011/08; G01N 33/28 20060101 G01N033/28 |
Claims
1-16. (canceled)
17. A fluid monitoring and management device comprising: a housing
comprising a fluid passageway; a fluid property sensor comprising a
sensing element in the fluid passageway; a valve in the fluid
passageway; and a removable bottle mount aligned with the valve to
be selectively in fluid communication with the fluid
passageway.
18. The device of claim 17 wherein the valve comprises a needle
extending into the removable bottle mount.
19. The device of claim 17 wherein the removable bottle mount
comprises a lower body portion of the valve structure.
20. The device of claim 17 wherein the removable bottle mount
comprises a sealing surface of the valve relative to the fluid
passageway.
21. The device of claim 17 wherein the removable bottle mount
comprises: a vent; and an air filtration mechanism for the
vent.
22. The device of claim 17 further comprising a sample bottle
threaded into the removable bottle mount, the removable bottle
mount comprising mating threads undersized relative to mating
threads of the sample bottle.
23-26. (canceled)
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application does not claim priority from any other
application.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The subject matter of this application relates to fluid
monitoring and management devices, systems and methods.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0003] Fluids and liquids are the "life blood" of equipment and
machinery having moving components. How goes the fluids/liquids,
goes the equipment/machinery. That is, the health of the
equipment/machinery depends on the fluids/liquids. Exemplary
fluids/liquids utilized in equipment/machinery include fuel (i.e.
diesel, kerosene, gasoline, etc.); fluid lubricants such as grease
and oil; coolants such as glycol and water; and process fluids such
as hydraulic fluid.
[0004] Consider an internal combustion engine in an automobile.
Engine fuel is the liquid that powers the engine to drive the
automobile. Engine coolant is a fluid that flows through the engine
to prevent overheating. Engine oil and transmission fluid are the
lubricants that reduce wear on moving parts; clean and inhibit
corrosion; improve sealing actions; and further cool the engine and
transmission, respectively. Hydraulic fluid is the medium for
transferring power or action between respective systems, such as,
from steering wheel to road wheels (power-assisted steering system)
and from brake pedal to brake pads, etc.
[0005] If the "health" of any one of these fluids is compromised or
diminished, the "health" of the engine and/or automobile is
compromised or diminished which ultimately can lead to a
catastrophic failure of the engine or automobile. Consequently,
there always is a need for improved fluid monitoring and management
devices, systems and methods to predict and prevent diminishing
health of the fluids, and correspondingly, the equipment and
machines that the fluids protect.
[0006] While the subject matter of this application was motivated
in addressing issues of fluids, it is in no way so limited. The
disclosure is only limited by the accompanying claims as literally
worded, without interpretative or other limiting reference to the
specification, and in accordance with the doctrine of
equivalents.
[0007] Other aspects and implementations are contemplated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] Exemplary embodiments of the various disclosures are
described below with reference to the following accompanying
drawings. The drawings may be considered to represent scale.
[0009] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of an exemplary fluid monitoring
and management device of an exemplary fluid monitoring and
management system (collectively fluid device/system) according to
one of various embodiments of the invention.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a partial sectional and partial cutaway of the
fluid device/system of FIG. 1.
[0011] FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D are different perspectives of
partial sectionals of the fluid device/system of FIG. 1
illustrating exemplary fluid flows.
[0012] FIGS. 4-13 are different perspectives of various components
of the fluid device/system of FIG. 1.
[0013] FIGS. 14A and 14B are schematic views of an exemplary fluid
monitoring and management system according to one of various
embodiments of the invention including the fluid monitoring and
management device of FIG. 1.
[0014] FIGS. 15A-15B are flow charts of various exemplary fluid
monitoring and management methods according to various embodiments
of the invention and using the fluid monitoring and management
device/system of FIGS. 1-14.
[0015] FIGS. 16-22 are flow charts of various exemplary fluid
monitoring and management methods according to various embodiments
of the invention and using the fluid monitoring and management
device/system of FIGS. 1-14.
[0016] FIG. 23 is a schematic view of the exemplary fluid
monitoring and management method of FIG. 22.
[0017] FIG. 24 is Dynamic Viscosity over Oil Temperature in C
scatter plot for virgin oil.
[0018] FIG. 25 is Baseline Viscosity curve fit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0019] This disclosure is submitted in furtherance of the
constitutional purposes of the U.S. Patent Laws "to promote the
progress of science and useful arts" (Article 1, Section 8).
[0020] The terms "a", "an", and "the" as used in the claims herein
are used in conformance with long-standing claim drafting practice
and not in a limiting way. Unless specifically set forth herein,
the terms "a", "an", and "the" are not limited to one of such
elements, but instead mean "at least one."
[0021] The inventive fluid monitoring and management devices,
systems, and methods disclosed in this application include a
technology platform, data analytics, and fluid quality analysis
services that, when combined or used separately, provide real-time
condition monitoring and intelligent health perspective of
equipment (and/or machines, machinery) that utilizes liquids
(fluids) discussed previously (again, such as fuel (i.e. diesel,
kerosene, gasoline, etc.), fluid lubricants such as grease and oil,
coolants such as glycol and water, and process fluids such as
hydraulic fluid, etc.). It should be understood that any reference
in this document to any variation of fluid monitoring and
management devices, systems, and methods such as "fluid devices,"
"fluid systems," or "fluid methods" are all inclusive and
applicable to the same concept.
[0022] Consider one specific use: intelligent health and real-time
condition monitoring of lubricants (e.g. lubricating oil) for
processing compressor packages (compressor & engine) utilized
in the global on-shore/off-shore oil & gas industry.
[0023] Since the beginning of the modern industrial revolution, use
of lubricants (e.g. lubricating oil) has provided the necessary
function of reducing friction and heat from the moving/sliding
parts of mechanical equipment. In reciprocating equipment with
rotating shafts such as internal combustion (IC) engines and
compressors, synthetic, partially synthetic or hydrocarbon-based
oil is used to reduce the friction (lowering the heat) and carry
away tiny wear metal particles from the mating interface of
internal mechanical components such as piston rings & cylinder
walls, valve stems and valve guide bearings, crankshaft journals
and corresponding bearings, meshed gear teeth, cam shaft lobes and
cam followers, etc.
[0024] The enemy for this essential lubricating oil tasked with
keeping the mechanical parts generously lubricated is heat. As the
oil heats up from excess friction and/or inadequate cooling of the
mechanical equipment, the oil base-stock will begin to oxidize and
breakdown causing the fluid to become acidic in nature, thus
promoting corrosion of the metal parts the lubricating oil is
supposed to protect. Fuel dilution from "blow-by" in the combustion
chamber of an IC engine is another culprit that can degrade the
integrity of engine oil. As the piston rings wear from constant
reciprocating movement and friction against the mating cylinder
walls, the raw fuel from the compression stroke, as well as
combustion gases from the ignition & exhaust stroke (ref. Otto
cycle), can slip by the piston rings and enter the crankcase
containing the engine oil reservoir. Hence, the lighter hydrocarbon
(fuel) will dilute the thicker lubricating oil, compromising the
ability to provide adequate lubrication of the mechanical
parts.
[0025] Moreover, the dynamic viscosity of the oil (measure of how
thin or thick the fluid is, value of one centipoise (1 cP) being
that of water) is an engineered property that provides the oil with
specific flow, lubrication, and surface adhesion characteristics
which are essential to be maintained in order to facilitate proper
lubrication of the moving/sliding parts, even under the harshest of
operating conditions, for example, heat and shear. As the oil
breaks down due to excess heat, it oxidizes, thus increasing the
viscosity (making the oil thicker).
[0026] Degraded oil with a higher viscosity loses the ability to
properly flow throughout the small passages and tolerances between
the moving/sliding surfaces thus compromising the ability to remove
the heat of friction. This condition leads to higher metal wear
stemming from surface-to-surface abrasion, increasing the
particulate contaminant load of material constituents such as
copper, iron, silicon, manganese, nickel, cobalt, molybdenum, etc.
Proper equipment lubrication systems are designed to carry away the
wear metal particulate contaminants by recirculating the oil flow
under pressure via flow-through filtration elements and
size-exclusion based on the diameter of the targeted particulate
size.
[0027] Alternatively, as the oil is exposed to excessive shear
forces, molecules will break down causing the viscosity to
decrease. This "thin" oil is unable to properly cushion the
moving/sliding metal surfaces and the likelihood of metal-metal
contact within the engine increases. If there is metal-metal wear
present in an engine, there will be a great deal of friction and
heat generated at the point of contact, severely reducing the life
of the affected components. Wear-metal generation will also
increase which contributes substantially to the abrasive
contaminant loading in the lubricating oil.
[0028] Manufacturers of engineered lubricating oils fortify the oil
by blending it with "additives" to extend the operating life of the
oil while also increasing the range of harsh conditions the oil can
be used under; the goal is to develop an oil that can be used in
more abusive conditions and run longer between oil change
intervals. Increasing the "alkalinity reserve" of the oil (as
measured by the Total Base Number in units of mg KOH/gm) extends
the length of time the oil can be used before the oxidation and
nitration of the oil turns it into a more acidic fluid. The
measurement of the oil acidity is determined by the amount of
potassium hydroxide (in mg) that is needed to neutralize the acids
in one gram of oil. Total Acid Number (TAN) in mg KOH/gm is an
important characteristic that determines the useful life of the
oil. A lower TAN indicates that the oil exhibits higher acidity and
is nearing end of useful life.
[0029] A typical additive package ("add-pack") contains detergents
such as calcium, magnesium, oxidation inhibitors such as sulfur,
and natural metal lubricating agents such as zinc and phosphorus.
The lubricating oil used in an IC engine finds its way into the
combustion chamber and is "consumed," or burned along with the fuel
and then expelled via the exhaust system. When burned in the
combustion chamber, the add-pack constituents blended in with the
oil base-stock produce an ash deposit on the interior surfaces of
the combustion chamber and exhaust valve surfaces. These ash
deposits are combustion by-products that are the result of burning
fuel and engine oil during the engine's normal operation. Such
deposits are in the form of small (>4 micron), hard particulates
that have the capacity to contaminate the recirculating engine oil.
The engine oil, contaminated with tiny, abrasive particles will
severely damage the engine components if unfiltered and left
unchecked. This excessive wear condition can lead to a dramatically
reduced equipment life and operating efficiency.
[0030] An exemplary embodiment of the inventive fluid monitoring
and management devices, systems and methods can be deployed, as one
non-limiting example, in the Oil & Gas industry, specifically
in the Midstream market focused on providing intelligent equipment
health condition monitoring of rotating equipment such as, but not
limited to, reciprocating compressors and internal combustion
engines.
[0031] Non-limiting applications for the inventive fluid monitoring
and management devices, systems and methods include: a) natural gas
gathering and compression application, compressor package comprised
of a natural gas-fired internal combustion engine powering a
reciprocating multi-stage compressor; b) monitoring the oil quality
and consumption of the primary oil lubricating system for the
driver (IC engine), i.e. engine crankcase, valve train, and piston
lubrication, turbo lubrication; c) Monitoring the oil quality and
consumption rate of the crankcase lubricating oil system for the
compressor; d) Monitoring the oil quality and consumption rate of
the high-pressure cylinder lubricating oil system for the
compressor; e) in situ monitoring of oil quality and consumption;
and f) scheduled (routine) and exception-based oil sample
collection wherein oil samples are collected via an automated
solenoid actuated valve driven by a microprocessor controlled
autonomous algorithm thereby eliminating the human interface
(exception-based rules are unique and based on custom algorithm
that determines a `dangerous condition` event or threshold has been
detected).
[0032] Inventive fluid monitoring and management methods include,
as non-limiting examples only, using the fluid devices and systems
to collect fluid samples via an automated solenoid actuated valve
driven by a microprocessor controlled autonomous algorithm, thereby
eliminating the human interface. Exception-based rules in the
algorithm determine that a "dangerous condition" detected or that a
threshold value has been reached or surpassed. Moreover, fluid
(oil) sample analysis can be provided by a third party lab
utilizing industry recognized ASTM protocols.
[0033] Referring to FIGS. 1-13, an exemplary, non-limiting
embodiment of an inventive fluid monitoring and management device
10 (hereinafter most often stated as "fluid device" for simplicity
and can be considered one of various exemplary embodiments of a
fluid system 120) is described. It should be understood that FIG. 1
is representative of one, non-limiting example, of an exploded view
of the fluid device 10 with additional FIGS. 2-13 more readily
illustrating various aspects of specific components of fluid device
10. It should be further understood that fluid device 10 described
throughout this document is applicable to monitor and manage the
utilization of any fluid in any equipment, apparatus and/or
machine. However, the focus of the following description of the
fluid device 10 (and fluid monitoring and management systems and
methods) is directed to, as only one of various possible
embodiments, as being utilized with a fluid such as a lubricant,
and more specifically, to oil circulating through an engine.
[0034] Fluid Device
[0035] Referring to FIG. 1, an overview of the major components of
the fluid device 10 is first summarily presented to facilitate a
more thorough subsequent discussion of the components. A bezel 63
is secured in a recess in a lid 40. Lid 40 houses a printed circuit
board assembly 111 (PCBA) and a weatherproof seal 110 is provided
over the PCBA 111 in the lid 40. Lid 40 is secured over an opening
16 in an upper housing 12. Upper housing 12 receives in opening 16
a solenoid valve cartridge assembly 19 (solenoid or solenoid
cartridge) and a sensor package 70. Sensor package 70 includes a
fluid property sensor and a fluid pressure sensor. A lower housing
50 is secured to upper housing 12 with various seals 25/27 in
between. A sample collection housing 18 is secured to the lower
housing 50. The sample collection housing 18 encloses (houses)
sampling bottle 34 (sample bottle), sample bottle mount 80 (bottle
mount) and user interface plate assembly 60 (user interface panel).
Secured to user interface panel 60 is a removable flash data
storage key 90, a reset button 91 and a data/configuration port 93.
A door 24 is pivotably secured to sample collection housing 18
wherein the door 24 has a latch 30 and a sample bottle cap 32.
Bezel 63 and lower housing 50 each have a light-emitting diode
(LED) 49 and 69 respectively. Bottle mount 80 has two o-rings 41/53
and various fasteners 42/94/96/97 secure various components of the
fluid device 10 together.
[0036] The exemplary fluid device 10 has a body construction (main
housing) that includes an upper housing 12 removably secured to a
lower housing 50. An exemplary body (upper and lower housings)
12/50 is the main structure of the fluid device 10 and ultimately
supports additional structures and is used to attach and mount the
fluid device 10 to subject equipment being investigated for oil
usage (for example, engine and/or compressor). The body 12/50 is
the mount and protection for sensors from damage, as well as
sealing structures for the constant flow of fluid (oil) from the
engine and/or compressor through the fluid device 10. The body
12/50 also provides for weathertight/explosion-proof conduit
connections for power supply and data signal wires.
[0037] Still further, processed data from a microprocessor exits
the body 12/50 via wires and is transmitted back to a Data
Aggregator/Communications Hub (optional wireless connectivity). The
body 12/50 is a computer numerical control (CNC) machined aluminum
multi-part housing that forms the structural element designed to be
sufficiently strong to withstand the rigors of abusive environment
typical of oil & gas industry.
