Vacuum Mixing Device Container Stress Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mixing devices are prone to deformation or destruction when used under vacuum conditions due to insufficient wall rigidity of the containers, which limits their effectiveness in mixing processes.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a container fitted into a vacuum box with a free space for vacuum generation, allowing vacuum application not only on the container but also around it, reducing stress on the containers and enabling safe mixing under vacuum conditions. Additionally, the second component can be a mixing cup with a detachable vacuum box, and a transparent lid for observation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a vacuum is applied directly to the container containing materials to be mixed, then the mixing process can be carried out under vacuum conditions, but the container wall is deformed or destroyed due to insufficient wall rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum application is segmented into two distinct zones: the inner container region and the outer vacuum box region. The container holds materials under atmospheric pressure while the vacuum box surrounding it is evacuated, creating a pressure differential that supports the container wall from the outside without directly vacuuming the container interior.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum box acts as an intermediary structure between the vacuum source and the container. Instead of applying vacuum directly to the container, the vacuum box serves as a protective intermediary that provides external support to the container wall, allowing vacuum conditions to be maintained in the mixing environment without compromising container integrity.
2Strength
If the container wall is made thicker to increase strength, then the container can withstand vacuum pressure, but the wall rigidity becomes excessive and the container cannot be properly deformed for mixing
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the pressure containment function from the mixing function. The vacuum box provides the structural strength needed to withstand vacuum pressure, while the container maintains its original thin-walled design for optimal mixing performance and material contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum box serves as a structural intermediary that assumes the load-bearing function for vacuum pressure resistance, allowing the container to remain thin-walled and flexible for effective mixing operations.
3Productivity
If a vacuum box with tight fit around the container is used, then vacuum can be applied effectively, but the container is heavily stressed and deformed during the mixing process
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum application uses local quality differentiation by creating a free space zone between the container and vacuum box walls. This gap allows atmospheric pressure to act on the container exterior, counterbalancing the vacuum pressure and eliminating stress concentration points that would occur with a tight fit.
Solution Approach 2:
The free space acts as a pressure-balancing intermediary zone that prevents direct transmission of vacuum stress to the container wall, allowing effective vacuum application without container deformation.
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 configuration allows for safe and effective mixing under vacuum without damaging the containers, as the vacuum is distributed around the container, reducing stress and enabling observation during the process.
Implementation Method 1
When a negative pressure is applied by means of an evacuation device, the space in the vacuum box is evacuated.
Data Source
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AI summary
Mixing device comprises a second component (11) rotating on a first component and having a vacuum box (23) containing a container (25) for materials to be mixed.