Ultrasonic Cleaning of Optical Windows in Deaerated Liquid
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Solution Overview
Problem
In boiler systems, the unique conditions of deaerated liquids lead to optical obstruction of light transference media due to particulate matter deposition, which disrupts light detection and measurement processes, and existing methods fail to effectively prevent or remove obstructions without interrupting the measurement process.
Innovation Solution
Applying ultrasonic energy at a specific wavelength and distance from the optical signal into the deaerated liquid in contact with a light transference medium to maintain or restore optical transference, effectively removing particulate obstructions without disrupting the measurement process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ultrasonic energy is applied to clean the light transference medium, then optical transference is improved, but measurement continuity may be disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies ultrasonic energy periodically or continuously at low intensity to prevent particulate deposition without interrupting the measurement process. The ultrasonic transducer operates in a manner that maintains optical clarity while allowing continuous optical measurements to proceed, resolving the contradiction between cleaning effectiveness and measurement continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement process continues uninterrupted while ultrasonic energy is applied to maintain optical transference. The system enables simultaneous measurement and cleaning functions, ensuring continuous useful action without requiring system shutdown or disassembly for maintenance.
2Reliability
If ultrasonic energy is applied close to the optical signal, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but optical signal interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasonic energy is applied at a specific distance from the optical signal path, creating a localized cleaning zone that targets particulate matter on the light transference medium without interfering with the optical measurement beam. This spatial differentiation allows effective cleaning while preserving signal integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions the ultrasonic transducer at an optimized distance from the optical signal, using the liquid medium as an intermediary to transmit ultrasonic energy to the light transference medium surface without the transducer directly interfering with the optical path. This intermediary approach enables effective cleaning while maintaining optical signal quality.
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 method ensures continuous optical transference into deaerated liquids, preventing or removing particulate obstructions on the light transference medium, allowing for reliable optical measurements without interrupting the boiler's operation or requiring system disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
WO2014/060023 A1 discloses a method for ultrasonic cavitation cleaning of an optical window in an analysis system in a process line containing process liquid, the method including subjecting the window to ultrasonic signals.
Implementation Method 2
US6324900 B1 discloses a method for optically measuring the transparency of a liquid by means of a turbidity analyser, wherein ultrasound waves are generated in all directions around the emitting and receiving optical/liquid interfaces in contact with the liquid, thereby cleaning the interface surfaces.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of obtaining or maintaining optical transference into deaerated liquid in contact with a light transference medium is disclosed. The method comprises applying ultrasonic energy at a wavelength (λ) into deaerated liquid in contact with a light transference medium. The ultrasonic energy at wavelength (λ) originates at a distance (d) from an optical signal transmitted into the light transference medium. The distance (d) may be defined by a formula based on the wavelength (λ) of the ultrasonic energy.