Variable Volume Gas Accumulator for Repeated Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional chemical analysis methods for detecting elements like carbon in samples are limited by single-pass measurements, which prevent storage of samples for later analysis, restrict multiple analyses, and are inefficient due to detector range limitations and operational inefficiencies with high or low concentrations of the analyte.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a variable volume accumulator to store sample gases, allowing for multiple analyses and broader dynamic range operation, featuring a sealed device with a flexible membrane to maintain constant pressure and minimize equipment complexity, and an analyzer to measure desired components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If single-pass measurement is used in conventional analyzers, then the measurement process is simple and fast, but the sample cannot be stored for later analysis and multiple analyses cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the measurement function from the sample handling function by introducing a sample accumulation chamber. The sample is first accumulated in the chamber, then selectively introduced to the analyzer for measurement. This segmentation allows the sample to be stored and measured multiple times, resolving the contradiction between fast single-pass measurement and sample storage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample accumulation chamber acts as an intermediary between sample collection and analysis. It temporarily holds the sample gas, allowing flexible control over when and how the sample is introduced to the analyzer. This intermediary device enables both rapid measurement when needed and sample storage for later analysis, resolving the versatility limitation.
2Device complexity
If detector range is limited in conventional analyzers, then the detector design is simple, but samples with high or low concentrations cannot be accurately measured
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the amount of sample introduced to the analyzer by controlling the volume transferred from the accumulation chamber. For high concentration samples, a smaller volume is transferred; for low concentration samples, a larger volume is transferred. This dynamic adjustment allows a single detector with fixed range to accurately measure samples across a broad concentration spectrum.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of sample volume transferred to the analyzer based on the expected concentration of the sample. By adjusting this parameter, the effective measurement range is expanded without requiring multiple detectors or complex detector redesign, maintaining simplicity while achieving versatility.
3Device complexity
If sample volume is fixed in conventional systems, then the system design is simple, but multiple analyses of the same sample cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The sample is accumulated in the chamber before analysis, preparing a reservoir of sample material in advance. This preliminary accumulation action allows multiple aliquots to be withdrawn for successive analyses without requiring additional sample collection steps, enabling multiple analyses while maintaining simple system design.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample accumulation chamber serves multiple functions: it stores the sample, controls sample delivery volume, and enables repeated sampling. This multi-functional design allows the same component to support both simple operation and multiple analyses, resolving the contradiction between system simplicity and analytical productivity.
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
Enables storage and repeated analysis of sample gases, improves operational efficiency by accommodating a wide range of concentrations and reducing the need for additional pumps and regulators, thus enhancing the accuracy and versatility of chemical analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible membrane to maintain constant pressure
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for capturing a sample gas for analysis is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system includes an accumulator that has a variable volume. A volume of the sample gas is fed to the accumulator. The system also has an analyzer. An aliquot of the sample gas is withdrawn from the accumulator and fed to the analyzer. The analyzer analyzes a desired component of the sample gas.