Brine Solution Hopper Nozzle Assembly for Concentration Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatuses for making brine solutions are inefficient in achieving target concentrations due to limitations in volumetric flow control and material handling, particularly in mixing and recirculation processes.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a hopper with adjustable overflow weirs and a nozzle assembly for efficient mixing, along with a pump system and liquid holding tank for recirculation, allowing for precise control of brine concentration through conductivity sensing and automated recirculation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional mixing and recirculation processes are used, then material handling is simplified, but achieving target brine concentrations becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements conductivity sensing that continuously monitors brine concentration and provides feedback to the control system. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically adjust recirculation rates and mixing parameters to achieve and maintain target concentrations, resolving the contradiction between production efficiency and concentration precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamically adjustable overflow weirs and variable speed recirculation pumps that can adapt their operation based on real-time concentration measurements. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to efficiently reach target concentrations while maintaining precision, unlike conventional static systems.
2Productivity
If volumetric flow control is not optimized, then device complexity is reduced, but mixing efficiency and concentration achievement are impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the flow control function into multiple independent adjustable overflow weirs positioned at different locations. Each weir can be independently adjusted to control local flow rates, providing precise volumetric flow control without requiring a single complex control mechanism. This segmentation approach enhances mixing efficiency while keeping individual control elements simple.
3Loss of time
If recirculation is not implemented, then device complexity is minimized, but rapid achievement of target concentrations is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a recirculation system that continuously moves brine solution through the mixing zone, ensuring that fresh water and salt are constantly combined and that concentration uniformity is maintained. This continuous recirculation action dramatically reduces the time to achieve target concentrations compared to single-pass mixing, justifying the additional device complexity.
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
This setup enables rapid achievement of target brine concentrations, optimizing volumetric flow and reducing material handling issues, thereby enhancing the efficiency of brine solution production.
Implementation Method 1
a pump system configured to pump liquid from the liquid holding tank into the hopper
Implementation Method 2
precise control of brine concentration through conductivity sensing
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 1B
Figure 1D
AI summary
The present disclosure includes methods of making a brine solution that include recirculating brine solution to a salt and water hopper from a holding tank. The present disclosure also includes an apparatus for making a solution that includes at least one nozzle assembly positioned inside the lower half of a hopper. The at least one nozzle assembly includes a manifold having at least two nozzles spaced apart. Each nozzle has one or more nozzle outlets that are directed away from the bottom of the hopper (e.g., toward the top of the hopper).