Integrated Sensor Receptacles in Cryogenic Transfer Lines

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing transfer systems for cryogenic fluids face challenges in sensor installation, maintenance, and upgrading due to the need for dedicated mounting fixtures, which are cumbersome and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A transfer line module with integrated sensors, featuring a multi-walled structure and standardized receptacles for sensor housings, allowing easy mounting, replacement, and communication with a control device for monitoring fluid state variables.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If dedicated mounting fixtures are used for installing sensors in the transfer line, then sensors can be installed and monitored, but the system complexity increases and maintenance becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor installation reliabilityVSAvoidmounting fixture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting fixture is merged with the transfer line structure itself. The receptacle is integrated into the transfer line module, eliminating the need for separate dedicated mounting fixtures. This reduces device complexity while maintaining reliable sensor installation capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The receptacle design serves multiple functions: it provides sensor mounting, ensures thermal insulation, maintains structural integrity, and facilitates easy sensor replacement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components while improving reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If defective sensors need to be replaced or the system upgraded with additional sensors, then monitoring capability can be improved, but significant effort and time are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor replacement capabilityVSAvoidsensor replacement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The transfer line is divided into modular sections with standardized receptacles. This segmentation allows sensors to be independently replaced without affecting the entire system, significantly reducing replacement time and effort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The receptacle design incorporates standardized dimensions and thermal insulation parameters that remain constant across different sensor types. This standardization allows different sensors to be interchangeably mounted using the same receptacle, facilitating quick replacement and system upgrading.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If sensors are installed to monitor fluid transfer, then transfer process security is improved, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransfer process monitoringVSAvoidsensor installation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The receptacle is merged into the transfer line module structure, creating an integrated design that simplifies installation. The receptacle serves as both a structural component and a sensor mounting interface, reducing installation complexity while maintaining monitoring reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The receptacle design includes self-aligning and self-sealing features that automatically ensure proper sensor installation and thermal insulation without requiring complex external fixtures or specialized installation procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20260029078A1Transfer Line Module with Integrated Sensors
Publication Date: 2026.01.29 NEXANS INC
  • US20260029078A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A transfer line module includes a rigid multi-walled transfer line section with an inner and an outer pipe and a sensor integrated in the transfer line section. The transfer line section is connectable at both ends with a thermally insulated multi-walled transfer line comprising an inner and outer tube which are connected with the inner and outer pipe of the transfer line section, respectively. The transfer line is apt for transferring temperature sensitive fluids. The transfer line section is provided with a receptacle for the sensor, which is mounted in the receptacle. The receptacle is open towards the interior of the inner pipe such that the sensor is in direct contact with the fluid inside the inner pipe of the transfer line section.