Dual Cryogenic Container Hold Time Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cryogenic containers with different volumes have varying hold times, leading to suboptimal total system hold time and potential economic and environmental losses due to premature fluid discharge.
Innovation Solution
A system with a control unit that adjusts the mass flows from two cryogenic containers of different volumes to converge or maintain equal hold times, thereby extending the total system hold time without structural changes to the containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If two cryogenic containers of different volumes are used to fit vehicle space requirements, then the containers can be mounted on the vehicle, but the total system hold time is limited by the container with the shorter hold time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the mass flow retrieval rates adjustable and variable rather than fixed. The control unit dynamically adjusts the retrieval rates from each container based on real-time hold time calculations, allowing the system to adapt to changing conditions and maximize the total hold time of the dual-container system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of mass flow retrieval rate for each container independently. By adjusting these parameters through the control unit, the system optimizes the hold times of both containers to converge, thereby extending the overall system hold time beyond what would be achieved with fixed retrieval rates.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the cryogenic container with smaller volume is better insulated to reduce heat flow, then its hold time increases, but the system becomes less flexible and requires precise matching of containers
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of changing the physical insulation parameters of the containers, the patent changes the operational parameter of mass flow retrieval rate. This allows hold time optimization without modifying the container structures, preserving system flexibility and avoiding the need for precise matching of container specifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically calculates and adjusts the mass flow rates based on container characteristics and operational conditions, making the system self-regulating. This eliminates the need for manual precise matching of containers while maintaining optimal hold times.
3Reliability
If fluid is discharged when hold time is exceeded to prevent pressure damage, then safety is maintained, but economic loss occurs as fuel escapes unused
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit performs preliminary calculations of hold times for both containers and adjusts mass flow rates in advance to ensure hold times converge. This prevents premature discharge by proactively optimizing retrieval rates, thereby maintaining safety while avoiding fuel loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from pressure sensors and hold time calculations to continuously adjust mass flow rates. This closed-loop control ensures that safety requirements are met while maximizing fuel utilization by preventing unnecessary discharge.
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
The system effectively balances hold times across different cryogenic containers, increasing the overall system hold time, reducing economic losses, and minimizing environmental impact by preventing premature fluid discharge.
Implementation Method 1
the pressure in the cryogenic container again will increase due to the heat flow into the fluid
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a system for providing a fluid, comprising at least a first and a second cryogenic container for storing the fluid, wherein the system comprises a first retrieval line connecting to the first cryogenic container for retrieving a first mass flow (M1) of fluid and a second retrieval line connecting to the second cryogenic container for retrieving a second mass flow (M2) of fluid, wherein the system comprises means, which are configured to establish two mass flows (M1, M2) of different dimensions such that in a first operational mode a hold time of the two cryogenic containers converges upon retrieval and/or in a second operational mode the hold time of the two cryogenic containers essentially decreases at the same rate if the hold times of the two cryogenic containers are essentially equal.