[0038] Moreover, the fluid device 10 is designed to operate equally
well indoors as well as outdoors and includes generally a six (6)
main pieces/components in the design which are more thoroughly
described subsequently: main Upper Housing 12, Lower Housing 50,
User Interface Plate Assembly 60 (or User Interface Panel), Sample
(sampling) Bottle Mount 80 and Lid 40.
[0039] An exemplary upper housing 12 (sensor housing) of fluid
device 10 forms the main housing component body 12/50 and
secures/attaches the fluid device 10 to subject equipment with an
equipment-specific, load bearing, vibration-isolating bracket. An
exemplary bracket is attached via fasteners (threaded bolts) that
thread into drilled and tapped holes in the metal upper housing 12.
Proper torque setting of the bracket screw fasteners in an
interface of upper housing 12 overcomes the likelihood of loosening
of the fasteners as the fluid device 10 is subjected to constant
vibration during normal operation.
[0040] Upper housing 12 has an opening 16 through a top portion of
the structure that terminates at a lower surface 17 (FIG. 2). In
situ sensor bodies, for example, fluid property sensor 70 (and
pressure sensor) and solenoid assembly 19, are threaded into the
lower surface 17 of upper housing 12. In one embodiment, upper
housing 12 is made from CNC machined solid billet aluminum.
Alternatively, upper housing 12 is made from near-net shape
investment cast aluminum with secondary CNC machining operations to
provide tight tolerance features. Upper housing 12 has a detailed
seal gland design that provides for the provision of weatherproof
high-reliability sealing at interface between lid 40 and upper
housing 12. Tapped holes (openings) 87 (only one shown in FIG. 1)
(NPT or Machine Thread with o-ring boss seal) on opposing sides
(left and right) of the upper housing 12 facilitate installation of
inlet and outlet oil line (SS Swagelok.TM. fittings) in support of
leak-free recirculating oil flow to and from the engine. In one
embodiment, upper housing 12 is installed such that an oil path is
horizontal and level to facilitate a fluid (oil) sampling. Another
opening (hole) 14 in side of upper housing will have/receive
electrical conduits for electrical/data communication with
electronics of fluid device/system 10/120, for example, a printed
circuit board assembly (PCBA) 111.
[0041] In one non-limiting example, engine oil is supplied from a
high-pressure engine oil pump that is plumbed from an engine block
(for example, gallery ports) to upper housing 12 via SS tubing. An
oil return line is from the upper housing 12 to the engine oil sump
(at near-atmospheric pressure, 0-1 psig) and plumbed from fluid
device 10 to engine crankcase via SS tubing. Since there is a high
pressure differential across the length of the upper housing 12
(between the oil supply .about.60 psig, and oil return
.about.atmospheric, 0 psig), a provision has been made for a
removable, machined threaded orifice plate in the oil exit side of
the upper housing 12. This orifice feature will allow for
maximizing the pressure drop across the fluid device 10 by reducing
the oil flowrate through the upper housing 12. Hence, the measured
oil pressure within the oil line can be managed so that the
measured pressure is closer to the operating pressure of the
engine.
[0042] Alternatively, an engineered orifice opening can be machined
into the oil exit port as an integral feature of the upper housing
12. In one embodiment, a variable orifice would be incorporated to
provide the capability of varying orifice diameters for the
purposes of fine tuning the oil flow rate vs. oil pressure
differential balance. In one embodiment, the fluid device 10 is
mounted to maximize the oil supply flowrate available to the upper
housing 12 and fluid device 10.
[0043] An exemplary dimensional length of the upper housing 12 is
such that the in situ (in-line) sensors can be arrayed in a manner
that they conveniently fall within the path of the integral oil
line. Should there be a need for additional in situ sensors, and/or
solenoid actuated valve bodies, the length of the upper housing 12
can be increased appropriately. The dimensions of mating lower
housing 50 and lid 40 would correspondingly increase in dimensions
to match.
[0044] Fluid device 10 further includes a lid 40 that is a housing
component removably secured/affixed to the top of upper housing 12
via tamper-resistant fasteners or screws 42 (in support of
"intrinsically safe" design practices). When assembled, the upper
housing/lower housing/lid 12/50/40 sub-assembly form a
weather-tight, IP67 rated, intrinsically safe enclosure housing the
sensitive electronics and sensors for fluid device 10.
[0045] All aluminum outer surfaces of the fluid device 10 are
finished with a baked "Safety Orange" ceramic coating
(Cerakote.RTM.) to provide extremely tough, abrasion resistant
surface to protect the lid 40 from rigors of the Oil & Gas
environment. For offshore applications that are exposed to open
water, salt water spray, and the worst of inclement weather, the
ceramic coating provides the lid 40 with an excellent and superior
finish.
[0046] As stated previously, an exemplary fluid device 10 includes
the lower housing 50 removably secured to the upper housing 12. The
lower housing 50 forms substantially a portion of the oil flow path
that enters and exits the upper housing 12 from the engine. The
lower housing 50 establishes the oil flow path bottom and sides
which is engineered specifically to provide consistent and high
quality oil samples and sensor readings. Furthermore, lower housing
50 allows for the connection of the oil sample bottle mount and the
protective sampling enclosure. The lower housing 50 additionally
contains the mounting location for the removable User Interface
Panel (plate) 60.
[0047] The oil flow path for the fluid device 10 is designed so
that the in situ fluid property sensor 70 (FPS) is constantly able
to produce measurements that are representative of the oil flowing
through the fluid device 10 at any given time. These measurements
are highly repeatable and are accurate. In order to maintain high
quality sensor data over the life of the fluid device 10, the oil
flow path is designed with features that promote scouring of the
sensor elements (sensing elements) through the creation of
intensely turbulent zones of oil flow around the in situ sensor
elements (described and shown more thoroughly subsequently). This
self-scouring feature eliminates the need for regular cleaning or
replacement of the fluid property sensor 70 and ensures that
quality data will always be produced.
[0048] It should be understood that in one embodiment, a
representative fluid property sensor can be purchased from
Measurement Specialties.TM. having an internet address of
www.meas-spec.com. A specific representative fluid property sensor
is listed as FPS2800B12C4-Fluid Property Sensor Module.
[0049] Referring to FIG. 1 and more specifically to FIG. 2, the
fluid device 10 includes a solenoid assembly 19 to allow oil to
exit the flow path and fill a sampling bottle (sample bottle) 34 as
needed or indicated by fluid device 10. The solenoid assembly 19
comprises a electromagnetic coil 43 surrounding a solenoid actuated
needle 37, and a needle valve 39 (solenoid needle valve or valve
needle) including a sampling orifice 35. The solenoid assembly 19
is designed for ultra-high pressure applications. The sampling
orifice 35 is positioned above a sampling valve body 33. At lower
pressures, for example less than 150 psi (<150 psi), the
solenoid assembly 19 exhibits a leak rate that is effectively zero.
This means that the solenoid assembly 19 will not drip into the
sampling bottle 34, and therefore, is either on or off. In one
embodiment, the operational pressure range for the solenoid 19
actuated valve is from about 5 psi to about 150 psi.
[0050] Still referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the fluid device 10
includes a sample bottle mount 80 (also bottle mount) that is
interchangeable to accommodate different sample bottle collection
geometries. In one embodiment, an oil sample collection is a
4.2-oz. (125 mL) clear plastic (PET) wide-mouth bottle that has a
thread and a twist-on sealing screw cap with a thread size defined
as 38-400. For an exemplary oil sample analyses which includes a
standard set of ASTM protocol tests, the sample volume required is
4.2-oz. However, if a more extensive set of oil analyses to be
performed is desired, a larger volume of oil may be required
wherein a larger 8-oz. sized PET bottle can be used. In the
instance where the larger bottle may have a larger bottle mouth, or
possibly have a screw thread that is different than the 4.2-oz.
bottle, the fluid device 10 accommodates different bottle
mouth/thread geometries.
[0051] The interchangeable sample bottle mount 80 (bottle mount)
threads onto the underside of the lower housing 50, and while in
the fluid device 10, is in a co-axial orientation/configuration
with the needle valve 39. The bottle mount 80 is a
precision-machined metal part that when threaded onto the lower
housing 50, mates up to a machined flat surface that forms a seal
and land area for a shoulder of the needle valve 39. The bottle
mount 80 has valve body mating surface 51 and a small vent orifice
85 (tiny pinhole vent (vent hole) that allows oil/air to escape
from inside the sample bottle 34 during an oil sample collection
event. Moreover, the bottle mount 80 has geometry features (i.e.
flats, hex, spanner slots, etc.) that allow for a tool to be used
to install the bottle mount 80 to the lower housing 50 and apply
the appropriate amount of torque to insure the bottle mount 80 will
not loosen during exposure to constant vibration.
[0052] The sample bottle mount 80 is aluminum and is designed to
form the lower body of the sampling valve and the oil flow path
sealing surface. The bottle mount 80 includes the tiny pinhole vent
(vent hole) 85 to allow oil/air to escape during an oil fill event.
The vent 85 is recessed near the threads of the bottle mount 80 to
prevent contamination such as from dust. Contamination prevention
maintains a sterile oil sample bottle 34 to ensure that
contamination does not bias or influence ultimate oil analysis
results. The bottle mount 80 is designed with a stepped shoulder to
receive a felt pad 61 so that the felt pad 61 can be installed
between the lower housing 50 and the bottle mount 80. The felt pad
61 acts as an air filtration mechanism for the vent hole 85. In one
embodiment, the bottle mount 80 has a large hex head to facilitate
gripping with a wrench for easy removal. In one embodiment, the
bottle mount 80 has a thread pattern 1-32 UN for installation in
the lower housing 50 that ensures a reliable, high quality
seal.
[0053] Mating threads on the bottle mount 80 for securing the
sample bottle 34 are designed/configured to be slightly undersized
to squeeze the sample bottle threads and create a strong friction
fit. Furthermore, this thread configuration is designed to prevent
loosening of the sample bottle 34 due to the effects of vibration
and high temperatures over time.
[0054] Since the bottle mount 80 establishes the lower valve
housing and a portion of the oil flow path, the bottle mount 80 is
sealed with redundant o-rings 41 and 53. A first o-ring 41 is
located at the base of the threads (from FIG. 2 view) of the bottle
mount 80 near or adjacent the bottom surface of the lower housing
50. A second o-ring 53 is located near the top or terminal end of
the threads (from FIG. 2 view) of the bottle mount 80. The second
o-ring 53 is sized to protect the female 1-32 UN threads in the
lower housing 50 from being damaged during installation,
replacement, or removal of the bottle mount 80. Additionally, this
reduces the risk of damage to the threads of the bottle mount 80
during installation, particularly during low light or blind
installation situations which can be common in the field. The
bottle mount 80 can accommodate sample bottle 34 size and bottle
neck thread configuration, male or female. The bottle mount 80 is
field changeable so that sampling bottle 80 type can be modified at
any time in the field.
[0055] In one embodiment of the fluid device 10, the bottle mount
80 includes a switch actuation mechanism that allows the fluid
device 10 to detect the presence of a sampling bottle 34. One
embodiment of a switch actuation mechanism includes a push rod that
is interfaced to a pushbutton switch in the fluid device 10. The
presence of a sampling bottle 34 results in a lifting action on the
pushrod to activate the pushbutton switch. Another embodiment of a
switch actuation mechanism uses a magnetic disk that is lifted with
the installation of a sampling bottle 34 which in turn activates a
reed switch located inside the upper housing 12 of the fluid device
10.
[0056] The fluid device 10 can use a pressure transducer instead of
the vent hole 85 of the bottle mount 80 to determine if the
sampling bottle 80 is full of oil. In this design, the sampling
bottle 80 is airtight during a sampling event and as the oil fills
the volume of the sampling bottle 80, the oil will displace the air
in the sampling bottle 80 causing a rise in air pressure until a
threshold pressure is reached indicating an oil sample is
collected.
[0057] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B (and FIGS. 3C and 3D
subsequently described), a sectional of the lower housing 50 of the
fluid device 10 is illustrated and exposes a portion of a fluid
property sensor 70 in a portion of a fluid passageway 71 (pathway,
passage, path, or circuit, flow path). The fluid passageway 71 of
fluid device 10 is designed so that the in situ fluid property
sensor 70 and the solenoid assembly 19, respectively, are
consistently able to produce accurate measurements and oil samples
that are representative of the oil flowing through the fluid device
10 at any given time. The data produced from oil samples by the
fluid device 10 and from any lab analysis are required to be of the
highest quality and repeatability. The fluid device 10 uses high
speed flows as well as a strategically located square change (sharp
square steps 104 and 105 (see FIG. 9)) in floor depth of the fluid
passageway 71 to create a phenomenon known as a "Hydraulic Jump" in
the flow of the fluid. This condition ensures that turbulence and
mixing of oil is maximized in the fluid flow through the fluid
passageway 71 proximate to the fluid property sensor 70 and
solenoid 19.
[0058] Still referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, oil flow (fluid flow) 73
moves from left to right in this view. A sensor element (sensing
element) 100 of the fluid property sensor 70 is mounted in a
protective cage 101. Protective cage 101 has elongated openings 102
that are circumferentially spaced around the protective cage 101
and extend vertically. The elongated openings 102 expose the sensor
element 100 to the environment outside the protective cage 101 and
fluid property sensor 70. In uniform fluid flow conditions, the
protective cage 101 creates eddy currents and stagnate zones that
promote deposit build up and sensor fouling. However, the fluid
device 10 has the fluid passageway 71 configured to prevent
accumulation of deposits.
[0059] In order to maintain high quality sensor data, the fluid
passageway 71 has features that promote scouring of the sensor
element 100 of the fluid property sensor 70 through the creation of
intensely turbulent zones of oil flow around the in situ sensor
element 100. This self-scouring feature eliminates the need for
regular cleaning or replacement of the fluid property sensor and
ensures that quality data will continually be produced.
[0060] In one exemplary fluid device 10, the fluid passageway 71
includes floor 106 that extends to at least one sharp square step
(sharp step) 104 which extends to another floor 107 structure at a
lower elevation than floor 106. Another (or second) sharp square
step (sharp step) 105 (see FIG. 9) impacts fluid flow characters
for solenoid 19 the same as the flow fluid characteristics
described subsequently for fluid property sensor 70 due to square
step 104. In one embodiment, the floors 106 and 107 are planar and
generally parallel with the sharp step 104 (and for sharp step 105)
extending at ninety degrees relative to each floor 106 and 107.
Fluid passageway 71 includes a wall 108 opposite the sharp step 104
that extends at ninety degrees from floor 107 and relative to the
floor 106.
[0061] The oil flows through the fluid passageway 71 over floor 106
until it encounters the sharp step 104. As the oil flow encounters
the sharp step 104 and the different floor depths, the velocity of
the oil flow decreases (and for sharp step 105). Moreover, the
sharp step 104 causes the oil flow to tumble 73/75 as it is sheared
by the slower moving oil flow at the base of sharp step 104 (and
for sharp step 105). The oil flow then encounters wall 108 to be
diverted toward the sensor element 100 in a ninety degree change of
oil flow 73/77 direction from the original oil flow 73 over floor
106.
[0062] If the oil flow was uniform at this stage of encountering
the wall 108, the oil flow would simply change direction in a
uniform manner and enter the fluid property sensor. This oil flow
would have minimal mixing and promote formation of eddy currents,
which as stated previously, promotes deposit build up and sensor
fouling detrimental to consistent and accurate data collection.
