Diffuser plates and diffuser plate assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional diffuser plates in heat exchangers often fail to optimize fluid flow uniformity and thermal efficiency, leading to suboptimal heat transfer and mechanical stability, particularly in boilers and condensing systems.
Innovation Solution
The design of diffuser plates with asymmetrically arranged apertures of varying shapes and sizes, allowing for improved alignment and configuration in diffuser plate assemblies to enhance fluid flow and thermal efficiency, while maintaining compliance with industry standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional diffuser plates with symmetric aperture arrangements are used, then manufacturing and installation are simple, but fluid flow uniformity and thermal efficiency are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by arranging apertures in a non-symmetric pattern on the diffuser plate. Specifically, the plate includes multiple apertures of different sizes (first apertures, second apertures, third apertures) positioned at asymmetric locations relative to the center. This asymmetric configuration optimizes fluid flow distribution and thermal efficiency while maintaining manufacturability through standardized plate fabrication processes.
2Productivity
If diffuser plates with uniform aperture sizes are used, then manufacturing is easier, but fluid flow optimization and thermal efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different aperture sizes at different locations on the diffuser plate. The plate includes first apertures of a first size, second apertures of a second size, and third apertures of a third size, where each size is optimized for its specific location to enhance local fluid flow characteristics and overall heat transfer efficiency.
3Reliability
If diffuser plates are used without asymmetric aperture configuration, then installation is simpler, but mechanical stability and flow uniformity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry to improve mechanical stability by strategically positioning apertures of different sizes to distribute thermal and mechanical loads more evenly across the plate structure. The asymmetric arrangement prevents stress concentration and enhances the plate's ability to maintain structural integrity under operating conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A diffuser plate for a thermal transfer device can include a body having a number of first apertures and a second aperture that traverse therethrough, where the first apertures are asymmetrically arranged with respect to the second aperture. The first apertures can have a first shape and a first size, and where the first apertures are configured to receive a plurality of tubes. The second aperture has a second size, where the second size is larger than the first size.