Modular Valve Connector Design for Compact Vehicle Coolant Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of vehicle heating and cooling system valves in compact spaces, such as small vehicles, is challenging due to limited space and the need for various valve sizes and shapes, leading to difficulties in mounting and connecting tubes without over- or under-tightening, which can result in errors or damage.
Innovation Solution
A modular valve system with a compact body and inset ports, featuring modular connectors that facilitate multiple configurations, allowing for easy installation in limited spaces and providing a fluid-tight seal, with optional pre-attachment to tubes or hoses for efficient connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional valves with fixed ports and rigid mounting frames are used, then the valve can provide stable fluid control, but the installation becomes increasingly difficult in compressed vehicle spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system is divided into modular components: the valve body with integrated ports and the mounting frame are separate, allowing independent optimization. The mounting frame can be adapted to different space configurations while the valve body remains standardized.
Solution Approach 2:
The ports are merged directly into the valve body housing, eliminating the need for separate port attachments. The mounting frame is integrated with the valve assembly, providing both structural support and mounting functionality in a unified structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valve sizes and shapes are maintained in inventory to accommodate different environments, then various connection sizes and spaces can be accommodated, but the inventory complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single standardized valve body design with integrated ports can serve multiple vehicle environments and space configurations. The universal design achieves adaptability through the flexible mounting frame and connector variations rather than requiring different valve bodies.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of changing the fundamental valve body design for different applications, the system varies mounting parameters, connector types, and frame configurations to adapt to different vehicle spaces and connection requirements.
3Reliability
If tube connections are made rigid and fixed during installation, then the connection can withstand system pressure, but the risk of over- or under-tightening increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates flexible elements such as bellows or expandable sections in the tube connectors, allowing the rigid connection to accommodate installation tolerances and pressure variations without requiring precise tightness control.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible intermediary section is introduced between the rigid valve port and the tube connection, serving as a buffer that compensates for installation variations and eliminates the need for precise tightening while maintaining system pressure integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular valve system having fixed valve ports with frame openings on the exterior of each port. Corresponding connectors or plugs are designed to fit within the valve ports and be locked in place by a clip passing through the framed openings and around the connector or plug. The internal valve component may be electrically or mechanically controlled. The modular valve system may be connected to a vehicle coolant system to control fluid flow to a heat exchanger or bypassing the heat exchanger.