[0063] However, in the fluid passageway 71 configuration just
described for fluid device 10, the oil flow tumbles and encounters
the sensor element 100 in a spinning, cork-screw flow pattern. The
combination of the sharp step 104 and the wall 108 (ninety degree
turn) in the flow path creates a spinning flow that eliminates the
potential for deposits collecting on the delicate sensor element
100 (and same fluid flow characteristics for sharp step 105 and
solenoid 19).
[0064] Still further, the configuration of the fluid passageway 71
for fluid device 10 creates a high velocity and highly turbulent
flow around the sampling valve body 33 of solenoid 19 (FIGS. 2 and
9) due to sharp square step 105 (FIG. 9) (and having same fluid
flow characteristics as sharp step 104) which ensures that no
deposits form near the valve orifice 35. Without this feature, the
presence of deposits may lead to oil sample contamination or
improper sealing of the valve needle 37 against its seat. It should
be noted that the oil sampling valve is threaded into the housing
12/50 of the fluid device 10 and that the oil flow should be able
to scour the valve sealing surfaces for any final orientation of
the valve as it is screwed in the housing. This is accomplished by
creating flows on either side of the sampling valve body 33 that
possess very different pressure and velocity characteristics. The
result of this is a very high oil flow velocity perpendicular to
the flow path at the location of the sampling valve body 33.
[0065] In creating zones of intense turbulence for the purposes of
scouring, a great deal of energy is dissipated in the oil as it
flows through the fluid device 10. This serves to create a pressure
drop across the fluid device 10 which allows for the measurement of
oil pressures that closely matches the engine oil pressure.
[0066] Referring to FIGS. 3C and 3D, the fluid flow through fluid
device/system 10/120 is described from a different perspective. The
construction of the sensor element 100 of the fluid property sensor
70 incorporates a protective cage 101 configuration that
encompasses the senor element 100. In uniform flow conditions oil
flowing through the openings 102 in the cage 101 creates eddy
currents and stagnant zones (low pressure, low flow zones) that
promote buildup of oil precipitates (varnish) that would foul the
sensor element 100 rendering the measured data inaccurate or the
fluid property sensor 70 inoperable.
[0067] Prior attempts to use in situ oil property monitoring have
been plagued with damaging varnish build ups on the sensor elements
that have led to reduced sensor life and measurement accuracy. In
order to prevent such problems, the fluid device/system 10/120
described throughout this document incorporates a novel and unique
flow path design.
[0068] As the oil flows in a laminar fashion (low Reynolds number)
through the fluid device/system 10/120 (recirculating through the
engine 15; FIG. 14A), it first encounters a sharp step 104 (and
step 105 shown in FIG. 9) in the floor of the oil path
asymmetrically increasing the cross-sectional area of the oil path,
thus unevenly decreasing the velocity of the oil (consider the
Bernoulli principle). This sudden and uneven velocity change causes
the oil to "tumble," both roll upwards away from the step and to
curl downwards to fill the extra area created by the step 104 (and
step 105). The rolling and curling behavior of the oil flow 71 is a
result of the flow shearing between the faster moving oil near the
top of the flow path 71 and the slower moving oil in the base of
the flow path 71 and within the step 104 and step 105). This
rolling and curling behavior makes use of the phenomena known as a
`hydraulic jump` which causes the fluid to behave in a way that
resembles a rip-tide as waves break on a beach, again, at least in
part, due to sharp steps 104 and 105. As the oil tumbles and curls,
it becomes intensely turbulent, raising the Reynolds Number of the
flow. As the Reynolds number is nothing more than an expression for
the ratio between the inertial forces of a fluid and the viscous
forces, the increased Reynolds number allows the inertial forces to
dominate the flow characteristics, thereby minimizing the potential
size of any stagnation zones or eddy currents within critical parts
of the oil flow path 71.
[0069] The "tumbling," rolling and curling oil then encounters a
sharp, 90 degree turn 108 relative to the flow path 71 of the oil.
Under normal conditions (with uniform flow), the oil would simply
change direction in a uniform fashion and enter the sensor with
very little mixing which would promote the formation of eddy
currents, especially on the inside of the flow path after the 90
degree turn and on the inside face of the protective cage 101 of
the fluid property sensor. However, in the case of the inventive
fluid device flow path 71, the flow 71 begins to tumble and spin
before it enters the fluid property sensor 70 in a spinning,
cork-screw flow pattern. The combination of the square step 104 in
the flow path 71 and the 90 degree turn 108 of the oil creates a
spinning flow that eliminates the potential for deposits collecting
on the delicate sensor elements 100.
[0070] In one embodiment, the 90 degree turn 108 can range from
about 60 degrees to about 120 degrees relative to the flow path 71
of the oil. Moreover, while the sharp square step 104 is
effectively a surface oriented at 90 degrees extending between the
two planar and parallel surfaces, the square step 104 can be
oriented to range from about 60 degrees to about 120 degrees
extending between the two planar and parallel surfaces.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 9, sharp square step 105 is shown
adjacent, and upstream from, a port 109 (opening) for solenoid 19.
The configuration and dimensions of sharp step 105 can be the same
as the configuration and dimensions of sharp step 104. In one
embodiment, sharp step 104 has different dimensions relative to the
dimensions of sharp step 105. In one embodiment, sharp step 104 has
a different configuration relative to the configuration of sharp
step 105. In one embodiment, sharp step 104 has different
dimensions and a different configuration relative to the dimensions
and configuration of sharp step 105. Opening or port 109 in lower
housing 50 receives solenoid 19 body. It should be noted that port
109 has a specifically designed geometric shape that facilitates
and promotes orifice scouring wherein the orifice is for sampling
of the fluid flowing in the passageway 71 via solenoid 19 described
throughout this document. Recess areas 115 in lower housing 50
reduce thermal conduction from the fluid circulating through
passageway 71 such as oil at a high temperature.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 13, lower housing 50 is again illustrated
and shows inlet/outlet ports 118 for a fluid entering and exiting
lower housing 50 and passageway 71. Still further, port 117
receives a pressure transducer and port 119 receives fluid property
sensor 70.
[0073] As the goal of the flow path 71 of the fluid device/system
10/120 is to promote a controlled, spinning flow that is devoid of
stagnation zones (areas of the sensor element 100 surfaces which
have zero fluid velocity past them), uniformly scouring the sensor
element 100 surfaces to prevent build-ups from happening. Due to
the need to eliminate stagnation zones around the sensor element
100, the flow path 71 cannot simply be made rougher or less direct.
The result of features such as increased surface roughness or
"speed bumps" along the flow path 71 would result in uncontrolled
and somewhat random zones of fluid stagnation in close proximity to
the sensor.
[0074] Still referring to FIGS. 1-13, the fluid device 10 includes,
between upper and lower housings 12/50, high pressure oil seals
(gaskets) 25/27 configured as form-in-place (FIP) seals (gaskets)
that are designed to resist the oil pressure imparted by the engine
oil pressure system. In one embodiment, exemplary oil pressure
range from about 60 psi to about 150 psi. An exemplary FIP seal
design is a compression bead contained within a land area that when
compressed to about 40% of vertical travel, the bead fills the land
groove. A compression stop is integrated into the design to prevent
the sealing bead from being over compressed, thus potentially
causing a seal failure. In one embodiment, the seal design actually
utilizes a double FIP seal path to provide a redundant oil seal
providing a safety margin. Dual seal design creates a backup seal
to eliminate the risk of oil leaking out of the fluid device 10
flow path. Referring to FIG. 5, a primary FIP seal 81 and a
secondary FIP seal 83 are shown between upper and lower housings
12/50.
[0075] It should be understood that the reference to "40%" of
vertical travel is based solely on the mechanical properties
(hardness as measured by the Shore Durometer Type A scale) of the
specific silicone sealant material used in this FIP application. If
we chose a different sealant with a softer (lower Durometer Share A
value) or harder (higher Durometer Shore A value), then the
compression value (e.g., 40%) would be adjusted accordingly.
[0076] Exemplary seal material is silicone-based for use in high
temperature environments. Seals 25/27 provide a sealed environment
for the sensitive electronic sensors in fluid device 10 that are
placed in situ to the flow-thru oil path. Seals 25/27 (FIP gaskets)
are applied to lower housing 50 to ensure a high quality, reusable
seal and are removable, and therefore, can be re-applied in the
event of seal damage.
[0077] Fluid device 10 includes a user interface panel 60. An
exemplary user interface panel 60 includes at least three devices
for access to interactive features of the fluid device 10.
Exemplary devices mounted on user interface panel 60 are: 1) an
on-board removable flash data storage key 90; 2) a reset button 91;
and 3) a data/configuration port 93. The user interface panel 60 is
pre-assembled prior to installation into the lower housing 50 and
incorporates an additional form-in-place (FIP) gasket 95 to provide
an IP67 seal when properly assembled. The user interface panel
assembly 60 can be removed in the field for fast component
change-out and ease of upgrade.
[0078] An exemplary reset button 91 is a lighted IP67 rated
momentary push button switch which allows for the operator of the
fluid device 10 to easily reset an oil sampling counter or to
collect a manual oil sample vs. a scheduled oil sample. In one
embodiment, the reset button 91 is a lighted reset button that
provides a visual status indication if a sampling reset is
required.
[0079] An exemplary removable flash data storage key 90 is a flash
memory device that locally stores processed data acquired from or
by the fluid device 10 and provided for archival retrieval when
needed. If the fluid device 10 is installed without a
wired/wireless data link to a database, then the archived processed
data can be retrieved manually from the data storage key 90.
[0080] An exemplary data/configuration port 93 allows users to
locally connect the fluid device 10 to a laptop for the purposes of
viewing live data, configuring fluid device 10 settings, or
performing a firmware update. In one embodiment, the
data/configuration port 93 is a mil-spec IP67 design with a
ratcheted locking plug retention mechanism for vibration
resistance. In one embodiment, the sampling bottle mount is
installed with a 1.sup.5/8'' wrench and features a precision
machined landing surface so that it can be installed extremely
tightly into the lower housing 50 (lower body) without
over-compressing the o-ring seals.
[0081] The fluid device 10 included the previously discussed lid 40
and provides a cover to the upper housing 12 effectively sealing
the fluid device 10 from weather, dust, water, gases, etc. The lid
40 also provides mounting for the electronics package and product
brand labeling. Lid 40 incorporates a weatherproof seal 110, an
integral form-in-place (FI P) seal made from oil resistant
silicone. A crush-proof land area is machined into the seal region
to prevent the FIP seal bead from being over-compressed, thus
potentially compromising the integrity of the seal. This design
feature also minimizes the metal-to-metal contact area between the
lid 40 and Upper Housing 12. Minimizing the metal-to-metal surface
contact means there is less opportunity for heat conduction from
the Upper Housing 12 (heated by the hot engine oil coursing through
the machined oil path) and the Lid 40 which contains a printed
circuit board assembly 111 (PCBA) with heat sensitive electronic
components. The Lid 40 remains relatively cool compared to the rest
of the fluid device housing and allows for heat to be conducted
away from the electronics and into the Lid 40 via the circuit board
mounting hardware.
[0082] Machined into the Upper Housing 12 is a small "lip" that
serves as a shear protection feature, preventing the mounting
hardware and integral FIP seal from failing should the Lid
experience a sideways blow. Should such an event happen, the shear
lip will receive all of the shear loading and the small diameter
mounting screws will be left to handle tension only. An exemplary
lid 40 is fastened to the Upper Housing 12 with difficult to access
tamper-resistant fasteners 113 to prevent unwanted penetration into
the sensitive area of sensors and electronics. The Lid 40 design,
materials and fastening method supports guideline for
"intrinsically safe" rating. An underside of Lid 40 is used to
fasten the PCBA 111. The Lid 40 is made from CNC machined aluminum
(but could be cast aluminum) so as to provide an efficient heat
conduction path for naturally cooling the PCBA 111 heated by the
board-mounted components. The external surface of the Lid 40 might
also contain heat-rejecting features, i.e. fins, to further reject
heat, via passive convective heat transfer to the surrounding
air.
[0083] Attachment points for the PCBA 111 utilize integrally
machined aluminum mounting headers (attachment bosses) which
conduct heat away from the PCBA 111 through the pads and out the
external surface of the Lid 40. The mounting bosses are arranged in
a non-standard, non-symmetrical fashion with respect to the
geometry of the PCBA 111. This process minimizes the potential
harmonic vibrations that could resonate in the PCBA 111 while
operating on a constantly vibrating machine. Any harmonic
resonances present in the PCBA 111 could be very damaging to the
integrity of the PCBA 111, i.e. solder joints of the
surface-mounted components could fatigue, thus allowing the
components to "pop off" the board 111. A relatively large contact
area between the PCBA 111 and the mounting bosses will facilitate a
greater conductive heat flux, thus cooling the PCBA 111 faster and
more efficiently. The mating surface between the mounting bosses
and the PCBA 111 will be gold (PCBA 111) and machined aluminum (Lid
40). In another embodiment, a heat conducting material (washer,
film, grease) can be laminated between the PCBA 111/boss interfaces
to increase the heat conduction efficiency, further protecting the
PCBA 111 from overheating.
[0084] Once the Lid 40 and PCBA 111 have been assembled, it is
possible to completely encapsulate the PCBA 111 by flooding the Lid
40 with a heat conducting encapsulation formulation. The 100%
encapsulation of the PCBA 111 and related components will
substantially add to tamper resistance, vibration stability,
providing structural support to the electronic components, i.e.
discrete parts, surface mounted parts, etc. In one embodiment,
fluid device 10 includes all aluminum outer surfaces being finished
with a baked "Safety Orange" ceramic coating (Cerakote.RTM.) to
provide an extremely tough, abrasion resistant surface for
protection from the rigors of an environment experienced in the Oil
and Gas industry. Furthermore, for offshore applications that are
exposed to open water, salt water spray, and the worst of inclement
weather, the ceramic coating will provide the fluid device 10 with
an excellent and superior finish.
[0085] The fluid device 10 includes LEDs, for example LEDs 49 and
69 and light pipes 79 (see FIG. 6). Light Pipe interface holes are
machined to a dimension for a snug press-fit of injection molded
plastic (clear, light transmitting polycarbonate) Light Pipe
components. Machined through holes are counter-bored into the
underside of the Lid 40 to position the face of Light Pipe very
close (approximately 0.005 inch) to the underside of clear Bezel 63
surface. A recessed pocket is machined into the top (outer) surface
of the Lid 40 to accept the adhesively bonded Bezel 63. The depth
of the recessed pocket is such that when installed, the top, upper
most surface of the Bezel 63 is sub-flush by 0.005 in in order to
prevent the Bezel 63 from easily being peeled out off of the Lid
40. This is a tamper-resistance and product durability feature.
[0086] Moreover, a through-hole antenna window is machined all the
way through the top surface of the aluminum Lid 40 to allow radio
waves to be transmitted from, as one example, a Bluetooth.RTM. 2.4
GHz PCB-mounted "patch" antenna, through the radio-transparent
window and subsequent Bezel 63. The Antenna Window is precisely
located to align with the patch antenna mounting location on the
PCBA 111. A recessed pocket is machined into the top (outer)
surface of the Lid 40 to accept an adhesively bonded metallic
Serial Number Plate (SNP). The depth of the recessed pocket is such
that when the SNP is installed, the top, upper most surface of the
SNP is sub-flush by 0.005 in.
