Constant Temperature Circulator Head With Tool-Free Display Reorientation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current constant temperature circulator assemblies have fixed angles of view, requiring tools and removal of the control module to change orientations, limiting flexibility and efficiency in fluid temperature control.

Innovation Solution

A constant temperature circulator assembly with a base ring assembly that allows the circulator head to be selectively adjusted in orientation up to 180° without tool use, using a latch mechanism and biasing element for secure engagement with the container, enabling tool-free repositioning and maintaining fluid contact.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the control module is fixed to the deck using threaded fasteners, then the control module is securely attached, but the angle of view cannot be changed without removing and re-orienting the module using tools

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveangle of view adjustmentVSAvoidtool-free repositioning

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control module is made dynamically repositionable through a latch mechanism that allows the module to be rotated to different orientations (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) and locked in place. The latch mechanism includes a movable latch member that can be engaged or disengaged by pulling on a tab, enabling tool-free adjustment while maintaining secure attachment during operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system is segmented into separate functional components: a base ring with notches for different orientations, a latch mechanism for securing, and a tab for easy actuation. This segmentation allows the control module to be independently positioned and secured without requiring complete removal or complex tooling

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the control module is made repositionable, then flexibility in display orientation is improved, but the complexity of the mounting mechanism increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedisplay orientation optionsVSAvoidmounting mechanism structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism is designed to be self-operating through user interaction with the tab. Pulling the tab automatically disengages the latch, allowing repositioning, and releasing the tab allows the spring to automatically re-engage the latch with the next available notch. This self-service design provides multiple orientation options without requiring complex control systems or multiple separate components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables flexible and tool-free adjustment of the circulator head assembly's orientation, enhancing operational efficiency and convenience while maintaining temperature control precision.

Implementation Method 1

a biasing element, preferably a spring, that biases the latch mechanism toward the central opening

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring biasing: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP2407703B1Movable constant temperature circulator assembly

Publication Date: 2015.02.25 PRESTON IND INC

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AI summary

A constant temperature circulator assembly (100) may include a circulator head assembly (101) having a fixed display (102) and a base ring assembly (106) adapted for connection to a container (104) wherein the circulator head assembly (101) movably engages the base ring assembly (106) so that an orientation of the fixed display (102) may be selectively adjusted with respect to the base ring assembly (106).