Modular Aquarium Metering Unit With Self-Connecting Pumps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current metering units for aquariums are inflexible, requiring users to pre-determine the number of pumps and lack modular connectivity, limiting their ability to adapt to different configurations and increasing the complexity of connecting multiple units.
Innovation Solution
A modular metering unit design featuring a containment box with interchangeable dosimetric pumps and electric motors, allowing connection of multiple units without wires through identical connection elements and electrical contacts, enabling easy expansion and versatile substance delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If metering units are designed with fixed number of pumps, then device structure is simplified, but adaptability and versatility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The metering unit is divided into independent modular components: containment boxes, dosimetric pumps, electric motors, and connection elements. Each module can be independently configured and connected to form different system configurations, allowing adaptability without increasing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection elements and electrical contacts are designed with universal interfaces that allow any containment box to connect to any other containment box in various configurations. This universal interface design enables the same modular components to serve multiple functions and configurations.
2Ease of operation
If multiple metering units are connected using wired or master/slave systems, then connectivity is achieved, but device complexity and ease of operation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connection element and electrical contact system are merged into a single integrated component. When two containment boxes are connected mechanically, their electrical contacts automatically engage simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate wiring operations and simplifying the connection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is designed to automatically establish both mechanical and electrical connections without external intervention. The units self-configure when brought together, with electrical contacts automatically aligning and connecting through the mechanical interface, reducing operational complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dosimetric pumps are fixed in position, then manufacturing and assembly are simplified, but adaptability to different configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The dosimetric pump support is designed with rotatable capability, allowing the pump head to be positioned at different angles and orientations. This dynamic positioning capability enables the same pump component to adapt to various configuration requirements while maintaining standardized manufacturing and assembly procedures.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A metering unit for the controlled supply of a substance inside an aquarium tank comprises a containment box and a dosimetric pump which is actuated by an electric motor, both being associated with the containment box. The containment box has at least a first connection element and at least a second connection element which is suitable for being connected to a corresponding first connection element of an additional similar metering unit.