Headspace Gas Sampling Seal for Metal Container Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing instruments for analyzing headspace gas in containers are bulky, not portable, and struggle with efficient withdrawal and real-time analysis, especially from metal containers with minimal leakage and dilution.
Innovation Solution
A portable, handheld gas analysis system with a penetration implement, seal, and gas-tight valves to create an enclosed volume for gas withdrawal and analysis, using a gas detection tube or optical sensor for real-time measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If in-assembly line instruments and gas chromatographs are used to analyze headspace gas, then analysis capability is provided, but the instruments are bulky and not portable
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the analysis function into a portable field device for gas withdrawal and a separate analysis component (either portable detector or lab instrument), allowing the sampling function to be portable while maintaining analysis capability
Solution Approach 2:
A portable gas withdrawal and transfer device serves as an intermediary between the container and the analysis instrument, enabling field sampling while the actual analysis can be performed by either a portable or laboratory instrument
2Productivity
If conventional instruments are used to withdraw headspace gas from metal containers, then gas withdrawal is achieved, but excess leakage and dilution of the sample occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the necessary amount of headspace gas through a controlled penetration opening, minimizing sample loss while obtaining sufficient gas for analysis
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible seal engages the container opening to create a gas-tight enclosure, preventing leakage and contamination of the withdrawn gas sample
3Loss of time
If real-time analysis is implemented, then immediate results are obtained, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical gas chromatography with simpler detection methods such as disposable gas detection tubes or portable electronic sensors, achieving real-time analysis with reduced complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Disposable gas detection tubes provide simple, real-time analysis without requiring complex reusable instruments, reducing system complexity while enabling immediate results
Data Source
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AI summary
Described herein is a portable withdrawal and real-time gas analysis system for headspace gas in containers with metal closures. The system's penetration implement creates an opening in the metal closure, which allows withdrawal of gas from the container to a chamber. A seal limits the escape of the gas by engaging the container to maintain an enclosed volume comprising the chamber and the container interior after the creation of an opening. One or more gas-tight valves further limit the escape of the gas and direct the gas withdrawn by the penetration implement into the chamber. Once the withdrawal of the gas is complete, one of the gas-tight valves directs gas from the chamber to a gas analyzer such as a gas detection tube through a connection pipe connected to the gas-tight valve. The system may also include an optical sensor system for analysis of the gas.