Gas mixing device

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of gas mixing, in particular to a gas mixing device, which comprises a box body, and further comprises at least two gas inlet flow channels respectively arranged on the box body and configured to access different types of gases; the independent pressure regulating mechanisms are arranged in the box body, one independent pressure regulating mechanism is correspondingly arranged at each gas inlet flow channel, and each independent pressure regulating mechanism comprises a gas regulator used for stabilizing input gas pressure and a flow meter with a regulating function which are sequentially arranged in the gas flowing direction; the mixing unit is arranged in the box body and is configured to mix the gas regulated by the independent pressure regulating mechanisms; the gas outlet runner is communicated with the output end of the mixing unit and is configured to output mixed gas; according to the technical scheme, the gas mixing device can provide high-precision, high-stability and high-uniformity mixed gas, and the gas mixing quality and efficiency in industrial production and scientific research experiments are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of gas mixing technology, and more particularly to gas mixing apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] In industrial production and scientific research experiments, it is often necessary to mix two or more gases in specific proportions to meet different process requirements. For example, in fields such as gas shielded welding, laboratory analysis, physical analysis, medical treatment, food processing, and semiconductor manufacturing, there are strict requirements for the accuracy of the gas mixture ratio, output stability, and mixing uniformity.

[0003] However, existing gas mixing devices generally suffer from several technical problems. First, many existing devices struggle to achieve high-precision proportioning control when mixing multiple gases, especially when arbitrary proportions are required. Their adjustment range and accuracy often fail to meet practical needs. This leads to unstable mixed gas composition, affecting the quality of subsequent processes and product performance. Second, existing devices often fail to effectively stabilize output pressure when the gas input pressure fluctuates, resulting in inaccurate mixing proportions and potentially safety issues. Such pressure fluctuations not only affect mixing accuracy but can also damage downstream equipment. Furthermore, existing gas mixing devices typically employ relatively simple mixing methods in their mixing unit designs, leading to uneven gas mixing and a tendency for stratification or localized excessively high / low concentrations. This is unacceptable for applications requiring highly uniform gas mixing.

[0004] To address the aforementioned issues, existing technologies urgently need improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to address the shortcomings of existing technologies by proposing a gas mixing device.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is: a gas mixing device, including a housing, and further comprising: At least two air inlet channels are respectively provided on the housing and are configured to receive different types of gases; An independent pressure regulating mechanism is installed inside the housing. Each air inlet channel is provided with an independent pressure regulating mechanism. Each independent pressure regulating mechanism includes a gas regulator for stabilizing the input gas pressure and a flow meter with regulating function, arranged sequentially along the gas flow direction. A mixing unit, located within the housing, is configured to mix gases regulated by individual pressure regulating mechanisms. The outlet gas channel is connected to the output end of the mixing unit and is configured to output the mixed gas.

[0007] Preferably, the air intake channel is connected to the first interface of the gas regulator via an air pipe, the second interface of the gas regulator is connected to a pressure gauge via an air pipe, and the pressure is manually adjusted according to the pressure display on the pressure gauge by turning the knob on the gas regulator to achieve pressure stabilization of the input air pressure, and the third interface of the gas regulator is connected to the input end of the flow meter via an air pipe.

[0008] Preferably, a gas pressure reducer is connected to the gas path between the air intake channel and the gas regulator via an air pipe.

[0009] Preferably, the flow meter adopts a double upper and lower base structure, including an upper base and a lower base, with the flow meter body disposed between the upper and lower bases. The flow meter is equipped with an aluminum float inside, and the pipe wall structure of the flow meter adopts a 9 / 16 taper structure.

[0010] Preferably, the output end of the flow meter is equipped with a check valve, which is configured to prevent different gases from flowing back and mixing.

[0011] Preferably, the mixing unit includes: The mixing chamber body has at least two air inlets on its side, and the air inlets are connected to the check valve at the output end of the corresponding flow meter through air pipes. The mixing chamber body is provided with a connecting cavity. A honeycomb metal structure, set within the connecting cavity, is configured to achieve uniform gas mixing through multi-directional airflow collisions; The output connector is threaded to the inner wall of the connecting cavity. After the threaded connection, the output connector presses the honeycomb metal structure into the bottom of the connecting cavity. A sealing ring is installed on the output connector to provide a sealing fit between the output connector and the inner wall of the communicating cavity.

[0012] Preferably, the air outlet channel is a quick-connect plug, and the quick-connect plug is threadedly connected to the output end of the output connector.

[0013] Preferably, the honeycomb metal structure is composed of multiple layers of mesh metal sheets stacked together to form multiple airflow channels.

