NON-NEWTONIAN FLUIDS TRANSFERRING ASSISTIVE DEVICE

Abstract

A non-Newtonian fluids transferring assistive device comprising, a L-shaped body 101 developed to be positioned in proximity to an auxiliary container, a microphone 102 integrated in the body 101 for enabling user to provide input voice commands for attaching to the container, an imaging unit 103 is mounted on the body 101 and paired with a processor to determine distance of edges of the container, a pair of motorized clamps 104 installed on proximal end of the body 101, each by means of an extendable rod 105 to extend/retract to positon the clamps 104 in proximity to the edges for acquiring a grip of the edges, in view of attaching the body 101 on the container, a hemispherical member 106 installed on distal end of the body 101, an ultrasonic sensor embedded on the member 106 determining quantity of a fluid present in the container.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a non-Newtonian fluids transferring assistive device that is capable of assisting a user in transferring non-Newtonian fluids accurately by monitoring quantity and viscosity of the fluid.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Non-Newtonian fluids have variable viscosity, changing under stress or shear rate, unlike Newtonian fluids with constant viscosity. The behaviour of non-Newtonian fluids can be characterized by shear-thinning (pseudoplastic), shear-thickening (dilatant), thixotropic, or rheopectic properties. Transferring these fluids requires specialized tools to handle their unique flow characteristics. Traditionally gear pumps, diaphragm pumps, and peristaltic pumps are often used to manage the unique flow properties of non-Newtonian fluids, ensuring consistent delivery despite viscosity changes.

[0003] Although the traditional method of manually assisting the user in transferring non-Newtonian fluids using gear pumps that has proven effective to some extent, but it comes with inherent limitations. Maintaining consistent flow rates is challenging, especially with fluids that exhibit extreme shear-thinning or shear-thickening behavior. And higher energy consumption is often required to move highly viscous or shear-thickening fluids, leading to increased operational costs. Thus, there is a need to develop an innovative tool that provide a consistent way of assisting the user in transferring non-Newtonian fluids where traditional methods may fall short and to meet the evolving demands of modern requirements.

[0004] WO2001085355A2 discloses about a spray applicator and method of spraying liquids to an area of interest. More particularly, the present invention is particularly useful in spraying non-Newtonian fluids, such as polymer solutions, especially aqueous fibrinogen agents, to a work surface. The spray applicator of the present invention comprises a liquid-dispensing aperture, a spray plate capable of receiving the liquid dispensed from the liquid-dispensing aperture, and a gas nozzle to provide a stream of carrier gas. The liquid is dispensed onto the spray plate in a plurality of forms, including, for example, a steam or as droplets. The stream of carrier gas flows proximate a shear edge formed on the spray plate. The kinetic energy of the flowing stream of carrier gas draws the liquid off the shear edge of the spray plate resulting in the atomizing of the liquid.

