Integrated Valve Block Layout for Compact Refrigerant Piping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air conditioning systems face challenges with refrigerant leakage, leading to environmental impact and increased energy consumption due to the need for extensive piping and complex valve arrangements, which complicates installation and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
A valve block and valve block unit that simplify and miniaturize pipe arrangements by integrating flow direction switching and flow rate control mechanisms, reducing the number of pipes and components required, thereby minimizing refrigerant leakage risks and energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional separate piping and valve arrangements are used, then system functionality is achieved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple separate components (valves, pipe connections, flow control mechanisms) into a single integrated valve block unit. This merging reduces the number of external pipe connections and sealing points, thereby simplifying the overall pipe arrangement while reducing potential leakage points, thus improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve block unit is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - flow direction switching, flow rate control, and pipe connection - within a single integrated structure. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the system while maintaining full functionality.
2Ease of manufacture
If extensive piping and complex valve arrangements are used, then system functionality is achieved, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple valve functions and pipe connections into a single pre-assembled valve block unit, the patent reduces on-site installation complexity. The integrated design allows for faster installation as fewer individual components need to be assembled and connected during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve block unit is pre-assembled and pre-configured during manufacturing with all necessary internal passages and connections already in place. This preliminary assembly of complex components before delivery to the installation site significantly reduces on-site installation time and complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more pipes and components are used, then system functionality is achieved, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve block unit is designed as a universal component that can handle multiple refrigerant flow paths and control functions within a single structure. This multi-functional design maintains full system adaptability and versatility while reducing the total number of separate components required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple separate valve bodies and pipe connections into a single integrated unit, reducing the total component count while preserving all necessary flow control capabilities and system functionality through internal integration.
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided are a valve block and a valve block unit which allow simplification and miniaturization of a pipe arrangement. A valve block 350 according to the present invention includes at least one flow direction switching means 22 including a valve body 304a, the means selectively switching between conductions of a fluid (heat medium), a first pipe (heating outward-flow main pipe 308) and a second pipe (cooling outward-flow main pipe 307), switched by the flow direction switching means 22, allowing the fluid to be conveyed therethrough, and a third pipe (first branch pipe 3) that selectively communicates with the first pipe or the second pipe, the flow direction switching means, the first pipe, the second pipe, and the third pipe being connected to each other.