[0014] Preferably, the layers of mesh metal sheets in the honeycomb metal structure are arranged at staggered angles, so that the gas will collide in multiple directions when it passes through.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects: This invention employs at least two inlet channels, each accepting different types of gas, and equips each inlet channel with an independent pressure regulating mechanism. This mechanism includes a gas regulator and a flow meter. The gas regulator stabilizes the input gas pressure, effectively solving the problem of unstable output pressure in existing devices when the input gas pressure fluctuates, thus avoiding inaccurate mixing ratios and safety hazards. The flow meter regulates and measures the gas flow rate, enabling the device to achieve high-precision mixing ratio control. Especially when arbitrary mixing ratios are required, its adjustment range and accuracy meet practical needs, thereby solving the problem of existing devices' inability to achieve high-precision mixing ratio control.

[0016] Furthermore, the mixing unit of the present invention is configured to mix gases regulated by independent pressure regulating mechanisms and output the mixed gas through an outlet gas channel. This design ensures the stability of the mixed gas composition and the uniformity of mixing, overcoming the problems of uneven mixing, easy stratification, or localized excessively high / low concentrations in existing devices.

[0017] Through the above technical solutions, the gas mixing device of the present invention can provide high-precision, high-stability and high-uniformity mixed gas, improve the quality and efficiency of gas mixing in industrial production and scientific research experiments, and meet the strict requirements of gas shielded welding, laboratory analysis, medical, food processing and semiconductor manufacturing fields for the accuracy of mixed gas ratio, output stability and mixing uniformity. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a front view of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the hybrid unit of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the gas regulator structure of the present invention.

[0019] In the diagram: 1. Housing; 2. Inlet air passage; 3. Gas regulator; 301. First interface; 302. Second interface; 303. Third interface; 304. Pressure gauge; 4. Flow meter; 5. Outlet air passage; 6. Mixing chamber body; 7. Inlet nozzle; 8. Connecting chamber; 9. Honeycomb metal structure; 10. Output connector; 11. Sealing ring; 12. Check valve. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The following description is intended to disclose the invention and enable those skilled in the art to implement it. The preferred embodiments described below are merely examples, and other obvious variations will occur to those skilled in the art.

[0021] like Figures 1 to 4The gas mixing device shown includes a housing 1, and further includes: At least two air inlet channels 2 are respectively provided on the housing 1 and are configured to receive different types of gases; An independent pressure regulating mechanism is installed inside the housing 1. Each air inlet channel 2 is equipped with an independent pressure regulating mechanism. Each independent pressure regulating mechanism includes a gas regulator 3 for stabilizing the input gas pressure and a flow meter 4 with regulating function, arranged sequentially along the gas flow direction. Among them, the gas regulator 3 is used to stabilize the input pressure, ensuring that the subsequent flow meter 4 can be accurately adjusted and measured in a stable pressure environment. The flow meter 4 is used to adjust and measure the gas flow rate to achieve accurate mixing ratio between different gases. The mixing unit, located inside housing 1, is configured to mix the gases after they have been regulated by each independent pressure regulating mechanism; The outlet gas duct 5 is connected to the output end of the mixing unit and is configured to output the mixed gas.

[0022] Specifically, the gas mixing device is designed to integrate all necessary components within a single enclosure 1 to achieve gas mixing functionality. Enclosure 1 provides a protected environment and facilitates the overall installation and relocation of the device. To introduce different types of gases, enclosure 1 is equipped with at least two gas inlet channels 2. These inlet channels 2 can be simple pipe interfaces, such as threaded or compression fittings, allowing external gas sources to be connected via hoses or rigid pipes. For example, in scenarios requiring the mixing of argon and carbon dioxide, two independent inlet channels 2 can be provided, one for argon and the other for carbon dioxide. These inlet channels 2 ensure that different gases remain separated before entering the device. To achieve precise control of each gas flow, the device is equipped with an independent pressure regulating mechanism for each inlet channel 2 within enclosure 1. This independent configuration allows for individual pressure and flow management for each gas. Each independent pressure regulating mechanism typically includes a gas regulator 3 and a flow meter 4. The gas regulator 3 can be a manual knob-type pressure reducing valve from the prior art, used to set and maintain a stable output pressure by operating a knob, for example, by manually adjusting by observing a pressure gauge. The flow meter 4 can be a float flow meter 4 in the prior art, which reads the flow rate by observing the position of the float and changes the flow rate by adjusting the valve. For example, when it is necessary to mix two gases in a specific ratio, the pressure and flow rate of each gas can be adjusted separately to ensure that the gas parameters entering the mixing unit meet the preset requirements.

