Adjustable Volume Gasoline Sampling Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gasoline blend manual spot sampling systems require fixed sample volumes, necessitating changes to piping designs to adjust sample amounts, and often use septum-like stoppers and needles, which are inconvenient and inflexible.
Innovation Solution
A semi-automated gasoline sampling system with an adjustable volume mechanism that allows for varying sample volumes without reworking pipes, using three-way valves and a heat exchanger to cool and control the sampling process, and an open-mouthed bottle for sample collection, eliminating the need for septum-like stoppers and needles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed volume containers with septum-like stoppers are used for sampling, then sample collection is possible, but the system lacks flexibility for adjusting sample volumes and requires complex piping modifications to change sample amounts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing fixed-volume containers with an adjustable volume mechanism that includes a variable displacement piston. This piston can be positioned at different locations within the container to define different sample volumes, allowing the sampling system to adapt to various volume requirements without modifying the piping structure. The mechanism transforms a static sampling system into a dynamic one where the sample volume can be changed by simply adjusting the piston position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a single sampling system that can accommodate multiple sample volumes through the adjustable volume mechanism. Instead of requiring different piping configurations for different sample amounts, the universal sampling apparatus can collect samples of varying volumes using the same piping structure, merely by repositioning the variable displacement piston to the desired volume marking.
2Ease of operation
If septum-like stoppers and needles are used for sample collection, then sampling can be performed, but the operation becomes inconvenient and less flexible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the extraction principle by removing the septum-like stopper and needle components from the sampling system. Instead of piercing through a sealed stopper, the system uses an open-mouthed container that allows direct insertion of the sampling line. This eliminates the complexity and inconvenience associated with septum puncture mechanisms while maintaining effective sample collection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional sampling approach by using an open-mouthed container instead of a sealed container with a puncture mechanism. Rather than inserting a needle through a stopper to access the sample, the system allows the sampling line to directly receive the sample into an open container, simplifying the operation and improving flexibility.
3Quantity of substance
If piping is modified to change sample volumes, then different sample amounts can be obtained, but the system requires structural rework and loses operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a variable displacement piston with adjustable positioning along the container wall. The piston can be quickly repositioned between different volume markings to change the sample quantity, eliminating the need for time-consuming piping modifications. This dynamic adjustment mechanism maintains high sampling productivity while providing flexibility in sample volume selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-marking volume indications on the container wall before sampling operations. These pre-established volume markers allow the operator to quickly set the desired sample volume by positioning the piston at the appropriate marking, eliminating the need for measurement and adjustment during the sampling process itself, thereby maintaining high operational efficiency.
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 easy adjustment of sample volumes within a defined range, reduces the need for piping modifications, and maintains pipe freshness with a continuous gasoline flow loop, improving operational efficiency and flexibility in sampling.
Implementation Method 1
a heat exchanger to cool and control the sampling process
Data Source
AI summary
A gasoline blend spot sampling system and method including an adjustable volume mechanism for retaining an adjustable volume of gasoline for sampling, a coolant system integrated with the adjustable volume mechanism, and a sample collection assembly using a blunt-end tube for use with an open-mouthed bottle. Various three-way valves are actuated to route gasoline through various stages of a sampling process, from a gasoline fast loop to a purge loop to a gasoline capture stage to a sample bottling stage.