Systems, devices, and methods for fluid management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a difficulty in introducing a fluid into air conditioning and refrigeration systems, requiring a solution that allows fluid introduction while the systems are operating.
Innovation Solution
A device with a container and fittings configured to connect to service ports of air conditioning or refrigeration systems, utilizing pressure differentials to facilitate fluid discharge into the systems without requiring them to be in a service mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional fluid introduction methods are used, then the system must be shut down for service mode, but this causes loss of time and reduced productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The device prepares the fluid introduction path in advance by connecting to service ports while the system operates normally. The container is pre-filled with fluid and positioned ready for discharge, allowing immediate introduction without system shutdown.
Solution Approach 2:
The device acts as an intermediary between the fluid source and the system, using fittings that connect to service ports to create a bridge for fluid introduction. This intermediary structure enables fluid transfer without disrupting system operation.
2Loss of time
If the system is shut down for fluid introduction, then fluid can be introduced safely, but this causes loss of time
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous operation during fluid introduction. The device enables the useful action of fluid introduction to occur without interrupting the continuous operation of the air conditioning or refrigeration system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system serves itself by accepting fluid introduction through service ports during normal operation. The pressure differential automatically facilitates fluid discharge into the system without requiring external intervention or system shutdown.
3Device complexity
If manual fluid introduction is used, then control is precise, but this increases device complexity and operation difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs the fluid introduction function automatically using the system's own pressure differential. The pressure difference between the operating system and the container naturally drives the fluid discharge, eliminating the need for complex manual control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses pneumatic principles by relying on pressure differential to drive fluid flow. The pressure difference between the operating system and the container creates the driving force for fluid introduction, simplifying the device structure.
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 efficient fluid introduction into operating air conditioning and refrigeration systems, minimizing the risk of accidental refrigerant escape and allowing continuous system operation.
Implementation Method 1
the energy storing element is able to facilitate a discharge of the fluid from the container through the connector into the service port based on a pressure differential in the system
Implementation Method 2
a pressure differential between a service mode of the system and an operating mode of the system forces the fluid into the system from the tube through the two-way valve fitting
Data Source
AI summary
A device comprises: a container; a first fitting coupled to the container; and a second fitting coupled to the container, wherein the first fitting is configured for coupling to a first service port of a system and the second fitting is configured for coupling to a second service port of the system such that a fluid can travel from the first service port to the second service port through the container while the system is running, wherein the system comprises at least one of an air conditioning system or a refrigeration system.