[0023] The flow meter 4 plays a dual role in the independent pressure regulating mechanism: it not only displays the current gas flow rate in real time, but also allows operators to precisely set the desired flow rate value through its built-in adjustment function. For example, by rotating the regulating valve on the flow meter 4, the resistance of the gas passing through the flow meter 4 can be changed, thereby controlling the gas flow rate. The gas regulator 3 focuses on stabilizing the input pressure. When the external gas source pressure fluctuates, the gas regulator 3 can automatically or manually maintain the output pressure at a constant level, for example, by using the balancing action of an internal spring and diaphragm mechanism to offset changes in input pressure. This division of labor ensures that the pressure and flow rate of the gas are precisely controlled before entering the mixing unit.

[0024] After being processed by independent pressure regulating mechanisms, the various gases enter the mixing unit located within housing 1. The mixing unit is the core component for achieving uniform gas mixing. This mixing unit can be a simple cavity, with each gas entering through its respective inlet and undergoing free diffusion and collision within it. For example, a mixing chamber with multiple inlets can be designed, allowing gases to enter from different directions and mix through natural convection and molecular diffusion. The structure and size of the mixing unit affect the mixing efficiency and uniformity; its main purpose is to fully integrate different gases to form a homogeneous gas mixture.

[0025] After the gases are mixed, the mixture exits the device through an outlet duct 5. This outlet duct 5 is directly connected to the output of the mixing unit, ensuring that the mixed gas can be smoothly delivered to external applications. The outlet duct 5 can be a standard pipe interface, such as a quick coupling or threaded interface, for easy connection to downstream equipment or piping systems. For example, in gas shielded welding applications, the mixed gas is delivered to the welding torch through the outlet duct 5 to protect the welding area. The design of the outlet duct 5 should ensure that the mixed gas maintains its uniformity and can be delivered stably as it exits the device.

[0026] The following example will provide a more detailed explanation of the above technical solution: Suppose user A needs to prepare a gas mixture in a specific ratio in their laboratory, for example, mixing nitrogen and oxygen in a 70% / 30% ratio, for an experiment. The gas mixing device is placed on the lab bench at location A.

[0027] First, user A connects the nitrogen cylinder and the oxygen cylinder to the two air inlets 2 on the gas mixing device housing 1 via gas pipes. Each air inlet 2 is equipped with an independent pressure regulating mechanism.

[0028] After nitrogen and oxygen enter the device, they first pass through their respective independent pressure regulating mechanisms. In the nitrogen flow path, the gas first enters gas regulator 3. User A stabilizes the nitrogen input pressure at a preset value, such as 0.3 MPa, by manually turning the knob on gas regulator 3 and observing the pressure gauge 304 connected to gas regulator 3. Similarly, oxygen is also stabilized at the same pressure through its independent gas regulator 3. Gas regulator 3, through its internal pressure sensing and regulation mechanism, ensures that even if the cylinder pressure fluctuates, the gas pressure entering the subsequent flow meter 4 remains constant.

[0029] Subsequently, nitrogen and oxygen at stable pressure enter their respective flow meters 4. User A, based on the required 70% / 30% mixing ratio for the experiment, sets the nitrogen flow rate to 7 liters / minute by adjusting the regulating valve on the nitrogen flow meter 4. Simultaneously, the user adjusts the regulating valve on the oxygen flow meter 4, setting the oxygen flow rate to 3 liters / minute. The flow meters 4, through their internal floats, display and precisely control the gas flow rate in real time, ensuring that the two gases enter the mixing unit in an accurate ratio.

[0030] Nitrogen and oxygen, with their pressure and flow precisely regulated by an independent pressure regulating mechanism, are then guided to the mixing unit within chamber 1. In the mixing unit, the two gases enter a common mixing chamber from different inlets. For example, the mixing chamber can be a container with a certain internal volume, allowing for sufficient diffusion and collision of the gases. Within the mixing chamber, nitrogen and oxygen achieve uniform mixing through molecular diffusion, convection, and, possibly, internal structural guidance.

[0031] Finally, the uniformly mixed nitrogen and oxygen gas exits the device through the outlet gas channel 5, which is connected to the output of the mixing unit. This outlet gas channel 5 can be a quick-connect connector, allowing user A to easily connect it to experimental equipment, such as a reaction vessel or analyzer. Through the above process, user A can stably and accurately obtain the required proportion of mixed gas to meet their experimental needs.

[0032] In one embodiment of the present invention, the air intake channel 2 is connected to the first interface 301 of the gas regulator 3 via an air pipe. The second interface 302 of the gas regulator 3 is connected to a pressure gauge 304 via an air pipe. By turning the knob on the gas regulator 3, the pressure can be manually adjusted according to the pressure display of the pressure gauge 304 to achieve pressure stabilization of the input air pressure. The third interface 302 of the gas regulator 3 is connected to the input end of the flow meter 4 via an air pipe.

