Probe Head Visual Observation in Hot Gas Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies face challenges in effectively diagnosing, monitoring, and optimizing hot gas systems, particularly due to the high temperatures and corrosive nature of the gases, which complicates visual observation and cleaning system assessment.

Innovation Solution

A probe head designed for placement within hot gas systems, equipped with a viewing window and a transparent protective element, allows for direct visual observation of processes inside the system. The probe head includes an observation unit for image capture and an adjustment device to change the viewing direction, enabling observation during system operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual inspection is performed during overhaul, then human access to the hot gas system is possible, but the system requires temporary shutdown and sufficient purging with fresh air

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehuman accessVSAvoidsystem availability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a camera system to create visual copies (images and videos) of the hot gas system interior, allowing human operators to observe conditions remotely without physical exposure. This copying approach enables inspection during operation, eliminating the need for shutdown and purging while maintaining full observational capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a camera system as an intermediary device between the human operator and the hot gas system. The camera head with protective element acts as a mediator that withstands the harsh environment while transmitting visual information to safe zones, enabling continuous operation during inspection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Difficulty of detecting and measuring

If the probe head is placed directly in hot gas for observation, then visual observation is enabled, but the observation unit is exposed to high temperatures and corrosive gases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual observation capabilityVSAvoidobservation unit durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Difficulty of detecting and measuringVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the probe head into functionally separate segments: the observation unit (camera) is housed in a protected compartment separated from the direct hot gas path by a viewing window and protective element. This segmentation allows the observation function to access hot gas conditions while the sensitive electronics remain in a controlled environment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The viewing window and transparent protective element serve as intermediary barriers between the observation unit and the hot gas. These intermediaries transmit optical information while blocking thermal and corrosive effects, enabling the camera to observe without direct exposure to damaging conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Object-generated harmful factors

If cleaning systems are used to remove deposits, then surface contamination is reduced, but the effectiveness of cleaning systems is difficult to assess and optimize

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeposit accumulationVSAvoidcleaning effectiveness data
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism by continuously capturing images and videos of the hot gas system interior before, during, and after cleaning operations. This visual feedback allows operators to assess cleaning effectiveness in real-time and optimize cleaning parameters based on actual results, transforming an opaque process into a measurable and controllable operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 probe head enables direct visual observation of processes within hot gas systems, allowing for the optimization of combustion and synthesis processes, the assessment of corrosion, and the evaluation of cleaning system effectiveness, thereby facilitating better understanding and management of hot gas systems.

Implementation Method 1

a viewing window formed in the probe head and, in particular, is completely or partially covered by a completely or partially transparent protective element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight transmission through transparent material: Refraction

Data Source

PatentEP4271967B1Probe head and use of a probe head
Publication Date: 2025.06.11 CHEMIN
  • EP4271967B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP4271967B1 patent drawingFigure 4~6
  • EP4271967B1 patent drawingFigure 7~9

AI summary

The invention relates to a probe head which allows visual observation of a hot gas-carrying system from the inside. The invention also relates to a use of a probe head of this type.