[0005] US5116315A discloses about system for delivering a first and second fluid in a mixed composition comprising a manifold. The manifold has first and second component channels there through and first and second input connections respectively communicating with the first and second component channels. The first and second component channels terminate in exit channels adjacent to each other on an opposing end of the manifold. A discharge assembly is coupled to the opposing end of the manifold and receives fluid from both of the exit channels. The discharge assembly is used for mixing fluid from both of the exit channels and delivering the mixed fluid in a spray. The discharge assembly has a first and second passage there through communicating with the exit channels from the manifold for carrying fluid from the first and second component channels in corresponding first and second passages within the discharge assembly while maintaining the first and second fluids separated from each other. The discharge assembly has a mixing space defined therein to receive separate flows from the passages. The discharge assembly further comprises a mixing mechanism disposed within the mixing space to thoroughly mix the first and second fluids for the first time within the mixing space and to immediately thereafter atomize the thoroughly mixed first and second fluids in a spray discharged from the discharge assembly.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices exist that are capable of transferring non-Newtonian fluids, however these devices fail in providing an accurate measurement and monitoring of fluid quantity and viscosity thereby ensuring an optimal transfer of fluid in a secured manner.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of assisting the user in transferring non-Newtonian fluids in a safely. Additionally, the device is to be potent enough of providing a precise measurement and monitoring of fluid quantity and viscosity thereby ensures an ideal transfer of fluid.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of assisting the user in transferring non-Newtonian fluids in a safe and secure manner.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing an accurate measurement and monitoring of fluid quantity and viscosity, thereby ensures an optimal transfer of fluid.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of maintaining fluid viscosity within an optimal range through temperature regulation, ensuring smooth and consistent fluid transfer regardless of external conditions.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a non-Newtonian fluids transferring assistive device that is capable of ensuring smooth and consistent fluid transfer regardless of external conditions by maintaining fluid viscosity within an optimal range through temperature regulation.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a non-Newtonian fluids transferring assistive device comprising, a L-shaped body developed to be positioned in proximity to an auxiliary container, wherein a microphone is integrated in the body for enabling user to provide input voice commands for attaching to the container, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit is mounted on the body and paired with a processor to determine distance of edges of the container, wherein a pair of motorized clamps installed on proximal end of the body, each by means of an extendable rod that is actuated by an inbuilt microcontroller to extend/retract to positon the clamp in proximity to the edges for acquiring a grip of the edges, in view of attaching the body on the container, a hemispherical member installed on distal end of the body, wherein an ultrasonic sensor is embedded on the member determining quantity of a fluid present in the container, based on which the microcontroller actuates a DC motor linked with the member to rotate for inducing a rotational motion in the member, for allowing the fluid to get translated outwards of the container's edges.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises, a rectangular plate arranged behind the member for preventing splattering of the fluid in surroundings of the container, and providing a path to the fluid for getting collected in an auxiliary chamber positioned beneath the body, thereby assisting the user in extracting the fluid into the chamber, multiple flaps are assembled on the member's edges by means of a motorized ball and socket joint that is actuated by the microcontroller to provide required movement to the flaps for mixing the fluid, as per the user's requirements, a viscosity sensor is embedded in the member for monitoring viscosity of the fluid, in accordance to which the microcontroller regulates actuation of the motor to rotate at an optimal speed for transferring the fluid, as monitored by a RPM (Rotations per minute) sensor linked with the motor, wherein in case the monitored viscosity recedes/exceeds a threshold value, the microcontroller actuates plurality of Peltier units integrated on the member for providing an optimum heating/cooling effect onto the fluid for maintaining an ambient temperature required for smooth transferring the fluids, a laser measurement sensor is embedded in the body for monitoring dimensions of the container's edges, in accordance to which the microcontroller actuates plurality of motorized hinges integrated within the clamp to adjust gripping of the clamp for properly securing the clamp on the container, multiple suction cups are arranged on inner periphery of the clamp for adhering to the container's surface, in a secure manner, a battery is configured with the device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with the device.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a non-Newtonian fluids transferring assistive device; and
Figure 2 illustrates a back view of the hemispherical member associated with the proposed device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises," and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having" and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to a non-Newtonian fluids transferring assistive device that is capable of assisting the user in transferring non-Newtonian fluids in a secure manner as well as maintains the fluid viscosity within an optimal range through temperature regulation.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, an isometric view of a non-Newtonian fluids transferring assistive device and a back view of the hemispherical member associated with the proposed device is illustrated, respectively comprises of a L-shaped body 101 developed to be positioned in proximity to an auxiliary container, a microphone 102 is integrated in the body 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 is mounted on the body 101, a pair of motorized clamps 104 installed on proximal end of the body 101 by means of an extendable rod 105, a hemispherical member 106 installed on distal end of the body 101, a DC motor 201 linked with the member 106, plurality of flaps 107 are assembled on the member 106 edges by means of a motorized ball and socket joint 108, plurality of Peltier units 202 integrated on the member 106, plurality of motorized hinges 109 integrated within the clamps 104, plurality of suction cups 110 are arranged on inner periphery of the clamps 104.