[0033] Specifically, the inlet channel 2 is the passage for gas to enter the device. Its material and inner diameter can be selected according to the type, pressure, and flow requirements of the gas being transported; for example, stainless steel or Teflon tubing can be used. The gas tubing is the pipe connecting different gas processing components; it can be a flexible hose or a rigid metal tube, the choice depending on the relative position of the connecting parts and the gas characteristics. The first interface 301 of the gas regulator 3 is the port for receiving input gas, typically designed with a threaded connection, compression fitting, or quick-connect fitting to ensure a reliable seal with the gas tubing. The second interface 302 of the gas regulator 3 is the port for connecting pressure measuring equipment, usually located in the pressure sensing area inside the gas regulator 3, and its connection method is similar to the first interface 301. The pressure gauge 304 is an instrument for measuring gas pressure; it can be a mechanical pressure gauge or an electronic digital pressure gauge, used for intuitive or high-precision display of pressure values. The knob on the gas regulator 3 is a component for manually operating the adjustment mechanism. By rotating the knob, the valve opening or spring preload inside the gas regulator 3 can be changed, thereby adjusting the output pressure. Manual pressure adjustment refers to the process by which the operator sets and maintains the target pressure by observing the reading of the pressure gauge 304 and turning the knob accordingly. Input pressure stabilization refers to the process of stabilizing the fluctuating input pressure to a preset output pressure value; the gas regulator 3 achieves this function through an internal feedback mechanism. The third interface 302 of the gas regulator 3 is the port for outputting the stabilized gas, typically located downstream of the gas regulator 3, and its connection method ensures smooth gas transmission and sealing. The input end of the flow meter 4 is the port on the flow meter 4 used to receive the gas to be measured and regulated, and is typically designed to match the connection method of the upstream gas pipe.

[0034] The proposed solution reliably connects the inlet channel 2 to the first interface 301 of the gas regulator 3 via a tubing, allowing the gas to be treated to smoothly enter the gas regulator 3. The second interface 302 of the gas regulator 3 is connected to a pressure gauge 304 via a tubing, providing real-time pressure feedback to the operator. By turning the knob on the gas regulator 3, the operator can precisely and manually adjust the output pressure of the gas regulator 3 based on the intuitive display on the pressure gauge 304. This manual adjustment, combined with the real-time monitoring of the pressure gauge 304, ensures that the input pressure is stabilized at a preset value, thus achieving pressure stabilization. The stabilized gas is then delivered to the input end of the flow meter 4 via the tubing through the third interface 302 of the gas regulator 3. This design ensures that the flow meter 4 operates under stable pressure conditions, avoiding flow measurement and adjustment errors caused by input pressure fluctuations, thereby providing a stable and accurate gas flow to the subsequent mixing unit and greatly improving the accuracy and stability of gas mixing.

[0035] The following is a specific example: the inlet duct 2 of the gas mixing device can be a DN15 stainless steel pipe, connected to the first interface 301 of the gas regulator 3 via a compression fitting. The gas regulator 3 can be a pressure reducing valve with a precision adjustment knob and a built-in diaphragm-type pressure stabilizing mechanism. Its second interface 302 is connected to a pressure gauge 304 via a pressure-resistant rubber hose. This pressure gauge 304 is mounted on the external panel of the housing 1 for easy observation. After the gas enters, the operator can observe the pointer of the pressure gauge 304 and precisely set the pressure to, for example, 0.4 MPa by turning the knob on the gas regulator 3 clockwise or counterclockwise. The third interface 302 of the gas regulator 3 is connected to the input end of the flow meter 4 via another stainless steel gas pipe, ensuring that the pressure-stabilized gas can stably enter the flow meter 4 for flow regulation and measurement.

[0036] Through the above technical solution, the gas mixing device can achieve intuitive, accurate, and reliable pressure stabilization of the input gas pressure. The introduction of the pressure gauge 304 provides operators with real-time pressure feedback, making manual adjustment more precise and convenient, and avoiding blind or over-adjustment. This precise pressure stabilization provides a stable prerequisite for the accurate operation of the subsequent flow meter 4, effectively avoiding flow measurement and adjustment errors caused by input pressure fluctuations, thereby significantly improving the mixing accuracy and stability of the entire gas mixing device and ensuring the accuracy of the mixed gas ratio.

[0037] In one embodiment of the present invention, a gas pressure reducer is connected to the gas path between the inlet air passage 2 and the gas regulator 3 via an air pipe to further stabilize the gas pressure and improve the accuracy of gas mixing.

