Modular Manifold Layout for Uniform Multi-Bead Fluid Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-bead applicators have non-customizable manifold systems, leading to complicated and tangled fluid line arrangements, and result in uneven fluid flow due to varying fluid line lengths.
Innovation Solution
A modular manifold unit with a body defining coincident inlet axes and coplanar, perpendicular outlet axes, allowing for customizable assembly of manifold systems with equidistant flow paths, reducing fluid line complexity and ensuring even fluid distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a non-customizable manifold system is used, then the structure is simple, but the fluid line arrangement becomes complicated and tangled
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold system is divided into multiple independent manifold units, each with standardized inlet and outlet apertures. This segmentation allows flexible assembly configurations where fluid lines can be routed more simply between modular units rather than through a single complex custom manifold structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Each manifold unit is designed with universal inlet and outlet aperture configurations that can be assembled in various arrangements. The standardized interface allows the same manifold unit to serve multiple positions and configurations, simplifying fluid line routing across different applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fluid lines are routed to accommodate all nozzles, then all nozzles can be supplied, but the fluid lines become significantly longer causing uneven flow
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the system into multiple manifold units with standardized interfaces, the patent enables flexible configurations where fluid lines can be kept shorter and more uniform in length. Each manifold unit can be positioned to optimize fluid line routing, reducing the overall line length compared to a single extended manifold system.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold units can be arranged in three-dimensional configurations, allowing fluid lines to route through multiple spatial dimensions rather than requiring long single-line extensions. This dimensional flexibility enables more compact and uniform fluid line lengths while accommodating various nozzle arrangements.
3Manufacturing precision
If a custom manifold system is designed for each application, then the fluid flow can be optimized, but the manufacturing and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold units are designed with universal standardized inlet and outlet apertures that can be assembled in various configurations for different applications. This standardization allows the same basic manifold unit design to be used across multiple applications, simplifying manufacturing while still enabling flow optimization through configuration rather than custom design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into standardized modular units that can be assembled through simple coupling mechanisms. This segmentation allows for easy manufacturing of individual standardized units and straightforward assembly by connecting units together, avoiding the complexity of custom-manufacturing entire manifold systems for each application.
Data Source
AI summary
A manifold unit includes a body that defines a first inlet aperture having a first inlet axis; a second inlet aperture having a second inlet axis substantially coincident with the first inlet axis; a first outlet aperture having a first outlet axis substantially perpendicular to the first and second inlet axes; and a second outlet aperture having a second outlet axis substantially perpendicular to the first and second inlet axes. The second outlet axis is substantially coplanar with the first outlet axis.