Modular Heated Fluid Hose Assembly for Extendable Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Internally heated fluid delivery hoses are not easily interconnectable, leading to limitations in length extension and repair, and require complex return wire configurations that are prone to failure and difficult to maintain, especially under high pressures and in plural component systems.
Innovation Solution
A modular fluid delivery hose system that is both hydraulically and electrically interconnectable, featuring an internally heated module with a single or multiple heating elements, allowing for series connection of hose modules and separation of electrical components from the fluid conduit to prevent damage and facilitate repair.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If fluid delivery hoses are used to transport fluids at elevated temperatures, then the fluid can be delivered at higher temperatures, but the hose material degrades and fails at temperatures above its service limit
Solution Approach 1:
The hose is divided into distinct functional layers: an inner tube for fluid containment, an external heating element for temperature maintenance, and an insulation layer for thermal protection. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally, with the heating element and insulation protecting the inner tube from thermal degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
An insulation layer is introduced as an intermediary between the heating element and the environment, and between the heating element and the inner tube. This intermediary maintains thermal energy while protecting the temperature-sensitive hose material from direct exposure to extreme temperatures.
2Loss of energy
If heated fluid is delivered through insulated hoses, then heat loss is reduced, but the hose becomes heavier and less flexible
Solution Approach 1:
The insulation is implemented as a flexible foam layer that can be extruded directly onto the hose, providing thermal insulation while maintaining flexibility and minimizing weight. This approach avoids rigid insulation materials that would increase weight and reduce flexibility.
3Loss of energy
If heated fluid is delivered through insulated hoses, then thermal energy is retained, but the hose complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element and insulation are integrated into a single assembly that can be applied to the inner tube in one operation. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall hose construction while maintaining effective thermal retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The external layer serves multiple functions: it provides thermal insulation to retain heat, protects the inner tube from external damage, and can incorporate the heating element for active temperature maintenance. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
4Device complexity
If conventional hoses are used without internal heating, then the hose structure remains simple, but fluid delivery is interrupted when fluid temperature drops below freezing
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is activated before fluid delivery begins or when temperature drop is anticipated, preventing the fluid from freezing in the first place. This preliminary heating action ensures continuous fluid delivery without interruption from freezing conditions.
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
Enables flexible extension of fluid delivery systems to longer lengths without the need for new hoses and simplifies maintenance by allowing individual module replacement and reducing the risk of electrical component failure, while maintaining efficient thermal control under high pressures.
Implementation Method 1
an external heating element positioned adjacent to the tube and configured to heat the fluid within the tube
Implementation Method 2
an insulation layer surrounding the heating element and configured to reduce heat transfer from the heating element to an environment external to the hose
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular fluid delivery assembly 200 is provided. The modular fluid delivery assembly 200 comprises a fluid conduit 250. The modular fluid delivery assembly 200 also comprises an electrical heating element 252 disposed within the fluid conduit 254. The electrical heating element 252 is configured to provide a heat source within the fluid conduit 254. The modular fluid delivery assembly 200 also comprises a connection assembly 400, located proximate an end of the modular fluid delivery assembly 200, coupled to the heating element 252 and the fluid conduit 254. The connection assembly 400 is configured to provide a hydraulic coupling to the fluid conduit 254, and to provide an electronic coupling to the electrical heating element 252.