[0038] A gas pressure regulator is a device specifically designed to reduce and stabilize high-pressure gas at the required operating pressure. Its core function is to receive high-pressure gas from a gas source and reduce its pressure to a preset, relatively low output pressure through an internal valve mechanism, maintaining relative stability in the output pressure during the process. One implementation method is a single-stage gas pressure regulator, which reduces pressure in one step using a single pressure-reducing chamber and valve assembly. This structure is typically suitable for applications where output pressure stability requirements are not extremely stringent. Another implementation method is a two-stage gas pressure regulator, which reduces pressure in two stages using two series-connected pressure-reducing chambers and valve assemblies. This two-stage pressure reduction method provides a more precise and stable output pressure, especially suitable for applications with large input pressure fluctuations or high requirements for output pressure stability. Furthermore, gas pressure regulators can be categorized into diaphragm-type and piston-type pressure regulators based on their internal pressure sensing and regulation mechanisms. These types use different mechanical structures to sense pressure changes and drive valves for regulation.

[0039] The working principle of this scheme is as follows: when high-pressure gas enters the gas mixing device through the inlet channel 2, it first passes through a gas pressure reducer. The gas pressure reducer acts as a pre-treatment device, initially reducing the high-pressure gas from the gas source to a medium pressure range. After the initial pressure reduction by the gas pressure reducer, the pressure fluctuation range and absolute pressure value of the gas are significantly reduced, and it is then transported to the gas regulator 3 through the gas pipe. At this point, the gas regulator 3 does not need to withstand excessive initial pressure shocks, nor does it need to perform large-scale pressure adjustments. Instead, it performs fine pressure stabilization based on a relatively stable and lower pressure. This staged pressure reduction and stabilization mechanism allows the gas regulator 3 to operate within its optimal operating range, thereby more effectively stabilizing the input gas pressure and ensuring a highly stable gas pressure received by the subsequent flow meter 4, laying the foundation for precise gas flow regulation.

[0040] As one embodiment of the present invention, the flow meter 4 adopts a double upper and lower base structure, including an upper base and a lower base, the main body of the flow meter 4 is disposed between the upper and lower bases, an aluminum float is provided inside the flow meter 4, and the pipe wall structure of the flow meter 4 adopts a 9 / 16 taper structure.

[0041] Specifically, the flow meter 4 adopts a double-base structure, including an upper base and a lower base, with the main body of the flow meter 4 positioned between the upper and lower bases. This structural design provides robust and stable support for the flow meter 4, ensuring precise alignment and long-term stability of the internal measuring elements. For example, the upper and lower bases can be made of corrosion-resistant metal materials such as stainless steel or brass, or high-strength engineering plastics such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and the main body of the flow meter 4 is securely clamped in the middle by bolts or clips, effectively preventing the influence of external vibration or stress on measurement accuracy. The flow meter 4 contains an aluminum float. The float is the core sensing element of the variable area flow meter 4; its position change under the action of airflow directly reflects the gas flow rate. The aluminum float is chosen based on the specific density of aluminum, its good processing performance, and its chemical inertness to many common gases such as argon and carbon dioxide, ensuring that the float can respond sensitively and stably to changes in flow rate during airflow. Besides aluminum, the float can also be made of stainless steel, glass, or specific plastic materials to meet the needs of different gas media and measurement ranges. The flow meter 4 employs a 9 / 16 taper design for its tube wall. The taper of the flow meter 4's tube wall is a key parameter determining its measurement linearity and range. The 9 / 16 taper design refers to the specific tapered shape inside the flow meter 4's measuring tube. This precise taper ensures that the annular flow area formed by the float and the tube wall maintains a good linear or predictable relationship with the flow rate as the float rises at different flow rates, thereby improving the flow meter 4's measurement accuracy and repeatability. Besides the 9 / 16 taper, other taper designs can be used depending on specific application requirements, but the 9 / 16 taper is an optimized choice for specific gases and flow ranges.

[0042] The solution proposed in this application improves the overall stability and reliability of the flow meter 4 by adopting a double upper and lower base structure; improves the sensitivity and accuracy of the flow meter 4 by using an aluminum float; and reduces gas turbulence and pressure loss by using a 9 / 16 taper pipe wall structure, further improving the measurement accuracy and stability of the flow meter 4.

[0043] Through the above technical solution, the flow meter 4 adopts a double upper and lower base structure. The upper and lower bases provide precise positioning and stable support for the main body of the flow meter 4, ensuring the geometric accuracy and sealing of the internal measurement channel. When gas passes through the flow meter 4, its internal aluminum float rises according to the dynamic pressure and buoyancy of the airflow until the upward force on the float is balanced with the downward gravity and buoyancy. At this time, the position of the float within the pipe wall with a 9 / 16 taper structure accurately indicates the current gas flow rate. This specific taper design creates a highly linear correspondence between the float position and the gas flow rate, thereby ensuring the measurement accuracy and stability of the flow meter 4 over a wide range. Through this structured design, the flow meter 4 can provide stable and high-precision flow data, which in turn allows the independent pressure regulating mechanism to more accurately adjust the flow rate of each gas stream, providing accurately proportioned gas for the subsequent mixing unit, and ultimately ensuring the accuracy of the mixed gas composition.

