Leak Detection Device with Intermediate Inlet and Valve Buffer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leak detection devices using turbomolecular pumps have long testing times and response times due to long counter-flow paths, which hinder efficient fluid tightness testing.
Innovation Solution
A leak detection device with a test gas line connected to an intermediate inlet of a turbomolecular pump, featuring a valve system that buffers test gas in a separate chamber, allowing for a short counter-flow path and independent operation of the test gas pump, enabling rapid pressure achievement and efficient test gas usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the test gas line is connected to the outlet region of the turbomolecular pump, then the device structure is simple, but the counter-flow path is long resulting in long testing times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pump system into multiple functional regions with multiple intermediate inlets along the main conveying path. Instead of a single outlet connection, the system provides multiple connection points at different positions, allowing the test gas line to connect at an optimal intermediate location that balances structural simplicity with shortened counter-flow path length.
2Loss of time
If the test gas line is connected to an intermediate region of the turbomolecular pump, then the counter-flow path is shortened, but the connection can only be made at lower pressures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pressure control mechanism as an intermediary between the test gas line and the intermediate inlet. This mediator regulates the pressure conditions, enabling the test gas line to connect to the intermediate region regardless of the current pressure in the test chamber, thus allowing shortened counter-flow path operation across a broader pressure range.
3Loss of time
If the test gas line is connected to a further intermediate inlet to shorten the counter-flow path further, then testing time is reduced, but the connection is only possible at later moments when test pressure is reduced further
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure control mechanism serves as an intermediary that decouples the connection timing from the pressure conditions. By actively regulating pressure, the system enables connection to further intermediate inlets at any operational moment, not just when pressure naturally reduces, thus maintaining both shortened testing time and operational flexibility throughout the examination process.
4Loss of time
If the test gas pump means is operated independently of the evacuation pump means, then low pressure can be achieved in the test gas pump means with short counter-flow path, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by having the test gas pump means serve dual purposes: it operates independently to create low pressure conditions for rapid testing, while also being integrated with the evacuation pump means for overall system evacuation. This universal design allows the same pump system to fulfill multiple functions without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the test gas pump means with the evacuation pump means into an integrated system. By combining these pump functions into a unified architectural framework with shared control and coordination mechanisms, the system achieves independent operation capability while avoiding the full complexity of completely separate systems.
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
Significantly shortens testing times by achieving low pressures in the test gas pump independently of the evacuation pump, allowing for a shorter counter-flow path and quick detection of leaks, with minimal test gas volume required for each test, facilitating rapid device readiness for subsequent tests.
Implementation Method 1
the test gas flows in through the intermediate inlet and is conveyed along the main conveying path to the outlet of the test gas pump means
Implementation Method 2
Detecting the test gas, which in particular is helium, is effected by the test gas flowing to the inlet within the turbomolecular pump against the main flow direction of the turbomolecular pump, whereby it can be detected by the test gas detector
Data Source
AI summary
A leak detection device has a test chamber which, for evacuation, is connected to an evacuation pump device. Moreover, the test chamber is connected by a test gas line to a test gas pump device. The test gas pump device is connected, at its main inlet, to a test gas detector, such that a detection of test gas can take place using the counter-current principle. A valve device is arranged in the test gas line. This valve device has a test gas chamber for temporary storage of test gas removed from the test chamber.