The FlowControl pod enables precise liquid handling and measurement through a combination of a flow meter, TDS sensor, and temperature sensor. This interface allows users to calibrate the system to their specific setup, monitor live readings, and evaluate fill timing.
⚠️Note:
- To eneable the FlowControl, select it in the Pod selection.
- Connect an external battery to the SmartSampler when using a Pod, as internal power is not sufficient for Pod operation.
System Overview
- Flow Meter: Measures flow rate based on rotor rotations.
- TDS Sensor: Uses two metal electrodes to estimate Total Dissolved Solids.
- Temperature Sensor: Reports water temperature via analog signal.
GUI Overview
Live Update Panel
- Flow: Current flow rate (in units/s).
- Total Volume: Cumulative flow since start.
- Temperature: Live value in mV and converted to °C.
- TDS: Live value in mV and converted to units/s.
- Update Frequency: Once per second when Live Update is toggled ON.
⚠️Note: TDS and Temperature must be calibrated via the analog calibration menu (not handled in this tab).
Calibration Panel
Use this section to match system measurements to real-world output.
Steps to Calibrate:
- Initial Test Run:
- Enter a Target value (e.g., 25 units).
- Leave Real value as the same (25).
- Click Start – the system fills the volume into a measurement container.
- Observe the physical result (e.g., in a graduated cylinder).
- Enter Real Output:
- Measure what was actually dispensed (e.g., 15 units).
- Enter this value under Real.
- Click Start to restart the the fill process.
- Repeat Step 2
- If the dispensed volume does not yet match the target, repeat the process by adjusting the Real value based on the latest measurement.
- Continue this step until the filled volume meets your accuracy requirements.
- Apply Calibration
- Calibration can only be applied after completing at least one successful fill cycle.
- Once the dispensed volume closely aligns with the target and no further adjustment is needed, click Apply to save the calibration settings.
- Reset Calibration:
- Click ResetCalibration to remove all previous calibration and start over.
⚠️Note: The calibration adjusts internal flow-to-volume conversion to better match your system’s actual performance.
Current State Panel
Shows the real-time process state, including:
- Whether calibration or filling is ongoing or completed.
- Time taken to fill the specified volume (e.g., “Fill time: 8.40 seconds”).
Unit System
FlowControl supports units (“unit(s)”). This can represent liters, deciliters, milliliters, or any custom unit your setup defines. Ensure consistent use of the same unit throughout target and real values.