[0044] As one embodiment of the present invention, the output end of the flow meter 4 is provided with a check valve 12, which is configured to prevent different gases from flowing back and mixing.

[0045] Among them, the check valve 12 is a one-way valve, whose function is to allow the medium to flow in only one direction (gas) and prevent it from flowing in the opposite direction. Its implementation can include, but is not limited to: a lift check valve 12, whose valve disc moves along the vertical centerline of the valve body; a swing check valve 12, whose valve disc rotates around a pivot; a butterfly check valve 12, whose valve disc is butterfly-shaped and rotates around an axis; a ball check valve 12, which uses the movement of a ball under fluid pressure to control the flow direction; a spring check valve 12, which uses spring preload to close the valve disc when there is no pressure and open it when there is pressure; or a diaphragm check valve 12, which uses the deformation of an elastic diaphragm to control the flow direction. All these check valves 12 can effectively prevent gas from flowing back at the output end of the flow meter 4, ensuring that the gas enters the mixing unit in the preset direction.

[0046] The solution in this application ensures that gas, after being measured by the flowmeter 4, can only flow unidirectionally to the mixing unit by configuring a check valve 12 at the output end of each flowmeter 4 in the gas mixing device. When pressure fluctuations, increased downstream back pressure, or gas supply stoppage occur in any gas flow path, the corresponding check valve 12 will immediately close, effectively preventing the gas from flowing back to the upstream of the flowmeter 4, or preventing the mixed gas in the mixing unit or the gas in adjacent flow paths from flowing backwards. This design physically isolates different gas flow paths before each gas enters the mixing unit, thereby maintaining the independence of each gas flow, avoiding mutual interference and contamination between gases, and ensuring the accuracy and stability of the mixed gas ratio.

[0047] As one embodiment of the present invention, the mixing unit includes: The mixing chamber body 6 has at least two air inlets 7 on its side. The air inlets 7 are connected to the check valve 12 at the output end of the corresponding flow meter 4 through an air pipe. The mixing chamber body 6 has a connecting chamber 8 inside. A honeycomb metal structure 9 is disposed within the communicating cavity 8 and is configured to achieve uniform mixing of gases through multi-directional airflow collisions. The output connector 10 is threaded to the inner wall of the connecting cavity 8. After the threaded connection, the output connector 10 presses the honeycomb metal structure 9 into the bottom of the connecting cavity 8. A sealing ring 11 is provided on the output connector 10 for sealing the connection between the output connector 10 and the inner wall of the communicating cavity 8.

[0048] The mixing chamber body 6 has a polygonal cross-section, while the connecting chamber 8 is the hollow part inside the mixing chamber body 6, used to contain the mixed gas. The number of air inlets 7 can be adjusted according to actual needs; for example, three air inlets 7 are provided when three gases need to be mixed. The honeycomb metal structure 9 can be made of stainless steel, aluminum, or other metal materials, possessing good corrosion resistance and thermal conductivity. The output connector 10 can be connected to the inner wall of the connecting chamber 8 via a threaded connection, facilitating disassembly and replacement. The sealing ring 11 can be made of elastic materials such as rubber or silicone, providing good sealing performance and preventing gas leakage.

[0049] Specifically, in this application, gas from at least two inlet channels 2, after pressure stabilization and flow regulation by an independent pressure regulating mechanism, enters the mixing chamber body 6 through at least two inlet nozzles 7 on the side of the mixing chamber body 6 via the check valve 12 at the output end of the flow meter 4. These inlet nozzles 7 are connected to the corresponding check valves 12 through gas pipes, ensuring that the gas does not backflow or cross-flow before entering the mixing chamber body 6. After entering the mixing chamber body 6, the gas converges in the internal connecting cavity 8. A honeycomb metal structure 9 is provided inside the connecting cavity 8. When the gas flows through the honeycomb metal structure 9, due to the large number of fine and interwoven channels inside the honeycomb metal structure 9, the gas is forced to flow in multiple directions, collide, shear, and diffuse. This complex flow path greatly increases the contact opportunities and mixing degree between different gas molecules, thereby achieving uniform gas mixing. The mixed gas is discharged through an output connector 10 threadedly connected to the inner wall of the connecting cavity 8. When threaded, the output connector 10 firmly presses the honeycomb metal structure 9 against the bottom of the connecting cavity 8, preventing it from shifting under the impact of airflow. Simultaneously, a sealing ring 11 on the output connector 10 ensures a tight fit between the output connector 10 and the inner wall of the connecting cavity 8, effectively preventing leakage of the mixed gas from the connection point. Through this structural design, the mixing unit of this application overcomes the shortcomings of simple confluence mixing and ensures high uniformity of the mixed gas, which is crucial for industrial applications requiring precise proportioning and stable output.

