Modular Extraction Tower Segmentation for Maintenance Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extraction columns have integrated structures that make it difficult to disassemble, replace damaged parts, or remove contaminants, limiting flexibility and maintenance options.
Innovation Solution
A modular extraction column design featuring end blocks, a body block composed of column modules with adjustable lengths, and a cartridge-shaped inner structure that can be easily attached or detached for maintenance, facilitating assembly, volume changes, and maintenance access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If an integrated structure is used for the extraction column, then structural strength and stability are improved, but ease of repair and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction column is divided into multiple detachable modules (first module, second module, third module) that can be separated and reconfigured. Each module contains functional components such as distributors, extractors, and collectors, allowing the column to be disassembled for repair or maintenance without compromising overall structural integrity when assembled.
2Stability of the object's composition
If an integrated structure is used for the extraction column, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The column is segmented into standardized modules with consistent connection interfaces (flanges, gaskets, bolts) that maintain structural stability when assembled. The modular design enables adaptability by allowing modules to be added, removed, or reconfigured based on process requirements, while maintaining stable connections through standardized joining mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction column transitions from a fixed integrated structure to a dynamic modular configuration. Modules can be dynamically assembled or disassembled to adapt to different operational requirements, process conditions, or maintenance needs, while maintaining structural stability through standardized connection designs.
3Ease of manufacture
If a modular structure is used for the extraction column, then ease of manufacture and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction column is segmented into standardized modules that can be manufactured independently using the same design and fabrication processes. This standardization simplifies manufacturing by allowing repeated production of identical modules, reducing tooling costs, and enabling parallel manufacturing, while the modular assembly manages complexity through systematic design.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular modules are designed with universal characteristics - identical connection interfaces, standardized dimensions, and interchangeable components (distributors, extractors, collectors). This universality allows any module to be used in multiple positions and configurations, reducing the variety of unique parts needed and simplifying the overall device complexity through standardization.
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 easy assembly, maintenance, and volume adjustments, improving fabrication efficiency and maintenance accessibility by allowing modular components to be easily swapped or modified, enhancing operational flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
allowing a heavy phase of higher density to be input into a top head thereof to flow downwards while allowing a light phase of lower density to be input into a bottom head thereof
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
The present invention relates to a modular extraction tower (1), as a modularized extraction tower, which is easily manufactured and provided and enables convenient maintenance and repair work, such as changing of a process or an inner structure of the extraction tower, replacing of a damaged structure, or decontaminating even after installation, and comprises: a head block (10) having a flange (110) provided on one surface thereof; a body block (20) having mounting modules (210), which are stacked on and assembled with the flange (110), have a first module flange (212) and a second module flange (213) at both sides thereof in different directions along the same axis, have an accommodation part (211) having a predetermined area and formed therein, and are coupled to each other, such that the first module flange (212) and the second module flange (213) face each other; and an inner structure provided in the accommodation part (211) and dispersing fluid, wherein the head block (10) and the body block (20) communicate with each other, and the accommodation part (211) has a square cross section, which is vertical with respect to the longitudinal direction.