Modular Vacuum Pumping Layout With Standardized Top Connections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Vacuum pumping and abatement systems require bespoke designs for different processes, leading to prolonged design, manufacturing, and installation times due to the need for specific equipment and configurations for varying gas pressures and substances, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A modular vacuum pumping and abatement system with standardized modules and connection points, where each module's dimensions and connection points are multiples of a fixed system value (e.g., 44mm), allowing for flexible configuration and pre-manufactured connection lines to simplify assembly and reduce installation time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If bespoke vacuum pumping and abatement systems are designed for different processes, then the systems can meet specific process requirements for different gases and pressures, but the design, manufacturing, and installation time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into standardized modular units with uniform dimensions (multiples of a fixed system value) and standardized connection points. Each module can be independently configured for specific processes while maintaining a common interface standard, allowing rapid assembly without custom design for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a universal module design where a single standardized platform can serve multiple vacuum pumping and abatement applications. The fixed system value-based dimensions and standardized connection points enable the same module type to be adapted for different gases, pressures, and processes through configuration rather than custom design.
2Productivity
If standardized modules with fixed system values are used, then assembly time and installation complexity are reduced, but flexibility to accommodate different process requirements may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
While the module dimensions are fixed, the system allows dynamic configuration of modules to meet varying process requirements. The standardized interfaces enable flexible arrangement and reconfiguration of modules based on specific vacuum and abatement needs, maintaining adaptability through modular composition rather than custom module design.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The one or more connection points are located at the top side. The module has a maximum size in a first system dimension that is equal to a first integer multiple of a fixed system value, the first system dimension being a dimension between the lateral sides. For each connection point, a distance between that connection point and each lateral side in the first system dimension is a respective second integer multiple of the fixed system value.