Fluid Fitting With Integrated Flowmeter And Indexing System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Facilities with fluid pressure sources require improved fluid fittings that can efficiently manage and distribute fluids or vacuum, with existing fittings lacking integrated functionality and safety features for multiple fluid connections and flow rate control.
Innovation Solution
A fluid fitting with a mounting component, conduit adapter, and integrated fluid management device, such as a flowmeter, that provides multiple connections and flow rate control, ensuring secure attachment to surfaces and preventing incorrect conduit connections through indexing systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fluid fittings are used without integrated functionality, then the device complexity is low, but the versatility and functional capabilities are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fluid management functions (flow control, measurement, regulation) into a single integrated fitting assembly. The flowmeter, conduit adapter, and control mechanisms are merged into one unit that connects to the fluid conduit, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing installation complexity while enhancing functional capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid fitting is designed as a universal component that can perform multiple functions simultaneously - flow measurement, flow control, and fluid distribution. The indexing system provides universal compatibility with different conduit types while the integrated flowmeter and control mechanisms serve multiple operational needs within a single device.
2Reliability
If multiple fluid connections are provided without indexing systems, then the ease of operation is high, but the reliability and safety are reduced due to potential incorrect connections
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing system performs preliminary verification of correct conduit connection before fluid flow is established. The mechanical indexing features (such as keyed connections or positioned alignment elements) pre-check that the conduit is properly oriented and matched to the fitting, preventing incorrect connections before they can cause safety issues.
3Productivity
If flow rate control features are integrated into the fitting, then the productivity and operational efficiency are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control mechanism is merged with the fitting body and flowmeter assembly. The control valve or flow regulation element is integrated into the same housing that contains the flow measurement indicators, allowing operators to control and monitor flow rates simultaneously through a single component rather than requiring separate control devices.
Data Source
AI summary
What is presented is a fluid fitting used in a facility that has a plurality of surfaces and a source of fluid pressure. The fluid fitting comprises a mounting component, a conduit adapter, a port, and a fluid management device. The mounting component makes the fluid fitting mountable on the external side of the surface. The conduit adapter is connectable to the fluid handling conduit on the internal side of the surface. The port has a flow path to the conduit adapter that enables a fluid connection between the conduit adapter and the port. The fluid management device is permanently incorporated in the flow path such that the fluid management device is permanently connected to the port at the fluid dispensing point.