Modular Sample Conditioning Base Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current modular sample conditioning systems require complex designs and assemblies of multiple modular bases for a single fluid stream, leading to bulky, difficult-to-troubleshoot systems with significant internal volume and expertise requirements.
Innovation Solution
A modular system with seamless stainless steel base plates that are mechanically engaged or fused to form internal fluid passages and a docking surface for mounting sample conditioning components, eliminating the need for tubing and fittings by creating custom fluid paths and conduits for fluid, electrical, and communication flows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional modular bases with tubing and fittings are used to interconnect sample conditioning components, then fluid interconnection can be achieved, but the system becomes bulky with large internal and dead volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the base structure with integrated fluid passages by forming grooves directly in the base plate and sealing them with a second plate, eliminating the need for separate tubing and fittings. This integration reduces internal and dead volume while maintaining manufacturability through standardized plate assemblies and groove-forming processes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple modular bases are assembled to create complex fluid circuits, then desired sample conditioning can be achieved, but the system becomes difficult to design and troubleshoot
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the base into modular plate assemblies with standardized groove patterns that can be configured for different fluid circuit requirements. Each base module can be independently designed and manufactured, then assembled into larger systems, maintaining versatility while reducing overall complexity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate design incorporates universal groove patterns and sealing mechanisms that can accommodate various sample conditioning components and configure different fluid circuits using the same fundamental building blocks, reducing the need for specialized parts for each application.
3Reliability
If custom fluid passage designs are implemented in modular bases, then performance is improved, but expertise requirements and construction time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates fluid passages directly into the base plate manufacturing process by forming grooves during base fabrication, rather than requiring separate custom installation steps. This preliminary integration of fluid pathways into the standard base construction reduces construction time while maintaining custom passage designs for optimal performance.
4Ease of manufacture
If seamless stainless steel base plates with internal passages are used, then fabrication is simplified and construction time is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies precise groove dimensions, depths, and sealing surface tolerances as design parameters for the base plates. By establishing standardized parameter ranges for groove formation and sealing interface dimensions, the system achieves manufacturing precision through controlled parameter specifications rather than complex assembly procedures, simplifying overall fabrication.
Data Source
AI summary
An on-stream sample collection and conditioning system, which is easier to construct, implement, maintain, and is more cost efficient then existing systems. The preferred embodiment of the present invention contemplates a modular system adaptable to a variety of diverse sample conditioning requirements. The system provides a docking surface specifically designed to receive modular conditioning or sampling components or the like in order to readily engage a system of passages to provide fluid flow between the mounted components.