[0023] The propose device comprises of an L-shaped body 101 developed to be positioned in proximity to an auxiliary container. The body 101 is made up of stainless steel that offers corrosion resistance, strength and durability to the device and is easy to maintain. A push button is integrated in the body 101 for activating or deactivating the device. The user manually pushes the button, when the button is pressed the electrical circuit gets completed, allowing flow of electric current to actuates a microcontroller associated with the device that regulates the working of the device.

[0024] A microphone 102 integrated in the body 101 enables the user to provide input voice commands for attaching the body 101 to the container. The microphone 102 contains a small diaphragm connected to a moving coil. When sound waves of the user hit the diaphragm, the coil vibrates. This causes the coil to move back and forth in the magnet's field, generating an electrical current. The signal of which are sent to the microcontroller.

[0025] Upon receiving the users input command, the microcontroller actuates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 mounted on the body 101 and paired with a processor. The imaging unit 103 captures and processes multiple images in vicinity of the frame to determine the distance of edges of the container. The artificial intelligence based imaging unit 103 comprises of a camera lens and a processor, wherein the 360 degree rotatable camera captures multiple images of the frame and then the processor carries out a sequence of steps including pre-processing, feature extraction and segmentation. In pre-processing, the unwanted data like noise, background is removed out and the image is converted into a format recommended for feature extraction. The features like pixel intensities of the foreground image are extracted and are sent for classification to determine distance of edges of the container.

[0026] Upon determining the distance of edges of the container, the microcontroller actuates a pair of motorized clamps 104 installed on proximal end of the body 101 by means of an extendable rod 105 to extend/retract in order to positon the clamps 104 in proximity to the edges for attaching the body 101 on the container. The extendable rod 105 is linked to a pneumatic unit, including an air compressor, air cylinders, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the rod. The pneumatic unit is operated by the microcontroller, such that the microcontroller actuates valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the motorized clamps 104 and due to applied pressure the motorized clamps 104 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the extendable rod 105 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the piston in order to positon the clamps 104 in proximity to the edges.

[0027] The motorized clamps 104 is a fastening equipment used to hold or secure the body 101 and container tightly together to prevent movement or separation of body 101 and container. The motorized clamps 104 comprises a pair of curved motorize clamps 104, attached with motor to grip the container. Motor is actuated by the microcontroller to open/close the motorize clamps 104 for acquiring a grip of the edges of the container for attaching the body 101 on the container.

[0028] The body 101 has an embedded laser measurement sensor that monitors the dimensions of the container's edges. The laser measurement sensor consists of an emitter and receiver, and works on the principle of measuring the time delay between the laser beam to travel to the container's edges and back. The laser sensor emits a light towards the surface of container's edges and when the laser beam hits the surface of the container's edges, the beam reflects back towards the receiver of the sensor. Upon detection of reflected beam by the sensor, the sensor precisely measures the time taken for the laser beam to travel to and back from the surface of the container's edges. The sensor then calculates the dimensions of the container's edges and the calculated dimensions of the container's edges is then converted into electrical signal, in the form of current, and send to a microcontroller.

[0029] Upon receiving the signals, the microcontroller actuates plurality of motorized hinges 109 integrated within the clamps 104 to adjust the gripping of the clamps 104 in order to secure the clamps 104 on the container. The motorized hinge joint comprises of a pair of leaf that is screwed with the surfaces of the clamps 104. The leaf are connected with each other by means of a cylindrical member 106 integrated with a shaft coupled with a DC (Direct Current) motor to provide required movement to the hinge. The rotation of the shaft in clockwise and anti-clockwise aids in opening and closing of the hinge, respectively. Hence, the microcontroller actuates the hinge that in turn provides movement to the clamps 104 for securely gripping of the clamps 104 on the container.

[0030] The clamps 104 is configured with plurality of suction cups 110 that are arranged on inner periphery of the clamps 104, in order to adhere the container's surface in a secure manner. Plurality of suction cups 110 ranges in between four to six in numbers. The suction cups 110 used herein are made up of silicone rubber that easily eliminates pressure inside the suction cup and creating a vacuum between the cup and the container's surface which seals the pipe tightly to the suction cup, resisting any slipping of the container's in order to affix the containers with the clamps 104.

