Inline drain line access device with cleanout adapter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for clearing clogs in HVACR condensate drain lines require manual operation of shut-off valves, which can lead to pipe damage, human error, and compromise the water-tight integrity of the drain line, necessitating frequent repairs and risking accidental overflows.
Innovation Solution
A compact inline access device with a cleanout adapter that slides into and seals within the access device, allowing for connection to a pressurized or vacuum source for flushing clogs without manual operation of valves, ensuring secure alignment and sealing without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual shut-off valves are used to clear clogs, then access to drain line can be achieved, but the valve operation can cause bending or breaking of the drain line pipe and connecting joints
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the valve operation function from the system by providing a cleanout port that allows direct access to the drain line. This eliminates the need for manual shut-off valves and their associated rotational forces that cause pipe bending or breaking, while still enabling access to clear clogs.
2Productivity
If manual shut-off valves are used to direct pressurized flow, then cleaning can be achieved, but human error can cause the valve to remain closed preventing drain line flow
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements a self-service mechanism where the cleanout port with removable plug allows automatic or assisted drainage without requiring manual valve operation. The system serves itself by enabling direct access to clear clogs and restore flow without human intervention in valve operation, eliminating the risk of human error causing closed valves.
3Ease of operation
If the drain line is cut to create access, then cleaning can be achieved, but the water-tight integrity of the drain line is compromised requiring repair
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies preliminary action by installing a cleanout port with removable plug during initial system setup. This pre-installed access point eliminates the need for later cutting of the drain line, thereby maintaining the water-tight integrity of the original installation while providing easy access for future cleaning operations.
4Ease of operation
If permanent inline assemblies with manual valves are installed, then access without cutting is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the essential function of access from complex valve assemblies and reduces it to a simple cleanout port with removable plug. This eliminates unnecessary valves and complex mechanisms while retaining the core functionality of enabling drain line access for cleaning operations.
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 easy and secure flushing of drain lines upstream or downstream, reducing the risk of pipe damage and human error, maintaining the integrity of the drain line and preventing overflows by allowing for automatic alignment and sealing of the cleanout adapter.
Implementation Method 1
the rubber seal of the flange engages the inside surfaces of the interior cavity, within the slot
Implementation Method 2
a rubber seal about its periphery. The flange is structured for sliding receipt within either of two transverse slots
Data Source
AI summary
An access device for installation to a condensation drainage system, such as a drain line of an HVAC unit, includes a main body with connecting ports at opposite ends for sealed, fluid flow inline connection to the drainage system. A top cover releasably secures to the main body to completely cover and seal an open top and interior cavity. A cleanout adapter has a flange that surrounds a bottom opening. The flange includes a seal around its outer periphery and is structured for sliding receipt within either of two transverse slots within the interior cavity to position the bottom opening of the adapter in sealed alignment with either of the connection ports, whereby a pressurized gas or liquid flow source, or a vacuum source can be connected to a top opening of the adapter for clearing a clog in the drain line either upstream or downstream of the access device.