Programmable logic controller-based system and user interface for air sampling in controlled environments
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Publication Number
US-12422420-B2
Publication Date
2025-09-23
Expiration Date
Abstract
A system and method for sampling air at multiple locations in a controlled environment. The system and method includes automatic adjustment of mass flow rates and duration of vacuum connections (either via time elapsed or indirectly by volume) based on rates set by an operator. Additionally, the system and method enables users to monitor and control aspects of the system via network-connected devices. Additionally, the system enable a vacuum pump to be disconnected from power in response to a physical emergency button, a software-based emergency stop button available on network connected devices, and an automatic power disconnection in response to an abnormal mass flow reading that could potentially impact the vacuum pump.
Core Innovation
The disclosed system samples air at multiple locations in a controlled environment. A vacuum pump outside the controlled environment draws volumes of air from air sampling devices through vacuum connections, while flow sensors sense the mass flow rate received by each connection. A graphical user interface allows a user to specify desired mass-flow-rate setpoints, and flow control valves initiate sampling cycles and regulate the corresponding flows.
The described control arrangement uses a programmable logic controller to compare measured flow rates with setpoints and adjust valves, including compensation for flow changes between manifold-connected paths. Networked interfaces support remote monitoring and control, sampling by time or volume, alarms, event logging, and user authorization; emergency stops or abnormal low flow can disconnect vacuum-pump power. The supplied partial content does not include the background section, so the problem being solved is not explicitly described.
Claims Coverage
The two independent claims cover one multi-location air-sampling system and one method for multi-location air sampling in a controlled environment.
Multi-location air-sampling system
The system uses air sampling devices within a controlled environment, vacuum connections, and an external vacuum pump to draw air from multiple locations. Flow sensors sense mass flow rates, a graphical user interface receives user-specified desired-flow setpoints, and flow control valves initiate sampling cycles and control the corresponding flows in response to those setpoints.
Method for multi-location air sampling
The method draws air from multiple air sampling devices through vacuum connections using an external vacuum pump, senses the mass flow rates, and provides a graphical user interface for receiving desired-flow setpoints from a user. It initiates a sampling cycle and controls the flow through the corresponding vacuum connection with a flow control valve in response to the specified setpoint.
The independent claims cover a system and a method that combine multi-location air sampling, mass-flow sensing, user-specified flow setpoints, and valve-based flow control.
Stated Advantages
Not explicitly described in patent.
Documented Applications
Sampling air at multiple locations in a controlled environment.
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