Deployable Projections for Controllable Fluid Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid mixing devices lack control over mixing rates and efficiency, as they often rely on fixed obstructions or uncontrolled flow patterns to induce mixing.
Innovation Solution
A fluid mixing device with deployable and retractable projections within a flow duct that can be deployed or retracted to generate and control secondary flows, enhancing mixing by creating vortices that supplement primary fluid flow, allowing for adjustable mixing intensity based on projection size and deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fixed obstructions or uncontrolled flow patterns are used to induce mixing, then mixing is achieved, but control over mixing rates is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs deployable and retractable projections that can dynamically adjust their configuration within the flow duct. These projections can be extended into the flow path to generate secondary flows and vortices for enhanced mixing, or retracted to minimize flow resistance. This dynamic adaptability allows control over mixing rates without requiring completely different device structures, resolving the contradiction between operational control and device complexity.
2Productivity
If deployable projections are used to generate secondary flows, then mixing efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes fluid pressure differentials to actuate the deployable projections. High-pressure fluid from the primary flow itself activates the projections to deploy into the flow path, creating secondary flows and vortices that enhance mixing efficiency. This self-actuating mechanism improves productivity without requiring complex external actuation systems, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
3Productivity
If projections are deployed to create vortices, then mixing is enhanced, but flow resistance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic deployment and retraction of the projections along the flow duct. Rather than maintaining continuous deployment, the projections are activated in specific zones where mixing is most beneficial, then retracted to allow smooth flow. This periodic action pattern enhances mixing intensity in critical regions while minimizing overall flow resistance and energy loss throughout the duct 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 solution enables precise control over fluid mixing by varying the deployment of projections, resulting in improved mixing efficiency and flexibility in fluid mixing processes, with the ability to adjust mixing rates according to specific requirements.
Implementation Method 1
deployed to form at least one secondary flow within the duct to controllably mix the at least one fluid within the duct
Implementation Method 2
utilizes pulsing of the flow to cause instabilities which lead to mixing
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment of the disclosure, a fluid mixing device comprises a flow duct, with a wall having an inner surface defining a fluid flow path for a primary flow, and at least one deployable and retractable projection. The projection is adapted to controllably generate at least one secondary flow adjacent the inner surface. In other embodiments, methods are provided of controllably mixing at least one fluid within a fluid mixing device.