Multi-Layer Purification Channels for Compact Continuous Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional purification systems are bulky, prone to human error, and require manual operation, leading to increased production pressure and costs, as they cannot be easily integrated into upstream processes due to their complexity.
Innovation Solution
A portable and maneuverable automated continuous purification system with a multi-layered base and steering valve design, allowing for fluid flow through a series of channels and purifying elements, which can be rotated to change flow paths and reduce equipment volume, enabling continuous purification without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional purification systems are used, then purification function is provided, but equipment volume is bulky and portability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The purification system is divided into multiple independent purification channels, each capable of processing different samples simultaneously. The base plate is segmented into first, second, and third flowing channel layers with distinct purification paths, allowing parallel processing and reducing overall equipment volume while maintaining purification reliability through distributed processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional horizontal single-channel purification to a three-dimensional multi-layer vertical structure. The first flowing channel layer is disposed at a first height, the second flowing channel layer at a second height, and the third flowing channel layer at a third height, creating vertical stacking that dramatically reduces horizontal footprint while preserving all necessary purification functions.
2Extent of automation
If manual operation is used, then operation flexibility is maintained, but human error increases and automation level is low
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates self-regulating features where the multi-layer channel structure automatically directs fluid flow through designated purification paths without manual intervention. The integrated design allows the system to self-manage the purification process, reducing reliance on operator skill while maintaining ease of use through simple sample input and automatic processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The purification device is designed as a universal platform that can handle multiple sample types and purification scenarios simultaneously through its multi-channel architecture. Each flowing channel layer can be configured for different purification needs, allowing the same device to perform various purification functions without requiring separate specialized equipment for each application.
3Productivity
If batch purification is used, then process control is simplified, but production efficiency is low and time consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous purification operations by establishing uninterrupted fluid flow paths through the multi-layer channel structure. Samples continuously move through the first, second, and third flowing channel layers in sequence without batch interruptions, maintaining constant purification action that dramatically increases throughput compared to traditional batch methods while the integrated design keeps system complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs preliminary separation and concentration steps within the multi-layer channel structure before final purification, pre-processing samples as they flow through each layer. This preliminary action prepares samples for subsequent purification steps, increasing overall efficiency by eliminating the need for separate pre-processing operations and reducing total processing time.
4Reliability
If human operation is required, then operational flexibility is maintained, but production pressure increases due to potential errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical operations with integrated fluidic control mechanisms embedded in the multi-layer base plate structure. Fluid flow is controlled through the relationship between the first, second, and third flowing channel layers and their corresponding purification channels, eliminating the need for manual valve operations or mechanical adjustments while ensuring consistent product quality through reproducible flow paths.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated continuous purification system includes a base and a plurality of purifying elements. The base includes a first flowing channel layer, a steering valve, a plurality of second flowing channel layers, a plurality of third flowing channel layers and a top layer. The first flowing channel layer includes a plurality of first flowing channels. The steering valve is disposed on a side of the first flowing channel layer and includes a plurality of through-holes. The second flowing channel layers are disposed on a side of the steering valve away from the first flowing channel layer. The third flowing channel layers are alternately stacked with the second flowing channel layers, and each of the third flowing channel layers is disposed on a side of each of the second flowing channel layers away from the steering valve. The top layer includes a plurality of inlets and a plurality of outlets.