Metal wear detection apparatus and method employing microfluidic electronic device
AssigneeThe University of Akron
InventorsJiang Zhe, Li Du, Joan E. Carletta, Robert J. Veillette
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Abstract
An apparatus and a method for detection of wear particles in a lubricant are disclosed. The apparatus includes a microfluidic device including a microchannel sized for a lubricant containing wear particles to pass therethrough and first and second electrodes extending into the microchannel. A detection system is coupled with the electrodes for detection of wear particles passing through the microchannel, based on a change in capacitance of the electrodes.
Claims27
An apparatus for detection of wear particles in a lubricant comprising:
- a microfluidic device comprising:
- a microchannel sized for a lubricant containing wear particles to pass therethrough, and at least one coiled electrode in the microchannel;
- and a detection system for detection of a wear particle passing through the microchannel based on a change in an electrical property of the at least one coiled electrode as a wear particle passes the coiled electrode.
A method for detection of wear particles in a lubricant comprising:
- supplying a lubricant containing wear particles to a microchannel;
- monitoring changes in an electrical property as wear particles pass at least one coiled electrode positioned in the microchannel;
- and detecting wear particles passing through the microchannel based on the monitored change in the electrical property.
A method for forming an apparatus for detection of wear particles in a lubricant comprising:
- providing a coiled electrode on a substrate;
- mounting a body to the substrate such that a microchannel is defined between the substrate and the body over the coiled electrode, such that the coiled electrode is in the microchannel;
- coupling the ends of the coiled electrode with a detection system capable of detecting a change in capacitance or inductance generated when a lubricant containing a wear particle passes through the microchannel;
- wherein the detection system can differentiate between ferrous and non-ferrous particles.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.