Detachable Mesh Reaction Container for Solid Gas Reactions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional solid state reaction containers with gas-permeable bottoms face limitations in removing gaseous reaction products efficiently, leading to slower reaction times and reduced throughput due to reliance on diffusion processes against gravity, which can hinder the progress of metal powder production.

Innovation Solution

A reaction container with a detachable mesh fabric and support construction allows for convective transport of gases by gravity, enabling efficient removal of by-products and accommodating different powder sizes, with the option to use multiple containers for increased scalability and stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional boats with gas-permeable bottoms are used, then the structure is simple, but the removal of gaseous reaction products is inefficient due to reliance on diffusion processes against gravity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereaction rateVSAvoidcontainer structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the conventional approach by allowing the powder bed to drain downwards through the gas-permeable bottom under gravity, while the gas flow moves upwards through the powder bed. This reversal of the conventional configuration enables gaseous reaction products to be removed efficiently by gravity-driven convective flow rather than diffusion against gravity, significantly improving reaction productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a movable piston that can be displaced to vary the volume of the reaction container dynamically. This allows the system to adapt to different reaction conditions and powder bed volumes, optimizing the gas flow patterns and reaction efficiency. The dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to maintain optimal productivity across varying operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Quantity of substance

If the reaction container size is increased for industrial-scale reactions, then the quantity of reactants can be increased, but the efficiency of gas removal may decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveamount of powderVSAvoidreaction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the reaction container into multiple zones with a gas-permeable bottom that allows partitioning of the powder bed. This segmentation enables independent gas flow paths and drainage zones, ensuring that even in large-scale reactions, gaseous products can be efficiently removed from all regions. The segmented structure maintains high reaction efficiency while accommodating industrial quantities of reactants.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a vertical dimension for gas flow and drainage by implementing a gas-permeable bottom that allows downward movement of powder and upward flow of gas. This three-dimensional configuration enables efficient gas removal throughout the entire powder bed volume, maintaining reaction efficiency regardless of the horizontal size or quantity of reactants processed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If mesh fabric is made detachable for easy replacement, then adaptability to different powder sizes is improved, but the structural stability may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to powder sizesVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the container structure into detachable components, specifically the mesh fabric and support plate, which can be independently removed and replaced. This segmentation enables easy adaptation to different powder sizes by selecting appropriate mesh configurations while maintaining overall structural stability through the robust frame and support construction. The modular design allows frequent replacement without compromising the integrity of the entire system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different local qualities to various components: the mesh fabric provides flexibility and adaptability for different powders, while the support plate and frame provide rigid structural stability. This differentiation of local qualities allows the detachable mesh to be easily replaced for adaptability while the permanent support structure maintains reliable structural integrity throughout operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 design significantly shortens reaction times, increases throughput, and allows for larger quantities of reactants without compromising reaction quality, making it suitable for industrial-scale production and high-temperature processes.

Implementation Method 1

the removal of the gaseous components formed during the reaction is effected not only by diffusion processes, but also by convective material transport processes caused by gravity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity-driven convection: Gravitational Convection (non heat)

Implementation Method 2

The transport of the gas through the powdery solid can be effected either by diffusion, i.e., based on a concentration gradient

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffusion: Diffusion

Data Source

PatentUS20240416308A1Device Comprising a Reaction Container for Solids Reactions
Publication Date: 2024.12.19 H C STARCK GMBH
  • US20240416308A1 patent drawing
  • US20240416308A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a device comprising at least one reaction container for receiving pulverulent reaction products, the reaction container having a frame and a screen fabric which is detachably connected to the frame. The invention also relates to the use thereof in gas/solids reactions.