Modular Distribution Line Connection With Integrated Volume Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distribution line components face challenges in simplifying the installation and secure positioning of volume equalization components, which are crucial for managing thermally induced volume increases within the line housing, often requiring complex chamber designs and additional components.
Innovation Solution
The volume equalization component is integrated into the connection formation of the line housing, allowing for easy installation and secure positioning by utilizing the space provided by the further line component, which secures its position upon connection, eliminating the need for a separate receiving chamber and facilitating a simple, effective solution for volume expansion management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate receiving chamber is designed for the volume equalization component, then the component can be securely positioned, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the volume equalization component directly into the connection formation structure. The connection formation serves dual purposes: connecting line components and housing the volume equalization component. This eliminates the need for a separate receiving chamber while ensuring secure positioning through the integrated design where the volume equalization component is retained by the connection formation's geometry.
2Reliability
If a complex chamber design is used to position the volume equalization component, then secure retention is achieved, but the ease of manufacture and installation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connection formation is designed to integrate both connection and retention functions. The volume equalization component is positioned within the connection formation's structure, utilizing its geometric features for retention. This integrated approach simplifies manufacturing by reducing the number of separate components and assembly steps, while ensuring reliable retention through the unified design.
3Ease of operation
If the volume equalization component is integrated into the connection formation, then installation is simplified, but the space for component placement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connection formation is designed with localized geometric features that create adequate space for the volume equalization component within the connection area. The retention mechanism utilizes the connection formation's structure to provide sufficient volume for the equalization component's function while maintaining a compact overall design. This local optimization ensures both ease of installation and adequate functional space.
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 simplifies the installation and retention of the volume equalization component, ensuring it can compress to accommodate thermal expansion without damaging the line housing, while maintaining the housing's original shape and reducing stress, thus enhancing the component's structural integrity and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
protecting against effects of a thermally caused volume increase of a fluid accommodated in the line housing
Implementation Method 2
the volume equalization component is compressible by the fluid in the line housing
Data Source
AI summary
A distribution line component for a motor vehicle, including a line housing having a first line opening and having a second line opening, the first and the second line openings being connected to each other in fluid-conducting fashion by a line configuration in the line housing, the distribution line component including, for protection against the effects of a thermally caused increase in volume of a fluid accommodated in the line housing, a volume equalization component compressible by fluid in the line housing, a connection formation for connecting to a counterpart connection formation of a further line component being developed in the area of at least one line opening; the volume equalization component being situated in or on the connection formation and assigned to its line opening in such a way that a section of the further line component connected to the connection formation contributes jointly with the line housing to secure the position of the volume equalization component on the line housing.