Brake Fluid Collection Device with Gas-Liquid Separation Tank

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing brake fluid collection and supply systems are complex and large due to multiple tanks and lines, which complicates the process of gas-liquid separation and can lead to air or moisture entry into the brake system, affecting brake performance.

Innovation Solution

A compact brake fluid collection and supply device with a gas-liquid separation tank sectioned into a lower and upper chamber, along with a sub-tank, performs gas-liquid separation through counterflow mechanisms in three stages, using negative pressure to prevent atmospheric contact and enhance separation efficiency, allowing for a simplified structure and effective removal of gases and moisture.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple tanks and lines are used for brake fluid collection and supply, then gas-liquid separation can be performed, but the structure becomes complicated and large

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegas-liquid separation effectivenessVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple tanks (collection tank, storage tank, separation tank) and multiple lines into a single integrated brake fluid collection and supply device. The collection tank serves dual purposes as both collection and separation chamber, eliminating the need for separate dedicated tanks for each function. This merging reduces the overall component count and structural complexity while maintaining effective gas-liquid separation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The collection tank is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a collection tank for receiving brake fluid from the brake system, a separation tank for gas-liquid separation, and a storage tank for holding processed brake fluid. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated tanks for each operation, simplifying the overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple tanks and lines are used for brake fluid collection and supply, then gas-liquid separation can be performed, but the device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegas-liquid separation effectivenessVSAvoiddevice volume
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functional tanks into a single integrated collection tank that performs collection, storage, and separation functions. This consolidation significantly reduces the total volume occupied by multiple separate tanks and connecting lines, making the device more compact while maintaining separation effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The device employs a nested structure where the section wall with opening is positioned within the collection tank, creating internal chambers for different functions. The sub-tank is nested within the overall device structure, allowing efficient use of space and reducing the external dimensions of the device while maintaining internal separation functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Reliability

If brake fluid is collected and processed through multiple components, then gas removal can be achieved, but air or moisture may enter the brake system

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegas removal capabilityVSAvoidair or moisture entry
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a closed, controlled environment within the collection tank where brake fluid is processed. The section wall with opening and sub-tank structure maintains a sealed system that prevents atmospheric air and moisture from entering the brake fluid during collection and separation operations, eliminating the harmful effects of contamination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #39Inert atmosphere (Inert environment)

Solution Approach 2:

The section wall with opening acts as an intermediary structure that facilitates gas-liquid separation while maintaining system sealing. The sub-tank serves as an intermediate chamber that receives and processes brake fluid, preventing direct exposure to atmospheric conditions and blocking the entry path for air and moisture contaminants.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 device achieves efficient gas-liquid separation with a reduced component count, preventing air and moisture entry into the brake fluid, resulting in improved brake performance by supplying brake fluid free of contaminants.

Implementation Method 1

gas-liquid separation is performed by circulating the brake fluid in the lower chamber through a circulation line where the brake fluid is discharged from the lower chamber and returned to the lower chamber

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCounterflow: Convection

Implementation Method 2

a gas-liquid separation tank sectioned into a lower chamber and an upper chamber by a section wall including an opening

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGas-liquid separation: Cyclone Separation

Implementation Method 3

using negative pressure to prevent atmospheric contact and enhance separation efficiency

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNegative pressure: Vacuum

Data Source

PatentUS11186265B2Method and device for collecting and supplying brake fluid
Publication Date: 2021.11.30 HONDA MOTOR CO LTD
  • US11186265B2 patent drawing
  • US11186265B2 patent drawing
  • US11186265B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This device for collecting and supplying brake fluid has a gas-liquid separation tank divided into a lower chamber and an upper chamber with a partition wall interposed therebetween. Connected to the gas-liquid separation tank are: a collection line for collecting brake fluid from the brake system of a vehicle in the gas-liquid separation tank; a circulation line for extraction of brake fluid from the lower chamber and the return thereof to the lower chamber; and a replenishment line for replenishing the gas-liquid separation tank with fresh brake fluid. Air intake for the brake system is performed via a main intake line, and air intake for the gas-liquid separation tank is performed via an auxiliary intake line. Both the main intake line and auxiliary intake line are connected to an auxiliary tank.