Deformed Branch Lines for Cost-Efficient Fluid Flow Throttling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid distribution systems, such as cooling circuits, require separate and individually planned throttle devices, leading to increased production costs due to the use of non-identical parts and complex assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A fluid distribution system where the throttle device is implemented through local deformation of the branch lines, allowing for the use of identical parts and simplifying production by adjusting the throttle function post-manufacture, with deformations such as star-shaped cross-sections achieved via mechanical action, enabling adjustable pressure loss and mass flow control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If separate and individually planned throttle devices are used in each branch line, then the fluid flow can be precisely controlled, but the production costs increase due to non-identical parts and complex assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the throttle device function directly into the branch line itself by creating a localized constriction or deformation in the branch line wall. This eliminates the need for separate throttle devices and reduces assembly complexity while maintaining flow control precision through the integrated geometric modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies local quality by creating a specific geometric deformation (such as an indentation or star-shaped cross-section) at a localized position in the branch line. This local modification changes the flow characteristics precisely where needed without affecting the rest of the identical branch line components.
2Manufacturing precision
If separate and individually planned throttle devices are used in each branch line, then the fluid flow can be precisely controlled, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The throttle function is merged into the branch line structure itself through localized deformation. This integration eliminates multiple separate components and their associated assembly steps, reducing assembly complexity while preserving the ability to precisely control fluid flow through the geometric design of the deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the throttle function from separate components and embeds it directly into the branch line geometry. By taking out the need for distinct throttle devices and incorporating the flow control function into the branch line itself, the system achieves simpler assembly while maintaining precise flow control capabilities.
3Ease of manufacture
If local deformation is used to create the throttling device, then identical branch lines can be used reducing costs, but the structural rigidity may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The local deformation creates a targeted geometric modification (such as a star-shaped cross-section with specific indentation depth) that provides the necessary flow resistance while minimizing impact on overall structural rigidity. The deformation is localized to a small region, allowing the rest of the branch line to maintain its full structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention controls the parameters of the local deformation (such as indentation depth, length, and cross-sectional shape) to achieve the desired balance between flow control and structural integrity. By carefully selecting deformation parameters, the system maintains sufficient rigidity while creating effective flow restriction.
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
This approach reduces production costs by using identical branch lines and allows for flexible throttle design, maintaining structural rigidity while minimizing hydraulic diameter and pressure loss, thus simplifying assembly and adaptation to specific requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a throttling device is formed by at least one local deformation of the branch line in question
Implementation Method 2
The aforementioned preferred mechanical action for generating the local deformation can be carried out by pressing in one or more tool or punch geometries
Implementation Method 3
The aforementioned individual design of the throttling device(s) preferably reflects a pressure loss at or in the throttling device that is relevant for the uniform distribution of a mass flow in the fluid distribution system
Implementation Method 4
An advantage of the star geometry is the reduction of the hydraulic diameter required for the necessary pressure drop
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid distribution system (1) is proposed, comprising a main distribution line (2) and a number of branch lines (7), each branch line (7) being branched off from the main line (2), wherein a throttling device (8) is arranged in at least one branch line (7), and which fluid distribution system (1) is characterized in that the throttling device (8) is formed by at least one local deformation of the respective branch line (7). A method for manufacturing such a fluid distribution system (1) is also proposed.