[0087] The Bezel 63 serves as a product label and user interface.
Bezel 63 construction is that of a laminated polymer featuring: a)
pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) layer (Adhesive Layer) that is on
the bottom of the lamination stack and serves to permanently adhere
the Bezel 63 assembly to the aluminum Lid 40; a decorative graphics
layer (Graphics Layer) that contains the product branding, company
information, product safety information and user interface text
and/or icons; a media layer (Media Layer); and a clear UV
stabilized weather protection layer (Protective Layer). The
Adhesive Layer features an application-optimized pressure sensitive
adhesive (PSA) for high durability bonding of the plastic Bezel 63
to the ceramic coated (ref. Cerakote.RTM.) finish of the Lid-Bezel
mounting surface (recessed pocket). The Graphics Layer features the
reverse printed product labeling which is selectively applied to
allow for visibly transparent windows that align with the location
of each LED 49 indicator light, LCD display, lid 40 serial number,
etc.
[0088] The Media Layer of bezel 63 features a plastic (polyester)
sheet that forms the majority of the Bezel's thickness. This
material is UV inhibited and designed to hold up to prolonged high
temperature exposure and outdoor operation with direct sun UV
exposure. The protective layer features a high hardness, UV
blocking, satin textured coating to each label that prevents ink
pigment fade or label discoloration as a result of long term
outdoor operation of the product. This top coating reduces the
likelihood of scratches or degradation of the label in all
practical fluid device 10 installations. The bezel 63 is adhesively
installed into the recessed pocket on the top most outer surface of
the Lid 40.
[0089] The solenoid cartridge 19 of the fluid device 10 utilizes a
solenoid actuated needle valve to allow oil to exit the flow path
and fill the sampling bottle 34. This needle valve is designed for
ultra-high pressure applications and at lower pressures (<150
psi) it exhibits a leak rate that is effectively zero. This means
that the valve will not drip into the sampling bottle 34, it is
either on or off. The fluid device 10 can accept multiple sampling
valves, mounted in external modules to the main body 12/50, or
mounted internally to the main body 12/50. This optional
configuration allows for the fluid device 10 to accommodate
multiple oil collection samples and store the filled bottles 34
until conveniently able to collect. For example, if daily oil
samples are desired, but only collect the bottles 34 once per week,
a fluid device 10 configured for 7 bottles 34 would meet this need.
This would require that the main body 12/50 would accommodate 7
independent solenoid actuated valves 19, sample bottle mounts 80,
bottles 34, etc., all aligned linearly within the oil path.
Similarly, a 1-bottle fluid device 10 could be combined together
with 6 additional single bottle 34 add-on units (or 1 additional
6-bottle unit).
[0090] Sampling needle valves of solenoid 19 are interchangeable so
that orifice size can be varied, to accommodate different fluid
viscosities. The fluid device 10 is specifically designed so that
the sampling valve can be replaced in a rapid and efficient
manner.
[0091] An exemplary sample bottle 34 includes a high temperature
rated 4.2 oz capacity, clear PET bottles to accept hot oil samples
without risk of bottle degradation. Cleaned, sealed and sterile
sample bottles 34 may be provided directly from a factory to
eliminate the risk of sample contamination as a result of impure
bottles.
[0092] The exemplary sample collection housing 18 of fluid device
10 provides a secure, lockable enclosure for fragile sample bottle
34 and other user interface components. Furthermore, sample
collection housing 18 provides for controlled access to the
programming port 93 and secure SD card interface, this serves to
increase the tamper resistance of the fluid device 10. Sample
collection housing 18 is a stainless steel (SS) enclosure (NEMA 4,
IP67 rated enclosure) that is bolted to the underside of the Lower
Housing 50 utilizing the same shear lip functionality mentioned
previously. A custom shaped hole in the top surface of sample
collection housing 18 provides an interface with the CNC machined
surface of the Lower Housing 50. Fasteners (SS screws with
pre-applied nylon thread-locking compound) are installed from
within the lockable metal enclosure so as to prevent tampering from
the outside of the enclosure by unauthorized personnel. Still
further, the sample collection housing 18 acts as a heat-sink by
virtue of its extensive SS metal mass and surface area aids in
conductive heat transfer from the oil heated Lower Housing 50
(aluminum) thus cooling the main body 12/50.
[0093] The fluid device 10 has LED Light Windows in the Bezel 63
configured as transparent areas so that LED indicator lights can
clearly and effectively shine through. The clear LED windows are
made by selectively applying product labeling ink so as to create
transparencies in the Bezel 63 and these are aligned with each LED
on a daughter board mounted to underside of Lid 40. Upper most
surface of LED light pipe surfaces (for example 49 and 69) is
positioned to within 0.005 in. of the underside of the clear LED
window to reduce the likelihood of scattering (diffusing) the light
from the LEDs 49/69.
[0094] The fluid device 10 includes a LED Character Display. In one
embodiment, the Lid 63 and Bezel 40 designs have LED/OLED display
options for increased flexibility of notification options. The LED
display can feature either high brightness 16-segment LED modules
for alphanumeric character display, or a high brightness OLED
(Organic LED) display for more detailed display capabilities. A
clear LED display window is constructed in Bezel 40 in the same
fashion as the transparent windows for the LED light pipes.
[0095] The fluid device 10 includes at least one antenna window
that allows the radio frequency signals necessary for
Bluetooth.RTM. Communications to penetrate the lid 40. A
radio-transparent plastic insert is installed into the lid 40 in
place of the aluminum material that makes up the top of the lid 40,
with an approximate projected area of 0.5 in.times.1 in, between
product labeling and the Bluetooth.RTM. antenna. The Bluetooth.RTM.
antenna is mounted co-planar, on the top surface of the daughter
board, very close to the underside of the lid 40. In combination
with the radio-transparent antenna window, this allows an
operator's smart device to communicate with the fluid device 10
when in close proximity to the top of the lid 40. This
configuration is for security reasons because it requires close
proximity to the fluid device 10 to function. In one embodiment,
located on the bezel 63 is a variety of system status indicators
that are linked to the core functions of the fluid device 10, for
example, real-time data collection, oil sampling, dangerous
condition checking, add-on sensors, etc.
[0096] The printed circuit board assembly 111 (PCBA) of the fluid
device 10 includes a motherboard which is the main board and
contains all essential electrical components and connectors that
are required to complete the core functions of the fluid device 10.
In one embodiment, the core functions include: oil sampling
procedure, real-time data collection, communications, data
processing, dangerous condition determination, and alerting. The
PCBA/motherboard 111 also facilitates expansion ability.
[0097] The PCBA/motherboard 111 has a multilayer board design for
space optimization of component layout and ruggedness as the use
environment is continuous heat and vibration. The PCBA/motherboard
111 consists of a 4-Layer laminated printed circuit board (PCB)
with both surface mount device (SMD) and discrete through-hole
components. Manufacturing and product information is printed on the
outer surface of the PCB for easy tracking of part number,
revision, and date of manufacture. Furthermore, each PCB is serial
numbered for traceability and lot control. Trace widths on the PCB
are extra wide (0.015 in.) with respect to their thickness to
facilitate reliable PCB-to-component solder joints in high
temperature, high vibration operation synonymous with an exemplary
application in the Oil and Gas Industry.
[0098] If the PCBA/motherboard 111 is to be sold/used in European
Union (EU) countries, the PCBA/motherboard 111 can be made RoHAS
compliant. If not, the solder used in the PCBA 111 is lead-based
which allows for stronger solder joints.
[0099] The PCBA/motherboard 111 of the fluid device has a
design/configuration that allows for the addition of modular
daughter boards to be added on to the assembly. This
design/configuration allows for convenient and rapid functionality
changes without the need for a complete PCB re-design.
Consequently, because of this design/configuration, fluid device 10
can provide a diverse set of functions dependent upon application
needs. Still further, modular daughter boards allow for quick
change out to adjust for installation specific functions, i.e.
indicator light layout, communication antenna, etc. Moreover, the
header connector used to mechanically and electrically join the
mother board and daughter board provides conditioned power and a
data bus between the mating boards. Furthermore, the number of LEDs
installed on a daughter board can be varied depending on the
product feature-set (i.e., add-on sensors).
[0100] As one non-limiting example, fluid device 10 can include a
user interface LED indicator light daughter board designed to
present a series of system status, operational condition, and/or
warning lights (LED) to meet a specific application. The resulting
daughter board may include a dense matrix of LED light positions
(i.e. 6 row.times.5 LEDs per row=30 available LED positions) that
are available for utilization depending on specific fluid device 10
application and product configuration. Once determined, the LED
light position on the matrix of the available LED locations can be
populated with appropriate LED components (soldered to the PCB) to
customize the product, i.e., LEGO.RTM. fashion. The advantage of
this pre-fabricated LED indicator light matrix design is the
ability to rapidly configure the daughter board with a custom LED
arrangement in order to offer an application-specific feature
set.
[0101] LEDs are arranged for high visibility in high brightness
environments. For example, one embodiment of the fluid device 10
features a unique in-plane RF antenna design that incorporates
several high brightness "SERVICE REQUIRED" LEDs for visibility in
any condition. Vibration resistant, high reliability board-to-board
connector provides for signal transfer and power between the two
boards (motherboard and daughter board of PCBA 111). Signal
integrity is maintained by carefully designing the data
transmission paths within the PCBA 111, as well as selecting high
quality electrical connectors for the fluid device 10.
[0102] Mounting of the PCBA 111 for the fluid device 10 is provided
for by the use of machined in bosses on the underside of the Lid 40
surface that space the PCBA 111 adequately away in the vertical
direction from the inner surface of the Lid 40 in order to provide
clearance for components, thus eliminating physical interference
issues. Stainless steel (S.S.) mounting hardware (i.e., screws,
lock washers) is used for durability, longevity, and reliability.
Self-locking fasteners (e.g., NyLok.RTM.), or use of epoxy on the
fasteners may be used to insure fasteners do not loosen over time
as a result of cyclical thermal stress and/or vibration. Relatively
large contact area between the PCBA 111 ground pads and the
mounting bosses integrally machined from the underside of the Lid
40 will facilitate a greater conductive heat flux into the Lid 40,
thus cooling the PCBA 111 more efficiently.
[0103] Attachment points for the PCBA 111 of the fluid device 10
utilize integrally machined aluminum mounting bosses which conduct
heat away from the PCBA 111 through the ground pads and out the
external surface of the Lid 40 via natural convection of air
movement over the fluid device 10. The mounting bosses (and
mounting holes on the PCBA 111) are arranged in a non-standard,
non-symmetrical fashion with respect to the geometry of the PCBA
111. This physical geometry configuration minimizes the potential
for low frequency and high frequency harmonic vibrations that could
resonate in the PCBA 111. Any harmonic resonances present in the
PCBA 111 could be very damaging to the integrity of the PCBA 111,
for example, solder joints of the SMD components could fatigue thus
allowing the components to "pop off" the board.
[0104] Due to the need for vibration resistance of the fluid device
10 mentioned in the above paragraph, further design considerations
for the fluid device 10 reduce the likelihood of vibration-related
failures in the PCBA 111. Multiple layers of copper (heavier copper
weight) designed into the multilayer PCBA 111 is employed so as to
introduce additional mass-dampening effects that will counteract
the effects of vibration related strains placed on the PCBA 111. In
one embodiment, a 0.5-oz copper layer is in the PCBA 111 of the
fluid device 10. In another embodiment, a 4-oz copper layer is in
the PCBA 111 of the fluid device 10. In the embodiment with the
4-oz copper layer, the extra thick layer of copper will add mass
and resistance to vibration-induced harmonics in the PCBA 111.
[0105] Asymmetric mounting holes in the PCBA 111 of the fluid
device 10 (as mentioned above) help to mitigate the risk of
damaging harmonic resonances. Local potting (encapsulated) of key
(heavy) components can be employed to add additional stability and
robustness to the component-to-board solder joints. Lid 40 and PCBA
111 sub-assembly is designed to be completely encapsulated (potted)
so as to mechanically and thermally couple the Lid 40 to the PCBA
111. This not only eliminates the risk of vibration related damage
to the PCBA 111, it also enhances the conductive cooling of PCBA
111 components and adds an additional level of tamper resistance.
The full encapsulation also provides a brute force approach to
providing an "intrinsically safe" design to meet explosion proof
rating.
[0106] The microprocessor of the fluid device 10 assigns both
mathematically intensive and time sensitive tasks to a main
processor, or CPU. In order to optimally complete these tasks, both
ARM and PIC based microprocessor platforms have been considered. In
one embodiment, the fluid device 10 utilizes a 16-bit PIC
microprocessor. In other embodiments, the fluid device 10 utilizes
ARM microprocessors. The microprocessor is physically located on
the PCBA 111 as far away from high power, electrically noisy
components as possible. This isolation design is intended to
minimize the effects of electromagnetic interference (EMI) and
radio-frequency interference (RFI), thus increasing the overall
reliability of the electrical system.
[0107] The fluid device 10 operates on a 24 VDC input, which powers
the Sampling Valve Solenoid 19 as well as the high brightness
status LEDs 49/69. This 24V supply also powers a 12 VDC and a 3.3
VDC step down regulator to power all logic level components (i.e.,
microprocessor, sensors, communications, data storage devices). The
24 VDC input is heavily surge protected, over-voltage protected,
and reverse polarity protected for robustness. In one embodiment,
all power management systems are designed per intrinsic safety best
practices and standards.
[0108] Since the exemplary application for the fluid device 10
selected has hot oil, for example, 180-190.degree. F., continuously
circulating through it, all electronics have to be selected to
reliably operate in elevated temperatures. For this reason,
board-mounted components have very high rated operating
temperatures that range, at least, from about 221.degree. F.
(105.degree. C.) to about 257.degree. F. (125.degree. C.). The
fluid device 10 includes a high accuracy on-board temperature
sensor used to measure the temperature of the PCBA 111 in real-time
to confirm that the electronics are not overheating. Redundant
critical-to-function on board sensor components (i.e.,
accelerometer and temperature sensor) are utilized to ensure proper
function and to prevent false system alarms. In one embodiment,
component-to-board contact area is maximized to facilitate optimal
thermal continuity throughout the entire PCBA 111. This facilitates
the best possible conduction of heat out of the PCBA 111 and into
the Lid 40 where natural convection currents can shed heat.
[0109] Fluid device 10 includes sensitive digital (logic level)
components such as memory devices, the microprocessor, and
associated electronic components are located as far away as
possible from radio transceivers and high power, electrically noisy
and switching components. This electronic component isolation
design is intended to increase the overall reliability of the
electrical system for the fluid device 10.
[0110] The PCBA 111 of the fluid device 10 utilizes both
unidirectional and omnidirectional antennas to support both
Bluetooth.RTM. and 900 MHz RF communications. The Bluetooth.RTM. LE
antenna is of the unidirectional type and is mounted co-planar to
the PCBA 111, on the top surface of the daughter-board, on the
surface facing the underside of the Lid 40, and aligned with a
clearance hole machined in the aluminum to facilitate RF
transmissions directed up and out of the Lid 40. By optimizing the
component clearances and the dimensions of the mounting bosses
(integrally machined from the aluminum Lid 40), the PCBA 111 is
positioned in a manner that allows for the Bluetooth.RTM. LE
antenna to be located very close (approximately 0.030 in.) from the
underside of the Lid 40.
