UV Lamp Socket Heater for Mercury Vapor Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultraviolet radiation lamps in fluid treatment systems face inefficiencies due to temperature variations in the mercury reservoir, requiring complex external control circuitry for optimal mercury vapor pressure and UV radiation emission.
Innovation Solution
An ultraviolet radiation lamp with self-regulating electronic control integrated into the lamp socket or plug, eliminating the need for external wiring and control devices, utilizing a reusable thermal connection and thermistor-based heating elements for active temperature management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If passive heat absorbing elements are used to maintain cold portion temperature, then UV radiation emission efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional external components and control circuitry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the temperature control function with the electrical connection structure by integrating a heater into the lamp socket or plug. This merging eliminates the need for separate external control devices and wiring, as the socket itself becomes the temperature control device, directly heating the lamp base to maintain optimal mercury reservoir temperature.
Solution Approach 2:
The lamp socket with integrated heater serves dual functions: electrical connection and temperature control. The system self-regulates by using the existing electrical connection infrastructure to provide thermal management, eliminating dependency on external control circuitry and making the temperature control inherent to the lamp assembly.
2Reliability
If external control devices and wiring are used for temperature management, then mercury vapor pressure control is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex installation and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the temperature control function into the lamp socket or plug structure, combining electrical connection and thermal management in a single component. This eliminates the need for separate external control devices and complex wiring, simplifying both installation and maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The lamp assembly becomes self-sufficient for temperature control through the integrated heater in the socket. The system uses its own electrical connection infrastructure to provide thermal management, eliminating dependency on external control systems and reducing operational complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If passive thermal conduction methods are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to inability to adjust for varying fluid temperatures and power levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static passive thermal conduction to dynamic active temperature control. The integrated heater in the lamp socket can be controlled to provide variable heating, allowing the system to adapt to different fluid temperatures and power levels by adjusting the thermal input to maintain optimal mercury reservoir temperature.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables active adjustment of temperature parameters through the integrated heater control. By changing the heating level dynamically, the lamp can maintain optimal operating conditions across varying environmental conditions, fluid temperatures, and power settings, enhancing adaptability while remaining manufacturable.
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 solution allows for efficient UV radiation emission independent of fluid temperature and power settings, reducing complexity and costs while ensuring reliable operation and enhanced safety diagnostics.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a reusable thermal connection and thermistor-based heating elements for active temperature management
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a reusable thermal connection and thermistor-based heating elements for active temperature management
Implementation Method 3
an ultraviolet radiation lamp to emit radiation of a particular wavelength or range of wavelengths (usually between 185 and 400 nm) to effect bacterial kill or other treatment of the fluid being treated
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to an ultraviolet radiation lamp. The lamp comprises: (i) a substantially sealed cavity comprising a mercury-containing material; and (ii) a heating unit disposed exteriorly with respect to the cavity. The heating unit is disposed in contact with a first portion of the cavity comprising the mercury- containing material. The heating unit has adjustable heat output.