Cryogenic Sifting System for Plant Material
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cryogenic separation methods for plant stock are inefficient in separating small particles like trichomes from larger plant components in a continuous process, often requiring batch processing and struggling with particle adhesion to screens.
Innovation Solution
A modular sifting system with vibrating screens and cryogenic fluid injection that allows for continuous separation of small particles by freezing them to prevent adhesion, using multiple sifting trays with cryogenic fluid sprayers and outlets for large particles, enabling efficient collection of desired particles while retaining larger components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If batch processing is used for cryogenic separation, then particle adhesion to screens can be managed, but processing time and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies cryogenic fluid to freeze particles before they reach the screen surface, preventing adhesion before it occurs. This preliminary freezing action enables continuous processing without the adhesion problems that plague batch processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous operation with particles being frozen and separated in an uninterrupted flow. The modular tray design with continuous cryogenic fluid application allows the process to run continuously without batch interruptions, significantly improving productivity.
2Productivity
If cryogenic fluid is applied to freeze particles, then particles can pass through screens without adhesion, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the separation process into multiple modular trays, each handling a specific separation task. This segmentation allows the complex cryogenic separation process to be broken down into manageable units that can be independently controlled and maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
Cryogenic fluid acts as an intermediary substance that facilitates particle separation by freezing particles before they contact the screen. This intermediary approach enables efficient separation without requiring direct mechanical intervention or complex screen designs.
3Productivity
If multiple sifting trays are used for continuous separation, then processing capacity increases, but device complexity and cleaning difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple independent modular trays that can be easily removed and cleaned separately. Each tray is a self-contained unit with standardized dimensions and attachment mechanisms, making maintenance simple despite the multi-tray configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular trays are designed with universal features including standardized mounting mechanisms, uniform cryogenic fluid distribution systems, and interchangeable screens. This universality allows any tray to be removed, cleaned, and replaced without affecting other trays, simplifying maintenance of the multi-tray system.
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 enables efficient, continuous separation of small particles from plant stock, improving yield and reducing processing time by allowing particles to pass through screens without adhering, and facilitating easy cleaning and screen replacement for different plant sizes.
Implementation Method 1
freezing them to prevent adhesion
Implementation Method 2
cryogenic fluid injection for freezing the small parts
Implementation Method 3
means for vibrating the screen for separating components
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for improved separation of small particles from other stock. The device includes a sifting tray assembly and means for vibrating the screen of the shifting tray assembly for separating components and a cryogenic fluid source and injection system for freezing the small parts to the point where they are solid enough to pass through the screen without adhering to the screen. The method entails use of the system to separate small particles in sifting trays while spraying the stock with a cryogen such as liquid nitrogen.