Method of preparing liquid mixtures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preparing liquid mixtures with pre-defined characteristics, such as buffer solutions, require exact concentrations of stock solutions and are limited by the need for precise initial conditions, which can be challenging to maintain in industrial processes like chromatography and filtration.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the mixing of at least three liquid flows with varying properties to achieve desired characteristics, where the proportions of buffer component flows are adjusted to maintain constant buffer concentration while adjusting pH or other properties, allowing for automated and precise control of liquid mixtures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If exact concentrations of stock solutions are used to prepare liquid mixtures with pre-defined characteristics, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase due to the need for precise initial conditions and measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses automated feedback control where sensors continuously measure liquid parameters (pH, conductivity, flow rate) and the control system automatically adjusts pump speeds and valve positions to maintain desired composition, eliminating the need for manual measurement and adjustment while ensuring precision
Solution Approach 2:
The blending system incorporates real-time feedback loops where measured liquid parameters are continuously compared to target values, and control actions are automatically adjusted based on deviations, ensuring precise composition control without requiring complex manual intervention
2Manufacturing precision
If exact concentrations of stock solutions are required, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to challenging maintenance of precise initial conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-adjustment through automated feedback control, continuously measuring liquid parameters and adjusting pump/valve operations to maintain desired composition, eliminating the need for operators to manually maintain precise initial conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates the required stock solution concentrations and flow rates based on desired final composition, and automatically prepares and delivers the correct amounts, removing the burden of precise manual preparation from the operator
3Manufacturing precision
If flow feedback control is used to maintain predetermined mixing ratios, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple sensors and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a single integrated control system that manages multiple functions including flow rate measurement, pH control, conductivity control, and pump/valve actuation, reducing overall complexity compared to separate dedicated systems for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines multiple control loops (flow feedback, pH control, conductivity control) into a unified control architecture that coordinates all blending operations through a single control unit, simplifying the overall system structure while maintaining precision
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
Enables the preparation of liquid mixtures with precise and controlled characteristics, such as pH and buffer concentration, even when exact stock solution concentrations are unknown, improving process reliability and efficiency in industrial applications.
Implementation Method 1
A development of this method, which permits the use of higher concentrations of buffer and/or salt is disclosed in WO 2009/131524 A1. Here a mixer control unit is provided to control the relative component proportions
Implementation Method 2
The conductivity of the recirculated solution is sensed by a conductivity sensor communicating with a system controller
Implementation Method 3
A near infrared (NIR) sensor detects the alcohol concentration
Implementation Method 4
The metering device calculates, by the use of an approximation of the Debye-Hückel equation, the relative proportions of the components required to obtain an eluent of a selected pH at a given salt concentration
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a method of preparing a mixed liquid having a first property and a second property. The method includes providing a first set of liquids, a second set of liquids, and a third set of liquids. The method includes combining the provided sets of liquids. Further, the method includes varying at least one of the liquid flows of the first and second sets and at least one liquid flow of the third set to adjust the first property and the second property to their respective predetermined values in the resulting mixed liquid flow.