Constant Flow Dilution Using Valve-Based Path Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing on-line sample dilution techniques require constant monitoring and calibration of pump speeds to vary the flow rates of sample and diluent, leading to inefficiencies and the need for a vacant line to transfer diluted samples to an analyzer.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for constant flow on-line dilution that uses a flow path selection assembly with valves and controllers to select and maintain consistent flow paths for fluid introduction lines, allowing for sample and diluent mixing without altering pump speeds, enabling efficient and automated dilution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pump speeds are varied to change the ratio of sample to diluent flow rates, then dilution factor can be adjusted, but constant monitoring and calibration is required which reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between pre-configured dilution modes (1:1, 1:2, 1:5, 1:10) using a valve assembly controlled by a processor, allowing rapid adaptation to different dilution requirements without manual pump speed adjustments. This maintains high productivity while providing versatile dilution options.
2Manufacturing precision
If pump speeds are constantly adjusted to maintain dilution ratios, then accurate dilution can be achieved, but time is lost to constant monitoring and calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures multiple dilution modes with fixed flow rate ratios (1:1, 1:2, 1:5, 1:10) before operation. The processor automatically selects and switches between these pre-established modes based on the required dilution factor, eliminating the need for real-time pump speed adjustment and calibration during sample analysis.
3Extent of automation
If automated on-line dilution is implemented, then preparation steps are reduced, but pump speed variation requires complex control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into a processor that handles high-level dilution mode selection and a valve assembly that executes the physical switching between pre-configured flow paths. This segmentation simplifies the control architecture by separating decision-making from execution, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full automation.
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 approach reduces operator intervention and improves time efficiency by maintaining constant fluid flow, eliminating the need for constant pump speed adjustments and minimizing preparation steps for analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a pump assembly suitable for pumping a fluid from a first end of the fluid introduction line through the flow path selection assembly and the mixing assembly to a transport line
Implementation Method 2
mix the contents of the first and second transport lines in a mixing assembly and transfer the mixed solution to an analyzer
Data Source
AI summary
A system for providing constant flow on-line dilution comprising a first fluid introduction line carrying a first fluid, a second fluid introduction line carrying a second fluid, a flow path selection assembly coupled to the fluid introduction line and the second fluid introduction line, a mixing assembly suitable for mixing the first fluid, the second fluid and a sample, and a plurality of fluid transport lines coupled to the flow path selection assembly suitable for transporting the first fluid, the second fluid and a sample to the mixing assembly. The flow path selection assembly is suitable for selecting a flow path for each of the first fluid introduction line and second fluid introduction lines and providing changeable coupling of each of the first fluid introduction line and second fluid introduction line to one of the plurality of fluid transport lines through the flow path selection assembly.