Multistage Separator Assembly Debris Discretization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing separator assemblies in fluid systems face challenges in effectively discretizing and capturing debris particles of differing sizes and weights, leading to sensor saturation and reduced detection accuracy due to accumulation of smaller particles.

Innovation Solution

A separator assembly with multiple stages, featuring tangentially oriented inlet ports and concentrically aligned debris separation rings of varying diameters and configurations, which utilize centrifugal forces to separate and capture debris particles, allowing nuisance debris to be washed back into the fluid stream, thereby reducing sensor overload.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a single-stage separator assembly is used, then the structure is simple, but debris particles of differing sizes and weights cannot be effectively discretized and captured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedebris particle separation precisionVSAvoidseparator assembly structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The separator assembly is divided into multiple stages, with each stage containing debris separation rings configured to capture debris particles within specific size and weight ranges. This segmentation allows different regions of the separator to handle different types of debris, achieving effective discretization of particles of varying sizes and weights while maintaining a structured and organized design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If all debris particles are captured in the collection region, then separation is thorough, but smaller particles accumulate and exceed sensor saturation mass, blinding the sensor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor detection accuracyVSAvoidaccumulated debris mass
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Different regions of the separator assembly are assigned different functions: upper stages with larger debris separation rings capture and hold heavier, larger debris particles in collection regions, while lower stages with smaller debris separation rings allow lighter, smaller particles to pass through to the fluid outlet. This local differentiation ensures that only relevant debris accumulates near sensors, preventing sensor blinding while maintaining thorough separation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Manufacturing precision

If a single debris separation ring is used, then the device is simple, but particles of varying sizes and weights cannot be discretized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparticle size classificationVSAvoidnumber of separation stages
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The separator assembly incorporates multiple stages, each with debris separation rings of different sizes and configurations. This segmentation enables the system to classify and capture debris particles within specific size and weight ranges at each stage, achieving effective particle discretization through a structured multi-level approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 solution enables improved separation and capture of debris particles of varying sizes and weights, reducing sensor blindness and maintaining detection accuracy by optimizing the separation process and design of debris separation rings.

Implementation Method 1

When fluid enters the housing via the inlet, the fluid can be directed in a cyclonic flow pattern as a result of gravity and the inlet being tangential to the circular cylindrical housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCyclonic flow: Cyclone Separation

Implementation Method 2

As the fluid flows in a cyclonic motion down through the housing, debris particles may migrate radially outwardly within the fluid toward the inner surface of the housing due to centrifugal forces

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCentrifugal force: Centrifugal Force

Implementation Method 3

As the fluid flows downwardly over the separation wall, the debris particles may be captured in the collection region of the separation wall

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentEP3137219B1Multistage separator assembly
Publication Date: 2021.10.06 EATON INTELLIGENT POWER LTD
  • EP3137219B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3137219B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3137219B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

A separator assembly is provided for, among other things, separating debris particles from a fluid in a fluid system. In an embodiment, the separator assembly may include a housing forming an internal chamber. An inlet port may be in communication with the internal chamber of the housing, and the inlet port can be oriented in a tangential relationship relative to the internal chamber. A first debris separation ring may be disposed in the housing and can extend around an inner surface of the internal chamber. A second debris separation ring can be disposed in the housing and can extend around the inner surface of the internal chamber, wherein the second debris separation ring may be spaced from the first debris separation ring.