[0050] In one embodiment of the present invention, the air outlet duct 5 is a quick plug, and the quick plug is threadedly connected to the output end of the output connector 10.

[0051] A quick-connect plug is a connector that allows for rapid connection and disconnection. It typically consists of a plug and a socket, allowing for connection and disconnection through simple plugging and unplugging. In this application, the quick-connect plug is threaded to the output end of the output connector 10, ensuring reliable and airtight connection while providing the advantage of rapid connection and disconnection.

[0052] The following is a specific example: the outlet air passage 5 can use a standard pneumatic quick-connect fitting, the body of which is made of corrosion-resistant brass or stainless steel. One end of the quick-connect fitting is machined with a standard-sized external thread, such as G1 / 4 or NPT1 / 4 thread. The output end of the output fitting 10 is correspondingly machined with an internal thread, which engages with the external thread of the quick-connect fitting. When threaded, PTFE tape can be wrapped around the threads to enhance the seal. The other end of the quick-connect fitting is designed as a socket for inserting an external air hose, and contains a retaining ring and an O-ring 11. When the external air hose, for example, a 6mm or 8mm outer diameter polyurethane hose, is pushed into the quick-connect fitting socket, the retaining ring automatically locks the hose, and the O-ring provides a seal, thus achieving a quick and reliable connection. When disconnection is required, the air hose can be easily pulled out by simply pressing the release ring on the quick-connect fitting.

[0053] By employing the aforementioned technical solution, the outlet gas duct 5 is designed as a quick-connect plug and connected to the output end of the output connector 10 via a threaded connection. This significantly improves the ease of operation and connection efficiency of the gas mixing device when outputting mixed gas. This design makes the connection and disconnection of external gas pipelines quick and easy, requiring no additional tools, thereby greatly reducing the time required for equipment installation, commissioning, and maintenance. Simultaneously, the threaded connection provides a robust and reliable installation base for the quick-connect plug and excellent sealing performance, effectively avoiding the risk of gas leakage and ensuring the stability and safety of the mixed gas output. This has significant practical value for applications requiring frequent replacement of gas pipelines or rapid deployment.

[0054] As one embodiment of the present invention, the honeycomb metal structure 9 is formed by stacking multiple layers of mesh metal sheets to form multiple airflow channels; the mesh metal sheets of the honeycomb metal structure 9 are arranged at staggered angles so that the gas will generate multi-directional collisions when passing through.

[0055] The honeycomb metal structure 9 refers to a metal component with a porous structure containing numerous airflow channels. These channels can be regular or irregular, used to guide and disperse airflow and promote mixing between different gases. The mesh metal sheet refers to a thin sheet with a grid-like structure made of metal wire or foil, which can use different materials and weaving methods to meet different strength and permeability requirements. The airflow channels refer to the paths through which gas flows within the honeycomb metal structure 9. These channels can be straight or curved, and their shape and size affect the gas flow rate and mixing effect. As a preferred embodiment, the mesh metal sheet can be made of stainless steel, which has good corrosion resistance and strength, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the honeycomb metal structure 9. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the airflow channels can be circular, square, or polygonal; different cross-sectional shapes will affect the airflow characteristics, thereby affecting the mixing effect.

[0056] This application further proposes that the layers of mesh metal sheets in the honeycomb metal structure 9 are arranged at staggered angles, causing multi-directional collisions when gas passes through. This technical feature refers to the fact that in the multiple layers of mesh metal sheets constituting the honeycomb metal structure 9, the directions of the mesh openings or threads between adjacent or non-adjacent layers are not completely parallel and aligned, but rather exist at a predetermined angle. This staggered arrangement aims to break the laminar flow tendency of gas in a single direction, forcing the gas to change its flow direction when passing through different layers. For example, the mesh opening direction of two adjacent layers of mesh metal sheets can be rotated by a non-zero angle, or a spiral stacking method can be used, so that the gas is obstructed and guided in different directions when passing through each layer. When gas flows through the mesh metal sheets arranged at staggered angles, its original flow path is continuously divided, deflected, and redirected. Gas molecules no longer travel in a straight line or a single direction, but are forced to collide frequently and at multiple angles with the threads of the mesh metal sheets and gas molecules flowing in other directions. This multidirectional collision greatly increases the contact opportunities and momentum exchange between gas molecules, thereby promoting the thorough mixing of different types of gas molecules.

[0057] By employing the aforementioned technical solution, the layers of mesh metal sheets in the honeycomb metal structure 9 are arranged at staggered angles, enabling continuous multidirectional collisions as the gas passes through. This design significantly enhances the interaction and momentum exchange between gas molecules, effectively preventing laminar or short-circuit flow within the mixing unit, thereby greatly improving the uniformity and efficiency of gas mixing. Compared to simply stacked mesh structures, this solution ensures that different types of gases achieve a more thorough and stable mixing state upon exiting the mixing unit, meeting the requirements of applications demanding high uniformity of the mixed gas.

