Modular Fluid Distributor Seal with Integrated Pressure Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid power control units face challenges in simple and cost-effective pressure monitoring of the pressure medium flowing through them, requiring complex and costly solutions for leak-free fluid transfer and pressure detection.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a dimensionally stable carrier plate with openings for fluid connection and an elastic sealing structure in the distributor module seals, equipped with pressure sensors that are electrically connected to the signal transmission line, allowing for pressure detection and transmission of measurement signals alongside control signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate pressure sensors and sealing structures are integrated into the distributor module, then pressure monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing structure and pressure sensor into a single integrated distributor module seal assembly. The elastic sealing structure is positioned to simultaneously seal the fluid passage and provide a mounting surface for the pressure sensor, which detects pressure in the fluid channel. This merging eliminates the need for separate sealing components and pressure sensing assemblies, thereby improving pressure monitoring capability while avoiding additional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The distributor module seal is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides fluid sealing between adjacent distributor modules, mounts the pressure sensor, and facilitates pressure detection. This multi-functionality allows the same component to serve both sealing and sensing purposes, improving versatility without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If pressure sensors are integrated into the distributor module seal, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but sensor fixation security may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor is integrated directly into the distributor module seal structure, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets or additional fastening components. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces component count, lowering production costs while maintaining secure sensor fixation through the unified structural design.
Solution Approach 2:
The distributor module seal utilizes composite construction with an elastic sealing structure that provides both sealing and structural support for the pressure sensor. This composite approach ensures secure sensor fixation while maintaining the flexibility needed for effective sealing, balancing manufacturing simplicity with reliability.
3Ease of operation
If the distributor module seal is used for both sealing and pressure detection, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The distributor module seal is designed as a universal component that performs both sealing and pressure detection functions. The elastic sealing structure incorporates mounting features for the pressure sensor, allowing the same component to fulfill multiple roles. This design simplifies assembly operations while the precision requirements are managed through standardized manufacturing processes for the integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic material properties of the sealing structure are carefully selected to provide both adequate sealing pressure and sufficient structural rigidity for secure sensor mounting. By optimizing the material parameters, the design achieves both ease of assembly and acceptable manufacturing precision for the integrated sealing and sensing functions.
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
Enables low-effort pressure monitoring with secure sensor fixation and handling, reducing costs and complexity by utilizing existing seals for pressure detection and transmitting signals through the signal transmission line, facilitating efficient fluid distributor assembly and operation.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic sealing structure which lies tightly against the joint surface of the opposite distributor module
Implementation Method 2
at least one pressure sensor designed to detect the fluid pressure prevailing in a distributor module fluid channel
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid control device (1) is proposed, comprising a modular fluid distributor (7) with several distributor modules (16) connected in series via distributor module seals (18), at least partially equipped with an electrically actuated control valve (2). The fluid distributor (7) contains a distributor fluid channel system (8), the fluid flow of which can be controlled at least partially by the control valves (2). At least one distributor module seal (18) includes a dimensionally stable carrier plate (46) equipped with openings (48) allowing fluid flow and also fitted with at least one pressure sensor (64) for detecting the fluid pressure in the distributor fluid channel system (8).The pressure sensor (64) is electrically contacted with a signal transmission line (35) that passes through the fluid distributor (7) and via which the control valves (2) can be electrically controlled.