Adjustable Flow Splitter for Precise Chemical Agent Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Distributing dry chemical agents, such as Kidde Suppression Agent (KSA), in complex environments like engine nacelles and Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) is challenging due to the need for precise nozzle orifice adjustments to achieve the correct mass flow, which is time-consuming and limited by available pipe diameters.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable flow splitter is introduced, comprising an inlet channel, first and second sub-channels, and an adjustable diverter that deflects fluid flow between the sub-channels. The diverter is adjustable and maintained in position by a set screw, allowing for varying diameters between the diverter and the channel walls to control the flow distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If nozzle orifices or pipe diameters are adjusted to achieve the correct mass flow, then the mass flow distribution is improved, but the installation time increases and the adjustment precision is limited by available pipe diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable diverter element that can be positioned at different locations within the flow splitter channel, allowing continuous adjustment of flow distribution ratios. This dynamic adjustment mechanism eliminates the need for time-consuming manual nozzle or pipe diameter adjustments, as the diverter can be quickly repositioned to achieve the desired mass flow distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameter of the flow path by moving the diverter element to different positions, which continuously alters the flow split ratio between outlet channels. This parameter change approach provides precise control over mass flow distribution without being constrained by discrete pipe diameter options, thereby improving adjustment precision while reducing installation time.
2Manufacturing precision
If nozzle orifices or pipe diameters are adjusted to achieve the correct mass flow, then the mass flow distribution is improved, but the adjustment flexibility is limited by quantised pipe diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The movable diverter element provides continuous adjustment capability along the flow splitter channel, enabling flexible control of flow distribution ratios. This dynamic mechanism overcomes the limitation of quantized pipe diameters, allowing precise adaptation to various mass flow requirements without being constrained by discrete size options.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow splitter device with a movable diverter can accommodate multiple flow distribution scenarios using a single device configuration. By adjusting the diverter position, the same device can provide different flow split ratios, making it universally applicable to various installation requirements without needing multiple fixed-diameter components.
3Device complexity
If a fixed flow splitter is used with standard pipe diameters, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to meet specific certification criteria is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The movable diverter element adds minimal complexity to the flow splitter structure while enabling precise control over flow distribution. This dynamic feature allows the device to meet specific certification criteria for mass flow distribution without requiring complex multi-component systems, maintaining structural simplicity while achieving reliability.
4Manufacturing precision
If manual adjustment of nozzle orifices is performed, then the flow distribution is optimized, but the operation time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The movable diverter element enables quick repositioning to achieve desired flow distribution ratios without requiring manual adjustment of multiple nozzles or orifices. This single-point adjustment mechanism significantly reduces operation time and labor requirements while maintaining flow distribution optimization, thereby improving installation speed and 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
The adjustable flow splitter enables precise control over the mass flow of chemical agents through the sub-channels, allowing for even distribution and meeting specific certification criteria without the need for time-consuming nozzle adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a diverter configured to deflect the flow of the fluid from the inlet channel to at least one of the first sub-channel and/or the second sub-channel
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable flow splitter for a distribution system, the adjustable flow splitter comprises an inlet channel for receiving fluid at a first end, the inlet channel configured to allow flow from the first end to a second end. The adjustable flow splitter also comprises a first sub-channel and a second sub-channel located at the second end, and a diverter configured to deflect the flow of the fluid from the inlet channel to at least one of the first sub-channel and/or the second sub-channel, wherein the diverter is adjustable. The adjustable flow splitter also comprises means for maintaining the position of the diverter.