Non-disruptive Sampling Module for Fluid Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid processing technologies face challenges in non-disruptive sampling, as they often disrupt process parameters or require frequent filter membrane regeneration, making them unsuitable for continuous operation and handling heterogeneous reactor outputs.

Innovation Solution

A non-disruptive sampling module that uses a multi-port, multi-position valve system to divert and filter fluid streams without interrupting the fluid processing apparatus, incorporating a filtration module with inline filters and a standardization device for additive introduction, allowing for continuous operation and handling of heterogeneous outputs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If filter membranes are used to extract samples from heterogeneous fluid streams, then sampling capability is improved, but filter membrane clogging occurs requiring frequent regeneration

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesampling capabilityVSAvoidfilter membrane operational continuity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the filtration function into multiple discrete filter membranes (first filter membrane and second filter membrane) that can operate independently. When one filter becomes clogged, the system can switch to the other filter, allowing continuous operation without requiring regeneration of the clogged filter during the sampling process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system discards the clogged filter membrane and switches to a fresh filter membrane from the set, rather than attempting to regenerate the clogged filter during continuous operation. This allows the sampling process to continue uninterrupted by recovering the filtration function through the备用 filter membranes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

2Productivity

If sampling is performed from continuous fluid streams, then process monitoring is improved, but process parameters are disrupted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocess monitoring capabilityVSAvoidprocess parameter stability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The system introduces an intermediary filtration system with multiple filter membranes that can be switched between, allowing the sampling process to extract samples from continuous fluid streams without disrupting the main process flow. The filtration and switching mechanism acts as a mediator that enables monitoring while maintaining process stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If filter membranes are regenerated frequently, then sampling accuracy is maintained, but operational time is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesampling accuracyVSAvoidoperational time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the filtration system into multiple filter membranes, the invention eliminates the need for frequent regeneration during operation. The system can switch between filters, maintaining sampling accuracy throughout continuous operation without time loss to regeneration cycles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system ensures continuous sampling operation by having multiple filter membranes available for switching. This eliminates interruptions for filter regeneration, maintaining both sampling accuracy and operational continuity without time loss.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Enables continuous sampling and analysis without altering critical process parameters, effectively managing heterogeneous reactor outputs by maintaining fluid communication and using multiple configurations to ensure efficient fluid handling and cleaning of flowpaths.

Implementation Method 1

a filtration module in fluid communication with the fluid stream from the reactor module; the filtration module comprises an inline filter

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Implementation Method 2

A pressure gradient was used to extract the sample from the slurry

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure gradient: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS10583432B2Non-disruptive sampler for fluid processing apparatus

Publication Date: 2020.03.10 TOTAL SYNTHESIS LTD

AI summary

A sampling module of a fluid processing apparatus includes at least one multi-configuration device connected to a filtration module. The invention relates to an area of non-disruptive sampling from any flow stream including the ones containing solids. The fluid processing apparatus remains in fluid communication with a sample processing module in all configurations of the sampling module and the parameters deemed critical for a chemical process remain unaffected during the sampling event. The entire event is controlled from a computer and the results are collected to make decisions on analytical and process controls.