Stepwise Depressurization of High-Pressure Chambers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current high-pressure chamber depressurization methods are too rapid, causing structural disruption and requiring complex systems with multiple orifices, which is inefficient for large volumes and prone to pressure loss due to leaks.
Innovation Solution
A system with two valves and a control system that allows incremental pressure reduction over time, using an intermediate pressure chamber to store and manage pressurized fluid, ensuring controlled depressurization through programmable logic and pressure sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a small orifice is used for rapid depressurization, then depressurization time is reduced to a few minutes, but structural disruption occurs and the system becomes inadequate for small processing volumes
Solution Approach 1:
The depressurization process is segmented into multiple stages using a two-valve system. The first valve (three-way valve) controls initial pressure reduction by diverting fluid to a secondary chamber, while the second valve (needle valve) controls final pressure equalization. This segmentation allows independent control of each depressurization phase, preventing structural disruption while achieving timely pressure reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
A secondary pressure chamber is introduced as an intermediary element between the main pressure chamber and the external environment. This intermediate chamber buffers the pressure transition, allowing gradual pressure equalization through the needle valve while protecting the processed material from abrupt pressure changes that would cause structural disruption.
2Duration of action of moving object
If multiple orifices are used to extend depressurization time to hours, then structural disruption is prevented, but device complexity increases and pressure loss due to leaks becomes significant
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple separate orifices, the system segments the depressurization function into two valves working in sequence. The three-way valve handles the first stage by diverting fluid to the secondary chamber, and the needle valve handles the second stage by controlling gradual release. This segmentation achieves extended depressurization time with a compact, integrated design rather than multiple distributed orifices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a temporal dimension to pressure control by using a two-stage sequential process. The first valve operates during an initial phase to reduce pressure to an intermediate level, then the second valve operates during a final phase to equalize pressure completely. This dimensional approach to time-based control achieves extended depressurization without increasing spatial complexity or requiring multiple parallel orifices.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple orifices are used for large volume processing, then depressurization time is extended, but the number of high-pressure components increases requiring more complex assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary pressure chamber serves multiple functions: it acts as a buffer volume for large-scale processing, a control element for staged depressurization, and a means to reduce the number of direct pressure release points. This multi-functional design allows handling of large volumes while maintaining a compact component structure, avoiding the need for multiple separate high-pressure orifices or chambers.
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
Achieves a controlled, stepwise depressurization process that minimizes structural damage and reduces pressure loss, allowing for longer depressurization times without the need for complex orifice systems, maintaining product integrity and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first valve in fluid communication with the main pressure chamber... allow an amount of pressurized fluid from the main pressure chamber to pass through the first valve
Implementation Method 2
a second valve controllably coupled with the first valve and configured to periodically release pressurized fluid from the intermediate pressure chamber to the atmosphere
Implementation Method 3
a control system responsive to the at least one sensor to controllably operate the first and second valves such that the pressure in the main pressure chamber is incrementally decreased over a substantial amount of time
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Systems and methods for performing a stepwise depressurization of a high-pressure fluid (liquid) filled chamber are shown and described. At least two valves are controllably opened and closed in a sequence to release a predetermined amount of pressure from the high-pressure chamber. At least some of the pressurized fluid released from the high-pressure chamber is stored, at least temporarily, in a second pressure chamber. The second pressure chamber is located between the two controllable valves. A control system controls the valves in response to a signal from at least one pressure sensor coupled to the high-pressure chamber. Additional components can be included in the system such as a pressure intensifier and a high-pressure pump, both coupled to the high-pressure chamber, and at least one other pressure sensor to improve the accuracy of the measured pressure in the high-pressure chamber.