Integrated Valve Block for Compact Dual-Vessel Gas Adsorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas adsorption devices with adjustable valve systems are too bulky and costly for small applications, despite their compactness being advantageous for space-constrained environments.
Innovation Solution
Integration of the adjustable valve system into a single valve block, with vessels having dual gas accesses ensuring gas passage through the adsorbent before exiting, reducing the need for separate valve blocks and piping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate valve blocks are used to enable switching of vessels, then the device can perform adsorption and regeneration functions, but the device becomes bulky and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate valve blocks into a single integrated valve block that controls both vessels. This merging of valve functions into one unit reduces the overall device volume while maintaining the capability to switch between adsorption and regeneration modes for both vessels, directly resolving the contradiction between versatility and compactness
2Ease of operation
If two separate valve blocks with all channels and conduits are implemented, then the valve system can control gas flow to vessels, but material costs and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the control functions into a single valve block, the patent reduces the total amount of material required for valve components, channels, and conduits. This consolidation directly decreases the weight of the valve system while maintaining full gas flow control capability through the integrated design
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate valve blocks are used for each vessel, then each vessel can be independently controlled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single valve block is designed with multi-functionality, serving as the control unit for both vessels simultaneously. It incorporates multiple channels and control mechanisms within one integrated structure, enabling independent control of each vessel while reducing the overall system complexity compared to having separate valve blocks
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 solution results in a more compact, cost-effective, and lighter device with reduced material and electrical/pneumatic piping, maintaining efficient gas treatment by alternating vessel operations.
Implementation Method 1
regenerable adsorbent means an adsorbent or desiccant that can adsorb gas from a gas mixture by adsorption
Implementation Method 2
The regeneration gas in this case is, for example, a high-pressure gas that is expanded through a nozzle, expansion valve, or the like
Data Source
AI summary
Device for adsorbing a gas from a gas mixture to be treated, having an inlet for gas to be treated and an outlet for treated gas, including at least two vessels filled with a regenerable adsorbent and an adjustable valve system connecting the inlet and outlet to the vessels, whereby the adjustable valve system is such that at least one vessel will treat compressed gas while the other vessel is regenerated, whereby by adjusting the valve system the vessels each in turn treat compressed gas sequentially, and the adjustable valve system is assembled in a single valve block.