Grain Ozone Treatment via Multi-Zone Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods face challenges in evenly treating grain with ozone due to the size of storage containers, as ozone can 'channel' through certain areas, leaving others untreated.
Innovation Solution
Introducing ozone into the headspace above the grain and using multiple fans to draw it into the grain, with air flow reduction once ozone is detected, and rotating the ozone introduction point among different vents to ensure thorough treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ozone is introduced into a large grain bin, then the grain can be treated against toxins, insects, mold and odor, but the ozone channels through certain areas and fails to evenly treat all grain
Solution Approach 1:
The grain bin is divided into multiple zones with separate ozone introduction points and exhaust locations. The treatment process is segmented into multiple phases where different fan combinations are activated to treat different regions of the grain mass, ensuring comprehensive and uniform coverage throughout the entire bin volume.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the grain bin receive ozone treatment at different times and through different introduction points. The system adapts the ozone distribution pattern to local conditions by selectively activating fans and ozone generators in specific zones, ensuring that each region receives appropriate treatment intensity and duration.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple fans are used to draw ozone into the grain, then treatment coverage improves, but the complexity of the treatment system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fan system is divided into multiple independently controllable units positioned at different locations within the bin. Each fan serves a specific zone and can be activated or deactivated based on treatment progress, allowing complex treatment patterns to be achieved through simple on/off control of individual fan segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The fans operate in periodic cycles rather than continuously, with different fan combinations activated in sequence throughout the treatment period. This periodic operation pattern simplifies control logic while achieving uniform ozone distribution through repeated exposure cycles of different fan configurations.
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 method ensures more efficient and uniform ozone distribution throughout the grain, effectively reducing toxins, microbial counts, and eliminating odors, making the grain suitable for storage or shipment.
Implementation Method 1
Ozone can be used to treat grain for various things such as insects, mold, bacteria, unwanted odors, and/or toxins
Implementation Method 2
passing ozone through a pile of grain and reaching all of the grain can be difficult
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
Improved methods for treating grain with ozone are disclosed. The methods include introducing ozone into grain at more than one location in order to effectively treat the grain.