Cryogenic Flow Control Using Upstream-Downstream Parameter Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cryogenic fluid systems face inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for additional cooling and flow control systems to maintain the cryogenic fluid in a liquid state and accurately control its flow rate, especially when vaporized fluid needs to be cooled and converted back to liquid before reaching downstream components or storage.
Innovation Solution
A flow control system using two tubings with fluids disconnected from the cryogenic fluid but sharing its chemical composition, positioned upstream and downstream of the component, with a parameter sensing device comparing parameters to regulate the flow through a flow control device, allowing for precise control of the cryogenic fluid's flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If additional cooling systems are used to convert vaporized cryogenic fluid back to liquid state, then the cryogenic fluid can be maintained in liquid state for downstream components, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (inert gas) that acts as a mediator between the vaporized cryogenic fluid and the environment. This intermediary allows the vapor to be safely vented and condensed without requiring complex active cooling systems, as the inert gas provides a controlled environment for phase transition and flow management.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the vaporized cryogenic fluid from the main system and handles it separately through dedicated venting and condensation pathways. By separating the vapor handling function from the main liquid cryogenic fluid system, the patent avoids the need for complex integrated cooling systems while maintaining liquid state where required.
2Measurement precision
If additional flow control systems are employed to accurately control the flow rate of cryogenic fluid, then desired temperature control of components is achieved, but system cost and maintenance cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flow control elements that utilize the inherent properties of the cryogenic fluid and system pressure differentials to automatically regulate flow rates. The system self-adjusts based on temperature and pressure conditions, eliminating the need for externally powered control systems while maintaining accurate flow control for temperature management.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention controls flow rate by changing physical parameters such as pressure differentials, temperature gradients, and orifice sizes rather than using complex active control systems. These parameter changes enable accurate flow regulation through passive mechanical means, reducing system complexity and maintenance requirements.
3Measurement precision
If cryogenically compatible equipment with high accuracy is used to measure and control flow, then flow control accuracy is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes simple, inexpensive flow measurement and control elements that can be easily replaced if needed, rather than investing in expensive, highly accurate cryogenically compatible equipment. The design accepts that these simpler components may have shorter service lives but achieves the required measurement precision through clever system design and multiple redundant elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses multiple simpler sensing elements or flow control elements in parallel or series configurations that collectively provide the required measurement and control accuracy, rather than relying on a single expensive high-precision component. This approach distributes the functional requirement across multiple affordable elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A flow control system for a flow of a cryogenic fluid over a component is provided. The system includes a first tubing containing a first fluid therein and positioned upstream of the component with respect to the flow of the cryogenic fluid. The system includes a second tubing containing a second fluid therein and positioned downstream of the component with respect to the flow of the cryogenic fluid. The system also includes a parameter sensing device fluidly connected to the first tubing and the second tubing for comparing a first parameter associated with the first tubing and a second parameter associated with the second tubing. The system further includes a flow control device coupled to the parameter sensing device to regulate the flow of the cryogenic fluid over the component based, at least in part, on the comparison.