Modular Utility Connection System for Flexible Factory Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Factory layouts often require reconfiguration due to product changes or efficiency needs, which involves costly and time-consuming utility re-routing, generating waste and affecting rapid response to changes.
Innovation Solution
A modular utility connection system with linkable housings that route utilities internally, providing access points and allowing connection to preexisting sources, enabling flexible reconfiguration without relocating hard-mounted utilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If utilities are hard-mounted to fixed locations, then utility supply is stable and reliable, but factory layout reconfiguration becomes costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The utility connection system is divided into modular components: utility sources, distribution units, and connection points that can be independently relocated. This segmentation allows utilities to be reconfigured by moving individual modules rather than re-routing entire utility lines, enabling rapid layout changes without extensive remodeling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate utility distribution units that act as mediators between fixed utility sources and movable workstations. These intermediate units can be easily relocated and reconnected, serving as flexible intermediaries that decouple the fixed infrastructure from the movable equipment, thus enabling rapid reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If utilities are hard-mounted to fixed locations, then utility infrastructure is stable, but remodeling costs increase when reconfiguration is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The utility system is segmented into standardized modular units with uniform connection interfaces. This standardization allows modules to be reused across different locations and configurations, reducing material waste and remodeling costs when reconfiguring layouts.
Solution Approach 2:
The utility connection system transitions from static hard-mounted connections to dynamic, movable modules that can be easily repositioned. This dynamic approach allows the utility infrastructure to adapt to changing layout requirements without requiring expensive permanent modifications.
3Productivity
If utilities are directly connected to workstations, then access is direct, but reconfiguration generates scrap and waste materials
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments utility connections into reusable modular units rather than permanent fixed installations. When reconfiguring, these modules can be recovered and reused in new locations, minimizing scrap and waste material generation while maintaining rapid response capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular utility system enables easy recovery and reuse of utility modules during reconfiguration. Instead of discarding old connections, the standardized modules can be detached, transported, and reinstalled in new locations, eliminating waste while enabling quick adaptation to changing requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for a modular utility connection system according to various aspects of the present invention include one or more utilities routed within a housing. The housing connects each of the routed utilities to a suitable preexisting source. The housing may also be linkably connected to one or more additional housings such that only a single housing need be connected to the preexisting source. The housing also comprises access points to each of the utilities allowing a user access to the utility via the housing rather than connecting directly to the source.