Method and device for operating a cryogenic tunnel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cryogenic tunnels used for cooling or deep-freezing products face challenges in maintaining optimal operating conditions due to varying product batches, temperatures, flow rates, and compositions, leading to inconsistent product quality and increased costs, as existing systems often rely on static settings rather than continuous adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A method that continuously adjusts the operating conditions of the cryogenic tunnel by measuring key parameters, dividing them into anticipation and retroactive action groups to proactively compensate for deviations in deep-freezing power and correct final product quality, using matrices to calculate adjustments in conveyor speed, blower speed, and temperature setpoints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If static mean settings are used for tunnel parameters, then operation simplicity is maintained, but product quality consistency deteriorates due to varying production conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of tunnel parameters (temperature setpoint, conveyor speed, blower speed) based on real-time monitoring of product characteristics and production conditions. The system transitions from static mean settings to continuous dynamic optimization, where parameters are automatically adjusted according to actual production needs, resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and product quality consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms by monitoring product temperature, production flow rate, and other key parameters, then using this information to automatically adjust tunnel operating parameters. This closed-loop control ensures consistent product quality while maintaining ease of operation through automated adjustment rather than manual intervention.
2Manufacturing precision
If temperature setpoint is adjusted lower to ensure product quality safety, then product quality consistency is improved, but energy consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes operating parameters (temperature setpoint, conveyor speed, blower speed) based on actual production conditions and product characteristics. Instead of maintaining a consistently low temperature setpoint, the system adjusts parameters in real-time to achieve the minimum necessary cooling, thereby ensuring product quality while reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent avoids excessive cooling by adjusting parameters to provide only the necessary cooling power needed for each specific production scenario. The system determines the optimal parameter settings that achieve adequate product quality without applying excessive cold energy, thus reducing energy consumption while maintaining quality consistency.
3Manufacturing precision
If continuous adjustment of tunnel parameters is implemented, then product quality consistency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically monitoring production conditions and tuning tunnel parameters without requiring external intervention or complex manual control systems. The automated control logic handles the complexity internally, maintaining product quality consistency while keeping the user interface simple and ease of operation high.
4Device complexity
If static mean parameters are used, then device complexity is minimized, but productivity decreases due to suboptimal cooling performance for varying batches
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic parameter adjustment that adapts to varying production batches and conditions, optimizing cooling performance for each scenario. This dynamic approach improves productivity by ensuring optimal cooling efficiency for each batch while maintaining manageable system complexity through automated control.
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 ensures consistent deep-freezing of products to the desired level, reducing energy consumption and maintaining product quality by anticipating and correcting deviations in real-time, thereby optimizing the deep-freezing process.
Implementation Method 1
means for extracting cold gases resulting from the vaporization of the fluid in the tunnel
Implementation Method 2
the temperature of the tunnel will be rapidly lowered
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device for operating a cryogenic tunnel involving the implementation of the following provisions:the measurement of a plurality of key parameters of the method,the division of these parameters into two groups of different parameters,the implementation of one or both of the two following actions on these key parameters: Anticipation actions on the parameters of the 1st group (in order to act in advance on an anticipated/expected deviation in the deep-freezing quality; andRetroactive actions (countermeasures) on the parameters of the second group, in order to rebalance a measured, effective drift in the quality of the exiting products.