Granulated CO2 Production Apparatus Pneumatic Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing granulated solid CO2 are complex, inefficient, and result in low-density granules, leading to inadequate performance and reliability for applications like cleaning and cooling, due to heat generation and design complexities.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that convert solid CO2 into a high-viscosity liquid state within the production apparatus, allowing for improved density and efficiency through controlled compression and heat transfer, with features like spiral grooves for liquid CO2 flow and filtering elements to enhance granule formation and quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple pistons and hydraulic systems are used to compress solid CO2, then the granules can be formed, but heat is generated and penetrates into the chambers, reducing conversion efficiency and granule density
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and removes the hydraulic system and multiple pistons from the CO2 compression chamber. Instead, a single piston is used that is directly actuated by compressed air, eliminating the heat-generating hydraulic components from the chamber environment and preventing heat penetration that degrades granule density
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the hydraulic mechanical system with a pneumatic system. Compressed air directly actuates the piston through a pneumatic cylinder, substituting the hydraulic fluid and pump system with a gas-based system that generates less heat and does not require complex hydraulic components inside the chamber
2Ease of operation
If gaseous CO2 is used to actuate the pressing member, then the device can operate, but strict adherence to compaction and temperature conditions is required, and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces an intermediary pneumatic system (compressed air supply) between the control system and the pressing member. Instead of directly using gaseous CO2 from the chamber to actuate the press, external compressed air serves as an intermediary medium, decoupling the pressing mechanism from the chamber's temperature and pressure conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The invention segments the system into separate functional zones: the CO2 processing chamber and the actuation system. The pressing member is actuated by a separate pneumatic system outside the chamber, dividing the complex process into independent controllable sections with different operational requirements
3Reliability
If complex device design with multiple chambers and pistons is used, then solid CO2 can be produced, but performance and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single integrated chamber design. Instead of separate chambers for CO2 formation, filtration, and compression, all processes occur in one chamber with a unified piston system, reducing the number of components and potential failure points while maintaining functional integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The single piston in the invention performs multiple functions: it compresses the CO2, filters the gas, and forms the granules, all within one chamber. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated chambers and pistons for each operation, simplifying the overall device structure
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
The method achieves high-density granulated CO2 with improved performance, reliability, and reduced wear on apparatus components, ensuring effective cleaning and cooling applications while maintaining thermal insulation and efficient heat transfer.
Implementation Method 1
conversion of liquid CO2 to solid CO2
Implementation Method 2
formation of solid CO2
Implementation Method 3
compressing solid CO2 to provide a conversion of at least a portion of the solid CO2 into a state of essentially high-viscosity liquid CO2
Implementation Method 4
heat transfer from the case wall of the granulated CO2 production apparatus to solid CO2
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the field of production of granulated solid carbon dioxide (CO2), in particular, to a method for production of granulated solid carbon dioxide, comprising the formation of solid CO2, compression of solid CO2 to provide a conversion of at least a portion of solid CO2 to a state of highly viscous fluid CO2 and stopping the compression to produce granulated solid CO2. Also provided is granulated CO2 produced by this method, and an apparatus for producing granulated CO2.