Adaptive Gas-Liquid Separator for Dynamic Platforms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas-liquid separators are unsuitable for applications with frequent changes in orientation and large acceleration forces, such as airborne or submarine platforms, as they rely on a static orientation and cannot effectively manage the relative spatial relationship of gas and liquid.
Innovation Solution
A gas-liquid separator with independently controllable outlets and sensors, such as tri-axis accelerometers, to selectively open outlets adjacent to gas or liquid phases, ensuring efficient separation and fluid management regardless of orientation, combined with a pressurizing mechanism and nano-structured surfaces for enhanced heat transfer and nucleation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional gas-liquid separator uses a static chamber orientation with gas outlet arranged uppermost, then gas-liquid separation is effective under static conditions, but the device becomes unsuitable for applications with frequent changes in orientation and large acceleration forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the outlet selection adaptive to changing conditions. Multiple outlets are provided at different locations around the chamber, and the control system dynamically selects which outlet to open based on real-time acceleration and orientation data from sensors. This transforms the static outlet configuration into a dynamic system that adapts to varying operational conditions, resolving the contradiction between maintaining effective separation and adapting to different platform orientations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter of outlet selection based on acceleration and orientation parameters. By using sensors to detect changes in acceleration and orientation, the control system adjusts which outlet is active, thereby adapting the separator's behavior to current physical conditions. This parameter-based control enables the device to maintain effectiveness across varying orientations and acceleration forces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple outlets are provided around the chamber with independent valve control, then the device can adapt to varying orientations and accelerations, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system operates autonomously by using sensor data from accelerometers and orientation sensors to automatically determine which outlet should be open. The system self-regulates without requiring manual intervention, selecting the appropriate outlet based on real-time physical conditions. This self-service capability manages the complexity of multiple outlets and valves through automated decision-making rather than manual control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control by using sensors to continuously monitor acceleration and orientation, then feeding this information to the control system which adjusts outlet selection accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism manages the complexity of multiple controlled outlets by using real-time sensor data to automatically determine the optimal configuration, reducing the need for complex manual control systems.
3Temperature
If the chamber is completely filled with liquid prior to gas formation, then boiling can occur at lower pressures, but extremely high pressures are required due to the limited compressibility of liquids
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by maintaining the chamber largely filled with liquid rather than completely filled. This partial filling approach allows sufficient liquid present to absorb the heat input and undergo phase change, while avoiding the extremely high pressures that would be required if the chamber were completely filled. The principle balances between having enough liquid for effective heat transfer and boiling, while preventing excessive pressure buildup.
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
Enables reliable operation on non-terrestrial platforms by maintaining efficient separation and heat transfer, allowing for effective cooling and fluid management across varying orientations and accelerations.
Implementation Method 1
The sensing means (e.g. one or more sensors) may comprise an accelerometer, favourably a tri-axis accelerometer implemented, for example, using a micro electro-mechanical system.
Implementation Method 2
at least one outlet for expulsion of gas and/or vapour that has separated from liquid within the chamber under gravity
Implementation Method 3
The apparatus may comprise a pressurising means to pressurise the fluid within the chamber. In one example the apparatus may comprise a piston biased by a spring, arranged to exert pressure against the liquid in the reservoir which, as a result of its open communication with the chamber also pressurises the fluid in the chamber.
Implementation Method 4
the chamber holding a coolant liquid heated within the chamber by a device or system to be cooled
Implementation Method 5
a portion of the working fluid to change to a gas phase
Implementation Method 6
When the apparatus is used as a cooling device, it allows the boiling temperature of the fluid within the chamber to be maintained or altered
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
A known gas-liquid separator comprises a chamber having an inlet for liquid to enter and at least one outlet for expulsion gas and/or vapour that has separated from the liquid within the chamber under gravity. For some applications the chamber will also have an outlet for the liquid. These systems typically rely on the chamber remaining in a static orientation with the gas outlet arranged uppermost. This makes it unsuitable for applications where the chamber would experience frequent changes in orientation and large accelerations, e.g. on an airborne platform. This problem is solved by providing the chamber with multiple spaced apart outlets and sensing means that senses the orientation and/or acceleration of the chamber. A controller uses the output of the sensors to determine the spatial arrangement of the liquid phase and gas phase within the chamber relative to the outlets and selectively opens the multiple outlets to allow one of the liquid phase or gas phase to escape the chamber in preference to the other.