Aspirated Sampling Pipe Integrity Testing via Airflow Reversal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aspirated particle or gas detection systems face inefficiencies in testing the integrity of sampling pipe networks, particularly in identifying fully or partially blocked sampling inlets and broken pipes, which is labor-intensive and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A method that induces a change in airflow properties within the sampling pipe network by reversing airflow or using a valve to alter flow direction, allowing for detection of changes in flow or pressure to determine pipe integrity, including maintaining positive pressure to test for leaks and using sensors to identify faults.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual smoke testing is conducted at each sampling hole to test pipe network integrity, then detection accuracy is improved, but labor intensity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing sampling pipe network and detector to automatically test itself. A test gas is introduced at the detector end and the system automatically detects whether it reaches the sampling holes, enabling self-diagnosis without external manual testing
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of introducing smoke at each sampling hole and detecting at the detector (manual method), the invention reverses the approach by introducing test gas at the detector end and checking if it reaches the sampling holes, thereby automating the testing process
2Reliability
If manual smoke testing is conducted at each sampling hole to identify blocked inlets or broken pipes, then reliability of detection system is improved, but productivity decreases due to labor-intensive process
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling system automatically tests its own integrity by introducing test gas and using the detector to sense its presence at sampling holes, eliminating the need for manual testing and significantly improving testing productivity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical smoke testing process is replaced with an automated gas introduction and detection system that uses electronic control and sensing, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining the reliability of integrity testing
3Ease of operation
If airflow is reversed by blowing air into the sampling pipe to actuate valves and test for blockages, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional flow control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses pneumatic pressure by blowing air into the sampling pipe to actuate valves and test for blockages. This approach simplifies operation by using fluid pressure rather than complex mechanical actuation mechanisms, thereby improving ease of operation while the pneumatic system itself manages the complexity
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 enables efficient and automated testing of sampling pipe networks, reducing manual labor and time, and effectively detects blockages, leaks, or breaks in the system, ensuring the correct operation of the detection system.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a change in flow or pressure by a flow or pressure sensor establishes the integrity of the sampling pipe
Implementation Method 2
causing a change in airflow in the sampling pipe that induces a change in at least one airflow property within the sampling pipe
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for determining correct performance of a sampling pipe in an aspirated particle and/or gas sampling system. The method includes causing a change in airflow in a sampling pipe of the aspirated particle and/or gas sampling system that induces a change in at least one airflow property within the sampling pipe, and detecting an effect of the change in said airflow property. Also disclosed in a method for determining correct performance of an aspirated particle or gas sampling system. The method includes determining correct performance of a sampling pipe in the aspirated particle and/or gas sampling and determining correct performance of a detector in the aspirated particle and/or gas sampling system,wherein a test fluid is introduced to the aspirated particle and/or gas sampling system at or near the detector.