Liquefied Gas Electrolyte Dispensing Under Backpressure Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
The preparation of liquefied gas electrolytes (LGE) faces challenges in achieving accurate and efficient flow control due to temperature fluctuations, which can lead to backpressure issues and compromised performance of electrochemical devices.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a temperature sensor and a processor to control the flow rate of a mass flow controller, maintaining the temperature of the liquefied gas solution below a predetermined maximum to prevent backpressure and ensure accurate flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the LGE container temperature increases during the preparation of LGE, then the flow rate and accuracy of the MFC are negatively impacted due to backpressure exceeding the MFC's operation window, but temperature monitoring and feedback control add system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a temperature feedback control system where a temperature sensor continuously monitors the LGE container temperature and provides real-time data to a processor. The processor adjusts the mass flow controller's operation based on this temperature feedback to maintain optimal flow conditions. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures accurate flow rate control while preventing backpressure issues that would otherwise compromise measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary temperature monitoring and adjustment actions before the backpressure problem develops. By continuously monitoring temperature and proactively adjusting the MFC operation in advance, the system prevents the condition where backpressure exceeds the MFC's operation window, thereby maintaining flow rate accuracy without requiring complex reactive measures.
2Manufacturing precision
If temperature monitoring and feedback control are implemented to maintain accurate flow control, then flow rate accuracy is improved, but the preparation process time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature monitoring and flow control adjustment operate continuously throughout the LGE preparation process rather than in discrete steps. This continuous control ensures that flow rate accuracy is maintained throughout the entire preparation process, preventing deviations in electrolyte mass while minimizing the need for repeated measurements and adjustments that would extend preparation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to automatically monitor temperature and adjust flow control parameters without requiring manual intervention. The processor autonomously processes temperature feedback and modifies MFC operation accordingly, eliminating the time loss associated with manual monitoring and adjustment while maintaining precise electrolyte mass control.
3Ease of operation
If the MFC operates without temperature feedback, then the system is simpler and faster to operate, but the electrolyte composition accuracy deteriorates due to uncontrolled temperature variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated temperature feedback control where the processor receives continuous temperature data from the sensor and automatically adjusts the MFC operation parameters. This eliminates the need for manual temperature monitoring and adjustment, maintaining electrolyte composition accuracy while preserving operational simplicity through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment of flow parameters with automated electronic control based on temperature feedback. The processor electronically modulates the MFC operation in response to temperature sensor data, substituting manual operation with automated control that maintains precision while simplifying the user interface and operational procedure.
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 enhances the accuracy and efficiency of LGE preparation by maintaining optimal temperature conditions, thereby improving the performance and energy density of electrochemical devices.
Implementation Method 1
the container comprises a temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the liquefied gas solution when present in the container
Implementation Method 2
A processor connected to the MFC and to the temperature sensor is used to receive temperature readings from the temperature sensors and to actuate the flow rate on the MFC
Implementation Method 3
The flow rate is adjusted to maintain temperature readings from the temperature sensor below a predetermined maximum temperature. The liquefied gas solvent mixes with the salt in the container to form a liquefied gas electrolyte
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and structures are disclosed to dispense a liquefied gas solution from a liquefied gas solution (LGE) container. The LGE container comprises a temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the liquefied gas solution within the LGE container. The LGE container temperature is controlled using a temperature control element and a processor connected to the temperature sensor and to the temperature control element. The LGE is transferred from the container into a secondary container through a valve. The method includes the following steps: (a) opening the valve to allow the LGE to flow from the LGE container into the secondary container; (b) taking readings from the temperature sensor; and (c) based on the temperature readings, heating the LGE container to maintain the temperature of the LGE container at a predetermined temperature or within a predetermined temperature range.