Manifold Valve Series Connection Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid dispenser systems require time-consuming disconnection and reconnection of multiple valves when a defective valve is identified, often leading to the discard of entire systems, as removing a valve in series necessitates disconnecting adjacent valves.
Innovation Solution
A fluid dispenser system with a manifold that uses fluid pressure to lock valves into series connections, allowing for tool-free and non-sequential removal of valves by releasing tension force when fluid flow is stopped, enabling the isolation and replacement of defective valves without affecting adjacent ones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If valves are connected in series using traditional fluid fittings, then the system can be assembled, but removing a defective valve requires disconnecting and re-connecting adjacent valves which is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the valve assembly into modular units where each valve can be independently removed from the manifold. The manifold is designed with individual connection points for each valve, allowing one valve to be disconnected without affecting the connection status of other valves in the series.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold acts as an intermediary component between the fluid supply and individual valves. It provides a central connection point that allows valves to be attached and detached independently while maintaining fluid flow to other connected valves.
2Ease of operation
If traditional fluid fittings are used to connect valves in series, then the system can be assembled, but the connection process is complex and requires sequential assembly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple valve connections are merged into a single manifold structure. Instead of connecting valves sequentially in series, all valves connect to the manifold simultaneously, simplifying the assembly process into a single operation rather than multiple sequential steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold serves multiple functions: it distributes fluid to multiple valves, provides a common connection point for all valves, and enables independent removal of any single valve. This multi-functionality reduces the overall complexity of the connection system.
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
Facilitates quick and easy replacement of defective valves, reducing downtime and promoting modular connections, while ensuring secure series connections to prevent leaks.
Implementation Method 1
The common fluid can have a fluid pressure associated therewith when flowing through the manifold. The fluid pressure can be configured to generate a tension force for pushing two adjacent valves apart.
Implementation Method 2
The tension force can be of a sufficient magnitude to lock the valves into a series connection.
Implementation Method 3
The method of removing a valve from a series of valves comprises the step of stopping flow of the common fluid through the manifold, thereby releasing the tension force associated with the fluid pressure that pushes the first valve and the second valve apart.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid dispenser system is disclosed that can have a plurality of dispensers, each having a valve. Each valve can be connectable in series with another valve. The dispenser system can include a manifold permitting passage of a common fluid therethrough. Any of the valves connected to two adjacent valves can be removable without removing either of the valves to which it is connected. The common fluid can have a fluid pressure associated therewith. The fluid pressure can generate a tension force for pushing two adjacent valves apart and thereby lock the valves into a series connection. A method of removing a valve from a series of valves comprises stopping flow of the common fluid through the manifold, thereby releasing the tension force. The valve intended to be removed can be rotated, and thus removed with respect to the valve intended to be left in the series connection.