Integrated Coupling for Heatable Fluid Line Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection arrangements for heatable fluid lines in multi-line systems require significant effort for adaptation and assembly, particularly due to complex configurations and multiple connections.
Innovation Solution
A connection arrangement featuring coupling parts with integrated fluid line dividers and electrical conductors that allow for simultaneous fluid and electrical connection with a single plug-in operation, dividing fluid flow into multiple delivery points and simplifying assembly through compact design and interchangeable components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connection arrangements are used for heatable fluid lines in multi-line systems, then reliable fluid and electrical connections can be established, but significant adaptation and assembly effort is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate connection operations into a single integrated coupling operation. The coupling part simultaneously establishes fluid connections through fluid line interfaces and electrical connections through electrical interfaces, eliminating the need for separate adaptation and assembly steps for each connection type.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling part is designed as a multi-functional component that handles both fluid transmission and electrical connection tasks. By integrating fluid line interfaces and electrical interfaces into a single coupling structure, the system achieves universal connectivity for both fluid and electrical pathways through one assembly operation.
2Reliability
If multiple separate connections are made for fluid and electrical lines, then reliable connections are achieved, but assembly time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling arrangement merges multiple connection functions into a single operational unit. When coupling parts are connected, they simultaneously establish fluid connections through aligned fluid line interfaces and electrical connections through aligned electrical interfaces, reducing assembly time by eliminating sequential connection steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The interfaces (fluid line interfaces and electrical interfaces) are pre-aligned and positioned in predetermined orientations on the coupling parts. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when coupling parts are connected, all connections are established simultaneously without requiring additional alignment or adjustment during assembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex configurations are used to handle multiple fluid lines, then fluid distribution is achieved, but device complexity and adaptation effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling part is segmented into multiple independent interfaces (fluid line interfaces and electrical interfaces) that can be individually configured. Each interface can be oriented and positioned independently, allowing the system to adapt to different fluid distribution requirements without increasing overall configuration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling part serves multiple functions simultaneously: it distributes fluid through multiple fluid lines, establishes electrical connections, and provides mechanical coupling. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and complex configurations to achieve the same system capabilities.
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
The solution reduces assembly effort and installation space by enabling simultaneous electrical and fluid connections, dividing fluid flow effectively, and allowing for flexible electrical conductor configurations, thereby simplifying the connection process in multi-line systems.
Implementation Method 1
The fluid can be, for example, water for a windshield washer system or an aqueous urea solution... At low ambient temperatures, the fluid can freeze. Therefore, fluid-carrying elements, such as pumps or fluid lines, are heated to prevent freezing or to thaw already frozen fluid.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a connection arrangement (1) for connecting heatable fluid lines (2a, 2b, 2c), with at least one first coupling part (3) and at least one second coupling part (4), wherein the first coupling part (3) and the second coupling part (4) can be connected to one another, wherein the first coupling part (3) and the second coupling part (4) each have at least one first fluid line (2a, 2b), at least one first fluid line interface (7a, 7b), at least one first electrical conductor (8a, 8b) and at least one first electrical interface (9a, 9b). The fitting and assembly workload, in particular for multi-line systems, is reduced since the first coupling part (3) and/or the second coupling part (4) has at least one fluid line divider (10), and in that the second coupling part (4) has at least one second fluid line (2c).