[0058] The working principle of this invention is as follows: When using this gas mixing device, different types of gases are first connected to at least two inlet channels 2. After entering the housing 1, the gas first passes through a corresponding independent pressure regulating mechanism. In each independent pressure regulating mechanism, the gas first enters the gas regulator 3, which stabilizes the input gas pressure according to a preset value, ensuring that the subsequent flow meter 4 operates under a stable pressure environment. For example, if the input gas pressure fluctuates significantly, the gas regulator 3 will automatically adjust through the movement of the internal pressure regulating valve and piston to keep the output pressure within a preset range. The stabilized gas then enters the flow meter 4 with a regulating function. The operator can precisely adjust and measure the required gas flow rate through the adjustment knob on the flow meter 4 or the control system to achieve a precise ratio between different gases. For example, if it is necessary to mix argon and carbon dioxide in a 70% / 30% ratio, the flow rates of argon and carbon dioxide can be adjusted to the corresponding ratio by adjusting the two flow meters 4 respectively. After being regulated by the flow meters 4, the various gases are collected in the mixing unit. Within the mixing unit, different gases are thoroughly mixed, for example, through multidirectional airflow collisions via the honeycomb metal structure 9, achieving uniform gas mixing. Finally, the mixed gas is output through the outlet duct 5 for use by external equipment. The entire process achieves precise control from gas input, pressure stabilization, flow regulation to final mixed output, ensuring high precision in gas ratio, stable output, and uniform mixing.

[0059] The foregoing has shown and described the basic principles, main features, and advantages of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. The embodiments and descriptions in the specification are merely principles of the invention. Various changes and modifications can be made to the invention without departing from its spirit and scope, and all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the claims. The scope of protection claimed by the appended claims and their equivalents is defined.

Claims

1. A gas mixing device, comprising a housing (1), characterized in that, Also includes: At least two air inlet channels (2) are respectively provided on the housing (1) and are configured to receive different types of gases; An independent pressure regulating mechanism is set inside the housing (1). Each air inlet channel (2) is provided with an independent pressure regulating mechanism. Each independent pressure regulating mechanism includes a gas regulator (3) for stabilizing the input gas pressure and a flow meter (4) with regulating function arranged sequentially along the gas flow direction. A mixing unit, located inside the housing (1), is configured to mix gases that have been regulated by each independent pressure regulating mechanism; The outlet gas channel (5) is connected to the output end of the mixing unit and is configured to output the mixed gas.

2. The gas mixing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air intake channel (2) is connected to the first interface (301) of the gas regulator (3) through an air pipe. The second interface (302) of the gas regulator (3) is connected to a pressure gauge (304) through an air pipe. By turning the knob on the gas regulator (3), the pressure can be manually adjusted according to the pressure display of the pressure gauge (304) to achieve pressure stabilization of the input air pressure. The third interface (302) of the gas regulator (3) is connected to the input end of the flow meter (4) through an air pipe.

3. The gas mixing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A gas pressure reducer is connected to the air passage between the air intake channel (2) and the gas regulator (3) via an air pipe.

4. The gas mixing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow meter (4) adopts a double upper and lower base structure, including an upper base and a lower base. The main body of the flow meter (4) is set between the upper and lower bases. An aluminum float is provided inside the flow meter (4), and the pipe wall structure of the flow meter (4) adopts a 9 / 16 taper structure.

5. The gas mixing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The output end of the flow meter (4) is equipped with a check valve (12), which is configured to prevent different gases from flowing back and mixing.

6. The gas mixing device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The mixing unit includes: The mixing chamber body (6) has at least two air inlets (7) on its side. The air inlets (7) are connected to the check valve (12) at the output end of the corresponding flow meter (4) through an air pipe. The mixing chamber body (6) has a connecting chamber (8) inside. A honeycomb metal structure (9) is set in the connecting cavity (8) and is configured to achieve uniform mixing of gas through multi-directional airflow collision; The output connector (10) is threaded to the inner wall of the connecting cavity (8). After the threaded connection, the output connector (10) presses the honeycomb metal structure (9) onto the bottom of the connecting cavity (8). A sealing ring (11) is provided on the output connector (10) for sealing the connection between the output connector (10) and the inner wall of the connecting cavity (8).

7. The gas mixing device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The air outlet channel (5) is a quick plug, which is threadedly connected to the output end of the output connector (10).

8. The gas mixing device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The honeycomb metal structure (9) is composed of multiple layers of mesh metal sheets stacked together to form multiple airflow channels.

9. The gas mixing device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The honeycomb metal structure (9) has layers of mesh metal sheets arranged at staggered angles, causing multi-directional collisions when the gas passes through.

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