Condensate lifting device comprising a movable condensate receiving tank, or mounted on a support movable in translation and/or rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current condensate lifting devices in air conditioning systems are complex to install, require numerous connections, and have reliability issues due to difficult access for maintenance, leading to potential condensate overflow and bacterial contamination.
Innovation Solution
A condensate lifting device with a movable tank and integrated pump support that allows for easy installation and maintenance, featuring a printed circuit with level detection electrodes and a mechanism for changing positions between operational and maintenance modes, simplifying connections and reducing the need for separate components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If condensate lifting devices use separate components supplied and installed independently, then the system can be assembled from standard parts, but the installation complexity increases and reliability decreases due to numerous connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pump, level detection means, and alarm system into a single integrated support structure. The support carries the pump housing, the level detection means are mounted on the support, and the alarm system is integrated with the support structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate installation of multiple components and reduces the number of connections required, directly resolving the contradiction between component availability and installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated support structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the pump, houses the level detection means, carries the alarm system, and provides the structural framework for the entire condensate lifting device. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed and simplifies installation while maintaining all necessary functions, addressing both ease of manufacture and device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If level detection means and pump are installed in difficult-to-access areas, then the system can be integrated into the air conditioner structure, but maintenance becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the condensate lifting device into separable modules: the integrated support structure carrying the pump and level detection means can be installed in difficult-to-access areas, while the alarm system and other components are positioned for easier access. The support structure itself is designed as a removable module that can be accessed for maintenance by disconnecting it from the air conditioner housing, allowing technicians to service the pump and level detection means without disassembling the entire air conditioner.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated support structure acts as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between the air conditioner housing and the pump assembly. It provides a standardized interface for connection, allowing the pump module to be easily installed and removed. The support structure includes connection points and mounting features that facilitate quick assembly and disassembly, enabling maintenance of components in difficult-to-access areas while maintaining system integration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If alarm cable connection is required for systems not designed to cooperate with lifting devices, then the alarm function can be implemented, but installation difficulties increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alarm system is designed with universal compatibility in mind. The support structure includes standardized alarm output terminals that can connect to various alarm systems and control systems. The alarm function can be activated without requiring specific customization of the air conditioner, and the connection points are positioned for easy access during installation, resolving the contradiction between alarm functionality and installation ease.
4Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate components are used, then the system can be assembled from available parts, but the risk of malfunction and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the pump, level detection means, and alarm system into a single integrated support structure with pre-established internal connections. This integration eliminates the risk of improper connection between separate components, reduces the number of potential failure points, and ensures that all components are properly configured during manufacturing. The integrated design maintains component availability while significantly improving system reliability by reducing assembly errors and connection issues.
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 solution enhances installation efficiency, reduces connection complexity, and ensures reliable operation by allowing easy access for maintenance, preventing condensate overflow and bacterial growth, while directly controlling power supply to prevent system failures.
Implementation Method 1
a pump (13) for lifting the condensates received in said tank
Implementation Method 2
These means for detecting the condensate level can be based on a level sensor, for example a capacitive sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A condensate lifting device, including: a condensate receiving tank and a pump for lifting the condensates received in the tank. The pump is mounted on a first support for holding and/or guiding the tank or a second support carrying the tank, so that the tank or the second support is movable, in translation and/or in rotation, relative to the first support, so as to be able to take at least two positions: a working position, wherein the tank is connected to the pump; and a drainage position, wherein the tank is disconnected from the pump and displaced relative to the first support, so as to allow an operation of cleaning and/or draining the condensates.