Integrated sensor and service port for HVAC equipment or HVAC system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC systems require disconnecting the service port to attach a pressure sensor for testing, which is labor-intensive and prevents simultaneous charging, and prior solutions introduce leaks and are aesthetically unpleasing due to large, exposed components.
Innovation Solution
An integrated sensor and service port device with a brass housing that includes a pressure sensor and a Schrader valve depressor, allowing pressure or temperature sensing without disconnection, integrated within a compact, leak-proof, and aesthetically improved assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate pressure sensor and service port assembly is used, then pressure sensing capability is provided, but additional labor and time are required to disconnect and connect components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pressure sensor, service port, and charging line connection into a single integrated assembly. The sensor is positioned to directly contact the service port through the charging line, eliminating the need for separate connection and disconnection operations. This merging of components resolves the technical contradiction by providing pressure sensing capability while eliminating the time and labor loss associated with separate assembly operations.
2Measurement precision
If a T-connector assembly with separate sensor and port is used, then pressure testing is enabled, but leaks are introduced at connection points
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated assembly eliminates multiple connection points by combining the service port, sensor, and charging line into a single unified structure. The sensor directly contacts the service port through the charging line without requiring additional connectors or coupling points, thereby eliminating the leakage paths that would otherwise exist at each connection interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging line serves as an intermediary element that transmits both the refrigerant charge and the pressure signal from the service port to the sensor. This intermediary approach allows pressure testing without requiring direct physical connection between the sensor and service port, eliminating leakage at connection points while maintaining measurement capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If large exposed components are used for sensor and connector, then functional requirements are met, but the assembly is susceptible to physical damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the sensor, service port, and connector into a single compact assembly that can be mounted within the HVAC equipment housing. This integration eliminates the need for large exposed external components, thereby reducing susceptibility to physical damage from accidental contact while maintaining all necessary functional capabilities through the integrated design.
4Adaptability or versatility
If separate sensor and service port components are used, then installation flexibility is provided, but the assembly is aesthetically unpleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated assembly combines all functional components into a single unified structure that can be cleanly mounted within the HVAC equipment. This integration eliminates the visual clutter of multiple separate components and connections, providing a neat and aesthetically pleasing appearance while maintaining installation flexibility through the modular nature of the integrated unit.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated sensor and service port for HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) equipment or an HVAC system.