Continuous Biomass Decomposition Apparatus with Flame Cap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biomass decomposition technologies, such as pyrolysis and gasification devices, either require operator intervention for reloading or have complex structures with separate burners and gas collection systems, limiting their continuous operation and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A continuous-cycle thermo-chemical decomposition apparatus with a reaction chamber and pipes for biomass and gas combustion, featuring a flame cap mechanism to prevent oxygen descent and allow continuous operation, using a screw feed system and adjustable passage ways for efficient heat production and biochar generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a discontinuous combustion device is used, then the structure is simpler, but the operator intervention is required and continuous operation is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the combustion chamber and pyrolysis chamber into a single integrated device, eliminating the need for separate burners and gas collection systems. The combustion chamber serves dual purposes: combusting biomass gases while also providing the thermal environment for pyrolysis, thereby achieving continuous operation without proportionally increasing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables self-sustaining continuous operation where the combustion of gases produced during pyrolysis automatically provides heat for the next cycle. The system uses its own produced gases to maintain combustion, eliminating the need for external operators to continuously reload or reignite the biomass
2Productivity
If a closed-chamber pyrolysis device is used, then continuous function is achieved, but the structure becomes complex with separate burners and gas collection systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the combustion and pyrolysis chambers into one integrated structure where the combustion chamber directly receives and combusts gases from the pyrolysis process. This eliminates the need for separate gas collection systems and external burners, achieving continuous function with simplified structure
Solution Approach 2:
The combustion chamber performs multiple functions: it combusts biomass-derived gases, provides heat for pyrolysis, and maintains continuous operation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining continuous productivity
3Power
If traditional combustion is used, then heat production is achieved, but emissions of particulate carbon monoxide and CO2 are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the combustion parameters by controlling oxygen supply and combustion temperature to optimize the combustion process. By carefully regulating these parameters, the system achieves efficient heat production while minimizing incomplete combustion and reducing harmful emissions of particulates, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide
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 continuous, operator-independent heat production with low emissions and efficient biochar generation, improving energy yield and simplifying the apparatus design while allowing for regulation of heat production and reaction type.
Implementation Method 1
Pyrolysis is known, that is, the process of physical and chemical decomposition of a biomass such as for example pellets, chip, or wood derivatives in general, which takes place by heating the biomass to temperatures comprised between about 300°C and about 600°C
Implementation Method 2
The process of gasification is also known: this takes place when a biomass is heated to a temperature comprised between about 1000°C and about 1100°C in the presence of oxygen
Implementation Method 3
The gases produced by the pyrolysis or gasification can be used to feed a combustion
Implementation Method 4
a flame develops and, consuming the oxygen, prevents the oxygen from descending in the direction of the biomass below
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
Apparatus for the continuous-cycle thermo-chemical decomposition of a bio-mass, which comprises a reaction chamber (37) in which a process of pyrolysis or gasification is suitable to be produced, and means to feed air (A). The apparatus also comprises a first pipe (35) passing through the reaction chamber (37) and through which the bio-mass is able to be conveyed toward the reaction chamber (37) by means of feed means (27, 33); a second pipe (45), substantially perpendicular to the first pipe, and communicating with the reaction chamber (37); and containing means (53) which define an interstice (57) both around the reaction chamber (37) and also around at least a part of the second pipe (45). First apertures (49) are also provided to put the reaction chamber (37) in communication with the interstice (57), and second apertures (51) to put the inside of the second pipe (45) in communication with the interstice (57).