[0031] Upon successful attachment of the body 101 and container, the microcontroller actuates plurality of flaps 107 assembled on the member 106 edges by means of a motorized ball and socket joint 108 to provide required movement to the flaps 107 for mixing the fluid, as per the user's requirements. The fluids may include but not limited to non-Newtonian fluids such as adhesive solutions, paints and polymer solutions. Plurality of flaps 107 ranges in between six to eight in numbers. The motorized ball and socket joint 108 includes a motor powered by the microcontroller generating electrical current, a ball shaped element and a socket. The ball move freely within the socket. The motor rotates the ball in various directions that is controlled by the microcontroller that further commands the motor to position the ball precisely. The microcontroller further actuates the motor to generate electrical current to rotate in the joint for providing movement to the flaps 107 for mixing the fluid, as per the user's requirements.

[0032] Upon mixing the fluid an ultrasonic sensor embedded on the member determines the quantity of a fluid present in the container. The ultrasonic sensor works by emitting ultrasonic waves and then measuring the time taken by these waves to bounce back after hitting the surface of the fluid. The ultrasonic sensor includes two main parts viz. transmitter, and a receiver for determining quantity of the fluid. The transmitter sends a short ultrasonic pulse towards the surface of fluid which propagates through the air at the speed of sound and reflects back as an echo to the transmitter as the pulse hits the fluid. The transmitter then detects the reflected eco from the surface fluid and calculations is performed by the sensor based on the time interval between the sending signal and receiving echo to determine the quantity of the fluid present in the container. The determined data is sent to the microcontroller in a signal form.

[0033] Based on determined date the microcontroller further process the signal to, actuates a DC motor 201 linked with a hemispherical member 106 installed on distal end of the body 101 to rotate for inducing a rotational motion in the member 106, in order to allow the fluid to get translated outwards of the container's edges. DC motor 201 works on the principle of electromagnetic induction. The stator generates a magnetic field which usually consists of a permanent magnet or as set of coils through which direct current flows. The rotor is the moving part of the motor. The armature is connected to a commutator which is a rotary switch that reverses the direction of the current in the coil every half-turn. As the armature rotates, the brushes ensure a continuous flow of current by reversing its direction at the right moments. When the DC is applied to the armature, a magnetic field is created around the coil due to the current flowing through the coil. As the DC electric motor rotates, the rotational force rotates the arrangement, which in turn rotates the frame along with the shaft in an anticlockwise and clockwise rotation for allowing the fluid to get translated outwards of the container's edges.

[0034] A viscosity sensor embedded in the member 106 monitors the viscosity of the fluid. The viscosity sensor accesses the viscosity of the fluid by determining the torque or the force required to rotate the stirrer immersed in the mixture. As the stirrer rotates within the mortar mixture, the resistance encountered relates to the viscosity of the fluid. Higher viscosity corresponds to greater resistance. The measured torque data is processed by the microcontroller to determine the viscosity of the fluid. In accordance to monitored viscosity of the fluid the microcontroller regulates the actuation of the motor to rotate at an optimal speed for transferring the fluid, as monitored by a RPM (Rotations per minute) sensor linked with the motor. RPM sensors convert mechanical motion into electric pulses with or without direct contact when positioned near a turning rotor, gear, and shaft. The resultant output signals are then fed to a digital counter about the transferring the fluid.

[0035] In case the monitored viscosity recedes/exceeds a threshold value, the microcontroller actuates plurality of Peltier units 202 integrated on the member 106 to provide an optimum heating/cooling effect onto the fluid to maintain an ambient temperature required for smooth transferring the fluids. The Peltier unit also known as peltier device, thermoelectric cooler etc, is a small electronic component that utilizes the Peltier effect to create a heat flux between two materials. When an electric current flows through the junction of two dissimilar conductors, heat is absorbed at one junction (Cooling one side) while heat is released at other junction (heating the other side). Thus, the Peltier unit maintains an ambient temperature required for smooth transferring the fluids.

[0036] While translating the fluid outwards of the container's edges, a rectangular plate arranged behind the member 106 prevents the splattering of the fluid in surroundings of the container. Thus, provides a path to the fluid for getting collected in an auxiliary chamber positioned beneath the body 101, thereby assist the user in extracting the fluid into the chamber.

