Gimbal Process Analyzer Adapter With Invariant Gas-Tight Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current process analyzer alignment systems face challenges in maintaining a gas-tight seal while allowing for flexible alignment, often resulting in seal loss due to uneven compression of flexible seals or reduced optical transmission in sealed flange designs.
Innovation Solution
A process analyzer adapter featuring a gyrocompass gimbal system with two independently movable axes and a spherical geometry, utilizing a triangular sealing groove and O-ring seal to maintain a gas-tight connection during alignment adjustments, ensuring the seal remains invariant across all positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible sealing element is used to allow alignment movement, then the alignment flexibility is improved, but the gas tight seal is lost due to uneven compression
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spherical sealing surface where the seal contacts a spherical outer portion of the first part. This curved geometry ensures uniform distribution of compressive forces on the O-ring seal during rotational alignment movements, preventing uneven compression and maintaining gas tight sealing throughout the alignment range.
Solution Approach 2:
The spherical geometry creates an equipotential sealing condition where the seal experiences consistent compression pressure regardless of the alignment position. The radius of curvature is centered on the intersection point of the two rotation axes, ensuring that the seal remains in a state of balanced stress during movement.
2Manufacturing precision
If numerous alignment screws are used to achieve precise alignment, then the alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment function is segmented into two independent rotational degrees of freedom, each controlled by its own axis. The first axis handles rotation while the second axis handles tilting, allowing precise alignment to be achieved through two simple rotational movements rather than multiple adjustment screws.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static multiple-screw adjustment to dynamic rotational alignment. The two rotation axes enable continuous adjustment during operation, making the alignment process more intuitive and easier to perform while maintaining precision.
Data Source
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AI summary
A process analyzer adapter for connecting a process analyzer to an industrial process equipment comprises an analyzer mount (B) configured to connect to the process analyzer. The adapter further comprises a ring element (D), and a non-moving part (E). The analyzer mount is rotationally connected to the ring element such as to be able to rotate about a first axis. The ring element is rotationally connected to the non-moving part such as to be able to rotate about a second axis, wherein rotation of the ring element about the second axis is configured to tilt the first axis. The non-moving part is configured to be connected to a flange of the industrial process equipment. The first axis may be orthogonal to the second axis. The axes may intersect at an intersection point. A seal, such as an O-ring or a membrane seal, may be provided between the analyzer mount and the non-moving part.