Integrated Operation Manifold for Multi-Tank Fluid Filling and Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressurized fluid storage and distribution systems for vehicles, particularly those using multiple reservoirs, face challenges in managing complexity, space requirements, and cost due to the need for numerous functional components and separate channels for fluid distribution and filling, which complicates installation and increases overall size and weight.
Innovation Solution
A unified manifold design integrates solenoid and manual valves, non-return valves, and other components within a single body, sharing a manual valve for both distribution and filling channels, reducing the number of components and centralizing functions, thereby simplifying installation and reducing size and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate functional components (solenoid valve, manual valve, non-return valves) are used for distribution and filling channels, then fluid management functionality is achieved, but device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the distribution channel and filling channel into a single integrated manifold body, combining multiple functional components (solenoid valve, manual valve, first non-return valve, second non-return valve) into one unified structure. This reduces the number of separate components while maintaining all necessary fluid management functions for both distribution and filling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold body serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a distribution channel, a filling channel, and houses multiple valves and non-return mechanisms. The single manifold structure performs the roles of what would traditionally require separate components, achieving multi-functionality in one integrated device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate functional components are assembled on the manifold, then fluid management capabilities are provided, but manufacturing cost and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple separately manufactured components into a single integrated manifold body that is manufactured as one piece. This eliminates the need for assembling multiple components on the vehicle, reducing installation complexity and manufacturing costs while providing complete fluid management capabilities.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple tanks are used to increase storage capacity, then onboard storage capacity is improved, but overall system size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple tank outlets into a single manifold body, combining the functions of multiple separate tank connection assemblies into one unified structure. This reduces the overall system weight and size while maintaining the capability to store and distribute fluid from multiple tanks, thereby improving storage capacity without proportionally increasing system weight.
4Ease of operation
If separate distribution and filling channels are used, then fluid flow control is achieved, but spatial footprint and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the distribution channel and filling channel into a single integrated manifold structure, allowing both fluid flow control functions to coexist in one compact device. This maintains the ability to separately control distribution and filling operations while significantly reducing the spatial footprint compared to having separate channels.
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
This integration results in a more compact, cost-effective, and easier-to-install system that accurately measures fluid properties and ensures safe fluid management, with reduced components and enhanced safety features like dual thermo-controlled decompression devices.
Implementation Method 1
The fluid distribution channel includes a first non-return valve (14) intended to prevent fluid flow in a first direction towards the reservoirs (4) and to allow fluid flow in a second direction, opposite to the first direction
Implementation Method 2
The tank filling channel (8) includes a second non-return valve (17) designed to allow fluid to flow in the first direction towards the tanks (4) and to prevent fluid from flowing in the opposite direction
Implementation Method 3
a solenoid valve (10), a manual valve (11), a fluid distribution channel (7) stored in the reservoirs, the fluid distribution channel being provided in the body and being configured to be in fluidic communication with the reservoirs via the solenoid valve and the manual valve
Implementation Method 4
the manual valve (11) is also used to ensure fluidic communication between the tank filling channel (8) and the tanks (4)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4A
Figure 4B~4D
AI summary
The operation manifold (3) for a vehicle pressurized-fluid storage and distribution assembly (1), the fluid storage and distribution assembly comprising a plurality of pressurized-fluid tanks (4), comprises: - a body (6) having a plurality of communication ports (9) configured to be in fluidic communication with a tank; a distribution line (7) for distributing fluid stored in the tanks and which is formed in the body and configured to be in fluidic communication with the tanks via an electrically operated valve (10) and a manual valve (11); and - a tank filling line (8) formed in the body and configured to be in fluidic communication with the tanks. The manual valve is also used to ensure fluidic communication between the tank filling line and the tanks.