[0111] The fluid device 10 includes a thin (0.062 inch thick)
radio-transparent plastic (polycarbonate) sheet laminated and
adhesively bonded to the outer surface of the Lid 40 with a
permanent pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) providing a weather
sealed cover to the machined RF antenna opening in the aluminum Lid
40. This antenna configuration allows for a smart device (i.e.,
tablet, smartphone, etc.) to wirelessly communicate with the fluid
device 10 when the Bluetooth.RTM. LE device is in close proximity
to the top of the Lid 40. For security reasons, this is an optimal
configuration because it requires close proximity to the machine in
order to wirelessly transmit data from the fluid device 10.
[0112] The 900 MHz antenna of the fluid device 10 is of the
omnidirectional type. The fluid device 10 uses a board-mounted
strip antenna (ref. Fractus S. A.) to communicate with other 900
MHz devices. The strip antenna is soldered to a dedicated PCB
(Antenna Board) and is mounted perpendicular to the daughterboard
via a connector. The antenna board is optionally populated with
high brightness LEDs that when flashing/blinking can serve as a
visual indication the RF transmission is occurring. This
strip-antenna/LED assembly is designed to protrude past the top
surface of the lid 40 and is protected by a transparent impact
resistant plastic (polycarbonate) shroud or dome that prevents
impact or vibration damage to the antenna.
[0113] The fluid device 10 includes a firmware stack that provides
control for all of the functions performed by the fluid device 10
as well as the data processing algorithms discussed more thoroughly
subsequently. The fluid device 10 functions both synchronously and
asynchronously in nature. The firmware handles both kinds of
processing. Real-time data acquisition (DAQ) and processing is
constantly handled by the on-board embedded processor. The firmware
performs a large number of on-board data processing functions which
enable it to detect a dangerous machine condition ("Dangerous
Condition") and initiate a chain of alerts/alarms/notifications so
that the dangerous condition can be addressed in real time.
[0114] Data gathered by the fluid device 10 is stored in a secure
server facility and processed by powerful computing platforms to
provide fleet wide analytics and performance metrics. An
On-processor RAM is used for storing data required for short term
computations. In one embodiment, the PIC microprocessor is equipped
with 53 KB of data storage. An On-board SRAM is used for storing
all short term data that comes from the sensors or the
microprocessor for writing to the ROM or FLASH storage. The PCBA
111 is equipped with 256 KB of SRAM. An On-board ROM is used to
store system configuration data and all required device ID
information. The PCBA 111 is equipped with 1 KB of EEPROM. The
Fluid device 10 includes a removable FLASH media and utilizes a
secure and encrypted FLASH storage system, up to 16 GB capacity
(ref. DataKey.RTM., ATEK Access Technologies). Fleet-wide 30-sec
data is aggregated by communications hardware and transmitted to a
secure datacenter for display and for further storage and
processing.
[0115] The fluid device 10 is designed to maintain two time counts:
1) "Real-Time (RT);" and 2) "Machine-Time (MT)." Employing the dual
time management strategy provides the capability for intelligent
machine health data that can be evaluated in terms of either: 1)
the RT, as in the calendar date and time, that is, year/month/day
and hour:minute:second, that an event occurred; and 2) in terms of
MT, the equipment operating lifetime (that is, 34,562 hours:26
minutes). MT can be thought of similarly as the odometer in a motor
vehicle, an official DOT record of the cumulative number of miles
the vehicle has experienced in its history. Another comparison is
with a Hobbs.TM. meter, a device used in aviation to determine the
cumulative number of hours (expressed in hours and tenths of an
hour) an aircraft has been used.
[0116] Real-Time (RT) is maintained by an always-on, low power,
high accuracy real time clock (RTC). This RTC module is powered by
a CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor) oscillator that is
able to very precisely maintain the current time value (that is,
year/month/day and hour:minute:second). As an extra level of
precision control, the fluid device/system 10/120 is able to
receive automatic time updates from the atomic clock operated by
NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) via wireless
communications with the internet connected remote data and
application server(s). This enables the fluid device 10 in a fluid
system 120 (FIGS. 14A-14B) to self-correct to clock drift that is
inherent to digital timekeeping methods, especially at elevated
temperatures. Machine-Time (MT) is maintained in the fluid device
10 using a combination of Oil Pressure sensing, dual redundant
vibration sensing and a heartbeat of the fluid device 10 which is
coded to be every 20 milliseconds (ms) in one embodiment. The
combination of these three inputs allows the fluid device 10 to
detect the operational state of the machine/engine, that is, is the
engine OFF or ON. The fluid device 10 will count the minutes and
hours that the machine is detected to be ON in order to maintain an
operational time "Odometer" over the life of the engine.
[0117] The fluid device 10 is able to communicate data and alert
information to servers for enhanced functionality. An integrated RF
900 MHz radio (902-928 MHz ISM radio Band (ISM stands form
Industrial, Scientific and Medical)) allows for wireless
communication between the fluid device and external devices such as
the data aggregator or other add-on sensors to provide an overall
fleet-wide picture of equipment health and operation. The fluid
device 10 utilizes a wired Modbus (RTU or ASCII) link over RS485
(or TCP/IP) to communicate with the data aggregator which is
installed on-site in an IP67 enclosure. This allows several fluid
devices 10 to be daisy chained together. This capability
facilitates efficient, easy installation with minimal duplicate
wire-runs.
[0118] The fluid device 10 further includes a Bluetooth.RTM. LE
(low energy ver. 4.0) transceiver radio in the 2.40 to 2.48 GHz ISM
radio band. Over Bluetooth LE, the fluid device 10 can communicate
with handheld smart devices (i.e. tablets, smartphones, etc.) for
more effective management of fluid device 10 settings. The
Bluetooth LE connection also enables seamless management of the
workflow surrounding oil sample collection as use of a fluid device
10 mobile application to tag oil sample bottles with an appropriate
ID and generate shipping information needed to send the samples to
the laboratory.
[0119] Referring to FIGS. 1-14, the fluid device 10 employs a
series of in situ digital and analog sensors (at least sensors 19
and 70) that are positioned in the recirculating oil path (flow
path) 71 (FIGS. 3A and 3B) which is machined into the Upper housing
12 and Lower housing 50. The arrangement of these sensors 19/70 is
linear along the path 71. The sensor bodies 19/70 are threaded into
the machined aluminum Upper Housing 12 and incorporate an oil
resistant seal to prevent leaking of the engine oil that is
coursing through the oil path 71 at high pressure (ranging from at
least about 45 psi to about 80 psi) as provided by the engine 15
(FIG. 14A) driven oil pump. An exemplary, non-limiting engine 15 is
a Caterpillar G3616 TALE.about.natural gas fired, 16-cylinder,
turbo-assisted, lean burn efficiency. The active sensor tip or
sensor cage (element) (for example, 101 of fluid property sensor
70) (FIGS. 3A and 3B) is positioned in a manner as to be subjected
to the flow 73/78 of the oil at an angle of about 90.degree., or
perpendicular to the axis of the oil flow 73/78. The sensor signal
output is facilitated by connecting the sensor data wires to the
printed circuit board assembly 111 (PCBA) affixed to the underside
of the Lid 40 which is situated just above Upper Housing 12 and
contained in the Lid 40.
[0120] The engine 15 driven oil pump delivers an oil flow rate, in
one embodiment, in excess of 300 gallons per minute (GPM). The
galley port on the engine block that the fluid device 10 is tapped
into is one of the high-flow, high pressure ports. This is
advantageous in that a high flow rate flowing across the sensor
tips presents a constant flow of fresh oil that is turbid
73/75/77/78 (as opposed to a laminar flow) with homogeneously mixed
contaminates. This is preferred over the alternative of a slow
flow, laminar flow, that may deliver erratic pulses of high
concentrations of contaminates which could bias the real-time
sensing results. Furthermore, a low flow rate with laminar flow
(low shear forces in both the axial and transverse flow direction)
could facilitate "plate out" or varnish formation on the sensor tip
surfaces which would bias the sensor measurements, or even render
the sensor output invalid. To prevent this creation of varnish, the
design of the oil flow path 71 in the Upper and Lower Housings
12/50 of the fluid device 10 was created in a manner that would
maximize the non-laminar (or turbid) motion 73/75/77/78 of the oil
flow 73/75/77/78, thus creating a flow stream that exhibits high
shear forces in both the axial and transverse flow directions. This
is referred to as a "self-scouring" design.
[0121] In one embodiment, the fluid property sensor 70 has a sensor
body that is made of 316 stainless steel (SS) and is IP68 rated.
The temperature data unit of measure is .degree. C. (degrees
Celsius). An exemplary Fluid temperature range of measurement by
fluid property sensor 70 is about -40.degree. C. to about
150.degree. C. Fluid. The fluid device 10 is programmed to update
temperature data at 30 second intervals. However, other update
intervals are possible, such as, every 5 seconds, and a range of
possible update intervals include 5 seconds to 60 seconds and
including each integer in between (for example, every 6 seconds, 7
seconds, 8 seconds, 9 seconds, 10 seconds . . . to every 60
seconds). In one embodiment, the digital output is per J1939,
CAN2.0B standard or CAN2.0A featuring high-resolution parameter
readings. The fluid property sensor 70 is connected to the PCBA 111
(located in Lid 40) via a 4-pin FCI style Molex.RTM. connector.
[0122] The fluid property sensor 70 of fluid device 10 measures
fluid viscosity (in this example, oil viscosity). Viscosity is a
measure of fluid resistance to flow and is informally referred to
as the "thickness" of a fluid. For example, at the same
temperature, maple syrup has a much higher viscosity than water.
The viscosity of a fluid is highly sensitive to temperature, that
is, syrup at a higher temperature is "thinner," less resistant to
flow, and therefore, less viscous than when compared to syrup at
room temperature.
[0123] Dynamic Viscosity of oil is measured by the digital fluid
property sensor 70. For dynamic viscosity data, the SI unit of
measure is mPa-s (centipoise .about.cP). In one exemplary
embodiment, the fluid property sensor 70 measures Dynamic Viscosity
ranging from about 0.5 to about 50 cP. Dynamic Viscosity data
update interval is 30-seconds. Digital output of the fluid property
sensor 70 is as per J1939, CAN2.0B standard or CAN2.0A protocols
featuring 16-bit parameter readings. The fluid property sensor 70
is connected to the PCBA 111 via a 4-pin FCI Automotive style
connector, that is, Delphi.RTM. and/or Molex.RTM..
[0124] Based on an algorithm to be discussed/presented
subsequently, the dynamic viscosity output is temperature corrected
to determine if the measured value from the fluid property sensor
70 is within the accepted threshold limits of the Society of
Automotive Engineers (SAE) grade of oil used in the application
(e.g. SAE 40). Utilizing a controlled lab environment and per
industry accepted ASTM protocols, the dynamic viscosity of virgin
engine oil (Mobil Pegasus 805.RTM.) was fully characterized across
a wide range of known engine operating temperatures. The resulting
temperature-viscosity curve (shown subsequently) for the subject
oil was analyzed using nonlinear regression analysis methods to
solve for a math-based algorithm which characterizes the
viscosity-temperature relationship for the oil within the range of
known engine operating temperatures. This algorithm allows one to
reliably determine the expected (virgin) dynamic viscosity value of
the engine oil anywhere along the temperature spectrum. The
algorithm is embedded into the firmware and is used to process the
raw dynamic viscosity from the fluid property sensor 70 in order to
determine a current status, dangerous condition, and/or useable
life of the oil based on the temperature corrected viscosity
value.
[0125] As a point of reference, the temperature based viscosity
values as reported on manufacturer product data sheets are reported
at only two (2) temperatures, 40.degree. C. and 100.degree. C. This
is also true of industry recognized ASTM test protocols (ASTM D445)
used by in-house and independent labs to determine the oil's
viscosity properties. However, it is important to note that the
temperature-viscosity curve of any fluid between the two (2)
temperature extremes (40.degree. C. and 100.degree. C.) will NOT be
linear. As a result of this fact, the resulting curve fit to the
measured data is non-linear. The importance of this discovery is
that it would be unwise and incorrect to determine the health
and/or useful life of a lubricant based on the assumed linear
behavior of the oil with a temperature measured between the
commonly referenced extremes (40.degree. C. and 100.degree.
C.).
[0126] The fluid device 10 and fluid system 120 is configured to
output the following required data:
[0127] Dynamic viscosity value (cP): 16-bit value directly measured
by the fluid property sensor 70, value updated every
30-seconds;
[0128] Density value (gm/cc): 16-bit value directly measured by the
fluid property sensor 70, value updated every 30-seconds;
[0129] Kinematic viscosity value (cSt): is calculated by utilizing
the Oil Density (measured by fluid property sensor 70),
computational formulas are embedded in firmware, value updated
every 30-seconds; and
[0130] Relative viscosity-based condition of the oil: value
expressed as a percentage (%) of useful SAE Range, developed
computational formulas are embedded in firmware, value updated
every 30-seconds.
[0131] Consider the following as a representative example (SAE 40
Grade). Per SAE standards, a Grade 40 oil can exhibit a viscosity
of 12.5 cP to <16.3 cP and still be considered useable. However,
if the oil exhibits an increased resistance to flow such that its
viscosity becomes greater than 16.3 cP (>16.3), it has exceeded
the upper specification limit for SAE 40 oil and slips into the SAE
50 range (or higher). Correspondingly, if the oil is thinner and
measures less than 12.5 cP (<12.5), the oil would be classified
as a SAE 30 Grade (or lower). The consequences of operating the
subject equipment (engine, compressor, etc.) with an off-spec oil
(thinner or thicker) would likely cause damage to the equipment,
shorten the useful life of the equipment, and/or potentially lead
to a catastrophic equipment failure.
[0132] The novel fluid device 10 and fluid system 120 approach to
temperature correcting the measured oil viscosity in order to
compare it against a "nominal baseline" will provide the operator
with a more dynamic, accurate and actionable set of real-time data
that can contribute to higher equipment reliability and lower
overall operating costs of maintaining the physical asset.
[0133] The fluid device/system 10/120 collects real-time viscosity
(dynamic) data by the fluid property sensor 70 and is timestamped
both in terms of modified Julian date (MJD) (i.e.
year:month:day:hour: minute:second) and in terms of equipment
operating lifetime (i.e. 34,562 hours:26 minutes). During an oil
sample collection event (schedule-based routine oil sample or
sample-by-exception oil sample initiated by the detection of a
Dangerous Condition event), the 4-oz bottle 34 receives sample oil
and is ultimately sent off to a lab for further analysis. The
sampling bottle 34 also has both timestamps (MJD and Engine
lifetime) associated with the solenoid 19 actuated valve opening
event. Comparison of the electronic viscosity data value from the
fluid property sensor 70 and the ATSM protocol lab analyzed
viscosity data value from the oil sample can provide an opportunity
to recalibrate the fluid property sensor 70 mounted on the engine
15. This re-calibration of the electronic fluid property sensor 70
can be autonomously performed on a continuous basis through the
utilization of a custom developed API between the oil analysis lab
database of the fluid device 10 database.
