Modular Lubrication Manifold With Periodic Ejector Dosing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lubricating systems lack flexibility and precision in distributing lubricant to multiple components, often resulting in inefficient lubrication and increased complexity in managing airflow and fluid flow rates.
Innovation Solution
A modular lubricating system comprising a manifold with removable attachments, an ejector for periodic lubricant discharge, and a locking mechanism, along with air and fluid control valves, and an electronic controller for synchronized operation, enabling flexible configuration and precise lubricant distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional lubricating system uses fixed manifolds and continuous flow, then lubricant distribution is maintained, but system flexibility and precision in controlling lubricant flow to multiple components deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold is divided into multiple modular sections that can be independently configured and assembled. Each manifold section can be selectively attached or detached to create customized lubrication pathways, allowing the system to adapt to different component configurations without requiring complete system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from fixed, static manifolds to dynamic, reconfigurable manifolds with movable sections. The manifolds can be adjusted and repositioned during operation to change lubricant distribution patterns, providing flexibility while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized connection interfaces
2Measurement precision
If a traditional lubricating system uses continuous flow, then lubricant supply is maintained, but precision in controlling lubricant discharge intervals deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ejector mechanism converts continuous lubricant flow into periodic, controlled discharge cycles. The ejector accumulates lubricant and releases it at precise intervals through controlled expansion events, enabling accurate timing and dosing of lubricant application while maintaining continuous supply from the manifold
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pneumatic pressure control through the ejector mechanism to precisely regulate lubricant discharge. Compressed air or gas pressure is used to control the timing and force of lubricant ejection, providing accurate control over discharge intervals and amounts while maintaining high lubrication efficiency
3Device complexity
If a lubricating system manages airflow and fluid flow separately, then flow control is maintained, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold design integrates air flow and lubricant flow management into a single unified structure. Both pneumatic and hydraulic passages are incorporated within the same manifold body, allowing simultaneous control of both fluid types through a single reconfigurable component rather than requiring separate control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both an air distribution system and a lubricant distribution system. The same manifold structure handles both pneumatic pressure regulation and lubricant flow routing, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining ease of operation through standardized multi-functional components
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
The system allows for efficient and controlled lubricant distribution to multiple components, reducing complexity and improving operational efficiency by enabling customizable flow rates and periodic dispensing.
Implementation Method 1
The ejector is configured to receive pressurized air and to discharge the lubricant periodically, or at preset intervals
Implementation Method 2
an air valve for controlling a flow of pressurized air into the air inlet port of the manifold
Data Source
AI summary
A lubricating system that includes a manifold with one or more manifold ports that permit a flow of lubricant through the manifold. The manifold is configured for removable attachment to another manifold such that any number of manifold can be joined together. An ejector is removably attached to the manifold. The ejector has one or more projections configured for insertion into each of the one or more manifold ports in the manifold, such that the ejector is configured to receive the flow of lubricant from the manifold, via the one or more projections, and to discharge lubricant periodically, or at preset intervals, from one or more outlet ports of the ejector. A locking key is disposed between the manifold and ejector. The locking key is configured such that movement of the locking key attaches or detaches the ejector from the manifold.