Modular Gas Chromatograph Manifold for Independent Multi-Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas chromatographs have fixed plumbing and software that limit adaptability, require complex and costly setups, and lack the ability to perform multiple independent analyses within a single compact enclosure, with maintenance and modifications being difficult due to numerous electrical connections and access points.
Innovation Solution
A modular gas chromatograph device with a manifold plate that supports multiple independent analytical modules, each with its own gas chromatograph oven and sensors, and a flexible plumbing system allowing for interchangeable modules and software adjustments, enabling independent fluid sample analysis and reducing installation time and space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional process gas chromatographs use discrete plumbing, then they can perform analysis functions, but they result in intrinsically large footprint, complex and costly setups
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular analytical modules that can be independently configured and connected to a shared manifold plate. Each module handles specific analysis functions while using common fluid pathways, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold plate serves as a universal interface that supports multiple analytical modules with different capabilities. A single manifold design accommodates various module types, enabling one system to perform multiple analysis functions without requiring separate dedicated plumbing for each.
2Ease of repair
If gas chromatographs have multiple access points for maintenance (front and back), then servicing can be performed, but mounting becomes difficult and requires extra plant space
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a modular architecture where analytical modules are independently mounted on the manifold plate. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to access and service individual modules from the front without requiring access to the back of the entire system, reducing the needed plant space while maintaining ease of repair.
3Area of stationary object
If existing compact gas chromatographs perform two analyses on the same sample gas stream, then space is saved, but the analyses are not independent and share the same timing, limiting adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the gas stream into separate pathways for each analytical module through the manifold plate's multiple inlet channels. This allows each module to receive and process samples independently with its own timing control, while all modules share the same compact enclosure and external sample input.
Solution Approach 2:
Each analytical module operates with independent timing control and can be activated or deactivated based on specific analysis requirements. This dynamic operation allows the system to adapt to different analysis needs while maintaining a compact form factor, as modules can be selectively engaged without requiring separate enclosures.
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 allows for efficient, adaptable, and cost-effective performance of multiple independent analyses in a compact, explosion-proof enclosure, reducing maintenance complexity and space requirements while ensuring flexibility and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
injecting a gaseous or liquid (e.g., fluid) sample into a mobile phase... The components of the sample move at different velocities through the column, depending on their chemical and structural properties
Implementation Method 2
gas chromatograph is an analytical instrument used in chemistry for separating and analyzing compounds that can be vaporized
Implementation Method 3
As each fluid component exits the column, it is detected and identified electronically
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a fluid intake configured to receive a fluid comprising a fluid sample and provide the fluid to an inlet of a manifold plate. The manifold plate includes an inlet channel that is configured to deliver the fluid sample from the fluid intake to an analytical module, and a vent channel that is configured to receive the fluid sample from the analytical module and deliver the fluid sample out of the manifold plate to the fluid intake. The analytical module is affixed to the manifold plate, and includes a gas chromatograph oven that is configured to obtain the fluid sample from the inlet channel and expel the fluid sample using the vent channel after measuring an attribute of the fluid sample and sensors configured to measure the attribute of the fluid sample in the gas chromatograph oven after receiving the fluid sample from the manifold plate.