Vertical Multiphase Mixture Analyzer with Linear Ball Bearing Slide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for analyzing multiphase mixtures are limited in their ability to reliably analyze multiple samples simultaneously without sample disturbance and are costly due to complex and precise handling requirements, which can lead to inconsistent results.
Innovation Solution
A device with a vertical arrangement of samples, utilizing a linear ball bearing slide for precise guidance of the measuring head and dihedral support surfaces for accurate positioning of measurement cells, allowing for simultaneous analysis of multiple samples with a compact and cost-effective design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If samples are transported using a loader, then multiple samples can be handled, but sample disturbance occurs and measurement reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the sample handling process by providing individual housing units for each sample, allowing samples to be positioned vertically one above another. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex horizontal transport mechanisms that disturb samples, while still enabling multiple samples to be analyzed sequentially through the movable measuring head.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from horizontal sample arrangement to vertical arrangement, changing the spatial dimension of sample positioning. This vertical configuration allows samples to be stacked one above another without requiring lateral movement, thereby eliminating transport-induced disturbances while maintaining the capability to handle multiple samples.
2Measurement precision
If precise positioning mechanisms are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring head incorporates self-aligning features including a linear ball bearing slide that automatically guides the head along the vertical axis, and support surfaces on dihedral that automatically position the measuring cell correctly. These self-service mechanisms achieve precise positioning without requiring complex external positioning systems or multiple adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with simpler guidance mechanisms. The linear ball bearing slide provides smooth, precise movement without requiring complex control systems, and the dihedral support surfaces provide automatic mechanical alignment through their geometric design, eliminating the need for sophisticated positioning electronics or mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If vertical arrangement of samples is used, then device complexity is reduced, but positioning precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces intermediary positioning elements including the linear ball bearing slide that mediates between the simple vertical structure and the requirement for precise movement, and the support surfaces on dihedral that act as intermediaries to ensure accurate positioning of the measuring cell relative to the measuring head. These intermediaries bridge the gap between structural simplicity and positioning precision.
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
Ensures reliable and reproducible analysis of multiple samples with consistent results, reducing handling-induced disturbances and operational costs while maintaining sample integrity.
Implementation Method 1
the drive and guidance means comprise a linear ball bearing slide
Implementation Method 2
measuring the light backscattered and possibly transmitted over the height of the sample
Implementation Method 3
measuring the light backscattered and possibly transmitted over the height of the sample
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to an apparatus comprising: a measuring head (10) having a slot (18) for receiving a measurement cell (26) and means (28) for emitting electromagnetic radiation, and means (32, 36) for detecting radiation from said emission means (28) after it has passed through the measurement cell (26); means (16) for translatably driving and means (12, 14) for translatably guiding, allowing the substantially vertical longitudinal movement of the measurement head (10); at least two recesses (44) each intended for receiving a measurement cell (26) and arranged one above the other in a longitudinal direction, the recesses (44) as well as the driving means (16) and the guiding means (12, 14) being configured such that during the translational movement of the measurement head (10) along the nominal travel thereof each recess is placed inside the slot (18) of the measurement head (10).