Power-free Pump Module for Gas Leakage Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas leakage detection methods are hindered by the need for alternating current (AC) power, which is unsafe in static-sensitive or hazardous applications, and existing instruments are bulky, require lengthy warm-up times, and lack on-board volume measurement capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained, pneumatically-controlled Power-free Pump Module (PPM) that performs leak tests and volume measurements without AC power, using compressed gas and pneumatically-operated valves to generate a vacuum and measure pressure changes, allowing for rapid initiation of tests and accurate leak rate determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If AC-powered leak test instruments are used, then measurement capabilities and functionality are improved, but safety hazards increase in static-sensitive or hazardous applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the AC power source from the leak detection system entirely. The device operates using only compressed gas (e.g., nitrogen) to create vacuum and pressure differential measurements, eliminating electrical components that could cause discharges in hazardous environments while maintaining leak detection functionality through pressure-based sensing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces electrical systems with a purely mechanical/pneumatic system. Instead of using electric pumps and electronic sensors, the device uses mechanical vacuum pumps, pressure gauges, and flow meters operated by compressed gas, thereby eliminating electrical hazards while preserving measurement capabilities
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional AC-powered leak detectors are used, then comprehensive testing capabilities are achieved, but device portability and setup time are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The device is self-contained with an integrated compressed gas supply (nitrogen tank) and onboard vacuum pump, requiring no external AC power or gas cylinder connections. All testing components are built into a single portable unit that can be deployed immediately without setup or warm-up time
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines multiple functions into a single instrument: leak detection, volume measurement, and pressure testing. It can test various container types (bottles, tanks, pipes) using the same basic mechanism of creating pressure differentials and measuring gas flow, making it universally applicable across different testing scenarios
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 safe and efficient gas leakage detection and volume measurement in sensitive or hazardous environments, reducing production downtime and providing rapid test results without the need for AC power or lengthy warm-up times.
Implementation Method 1
a first pressure difference means (17) for determining a pressure difference between the test chamber and the atmosphere
Implementation Method 2
a flow meter (28) for measuring a flow rate of the gas through the device under test
Data Source
AI summary
A method of detecting leaks and measuring volumes as well as an apparatus, the Power-free Pump Module (PPM), that is a self-contained leak test and volume measurement apparatus that requires no external sources of electrical power during leak testing or volume measurement, where the invention is a portable, pneumatically-controlled instrument capable of generating a vacuum, calibrating volumes, and performing quantitative leak tests on a closed test system or device, all without the use of alternating current (AC) power. Capabilities include the ability is to provide a modest vacuum (less than 10 Torr), perform a pressure rise leak test, measure the gas's absolute pressure, and perform volume measurements. All operations are performed through a simple rotary control valve which controls pneumatically-operated manifold valves.