Multi-Port Flange Reduces Leak Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flange designs for process field devices often require multiple connections to piping, leading to increased leak paths and complexity in installation, especially when multiple devices need to be connected to the same process conduit, which can compromise fluid integrity and measurement accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A flange design that supports multiple field devices with a shared connection to piping, featuring internal chambers that connect multiple device ports to a single connection port, reducing the number of necessary connections and allowing for redundant measurements to enhance safety and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate connections are provided for multiple field devices, then each device can be independently connected to piping, but the number of leak paths increases and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate connection paths into a single integrated flange body with multiple device ports. The flange consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate flange-piping connections into one connection point, reducing the number of leak paths while maintaining independent access to multiple field devices through internal fluidic passages.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides a single connection interface to piping while also providing multiple independent device ports for different field devices. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate connection assemblies for each device, reducing both leak paths and installation complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate flanges are used for multiple field devices, then each device has dedicated connection, but the number of components increases and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple flange functions are merged into a single multi-port flange assembly. Instead of installing separate flanges for each field device, the consolidated flange provides all necessary connections in one unit, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining the flexibility to connect different device types.
Solution Approach 2:
The single flange is designed to universally accommodate multiple different field devices through its multiple device ports, each capable of connecting to different types of transmitters or sensors. This universal design provides the same connection flexibility as multiple separate flanges but installs as one component.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple device ports are provided on the flange, then multiple field devices can be mounted on a single flange, but the internal chamber design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The internal fluidic system is segmented into separate chambers or pathways that independently connect each device port to the main piping connection. This segmentation allows each device to have its own dedicated fluidic path while sharing the common connection point, reducing interference between devices and simplifying the overall design compared to a fully integrated single chamber.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal chamber design uses universal fluidic pathways that can serve multiple device ports with different configurations. The chamber system is designed to accommodate various device types through standardized connection interfaces and flexible internal routing, managing complexity while maintaining multi-device capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A flange (200) for process field devices includes a first end (300), a second end (302), and a first mounting area (204) for mounting a first field device (270) between the first end (300) and the second end (302). The first mounting area (204) has a first device port (216) positioned in the first mounting area (204) to allow fluid communication with the first field device (270). A second mounting area (206) on the flange is for mounting a second field device (272) between the first end and the second end. The second mounting (206) area has a second device port (228) positioned in the second mounting area (206) to allow fluid communication with the second field device (272). A connection port that provides fluid to the flange is located on the first end of the flange. An internal chamber (232) fluidly connects the connection port to the first device port and the second device port.