Multi-Dimensional Exhaust Emission Profile Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spectroscopic measurement techniques for exhaust emissions in industrial plants face challenges in accurately measuring multi-dimensional emission parameters due to non-uniform temperature and pressure distributions, and are often cumbersome and impractical for 2D or 3D space measurements.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that emit a laser beam in multiple directions through the exhaust emission, detecting absorption spectrum signals to determine single-dimensional profiles, which are then combined to generate a multi-dimensional profile of emission parameters, using a system with a measurement unit, emitter, detector, and processing unit to align and analyze the data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional line-of-sight techniques are used to measure emission parameters, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision is poor due to non-uniform temperature and pressure distributions along the laser path
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the continuous laser path into multiple discrete measurement locations along the exhaust flow path. By positioning detectors at multiple locations (e.g., upstream, midstream, downstream), the system obtains spatially-resolved emission parameter measurements, transforming a single averaged measurement into multiple location-specific measurements that capture non-uniform distributions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional line-of-sight measurements to two-dimensional or three-dimensional spatial mapping of emission parameters. By adding spatial coordinates (position along the exhaust path, radial position, angular position) to the measurements, the system creates a multi-dimensional parameter profile that reveals temperature and pressure distributions throughout the exhaust volume.
2Measurement precision
If measurement devices are positioned at multiple locations to capture non-uniform distributions, then the measurement precision improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the onerous task of positioning devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal measurement platform that can be positioned at multiple locations and orientations to perform measurements in various positions. The same detector assembly can be moved to different locations along the exhaust path or mounted on movable platforms, eliminating the need for specialized positioning equipment at each measurement point and simplifying operation.
3Measurement precision
If 2D or 3D space measurements are performed to capture complete emission profiles, then the measurement precision and completeness improve, but the productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming and laborious measurement processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic modulation of the laser beam (e.g., pulsed laser operation or frequency modulation) to encode spatial information in the temporal domain. By modulating the laser at different frequencies for different measurement locations or using time-gated detection, the system can rapidly acquire multi-location data in a periodic sequence, significantly reducing total measurement time compared to sequential manual measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous scanning or continuous multi-point measurement modes where the measurement process operates continuously without interruption. Instead of stopping and repositioning devices between measurements, the system maintains continuous laser operation with detectors sweeping through multiple positions or multiple detectors operating simultaneously, ensuring uninterrupted data acquisition across the entire measurement volume.
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 resolution and practicality in measuring emission parameters across multiple dimensions, enabling better control and monitoring of combustion processes while being portable and flexible.
Implementation Method 1
conventional in-situ, non-contact techniques entail passing a laser beam through the exhaust emission to measure the emission parameters
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a multi-dimensional profile of at least one emission parameter corresponding to an exhaust emission of a combustion process is presented. The method includes emitting a laser beam in a plurality of directions through the exhaust emission. The laser beam includes a plurality of wavelengths and the exhaust emission is characterized by the plurality of emission parameters. The method further includes detecting a plurality of absorption spectrum signals for each of the plurality of directions and determining a plurality of single-dimensional profiles corresponding to the at least one emission parameter. Each of the plurality of single-dimensional profiles is determined based on the plurality of absorption spectrum signals corresponding to each respective direction of the plurality of directions. The method also includes generating the multi-dimensional profile corresponding to the at least one emission parameter based on the plurality of single-dimensional profiles.