[0134] The fluid device/system 10/120 collects real-time dielectric
constant data. A dielectric constant of a material is a measure of
its ability to transmit electrical potential energy. The dielectric
constant is a simple number that is the relative ratio of the speed
of an electric field in a material compared to the speed of the
electric field in a vacuum. When the dielectric constant of a
lubricating oil is measured, changes in the dielectric constant of
the used oil compared to new oil may indicate the presence of
contaminants, such as water or particles, or changes in chemistry
of the oil such as additive depletion or oxidation." (Machinery
Lubrication, The Dielectric Constant and Oil Analysis, A. A. Carey,
et al (September 2001)).
[0135] The dielectric constant of the oil is measured by the
digital fluid property sensor 70. Dielectric Constant data SI unit
of measure is unit-less. The Dielectric Constant measurement range
of the MS85C is about 1.0 to about 6.0. The Dielectric Constant
data update interval is 30-seconds by the fluid device/system
10/120. Digital output is as per J1939, CAN2.0B standard or CAN2.0A
featuring high-resolution parameter readings. The fluid property
sensor 70 is connected to the PCBA 111 (located in Lid 40) via a
4-pin FCI style Molex.RTM. connector.
[0136] The fluid device/system 10/120 collects real-time density
data of the oil flowing through the fluid device 10 by the fluid
property sensor (FPS) 70. Density data SI unit of measure is grams
per cubic centimeter (gm/cc). Oil Density measurement ranges by the
FPS 70 is about 0.65 to about 1.50 gm/cc. The Density data update
interval is 30-seconds. Digital output is as per J1939, CAN2.0B
standard or CAN2.0A protocol featuring high-resolution parameter
readings.
[0137] The fluid device/system 10/120 collects real-time oil
pressure data of the oil flowing through the fluid device 10 by the
fluid pressure sensor (referenced generally with numeral 70 same as
FPS) which is a component of the Sensor package 70 which also
includes the fluid property sensor (FPS). In one embodiment, the
fluid pressure sensor is an analog pressure transducer. It should
be understood that in one embodiment, a representative fluid
pressure transducer can be purchased from Measurement
Specialties.TM. having an internet address of www.meas-spec.com and
is a separate structure from the fluid property sensor 70. As a
separate structure, pressure transducer is provided in a separate
port in lower housing 50 from fluid property sensor 70, such as
port 117 shown in FIG. 13. A specific representative fluid pressure
transducer is listed as Model 85-100G-4C.
[0138] An exemplary fluid pressure sensor can be made of 316
stainless steel (SS) and is IP68 rated. Pressure data is in SI
units of measure which is mPa-s (centipoise .about.cP). Digital
output is as per J1939, CAN2.0B standard or CAN2.0A featuring
high-resolution parameter readings,
[0139] The FPS 70 of the fluid device/system 10/120 collects
real-time water content data of the oil flowing through the fluid
device 10. An exemplary method of determining the water content
includes the fluid device/system 10/120 utilizing the dielectric
constant measurement from the FPS 70 described above. The
dielectric constant measurement in conjunction with an algorithm
(described subsequently) which is embedded in the microprocessor is
used to determine the amount of water contamination (water content)
in the oil.
[0140] Real-time measurement or determination of water content
provides the real-time capability to detect engine coolant
(water/glycol) that is leaking into the oil system of the engine
15. Such leakage would rapidly compromise the integrity of the
engine oil, and therefore, rapidly compromise the integrity of the
engine. Such real-time capability to measure water content in the
oil system provides the opportunity to prevent a likely
catastrophic engine failure if the leak was left undetected and
unattended. Water Content data SI unit of measure is parts per
million (ppm). Water Content measurements range from about 200 ppm
to about 2000 ppm. Water Content data update interval is 30
seconds.
[0141] Based on the algorithm mentioned above, the Dielectric
Constant data value was outputted from the FPS 70 which was
measured from a controlled sample of virgin engine oil (Mobil
Pegasus 805.RTM.) after carefully titrating a known weight percent
(wt %) of a water/glycol solution that was added to purposely
contaminate the oil sample. The water/glycol mixture was prepared
as a 50/50 mix of deionized water and antifreeze (glycol) to
simulate a typical engine coolant. Utilizing a controlled lab
environment and per industry accepted ASTM protocols (ASTM D6304A),
the Dielectric Constant value of the water/glycol contaminated
engine oil was fully characterized across a wide range of known
engine operating temperatures. The resulting large database of
measured Dielectric Constant data values were analyzed using
digital signal processing (DSP) methods to determine a math-based
algorithm characterizing the Dielectric Constant-Coolant
Contamination relationship, thus being able to reliably determine
the water/glycol contamination level anywhere along the Dielectric
Constant spectrum. The algorithm is embedded into the firmware
library of the microprocessor and is used to data process the raw
fluid property sensor 70 output in order to determine a current
status, Dangerous Condition, and/or useable life of the oil based
on the Dielectric Constant value.
[0142] Moreover, the Water Content data collected by the fluid
device/system 10/120 in real-time by the FPS 70 is timestamped
(i.e. year:month:day:hour: minute:second). During an oil sample
collection event (schedule-based routine oil sample or
sample-by-exception oil sample initiated by the detection of a
Dangerous Condition event), the 4-oz bottle 34 of sample oil
collected and sent off to a lab for further analysis also has a
timestamp associated with the solenoid 19 actuated valve opening
event. Comparison of the electronic Water Content data value (from
FPS 70) and the ATSM protocol lab analyzed Water Content data value
can provide an opportunity to recalibrate the FPS 70.
[0143] The fluid device/system 10/120 has the capability to detect
equipment (in this case engine 15) ON/OFF status in real-time. That
is, in real-time determine if the equipment (engine, compressor) is
actually operating. A Dangerous Condition alarm notification would
be generated if the equipment was confirmed to be non-operating.
This is important for equipment such as natural gas compression
equipment (gathering gas, gas processing, gas transmission
applications), which are designed to operate on a 24/7/365 basis,
were such equipment to suddenly experience a shutdown event.
[0144] The capability to detect equipment ON/OFF status is by
utilizing a PCBA 111-mounted accelerometer and the Oil Pressure
value from the FPS 70 to make a determination that the equipment
has experienced a shutdown event. A Dangerous Condition algorithm
is embedded in the firmware of the microprocessor. The Algorithm
contains a routine that looks for a minimum of four (4) consecutive
30-second Oil Pressure values (total of 2 minutes) to minimize the
possibility of a false positive which would result in an inaccurate
alarm notification. Each ON or OFF event is captured and logged in
the database maintained on a secure remote server. Still further,
equipment OFF duration and frequency is logged to provide Equipment
Uptime, a key performance indicator (KPI) metric closely
managed.
[0145] If the real-time monitored Oil Pressure value were to
suddenly go to zero while the accelerometer measured constant
vibration, the possible scenario is that the oil line to the fluid
device 10 has been compromised and is likely leaking and/or spewing
oil all over the place. Conversely, if the Oil Pressure measure is
positive and the accelerometer is negative, it would indicate that
the PCBA 111-mounted accelerometer has failed and needs to be
replaced or re-calibrated.
[0146] The fluid device/system 10/120 has the further capability
that couples the real-time measurement of oil quality with physical
oil sample collection for further oil measurement of oil quality,
typically in a controlled lab environment and per industry
recognized ASTM protocols, and comparing the real-time quality
measurement with the quality measurement of the sampled oil in the
lab.
[0147] Proprietary Algorithm for Real-Time Temperature Correction
of Engine Oil Viscosity
[0148] In order to develop the Algorithm for Real-Time Temperature
Correction of Engine Oil Viscosity for the Fluid Device/System
10/120, an experiment was conducted to determine the effects of oil
temperature on oil viscosity in virgin engine oil. The motivation
to carry out this experiment was the need for real-time temperature
correction in the Fluid Device/System 10/120 as well as lack of
data in ASTM D445 documents.
[0149] This experiment was carried out in two stages, the first
being the laboratory experiment designed to produce the empirical
temperature-viscosity data for virgin engine oil (Mobil Pegasus
805.RTM.) and the second being the regression analysis performed to
obtain the temperature-viscosity algorithm for the Fluid
Device/System 10/120.
[0150] Stage--1: Baseline Oil Viscosity Recording
[0151] Define oil temperature range for the experiment based on
data provided in engine OEM specification and ASTM D445 standard.
Record baseline dynamic viscosity values (units: cP) for the engine
oil at fixed oil temperature intervals spaced evenly within the
defined range.
a. Experimental Apparatus
[0152] 250 ml Pyrex.RTM. glass beaker [0153] 500 ml Pyrex.RTM.
glass beaker [0154] 200 ml virgin engine oil [0155] Hot Plate with
magnetic stir bar & temperature probe attachment [0156]
Measurement Specialties FPS 2800 Fluid Property Sensor with
Arduino-based data acquisition device [0157] Ring stand [0158] Ring
clamp
b. Methodology
[0159] The 250 ml beaker is placed on the hot plate inside of a 500
ml beaker that is filled with water to provide even heating of the
oil sample. Virgin engine oil is poured into the 250 ml beaker. The
temperature of the oil is precisely controlled using the hot
plate's temperature probe attachment which provides feedback to the
hot plate's internal temperature controller. The fluid property
sensor element (FPS 70) is immersed in the oil using the ring stand
and ring clamp. The fluid property sensor (FPS 70) measures oil
properties such as oil temperature, dynamic viscosity, density and
dielectric constant and it transmits the measured data over the CAN
(Controller Area Network) bus protocol. The Arduino data
acquisition device is configured to capture this data into a log
file which can be read into the computer for further analysis. In
order to produce high quality data, for each oil temperature value,
multiple viscosity values were tabulated to remove human and
experimental errors.
c. Experimental Results
[0160] The resulting scatter plot of Oil Temperature in Celsius vs.
Dynamic Viscosity is shown in FIG. 24. As expected, oil viscosity
decreases with increasing oil temperature (e.g.: hot maple syrup
flows easily compared to cold syrup). Since precision temperature
control was adopted, viscosity values appear as a stack at each oil
temperature value. Also, the utilization of a precision temperature
control served to greatly reduce noise in the data and eliminate
outliers. This data is then used in the second stage of the
experiment where a curve fit equation is derived.
[0161] Stage--2: Baseline Oil Viscosity Curve Fitting
[0162] In order to develop the Algorithm for Real-Time Temperature
Correction of Engine Oil Viscosity for the Fluid Device/System
10/120, a curve fit equation is derived to describe the
experimentally collected data in Stage 1.
a. Methodology
[0163] From the scatter plot (FIG. 24), it is clear to the casual
observer that the data is non-linear, that is, it appears less as a
straight line and more as a curve. The process of evaluating a set
of data points and deriving a curve is known as regression. In this
case, since the data is non-linear, the optimal regression method
is non-linear regression.
[0164] The quality of curve-fit is decided by two factors: [0165]
Factor 1--Goodness of curve fit: This is indicated as r.sup.2 and
is termed statistically as co-efficient of determination. The
closer r.sup.2 value is to 1 (or 100%), the better is the curve
fit. [0166] Factor 2--Performance of the curve within the OEM
specified temperature range: The performance of an ideal curve
would be no bias (or swing) towards extreme values at a given oil
temperature. Ideally, the curve should pass through the average (or
mean) value of oil viscosity at each oil temperature. A perfect
curve for the dataset would exactly represent the behavior of the
dynamic viscosity of the specified oil type at a given temperature
value.
b. Results
[0167] The highest performing derived curve for the baseline
viscosity values is as shown in FIG. 25.
[0168] The derived curve-fit equation can be represented in a
mathematical format shown in Equation 1.
.mu.=(a+b/T.sup.2).sup.2 Equation 1
[0169] Here, [0170] .mu. is dynamic oil viscosity in cP [0171] T is
oil temperature in Celsius. [0172] a & b are curve-fit
coefficients which decide the shape of the curve. Their values are,
respectively: 1.5763649 and 17018.976.
[0173] Conclusion: [0174] Equation 1 is used in fluid device/system
10/120 firmware to correct oil viscosity values in real time with
respect to changes in oil temperature. [0175] The Goodness of Fit
(or r.sup.2) for the selected equation was found to be 99.758%,
which implies the accuracy of the curve fit is high. [0176] The
mathematical simplicity of Equation 1 allows for a robust
implementation on the fluid device/system 10/120 embedded platform.
The relative simplicity helps to eliminate numerical errors such as
rounding off and truncation of the calculated values due to the
nature of embedded platforms.
[0177] Algorithm for Temperature Correction for Dielectric
Constant
[0178] Water Content--the fluid device/system 10/120 utilizes the
Dielectric Constant measurement from the fluid property sensor 70,
in conjunction with a custom developed algorithm (see FIG. 16)
embedded in the microprocessor to determine the amount of "free"
water contamination in the oil. An interest exists in the ability
to detect engine coolant (mixture of water and ethylene glycol)
leaks in real-time, a condition that would rapidly compromise the
integrity of the engine oil if left un-checked. Such a real-time
water detection capability would allow operators to prevent a
catastrophic engine failure that would have been left undetected
and unattended without the fluid device/system 10/120.
[0179] Dielectric Constant measured by the digital fluid property
sensor 70. Through the use of the Algorithm, dielectric constant
data and temperature data are converted into the water
contamination in oil as expressed in parts-per-million (ppm).
[0180] An algorithm, the result of laboratory experiments, uses
dielectric constant data and temperature data provided by the fluid
property sensor 70 to determine the water content of oil on
30-second intervals. The water content value is then used to issue
WARNING or DANGER alarms if the value is calculated to exceed
"safe" operating condition thresholds.
[0181] The exact threshold values are set by the engine (or
compressor) manufacturer. Example of a DANGER threshold (also
referred to as a `condemning limit` by OEM manufacturers) for a
Caterpillar 3600 series engine is 5000 ppm for water and 0 ppm for
ethylene glycol.
[0182] Water Content data SI unit of measure is parts per million
(ppm). Water Content measurement range of the fluid property sensor
70 used in the fluid device/system 10/120 is 200 to 600 ppm.
Through the addition of a second water detection sensor that
measures "saturated" water (vs. free water) in oil, (for example,
an HTM2500 sensor sold by Measurement Specialties), the
water-in-oil detection range can be extended to 2000 ppm. Water
Content data update interval is 30-seconds.
[0183] Based on the algorithm, the Dielectric Constant output from
the fluid property sensor 70 was measured from a controlled sample
of virgin engine oil (Mobil Pegasus 805.RTM.) after carefully
titrating a known volume percent (vol %) of a water and ethylene
glycol solution was added to purposely contaminate the virgin oil
sample. The water/ethylene glycol mixture was prepared as a 50/50
(vol %) mix of deionized water and antifreeze (ethylene glycol) to
simulate a typical engine coolant. Utilizing a controlled lab
environment and per industry accepted ASTM protocols (ASTM D6304A),
the Dielectric Constant values of water/ethylene glycol
contaminated engine oil (Mobil Pegasus 805.RTM.) across a wide
range of expected engine operating temperatures (150.degree. F. to
200.degree. F.) were fully characterized. The resulting large
database of measured Dielectric Constant data values were analyzed
using statistical signal processing methods to develop an algorithm
for characterizing the Dielectric Constant-Water Contamination
relationship, thus enabling the capability to reliably determine
the volume amount of water/ethylene glycol contamination present in
a given sample of oil. The developed algorithm is embedded into the
firmware and is used to process the raw fluid property sensor 70
output in order to determine a current oil-water contamination
status, identify the presence of a Dangerous Condition based on
water content, and/or calculate the useable life of the oil based
on the Dielectric Constant value.
