Optical Cell Cleaner With Embedded Nozzle For Trace Gas Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to clean particulate matter from sensitive optics in trace gas sensors, such as open path Herriot cell optics, without risking damage to the reflective surfaces, especially in challenging environments like oil fields where dust accumulation impairs detection accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates an imbedded nozzle within the optical head enclosure that channels compressed air or a cleaning solution onto the mirrors at an optimal angle, preventing the cleaning device from directly contacting the reflective surface and minimizing the risk of scratching, while effectively removing dust and debris.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a cleaning device nozzle is used to remove particulate matter from optics, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the risk of scratching the reflective surface increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an embedded nozzle structure as an intermediary between the cleaning device and the optic. The nozzle is recessed into the housing such that its tip does not contact the optic surface, allowing cleaning fluid or gas to be delivered without mechanical contact. This mediator structure enables effective cleaning while eliminating the scratching hazard that would result from direct nozzle-to-optic contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical contact cleaning with a fluid-based cleaning mechanism delivered through the embedded nozzle. By using compressed gas or liquid to remove particulates rather than physical contact between the nozzle and optic, the system achieves cleaning effectiveness without the mechanical damage risk inherent in contact-based methods.
2Manufacturing precision
If direct contact cleaning is used to remove dust accumulation, then cleaning thoroughness is improved, but damage to the optic surface worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The embedded nozzle serves as a mediator that delivers cleaning agents without requiring physical contact between the cleaning device and the optic. The nozzle tip remains recessed and non-contacting, allowing thorough cleaning via fluid dynamics while preserving optic surface integrity through the intermediary barrier.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pneumatic or hydraulic cleaning mechanisms where compressed gas or liquid flows through the embedded nozzle to remove particulates. This non-contact fluid-based approach achieves thorough cleaning by utilizing fluid pressure and flow patterns to dislodge and remove dust without mechanical contact that could compromise optic surface strength.
3Area of stationary object
If the nozzle is positioned to directly reach the mirror, then cleaning coverage is improved, but the risk of contact damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the contradiction by transitioning from a one-dimensional direct-contact approach to a multi-dimensional solution. The embedded nozzle is positioned in three-dimensional space with its tip recessed away from the optic surface, utilizing spatial dimensionality to achieve cleaning coverage through fluid projection rather than linear contact. This dimensional repositioning maintains coverage while eliminating contact damage risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The embedded nozzle structure acts as an intermediary that decouples the cleaning device from direct contact with the optic. By recessing the nozzle tip into the housing, the system maintains cleaning coverage through fluid delivery while the intermediary structure prevents harmful contact, allowing the nozzle to be positioned for optimal coverage without the damage risk of direct reaching.
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
This method allows for gentle and non-invasive cleaning of optics, ensuring accurate trace gas detection and extending the sensor's operational lifespan by effectively removing particulates without damaging the mirrors.
Implementation Method 1
The system incorporates an imbedded nozzle within the optical head enclosure that channels compressed air or a cleaning solution onto the mirrors at an optimal angle
Implementation Method 2
the outlet may direct the cleaning solution from the inlet onto the mirror
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods for an optical head enclosure of a sensor; one or more imbedded nozzles disposed on a surface of the optical head enclosure; an inlet of the one or more imbedded nozzles, where the inlet comprises a nozzle channel for receiving a cleaning solution; a flow channel internal to the optical head enclosure, where the nozzle channel is connected to the flow channel, and where the flow channel comprises an outlet for dispersing the cleaning solution received from the nozzle channel; wherein the inlet comprises a break to stop a nozzle of a cleaning device from reaching a mirror of the sensor; where the outlet directs the cleaning solution from the inlet onto the mirror.