Centrifuge Continuous Fluid Flow Conduit Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional centrifuges operate as batch processes due to their high rotational speeds, making continuous centrifugation impractical and limiting the efficiency of fluid separation based on density.
Innovation Solution
A centrifuge design that includes a container with a drive for rotating and revolving about an axis, with fluid conduits extending from the container to either side of a plane of revolution, where the direction of rotation is determined by the left or right hand rule, and features a separation device for fluid component separation, allowing for continuous fluid introduction and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional centrifuges operate at high rotational speeds, then separation efficiency is improved, but continuous operation becomes impractical and the process remains batch-based
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous centrifugation by enabling fluid to continuously enter and exit the rotating container through conduits with openings. The container rotates continuously while fluid is introduced through a first conduit and separated components are removed through a second conduit, eliminating the batch loading and unloading cycle while maintaining high-speed rotation for effective separation.
2Manufacturing precision
If high rotational speed is used for centrifugation, then separation based on density is improved, but the process becomes impractical for continuous operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains high rotational speeds for precise density-based separation while enabling continuous fluid processing. Fluid enters the rotating container continuously, undergoes separation at high speed, and separated components are continuously removed, achieving both high precision and continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic system where the container rotates at high speed for separation while simultaneously revolving slower about a vertical axis. This dual-motion dynamic allows continuous fluid introduction and removal through fixed conduits while maintaining the high centrifugal forces necessary for precise separation.
3Productivity
If the container rotates at high speed, then centrifugal separation is effective, but fluid introduction and removal becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The container performs two simultaneous motions: fast rotation about its own axis for centrifugal separation, and slower revolution about a vertical axis. This dynamic configuration allows conduits with fixed openings to continuously introduce and remove fluid without complex moving parts, as the combined motion naturally positions the conduits for continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The revolving motion of the container acts as an intermediary mechanism that translates the high-speed rotation into a configuration where fixed conduits can continuously interact with the fluid. The slower revolution brings the conduit openings into continuous contact with fluid streams without requiring the conduits themselves to move at high speed.
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 centrifugation and efficient separation of fluid components by maintaining equal rotation and revolution frequencies, improving the practicality and efficiency of fluid separation processes.
Implementation Method 1
Centrifugation is a process in which a centrifugal force is applied to a fluid to separate components based upon their density. The more dense components of a mixture migrate away from the axis of centrifuge and away from the less dense components.
Data Source
AI summary
A centrifuge includes a container and at least one drive for rotating the container about its own axis and revolving the container about an axis of revolution and through a plane of revolution. At least one conduit extends from the container to a first or second side of the plane of revolution. The direction of rotation of the container is according to the left hand rule if the conduit extends to the first side of the plane of rotation, and according to the right hand rule if the conduit extends to the second side of the plane of rotation. The frequency of the container rotation is equal to the frequency of the container revolution. A centrifugal separator and a method for centrifuging a liquid are also disclosed. The invention provides for continuous centrifugation while prevent conduits into the container from getting tangled.