Integrated Fluid Manifold Module for Compact Aircraft Ground Service
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid modules for aircraft ground service are often bulky and complex, making them inefficient in terms of size and weight, while still requiring multiple components for functionality.
Innovation Solution
A compact and lightweight fluid module with a manifold that integrates a filter port, inlets, and outlets, along with quick-disconnect couplings for efficient fluid communication between an aircraft's hydraulic system and a ground source, including a flange for mounting and a filter unit for fluid filtration, ensuring size and weight efficiency without compromising functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fluid modules are used for aircraft ground service, then multiple components are provided for functionality, but the modules become bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fluid module components (manifold, filter, couplings, valves) into a single integrated assembly. The manifold serves as a common structure that houses multiple inlets, outlets, and internal fluid passages, eliminating the need for separate component assemblies and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides fluid distribution through multiple inlets and outlets, houses filtration elements, supports mounting structures, and enables quick-connect functionality. This universal design allows a single component to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate parts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fluid modules are used for aircraft ground service, then multiple components are provided for functionality, but the modules become large in size
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is nested within the manifold structure, with the filter housing integrated into the manifold body. The couplings are designed to attach to external surfaces of the manifold rather than requiring separate mounting space. This nesting arrangement allows multiple components to occupy overlapping or adjacent spaces, significantly reducing the overall envelope volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold utilizes three-dimensional internal fluid passages that route fluid flow through the volume of the manifold body rather than requiring linear sequential connections. This spatial arrangement allows multiple inlets and outlets to be positioned on different faces of the manifold, compacting the overall footprint while maintaining functional connectivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fluid modules are used for aircraft ground service, then multiple components are provided for functionality, but the modules become heavy
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the filter, manifold, couplings, and mounting structures into a single assembled unit, the patent eliminates the weight of multiple separate components and their associated fasteners, seals, and mounting hardware. The combined structure allows for optimized material selection and reduced redundancy, lowering overall weight while maintaining all required functions.
4Volume of moving object
If a compact fluid module is designed, then size and weight are reduced, but functionality may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides fluid distribution through multiple inlets and outlets, houses filtration elements, supports mounting structures, and enables quick-connect functionality. This universal design allows a single component to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate parts, ensuring compactness does not sacrifice functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid module is designed with modular couplings that can be quickly connected and disconnected from the manifold. This segmentation allows the system to maintain full functionality when connected while enabling easy storage and transport in a compact state when disconnected, effectively providing both compactness and functional versatility.
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid module may include a manifold including a filter port, a first inlet in fluid communication with the filter port, a second inlet in fluid communication with the filter port, and/or an outlet in fluid communication with the filter port; a first coupling connected to the first inlet; a second coupling connected to the second inlet; and/or a fluid interface connected to the outlet. A body of the manifold may be cylindrical. The fluid module may include a third coupling. The manifold may a flange. The third coupling may be connected to the flange. The fluid module may include a filter connected to the filter port. The fluid module may include a second fluid interface. The fluid interface and the second fluid interface may be disposed at a first side of the manifold. The first coupling, second coupling, and/or third coupling may be disposed at a second side.