Acoustic Probe Window Cleaning via Shaft Cavitation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for cleaning optical measuring probes in fluid flows, such as those used in multiphase water, oil, and gas flows, often damage equipment or require impractical modifications to the pipe system, failing to effectively remove all deposits without interrupting operations.
Innovation Solution
An acoustic cleaning system where acoustic waves propagate along the probe shaft to the probe head, using an acoustically insulated elongated member to transmit vibrations that cause cavitation and remove deposits from the probe window without damaging optical waveguides or requiring additional pipe openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If acoustic vibrations are applied to remove deposits from the optical window, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the risk of damaging optical waveguides and equipment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe shaft is divided into distinct functional zones: an outer shaft that transmits acoustic vibrations for cleaning, and an inner acoustically insulated channel that protects optical waveguides. This segmentation allows the cleaning function to operate independently without transmitting harmful vibrations to the optical components.
Solution Approach 2:
An acoustically insulating intermediary structure (inner channel or damping material) is introduced between the acoustic vibration source and the optical waveguides. This intermediary blocks the transmission of harmful acoustic energy while allowing the outer shaft to maintain its cleaning function.
2Reliability
If the probe is removed from the flow for cleaning, then thorough cleaning can be performed, but production downtime increases and system operation is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic cleaning system performs deposit removal continuously during probe operation, preventing heavy buildup rather than addressing it after the fact. This preliminary continuous action maintains cleaning effectiveness without requiring periodic removal for intensive cleaning.
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustic transducer operates continuously or periodically while the probe remains in the flow, maintaining constant cleaning action. This eliminates interruptions and keeps the measurement system continuously operational while preventing deposit accumulation.
3Reliability
If additional openings are made in the pipe for acoustic transducer installation, then cleaning capability is improved, but installation complexity and flow disturbance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic cleaning function is merged with the existing probe structure by integrating the transducer into the probe shaft itself. This combines multiple functions (measurement and cleaning) into a single integrated unit, eliminating the need for separate installation openings in the pipe.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe shaft serves multiple functions: it transmits acoustic vibrations for cleaning, provides a protective housing, and maintains structural integrity. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional components or pipe modifications, as the existing probe structure is adapted to perform both measurement and cleaning roles.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively removes deposits from optical measuring probes in fluid flows without damaging the equipment or complicating the installation, allowing continuous operation and maintaining fluid flow integrity.
Implementation Method 1
acoustic waves propagate along the probe shaft to the probe head
Implementation Method 2
using an acoustically insulated elongated member to transmit vibrations that cause cavitation and remove deposits from the probe window
Implementation Method 3
an acoustically insulated elongated member to transmit vibrations
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for removing deposits from measuring instruments measuring chosen characteristics of a fluid medium contained in a pipe or container, the measuring instrument comprising a window (10) and a first surface (12) having contact with said medium, said first surface (12) being positioned on one end defining a probe head (2) of an elongated member (13) adapted to be extending through the wall (6) of said pipe or container, the outer end of said member (13) being positioned outside said wall (6), the cleaning system comprising an acoustic transducer (5) positioned on the other end of said elongated member (13), wherein said acoustic transducer (5) is acoustically coupled to the elongated member (13) so as to couple acoustic energy thereto, the acoustic energy propagating along said member (13) to the end (2,12) of the probe (1) being in contact with the fluid inside the pipe or container, the resulting vibrations of which removing any contaminations from said window (10) by inducing cavitation.