[0037] Lastly, a battery is installed within the device which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies current to all the electrically powered components that needs an amount of electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here, is generally a dry battery which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the device a long-lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. As the device is battery operated and do not need any electrical voltage for functioning. Hence the presence of battery leads to the portability of the device i.e., user is able to place as well as moves the device from one place to another as per the requirements.

[0038] The present invention works best in the following manner, comprises of the L-shaped body 101 positioned near an auxiliary container holding the fluid. The microphone 102 allows the user to initiate the attachment process through voice commands. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 captures and processes images to determine the distance and position of the container's edges. Based on this data, the microcontroller controls the pair of motorized clamps 104 to secure the device to the container. These clamps 104 are equipped with motorized hinges 109 and suction cups 110 to ensure the firm grip. The ultrasonic sensor measures the fluid quantity. This data prompts the microcontroller to activate the DC motor 201 that induces rotational motion in the member 106, facilitating the outward translation of the fluid from the container's edges. The motorized flaps 107 are adjusted to mix the fluid as per user requirements. The viscosity sensor monitors the fluid's viscosity, allowing the microcontroller to regulate the motor's speed for optimal transfer. If the viscosity exceeds or falls below the threshold, the microcontroller activates Peltier units 202 to heat or cool the fluid, maintaining the ambient temperature for smooth transfer. Additionally, a rectangular plate prevents splattering and directs the fluid into an auxiliary chamber, ensuring clean and efficient collection.

[0039] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A non-Newtonian fluids transferring assistive device, comprising:

i) a L-shaped body 101 developed to be positioned in proximity to an auxiliary container, wherein a microphone 102 is integrated in said body 101 for enabling user to provide input voice commands for attaching to said container;

ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 is mounted on said body 101 and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of said frame, respectively to determine distance of edges of said container, wherein a pair of motorized clamps 104 installed on proximal end of said body 101, each by means of an extendable rod 105 that is actuated by an inbuilt microcontroller to extend/retract to positon said clamps 104 in proximity to said edges for acquiring a grip of said edges, in view of attaching said body 101 on said container;

iii) a hemispherical member 106 installed on distal end of said body 101, wherein an ultrasonic sensor is embedded on said member 106 determining quantity of a fluid present in said container, based on which said microcontroller actuates a DC motor 201 linked with said member 106 to rotate for inducing a rotational motion in said member 106, for allowing said fluid to get translated outwards of said container's edges; and

iv) a rectangular plate arranged behind said member 106 for preventing splattering of said fluid in surroundings of said container, and providing a path to said fluid for getting collected in an auxiliary chamber positioned beneath said body 101, thereby assisting said user in extracting said fluid into said chamber.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein plurality of flaps 107 are assembled on said member 106 edges by means of a motorized ball and socket joint 108 that is actuated by said microcontroller to provide required movement to said flaps 107 for mixing said fluid, as per said user's requirements.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a viscosity sensor is embedded in said member 106 for monitoring viscosity of said fluid, in accordance to which said microcontroller regulates actuation of said motor to rotate at an optimal speed for transferring said fluid, as monitored by a RPM (Rotations per minute) sensor linked with said motor.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein in case said monitored viscosity recedes/exceeds a threshold value, said microcontroller actuates plurality of Peltier units 202 integrated on said member 106 for providing an optimum heating/cooling effect onto said fluid for maintaining an ambient temperature required for smooth transferring said fluids.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a laser measurement sensor is embedded in said body 101 for monitoring dimensions of said container's edges, in accordance to which said microcontroller actuates plurality of motorized hinges 109 integrated within said clamps 104 to adjust gripping of said clamps 104 for properly securing said clamps 104 on said container.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein plurality of suction cups 110 are arranged on inner periphery of said clamps 104 for adhering to said container's surface, in a secure manner.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said fluids may include but is not limited to non-Newtonian fluids such as adhesive solutions, paints and polymer solutions.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is configured with said device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with said device.

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