[0184] Real-time sensor derived Water Content data vs. lab
derived:
[0185] The Water Content data produced by the fluid device/system
10/120 from the real-time fluid property sensor 70 output is
timestamped both in terms of modified Julian date (MJD) (i.e.
year:month:day:hour: minute:second) and in terms of equipment
operating lifetime (i.e. 34,562 hours:26:minutes).
[0186] During an oil sample collection event (schedule-based
routine oil sample, manual sample or sample-by-exception oil sample
initiated by the detection of a Dangerous Condition event), the
4.2-oz oil sample bottle 34 is filled and sent off to a laboratory
for further analysis. The sample event also has both MJD and MT
timestamps associated with the precise instant that the solenoid 19
actuated valve opening event occurred.
[0187] Comparison of the electronic Water Content data value (from
the fluid property sensor 70 of fluid device/system 10/120) and the
ATSM protocol lab analyzed Water Content data value can provide an
opportunity to recalibrate the mounted electronic fluid property
sensor 70 if required.
[0188] Fluid Monitoring and Management System
[0189] An exemplary, non-limiting, fluid monitoring and management
system 120, while previously mentioned, is now described more
thoroughly according to one of various embodiments of the
invention.
[0190] Referring to FIGS. 14A and 14B, the fluid device 10, as
previously extensively described, is incorporated into fluid system
120 according to one of various embodiments of the invention. A
supply line 17 provides fluid communication between a fluid system
of a subject machine or equipment and the fluid pathway 71 (FIGS.
3A and 3B) of fluid device 10. In one non-limiting embodiment as
stated previously for this document, the fluid system is an oil
system of an engine 15. In one embodiment, fluid device 10 is
mounted directly to the subject machine or equipment. In one
embodiment, fluid device 10 is mounted remotely from the subject
machine or equipment. Supply line 17 allows oil to exit from engine
15 and to enter fluid device 10. A return line 61 provides fluid
communication with the oil system of engine 15 and the fluid
pathway 71 of fluid device 10. Return line 61 allows oil to exit
from fluid device 10 and to reenter engine 15. Fluid device 10
includes a user interface 66 (system status indicator (LED)).
[0191] Wired connection 63 provides electrical/data communication
between electrical components of fluid device 10, for example, the
printed circuit board assembly 111 (PCBA), and a data
aggregator/communications hub 65. Data aggregator/communications
hub 65 is in electrical/data communication with a wireless
receiving/transmission system 67. In one embodiment, the data
aggregator/communications hub 65 can support/accommodate 1 to 8
fluid devices 10. In one embodiment, the data
aggregator/communications hub 65 can support/accommodate more than
8 fluid devices 10. Wireless receiving/transmission system 67
provides cellular and satellite connectivity to any remote site
capable of receiving radio waves. Consequently, this connectivity
allows electrical/data communication (signal communication) (radio
waves) between the fluid device/system 10/120 and any remote
site.
[0192] For example, referring to FIG. 14B, the electrical/data
communication (signal communication) (radio waves) from wireless
receiving/transmission system 67 is received by repeater 121 and
transmitted to, and received by, ultimately, the internet 122
(and/or "cloud"). From internet 122, electrical/data communication
is transmitted to, and received by, a remote data server 123 (that
is, back end layer 126). In one embodiment, remote data server
123/back end layer 126 includes access to/communication with at
least one or more databases (DB). For example, remote data server
123/back end layer 126 includes: an exemplary first database DB1
127 that includes MySQL Streaming Data; an exemplary second
database DB2 128 that includes NoSQL Streaming Data (Anonomized);
an exemplary third database DB3 130 that includes SQL Pre-processed
Data; an exemplary fourth database DB4 131 that includes SQL Header
Data (Encrypted); and an exemplary fifth database DB5 129 that
includes SQL Entitlements.
[0193] Databases DB1 to DB5 can individually, or collectively,
access and/or communication with a data access layer 124 such as a
remote application server 124. Data access layer/remote application
server 124 can be configured to be customer specific/customer
developed and comprise, as a non-limiting example, predictive
analytics, data processing and data correlation.
[0194] The data access layer/remote application server 124 can
individually, or collectively, access and/or communication with a
front end layer (remote Output Server) 125 such as a graphical user
interface (web dashboard). In one embodiment, the front end
layer/graphical user interface/remote Output Server 125 includes as
a non-limiting example, a Client ERP system 133 that can access
and/or communication with maintenance work orders, business
metrics, etc., 139. The front end layer/graphical user interface
125 can further include Dashboard (website) 134; best practices,
statistical output 138; Dashboard (mobile) 135; documents 137; and
reports 136.
[0195] Fluid Monitoring and Management Methods
[0196] Using the inventive fluid monitoring and management device
10 and system 120 described previously throughout this document,
the following various inventive, and non-limiting, fluid monitoring
and management methods can be implemented and are now
described.
[0197] An exemplary one non-limiting fluid method 200 includes
Performing a Dangerous Condition Check 200. Referring to FIGS. 15A
and 15B, the fluid device/system 10/120 can identify harmful
lubricant conditions or machine failures. Performing a Dangerous
Condition Check 200 includes the following method steps:
[0198] Method step 202: The fluid device/system 10/120 performs a
"dangerous condition" check every thirty seconds in order to
determine if a sensor input has reached (and surpassed) a threshold
value.
[0199] Method step 204: The fluid property sensor 70 installed in
situ within the fluid device/system 10/120 measures several
parameters of the fluid flow and stores the measurement data on a
data storage device (e.g. RAM) located on the PCBA 111. This
measurement process occurs every 30 seconds.
[0200] Method step 206: In situ sensor inputs by Fluid
device/system 10/120 include: 1) Fluid Pressure, 2) Fluid
Temperature, 3) Dynamic Viscosity of the fluid, 4) Dielectric
Constant of the fluid, 5) Density of the fluid.
[0201] Method step 208: Upon the FIRST sensor measurement (after 30
seconds have elapsed), measure all fluid property values (method
step 206) and compare the values against threshold value settings
to see if any of measured values have exceeded the thresholds.
[0202] Method step 210: If no threshold value settings are
exceeded, there is not likely to be a "Dangerous Condition"
present.
[0203] Method step 212: Since all measured fluid properties were
identified to be within acceptable threshold(s), return to method
step 202 and repeat the process again after 30-seconds have
elapsed.
[0204] Method step 214: If one or more thresholds are exceeded,
there is a potential "Dangerous Condition." The Dangerous Condition
Process will then assign the FIRST strike to each value that
exceeds a threshold.
[0205] Method step 216: For the SECOND time, the fluid property
sensor 70 installed within the fluid device/system 10/120 measures
several parameters of the fluid flow and stores them on a data
storage device located on the PCBA 111. This happens every thirty
seconds.
[0206] Method step 218: perform method step 206.
[0207] Method step 220: Upon the SECOND sensor measurement (after
30-seconds have elapsed), measure all fluid property values and
compare them against threshold values to see if any of them are
still exceeded.
[0208] Method step 222: If all measured values are within expected
parameters, there is not likely to be a Dangerous Condition
present.
[0209] Method step 224: Since all measured fluid properties were
identified to be within acceptable threshold(s), return to method
step 202 and repeat the process again after 30-seconds have
elapsed.
[0210] Method step 226: If one or more of the SAME thresholds are
exceeded for two consecutive cycles, there is a potential Dangerous
Condition. The Dangerous Condition Process will then assign a
SECOND strike to each value that exceeds a threshold. If one or
more new thresholds are exceeded, assign a FIRST strike to those
values.
[0211] Method step 230: For the THIRD time, the fluid property
sensor 70 installed within the fluid device/system 10/120 measures
several parameters of the fluid flow and stores them on a data
storage device located on the PCBA 111. This happens every thirty
seconds.
[0212] Method step 232: perform method step 206.
[0213] Referring to FIG. 15B, Performing a Dangerous Condition
Check 200 continues with the following method steps:
[0214] Method step 234: Upon the THIRD sensor measurement (after
30-seconds have elapsed), measure all fluid property values and
compare them against threshold values to see if any of them are
still exceeded.
[0215] Method step 236: If all measured values are within expected
parameters, there is not likely to be a Dangerous Condition
present.
[0216] Method step 238: Since all measured properties were
identified to be within acceptable threshold(s), return to method
step 202 and repeat the process again after 30-seconds have
elapsed.
[0217] Method step 240: If one or more of the SAME thresholds are
exceeded, there is a potential Dangerous Condition. The Dangerous
Condition Process will then assign a THIRD strike to each value
that exceeds a threshold. If one or more new thresholds are
exceeded, assign a FIRST strike to those values.
[0218] Method step 242: For the FOURTH time, the fluid property
sensor 70 installed within the fluid device/system 10/120 measures
several parameters of the fluid flow and stores them on a data
storage device located on the PCBA 111. This happens every thirty
seconds.
[0219] Method step 244: Fluid device/system 10/120 sensor inputs
include: 1) Fluid Pressure, 2) Fluid Temperature, 3) Dynamic
Viscosity of the fluid, 4) Dielectric Constant of the fluid, 5)
Density of the fluid.
[0220] Method step 246: Upon the FOURTH sensor measurement (after
30-seconds have elapsed), measure all fluid property values and
compare them against threshold values to see if any of them are
still exceeded.
[0221] Method step 248: repeat method step 236.
[0222] Method step 250: repeat method step 238.
[0223] Method step 252: If one or more of the SAME thresholds are
exceeded, there is a potential Dangerous Condition. The Dangerous
Condition Process will then assign a FOURTH strike to each value
that exceeds a threshold. If one or more new thresholds are
exceeded, assign a FIRST strike to those values.
[0224] Method step 254: All values with thresholds that have been
exceeded for FOUR consecutive times (FOUR strikes) measured over
four (4) consecutive 30-second cycles (total elapsed time of two
(2) minutes) are taken to be indicators of the presence of one or
more Dangerous Conditions, one for each threshold exceeded.
[0225] Method step 256: Utilize the threshold definitions stored on
the fluid device/system 10/120 to determine if each Dangerous
Condition is representative of a WARNING Condition (Less Severe) or
a DANGER Condition (More Severe).
[0226] Method step 258: If there is a DANGER Condition present,
initiate an "exception-based," autonomous oil sample collection
event, blink appropriate SmartOil system status indicator light(s),
and send DANGER alarm notifications (that is, SMS (short message
service) text message, email, auto-attendant phone call(s),
etc.).
[0227] Method step 260: If there is a WARNING Condition present,
blink appropriate fluid device/system 10/120 status indicator
light(s), and send WARNING alarms (i.e. SMS text message, email,
auto-attendant phone call(s), etc.).
[0228] Referring to FIG. 16, another exemplary non-limiting fluid
method 300 includes Temperature Correcting Oil Dielectric Constant
Measurements 300. The fluid device/system 10/120 is capable of
eliminating the effects of temperature changes to dielectric
constant measurements and determining the real departure of an
oil's dielectric constant from the oil's baseline (virgin)
dielectric constant. Performing a Temperature Correcting Oil
Dielectric Constant Measurements 300 includes the following method
steps:
[0229] Method step 302: The fluid device/system 10/120 utilizes the
in situ fluid property sensor 70 to measure the Temperature and
Dielectric Constant of the fluid every 30-seconds.
[0230] Method step 304: The fluid property sensor 70 inputs
include: 1) Fluid Temperature, 2) Dielectric Constant of the
fluid.
[0231] Method step 306: The fluid device/system 10/120 applies the
mathematical function for temperature correction of dielectric
constant, where the inputs are defined in method step 304. This
function is specifically derived in the laboratory for a given
manufacturer, SAE grade, and/or formulation of hydrocarbon based
lubricant. Bd=Baseline Dielectric Constant; T=Oil Temperature in
degrees Celsius; Bd=exp(0.8226736+(-6.1007466.times.1
e-6.times.T.times.T)).
[0232] Method step 308: The fluid device/system 10/120 system is
able to produce the temperature corrected dielectric constant in
terms of "% OF NEW," thereby allowing for the identification of
harmful oil property changes, thus providing the operator with
Actionable Information in order to make informed decisions and take
appropriate corrective action, if deemed necessary.
[0233] Referring to FIG. 17, another exemplary non-limiting fluid
method 340 includes Performing an Oil Sample Collection (Oil Sample
Bottle Fill Event) 340. The fluid device/system 10/120 is able to
use this process to precisely and repeatably fill an Oil Sample
Bottle 34 for subsequent Laboratory Analysis. Performing a Oil
Sample Collection 340 includes the following method steps:
[0234] Method step 342: performing a request for an Oil Sample
Collect Event.
[0235] Method step 344: The fluid device/system 10/120 utilizes
on-board in situ sensors 70 to measure the Pressure, Temperature
and Viscosity of the fluid.
[0236] Method step 346: Fluid device/system 10/120 sensor inputs
include: 1) Fluid Pressure; 2) Fluid Temperature; and 3) Viscosity
of the fluid.
[0237] Method step 348: The fluid device/system 10/120 applies the
mathematical function for calculation of Solenoid 19 Valve On-Time,
where the inputs are defined in method step 346. This function is
specifically derived in the laboratory for a given SAE Grade and/or
formulation of hydrocarbon based lubricant.
[0238] Method step 350: The fluid device/system 10/120 performs a
system check to ensure that the Oil Sample bottle 34 is empty.
[0239] Method step 352: If the Oil Sample Bottle 34 is not empty,
do not turn on the Solenoid 19 Oil Sampling Valve.
[0240] Method step 354: Instead, blink applicable fluid
device/system 10/120 status light(s) 49 and/or 69, send the
sampling event information to the Remote Data Server 123 (FIG. 14B)
where the appropriate alerts and notifications are generated. In
the case of a ROUTINE sampling event (as opposed to EXCEPTION or
MANUAL), wait to perform the oil sample collection until the sample
bottle 34 has been retrieved and an empty sample bottle 34 is put
in its place.
[0241] Method step 356: The solenoid 19 Oil Sampling Valve is
turned on (Opened) for the Solenoid 19 Valve On-Time calculated in
method step 348. This allows oil to flow to be diverted from the
recirculating oil flow path into the Oil Sample Bottle 34, and
filling the bottle 34 with the precise fluid volume per the bottle
configuration programmed into the fluid device/system 10/120
microprocessor firmware.
[0242] Method step 358: Once the Solenoid 19 Valve On-Time value
has elapsed, the Solenoid 19 Oil Sampling Valve is turned off
(Closed) to stop the diverted flow of oil into the Oil Sample
Bottle 34.
[0243] Method step 360: Blink applicable Solenoid 19 status
light(s) 49 and/or 69, send the sampling event information to the
remote data server 123 where the appropriate alerts and
notifications are generated and sent (i.e. SMS text message, email,
auto-attendant phone call(s), etc.).
[0244] Referring to FIG. 18, another exemplary non-limiting fluid
method 380 includes Temperature Correcting Oil Viscosity
Measurements 380. Enabling the fluid device/system 10/120 to
eliminate the effects of temperature changes and determine the real
departure of an oil's viscosity from the oil's baseline (virgin)
viscosity. Performing a Temperature Correcting Oil Viscosity
Measurements 380 includes the following method steps:
[0245] Method step 382: The fluid device/system 10/120 utilizes the
in situ fluid property sensor 70 to measure the Temperature and
Viscosity of the fluid every 30-seconds.
