Vehicle Fluid Distributor With Piston-Diaphragm Path Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid distribution systems for vehicles require long distribution lines and complex, space-consuming actuation devices for fluid ejection, which are not economical.

Innovation Solution

A fluid distributor with a movable piston and deformable diaphragms that switches fluid paths between two outlets, using an electromagnetic actuator for control, allowing efficient and economical actuation with minimal line length.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If a single liquid distribution line is used to limit the length of the distribution line, then the distribution line length is reduced, but each nozzle requires an actuating device which increases device complexity and space occupation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistribution line lengthVSAvoidactuating device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple fluid distribution functions into a single integrated device with multiple outlets. The distributor body integrates multiple fluid paths and control mechanisms, eliminating the need for separate actuating devices at each nozzle location while maintaining the ability to independently control multiple ejection points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The distributor device performs multiple functions: it distributes fluid to multiple outlets, independently controls each outlet through integrated actuators, and maintains compact positioning. This multi-functional integration reduces the need for separate specialized components at each nozzle location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If each nozzle is combined with an actuating device for independent control, then independent control is achieved, but the space occupied by each nozzle increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent control capabilityVSAvoidnozzle space occupation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple actuating functions are merged into a single distributor body. The distributor integrates multiple actuators and control mechanisms in one location, allowing independent control of multiple outlets without requiring separate actuating devices at each distant nozzle location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The distributor acts as an intermediary device between the fluid source and the nozzles. It provides centralized control functionality, mediating the fluid distribution and actuation commands to multiple outlets without requiring each nozzle to have its own complete actuating system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a 4-way switching valve is used for fluid switching, then fluid path control is achieved, but the structure becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefluid path switching capabilityVSAvoidvalve structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fluid distribution system is segmented into multiple independent outlets, each with its own control mechanism integrated into the distributor body. This segmentation allows for simplified individual control paths rather than a single complex multi-way valve, making the overall structure more manageable and less complex.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Reduces distribution line length and simplifies actuation, maintaining reliability and reducing space requirements while ensuring independent control of fluid ejection devices.

Implementation Method 1

an actuator (4) comprising a piston (41) able to move between an initial position, corresponding to the initial state, and a switched position, corresponding to the switched state

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic actuation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a first diaphragm (22) configured to close the first fluid communication path (21) when the piston (41) is in its switched position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3745010B1Fluid dispenser for a system for dispensing a fluid for a vehicle and method for ejection of a fluid using such a system
Publication Date: 2025.09.03 A RAYMOND & CO SCS
  • EP3745010B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2a
  • EP3745010B1 patent drawingFigure 2b~2c
  • EP3745010B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3b

AI summary

The invention relates to a fluidic distributor (100) comprising: - a fluid inlet (1), - a first outlet (2) connected to the inlet (1) by a first fluidic communication channel (21), - a second outlet (3) connected to the inlet (1) by a second fluidic communication channel (31), - an actuator (4) comprising a movable piston (41) capable of moving between an initial position and a switched position; - a first deformable diaphragm (22), in contact with a first end of the piston (41), and configured to close the first channel (21) when the piston (41) is in its switched position; - a second deformable diaphragm (32), in contact with a second end of the piston (41), and configured to close the second channel (31) when the piston (41) is in its initial position.