Assembly for the cooling of objects

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cooling arrangements for cast parts require electrical energy, leading to complex installation measures and safety concerns in explosion-proof areas, as they rely on electromagnetically actuated valves and sensors.

Innovation Solution

A mechanical cooling system is developed, utilizing a heat exchanger with a mechanical temperature controller and float-operated valves to regulate liquid temperature and level without electrical power, ensuring the system operates independently of electrical energy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If electromagnetically actuated valves and sensors are used to control temperature and liquid level, then the cooling control precision is improved, but the installation complexity and safety requirements increase due to electrical wiring

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemperature and liquid level control precisionVSAvoidinstallation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces electromagnetic actuators with purely mechanical control systems. The temperature controller uses a bimetallic strip mechanism that responds to temperature changes and mechanically actuates the temperature control valve without electrical power. Similarly, the liquid level controller uses a float mechanism that mechanically opens or closes the liquid level control valve based on liquid level, eliminating the need for electrical wiring and sensors while maintaining functional control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If electrical components are installed in the cooling arrangement, then the control functionality is improved, but the suitability for explosion-proof areas deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol functionalityVSAvoidexplosion risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates all electrical components from the cooling arrangement by implementing purely mechanical control systems. The temperature controller employs a bimetallic strip that mechanically actuates the temperature control valve in response to temperature changes, while the liquid level controller uses a float mechanism to mechanically control the liquid level valve. This mechanical substitution removes ignition sources and electrical hazards, making the system suitable for explosion-proof areas while preserving essential control functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If electrical energy is supplied to the cooling system components, then the temperature and liquid level control is improved, but the installation effort and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol operationVSAvoidinstallation effort

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces electrical control systems with self-actuating mechanical systems. The temperature controller uses a bimetallic strip that automatically responds to temperature changes and mechanically actuates the temperature control valve without external power. The liquid level controller employs a float mechanism that automatically opens or closes the liquid level control valve based on liquid level. This eliminates the need for electrical wiring, power supplies, and complex electrical installations, significantly reducing installation effort and cost while maintaining operational effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical 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

This solution reduces installation complexity and allows safe operation in explosion-proof environments by eliminating the need for electrical cables, providing a self-sufficient cooling mechanism for cast parts.

Implementation Method 1

the means for cooling the liquid comprises a heat exchanger, in particular a heat exchanger plate, arranged in the liquid

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHeat exchange: Heat Exchanger

Implementation Method 2

a mechanical valve is arranged in the line which is connected via a connecting element to a float present in the liquid of the basin

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBuoyancy: Archimedes' Principle (Buoyancy)

Implementation Method 3

the sensor of the temperature controller is located in the liquid

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal expansion: Thermal Expansion

Data Source

PatentEP3034968B1Assembly for the cooling of objects

Publication Date: 2020.01.22 KUKA IND

Figure 1

AI summary

The invention relates to an arrangement (10) for cooling objects, comprising a basin (12) containing liquid (14) with inlet and outlet (29, 31), level sensor (17, 18), temperature sensor (20, 22) as well as first means for tempering the liquid and second means for feeding liquid into the basin. The arrangement (10) is operated without current.