[0246] Method step 384: Fluid device/system 10/120 inputs include:
1) Fluid Temperature; and 2) Viscosity of the fluid.
[0247] Method step 386: The fluid device/system 10/120 applies the
mathematical function for temperature correction of viscosity,
where the inputs are defined in method step 384. This function is
specifically derived in the laboratory for a given manufacturer,
SAE grade, and/or formulation of hydrocarbon based lubricant.
Bv=Baseline Viscosity; T=Oil Temperature in degrees Celsius;
Bv=(1.5763649+(17018.976/(T.times.T)){circumflex over ( )}2)).
Please refer to the above the section entitled: Proprietary
Algorithm for Real-Time Temperature Correction of Engine Oil
Viscosity for additional support and disclosure.
[0248] Method step 388: The fluid device/system 10/120 is able to
produce the temperature corrected viscosity for the oil in terms of
"% OF NEW," thereby allowing for the identification of harmful oil
property changes, thus providing the operator with Actionable
Information in order to make informed decisions and take
appropriate corrective action, if deemed necessary.
[0249] Referring to FIG. 19, another exemplary non-limiting fluid
method 400 includes Triggering an Oil Sample Collect 400. The Oil
Sample Events can be triggered in one of three ways, these include:
1) MANUAL SAMPLE--manually performed by a mechanic/operator
(human), 2) ROUTINE SAMPLE--automatically triggered by the fluid
device/system 10/120 firmware (machine time schedule-based), 3)
SAMPLE-BY-EXCEPTION--automatically triggered by the fluid
device/system 10/120 firmware (Dangerous Condition
exception-based). Performing Triggering an Oil Sample Collect 400
includes the following method steps:
[0250] Method step 402: The fluid device/system 10/120 counts the
machine's operating time in hours and is able to trigger a ROUTINE
oil sample collection event based on a pre-set (user configurable)
interval of machine operating hours. This ensures that Oil Samples
are collected consistently and regularly based on the machine's
operation. Every time the configurable machine hour interval
elapses, the fluid device/system 10/120 performs an Oil Sample
Collect Event and the interval is re-set, starting the countdown
over again.
[0251] Method step 404: If the fluid device/system 10/120
RESET/SAMPLE button 91 is pressed, a MANUAL (human triggered) Oil
Sample Collection Event can be performed. This enables the user of
the fluid device/system 10/120 to collect a sample of oil upon
demand, or at will.
[0252] Method step 406: Any of the three (3) fluid device/system
10/120 Sampling Trigger methods (Manual vs. Routine vs.
Exception-Based) causes the Sample Collection process to be
activated, this method/process is described in fluid method 340
shown in FIG. 17.
[0253] Method step 408: If the Dangerous Condition Method/Process
(described in FIG. 15A, 15B as fluid method 200) identifies the
presence of a DANGEROUS CONDITION, the Oil Sample Collection
process is triggered automatically (e.g. Exception-Based method),
generating a Sample-by-Exception oil sample.
[0254] Method step 410: If none of the conditions required to
trigger a Oil Sample Collection process are present, the fluid
device/system 10/120 will continue its normal operations by
default.
[0255] Referring to FIG. 20, another exemplary non-limiting fluid
method 430 includes Auto-Calibration of fluid device/system 10/120
Sensor Measurements 430. Auto-Calibration of Sensor Measurements;
The unique combination of Real-Time Sensor Data and High-Quality
Laboratory Analysis allows the fluid device/system 10/120 sensors
to be automatically calibrated if or when the need arises.
Performing Auto-Calibration of fluid device/system 10/120 Sensor
Measurements 430 includes the following method steps:
[0256] Method step 432: The fluid property sensor 70 installed
within the fluid device/system 10/120 measures several parameters
of the fluid flow and stores the measurement values to data storage
device (i.e. RAM, ROM, Flash memory) located on the PCBA 111. The
data is also transmitted to the remote Data Server 123 (FIG. 14B)
via the internet.
[0257] Method step 434: Fluid device/system 10/120 sensor inputs
include: 1) Density of the Fluid, 2) Fluid Temperature, 3) Dynamic
Viscosity of the fluid, 4) Dielectric Constant of the fluid, 5)
Water Content of the fluid.
[0258] Method step 436: The fluid device/system 10/120 performs an
Oil Sampling event and makes a sensor measurement at the same time
the sensor data is sent up to the remote Data Server 123. The Oil
that is collected in the Oil Sample Bottle 34 is representative of
the previously mentioned sensor measurements. Theoretically, the
laboratory analysis results and the fluid device/system 10/120
sensor data values should agree very closely.
[0259] Method step 438: The Oil Sample bottle 34 is shipped to the
oil analysis laboratory where the oil in the bottle is analyzed and
the oil analysis data is sent to the remote Data Server 123.
[0260] Method step 440: On the remote Application Server 124 (FIG.
14B), the lab analysis data (method step 438) and the concurrent
sensor data (method step 436) are compared against each other.
[0261] Method step 442: If the lab analysis data and the fluid
device/system 10/120 sensor data agree closely with each other, it
can be said that the fluid device/system 10/120 sensors are
calibrated correctly and there is no need for calibration.
[0262] Method step 444: In the case that there is no need for
calibration, the process is repeated at the time of the next
ROUTINE oil sample collection event.
[0263] Method step 446: If the lab analysis data and the fluid
device/system 10/120 sensor data do NOT agree closely with each
other, it can be said that the fluid device/system 10/120 sensors
are not calibrated correctly and there is a need to calibrate the
fluid device/system 10/120 sensors. The remote Application Server
124 calculates the appropriate calibration factor(s) for each
affected fluid device/system 10/120 sensor based on the discrepancy
between the laboratory analysis results and the concurrent sensor
data.
[0264] Method step 448: The calibration factor(s) calculated on the
remote Application Server 124 are automatically sent from the
remote Output Server 125 (FIG. 14B) to the fluid device 10 via its
wireless data link in order to appropriately calibrate the fluid
device/system 10/120 sensors.
[0265] Method step 450: Now that the fluid device/system 10/120 has
been auto-calibrated correctly, the Auto-Calibration process is
repeated at the time of the next ROUTINE oil sample collection
event.
[0266] Referring to FIG. 21, another exemplary non-limiting fluid
method 480 includes a method/Process for the Application of Dual
Timestamps to all recorded fluid device/system 10/120 Functions
480. This enables sensor data, alerts, alarms, and events to be
time-stamped according to two distinct and important measurements
of time: 1) Calendar time, or Modified Julian Date (MJD), tracks
the actual date/time of an event or sensor measurement; 2) Machine
time (MT) tracks the time of an event or sensor measurement with
respect to the machine's life history. The fluid device/system
10/120 is able to track MT and only increment the MT counter if the
machine is operating. This enables the possibility of viewing fluid
device/system 10/120 events, sensor data, or Laboratory data with
respect to the machine's operating history. Performing a
method/Process for the Application of Dual Timestamps to all
recorded fluid device/system 10/120 Functions 480 includes the
following method steps:
[0267] Method step 482: The fluid device/system 10/120 constantly
updates the time values stored in its microprocessor with a clock
device (real-time-clock) that is mounted on the motherboard, for
example, main printed circuit board 111.
[0268] Method step 484: The fluid device/system 10/120 has an
on-board real-time-clock (clock device) that precisely keeps track
of the MJD timestamp (e.g. 2015-08-25 2:45:26 PM). The
real-time-clock is automatically synchronized with a world time
server on a regular interval. This synchronization is performed at
period intervals (configurable and programmed in the microprocessor
firmware) via a data link between the fluid device/system 10/120
and the internet. Due to the fluid device/system 10/120 operating
in a hot environment as it is directly mounted to an internal
combustion engine or a compressor, the real-time-clock
synchronization interval is set to an hourly schedule.
[0269] Method step 486: The fluid device/system 10/120 utilizes
sensor input to determine if the machine is in operation or
not.
[0270] Method step 488: Inputs to method step 486 are redundant
accelerometers and oil pressure, if oil pressure is not below a
threshold, and BOTH accelerometers register vibration, the machine
is in operation (ON). If there is no vibration registered (state 1)
AND the oil pressure is below a threshold (state 2), the machine is
NOT in operation (OFF).
[0271] Method step 490: If the machine is registered to be in
operation (ON), the fluid device/system 10/120 increments the
Machine Time counter.
[0272] Method step 492: If the machine is registered to NOT be in
operation (OFF), the fluid device/system 10/120 does not increment
the Machine Time counter.
[0273] Method step 494: Any and all new fluid device/system 10/120
events/data points are generated as a result of normal fluid
device/system 10/120 operations.
[0274] Method step 496: At the instant of the new event/data point,
the fluid device/system 10/120 reads the MJD date/time and the MT
counter value and applies both time values to the event or data
point in such a way that they correspond.
[0275] Method step 498: The new event/data point, now linked to
BOTH the MJD and MT timestamps, is sent to the remote Data Server
123 for long term storage, analysis on the remote Application
Server 124, and output via the remote Output Server 125.
[0276] Referring to FIG. 22, another exemplary non-limiting fluid
method 500 includes an Oil Sample Collection method/Process 500.
Performing an Oil Sample Collection method/Process 500 includes the
following method steps:
[0277] Method step 502: Oil sample collection event-solenoid 19
actuated valve opens for a calculated time allowing precise volume
of oil to fill the sample collection bottle 34. Sample Collection
Event is either manually performed by a mechanic/operator (human),
or automatically triggered by the fluid device/system 10/120
firmware (machine-time (MT) schedule-based (fluid method 480; FIG.
21), or Dangerous Condition exception-based (fluid method 200;
FIGS. 15A and 15B)).
[0278] Method step 504: Immediately upon an oil sample event, the
fluid device/system 10/120 transmits a timestamp (machine time
(MT), and calendar time (MJD)) of the oil sample collection event
(and all other pertinent machine information) to the remote Data
Server 123.
[0279] Method step 506: Once the fluid device/system 10/120 sends
oil sample collection event to the remote Data Server 123, the
remote Data Server 123 automatically sends out an email/SMS (short
message service) text to client informing of an oil sample
collection has just occurred.
[0280] Method step 508: The operator/mechanic (human) who is
dispatched to the equipment-mounted fluid device/system 10/120
retrieves the FILLED oil sample bottle 34. Prior to removing the
bottle from the fluid device/system 10/120, the person uses a
smartphone/tablet equipped with scanning application and manually
scans two (2) labels: 1) the bar code label that is on the oil
sample bottle, and 2) the QR code that is affixed to the fluid
device/system 10/120 housing 18 (located on inner door 24 surface
of enclosure).
[0281] Method step 510: Various forms of client-facing Actionable
Information communications may include: SMS text messages, email
messages, real-time web-based dashboard, auto-attendant phone
calls, etc.
[0282] Method step 512: Input-Sample of bar code (affixed to oil
sample bottle 34) and QR code (affixed to fluid device 10).
[0283] Method step 514: Output-Trackable oil sample I.D. number.
Oil sample chain-of-custody: machine-customer-lab-database-dash
board.
[0284] Method step 516: Once the scanned bar/QR code data has been
collected, the smartphone/tablet wirelessly transmits the data to
the oil analysis laboratory via the remote Data Server 123.
[0285] Method step 518: The scanned bar/QR code information for the
specific oil sample and machine is linked to a lab analysis I.D.
record in the lab's database.
[0286] Method step 520: Shipping information is gathered for
shipment of oil sample bottle 34 to oil analysis lab; shipping
charges are applied and postage is charged to client account.
[0287] Method step 522: After the client has retrieved the oil
sample bottle 34, the sample is packaged by the client and shipped
to the oil analysis lab for a detailed oil analysis per ASTM-based
protocol.
[0288] Method step 524: Oil lab analysis results are automatically
uploaded from the lab database to the remote Data Server 123 via a
developed API. API=Application Programming Interface. (method step
548 of FIG. 23).
[0289] Method step 526: Alert notifications are sent to client
(i.e., SMS text, email, auto-attendant phone call(s)) informing the
client of the fluid device/system 10/120-monitored equipment system
status from which the client can choose to take further action (or
not).
[0290] Method step 528: Shipping label file is generated for
shipment of oil sample bottle 34 to oil analysis lab; shipping
charges are applied and postage is charged to client account.
[0291] Method Step 530: Various forms of client-facing Actionable
Information communications may include: SMS text messages, email
messages, real-time web-based dashboard, auto-attendant phone
calls, etc.
[0292] Referring to FIG. 23, a diagram to further illustrate fluid
method 500 of FIG. 22 for an Oil Sample Collection method/Process.
This diagram includes the following reference numerals:
[0293] 532: a fluid device/system 10/120 had been provided on a
machine/equipment (method step 502 of FIG. 22).
[0294] 534: Data transmission is performed from fluid device/system
10/120 to remote Data Server 123 (method step 504 of FIG. 22).
[0295] 536: Oil Sample Bottle 34 is filled with oil ready to be
analyzed by Laboratory.
[0296] 538: Bar code containing unique serial number, affixed to
oil sample bottle 34 (method steps 512, 514 of FIG. 22).
[0297] 540: QR code containing unique machine I.D. information
(method steps 512, 514 of FIG. 22).
[0298] 542: Operator retrieves FILLED oil sample bottle from fluid
device/system 10/120 (method step 508 of FIG. 22).
[0299] 544: Person (operator, mechanic) who collects physical oil
sample bottles 34 and ships to Oil Analysis Laboratory.
[0300] 546: Remote Data Server 123.
[0301] 548: Oil analysis test results is data wirelessly
transmitted to remote Data Server (method step 524 of FIG. 22).
[0302] 550: Oil Analysis Laboratory where physical oil sample
bottles are shipped and analyzed.
[0303] 552: Actionable Information (method step 524 of FIG.
22).
[0304] 554: Wireless data link between remote Data Server 123 and
smartphone/tablet application (method step 506 of FIG. 22).
[0305] 556: Bar/QR code data scanned by the smartphone/tablet
Scanning App and wirelessly transmitted to Data Server 123 (method
steps 516, 518 of FIG. 22).
[0306] 558: Shipping label file generated by remote Application
Server 124 and wirelessly transmitted to customer for local
printing and affixing to shipment of physical oil sample bottle 34
(method step 536 of FIG. 22) to Oil Analysis Laboratory (method
steps 550, 520 of FIG. 22).
[0307] 560: Physical Oil Sample Bottle 34 shipped to Oil Analysis
Laboratory utilizing generated Shipping Label (method step 522 of
FIG. 22).
[0308] 562: Custom shipping label for physical oil sample bottle 34
(method step 536 of FIG. 22).
[0309] 564: Smartphone/Tablet Application used for scanning bar/QR
codes and wirelessly transmitting to Oil Analysis Laboratory.
[0310] 566: Physical oil sample bottle 34 with bar code label
affixed (method step 514 of FIG. 22).
[0311] 570: Bottle I.D. and timestamp data wirelessly transmitted
to Oil Analysis Laboratory (method step 522 of FIG. 22).
[0312] In compliance with the statute, the various embodiments have
been described in language more or less specific as to structural
and methodical features. It is to be understood, however, that the
various embodiments are not limited to the specific features shown
and described, since the means herein disclosed comprise
disclosures of putting the various embodiments into effect. The
various embodiments are, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or
modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims
appropriately interpreted in accordance with the doctrine of
equivalents.
* * * * *
References