Modular Compression Chamber Segmentation Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compression systems face challenges in manufacturing robust, cost-effective compression chambers capable of withstanding high pressure pulses, as few companies can produce suitable pressure vessels with long lead times and high production costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular compression chamber composed of interconnected modules with varying geometries, such as hexagonal and pentagonal shapes, using connecting means like double dovetail wedges and tensioned fasteners to form a robust and fluid-tight structure, allowing for customizable size and shape while minimizing weak points and inert areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a large cylindrical or spherical pressure vessel is manufactured to withstand high pressure pulses, then the chamber can withstand high pressures without fatiguing, but the manufacturing cost increases and lead time extends
Solution Approach 1:
The compression chamber is divided into multiple modular segments that can be manufactured separately and assembled together. Each module can be produced using standard manufacturing processes, avoiding the need for a single large custom pressure vessel, thereby reducing manufacturing cost and lead time while maintaining structural integrity through proper connection design
2Reliability
If a robust pressure vessel design is used to withstand intermittent internal high pressure pulses, then the chamber durability improves, but the number of weak points increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the chamber into modular units, the stress distribution is optimized and each module can be designed with uniform thickness and geometry, eliminating weak points associated with large single-vessel designs. The modular connections are designed to maintain structural continuity while allowing for stress relief at joints
Solution Approach 2:
The modules are designed with curved surfaces and optimized geometric shapes that distribute stress evenly across the structure. The spherical or cylindrical curvature of individual modules helps eliminate stress concentration points while maintaining the overall robustness needed to withstand high pressure pulses
3Ease of manufacture
If a modular design with interconnected modules is used, then production cost decreases and customization improves, but the number of connection points increases
Solution Approach 1:
The chamber is divided into standardized modular segments that can be manufactured using conventional processes, reducing production cost and enabling customization. The modules connect through standardized interfaces that minimize the number of unique connection designs needed while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple connection functions are integrated into unified connection structures. The connection points are designed to simultaneously provide mechanical attachment, sealing, and stress distribution functions, reducing the overall complexity despite the increased number of connection locations in modular design
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 modular design enhances the chamber's ability to withstand high pressures, reduces production costs, and allows for efficient energy density distribution, providing a cost-effective and robust solution for generating pressure waves in fluid media.
Implementation Method 1
Each pressure wave generator can include a hammer piston that can be accelerated to impact an anvil that is secured within a corresponding opening formed in the wall of the compression chamber. The impact of the hammer upon the corresponding anvil causes a compression wave to travel through the anvil into the liquid medium thus generating a pressure wave in the liquid medium.
Implementation Method 2
During the operation of the compression system, intermittent internal high pressure pulses can be generated, for example, by reflecting pressure waves inside the compression chamber.
Data Source
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AI summary
Examples of a modular compression chamber for use in a compression system are disclosed. The modular compression chamber comprises a plurality of individual modules and a plurality of fasteners to attach the plurality of modules in an interlocking fashion to form the chamber. The modules have a pre-determined geometry and size to form a compression chamber with a desired geometry and size. The plurality of fasteners keeps each of the individual modules in compression with neighboring modules so that the formed chamber maintains its integrity during operation. The modules can comprise a plurality of pressure wave generators to generate a pressure wave within the chamber. In one embodiment, the pressure wave generators have a pre-determined geometry and size and are configured to interlock with the neighboring generators forming the individual modules. The fasteners are configured to maintain intimate contact between side walls of the adjacent pressure wave generators.