X-ray Analysis Apparatus Asymmetric Blocking Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
On-line x-ray analysis systems face challenges in accurately measuring high viscosity samples due to unstable pressure and flow rates, as well as adverse interface effects that lead to sulfur residue and degradation of barrier materials, particularly in petroleum refining applications where chlorine and sulfur contaminants require real-time monitoring.
Innovation Solution
An x-ray analysis apparatus with a blocking structure asymmetrically disposed about the central axis of the focal area, combined with a heating element to improve sample stream flow, and a dynamic window module with a moveable x-ray transparent barrier to maintain interface integrity and transparency, reducing contamination and maintaining vacuum conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a sample stream is presented to an x-ray analysis focal area, then real-time monitoring capability is achieved, but unstable pressure and flow rates cause measurement inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic sample presentation system where the sample stream is continuously moved through the focal area using a flowing liquid carrier. This dynamic approach allows real-time monitoring while the continuous flow stabilizes pressure and flow rate variations, resolving the contradiction between productivity and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state and flow parameters of the sample by dissolving or suspending it in a liquid carrier stream. This parameter change stabilizes the sample delivery to the focal area, enabling both real-time analysis and accurate measurements simultaneously.
2Productivity
If sample stream flows through the analysis chamber, then continuous monitoring is achieved, but adverse interface effects cause sulfur residue and barrier degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a liquid carrier stream as an intermediary between the sample source and the analysis focal area. This intermediary carrier transports the sample while minimizing direct contact and adverse effects at the interface, preventing sulfur residue buildup and barrier material degradation, thus maintaining reliability during continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts the sample from its original matrix and dissolves or suspends it in a separate liquid carrier stream. This extraction separates the sample transport function from the analysis function, allowing continuous flow while protecting the interface and barrier materials from degradation.
3Measurement precision
If high viscosity samples are analyzed, then comprehensive contaminant detection is achieved, but flow instability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the viscosity and flow characteristics of high viscosity samples by dissolving or suspending them in a liquid carrier stream. This parameter change reduces the sample's viscosity and stabilizes flow, enabling both comprehensive contaminant detection and stable flow conditions simultaneously.
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 enables accurate, low-cost, and low-maintenance on-line x-ray analysis of high viscosity samples by ensuring stable sample flow and interface cleanliness, enhancing measurement precision and system uptime in real-time monitoring applications.
Implementation Method 1
a heating element to improve sample stream flow
Implementation Method 2
an x-ray source, a first x-ray focusing device, a sample chamber, a second x-ray focusing device, and an x-ray detector
Implementation Method 3
x-ray fluorescence (XRF) is an analytical technique by which a substance is exposed to a beam of x-rays to determine, for example, the presence of certain components
Implementation Method 4
a first x-ray focusing device, a second x-ray focusing device
Implementation Method 5
a dynamic window module with a moveable x-ray transparent barrier to maintain interface integrity and transparency, reducing contamination and maintaining vacuum conditions
Data Source
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AI summary
An x-ray analysis system having an x-ray engine with an x-ray source for producing an x-ray excitation beam directed toward an x-ray analysis focal area; a sample chamber for presenting a sample stream to the x-ray analysis focal area, the analysis focal area disposed within a sample analysis area defined within the chamber; an x-ray detection path for collecting secondary x-rays and directing the x-rays toward a detector; an x-ray transparent barrier on a wall of the chamber through which the x-rays pass; and a blocking structure partially blocking the sample analysis area, for creating sample stream turbulence in the sample analysis area and over the barrier. The blocking structure may be disposed asymmetrically about a central axis of the x-ray analysis focal area and/or the sample analysis area; and may be a rounded pin. A heating element may be used to heat the sample stream for improving flow.