3D Printed Conduits with Variable Geometry for Fluid Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional plumbing systems lack the ability to customize fluid flow and pressure distribution, structural support, and adaptability to specific construction projects, limiting their efficiency and flexibility in new construction and remodeling.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for manufacturing 3D fluidic structures with controllable dimensions and features using a processor to compute and print conduits based on architectural plans and fluid dynamics modeling, allowing for customized designs that integrate structural supports and adapt to site-specific conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional plumbing systems are used, then installation is straightforward with standardized components, but customization of fluid flow, pressure distribution, and structural support is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by enabling continuous variation of conduit dimensions (diameter, wall thickness, length) and material properties along the conduit's length. The computational design process calculates optimal parameter distributions to satisfy multiple performance requirements simultaneously, transforming fixed-parameter conventional pipes into variable-parameter customized conduits that adapt to specific flow, pressure, and structural needs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing conduits that simultaneously perform multiple functions: fluid transport, pressure regulation, structural support, and thermal insulation. The computational optimization integrates all these requirements into a single unified conduit design, eliminating the need for separate components and achieving universal functionality within a single element
2Manufacturing precision
If 3D printing is used to fabricate conduits, then customization and integration of features are enabled, but manufacturing complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing comprehensive computational design and optimization before the actual 3D printing process. The system pre-calculates the optimal conduit geometry, material distribution, and structural reinforcement locations based on detailed analysis of flow requirements, pressure constraints, and structural loads, ensuring manufacturing precision is achieved through careful planning prior to fabrication
3Productivity
If conduits are designed with varying dimensions to optimize fluid flow, then flow control improves, but manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical manufacturing methods with computational design and 3D printing technology. The computational system automatically generates complex varying-dimension conduit geometries that would be difficult or impossible to manufacture using conventional mechanical processes, while the 3D printing technology enables direct fabrication of these complex shapes without requiring multiple assembly steps or specialized tooling
Data Source
AI summary
A method of fabricating a conduit includes providing a processor and receiving schematic information. The method also includes computing, using the processor, at least one three-dimensional configuration for the conduit and printing the conduit having the computed at least one three-dimensional configuration.