Modular Valve Control Station for Off-Site Refrigeration Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of fluid control systems for large-scale refrigeration systems is traditionally inefficient and results in inconsistent design and manufacturing, leading to increased costs and installation time.
Innovation Solution
A support structure for a valve module in refrigeration systems, comprising interconnected cross members and adjustable legs, allows for precise alignment and suspension of the valve module, with integrated lighting and condensate management, facilitating consistent fabrication and reduced on-site installation efforts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If valve modules are assembled on-site traditionally, then installation flexibility is maintained, but assembly efficiency is low and design consistency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The valve module is pre-assembled off-site with all components (valves, pipe assemblies, support structure, lighting, condensate pan) prepared and integrated before delivery to the installation location. This preliminary fabrication eliminates on-site assembly complexity while maintaining installation flexibility through the modular design that can be positioned and connected to existing pipe connections.
2Loss of time
If valve modules are pre-fabricated off-site, then installation time is reduced, but alignment precision with existing connections becomes critical
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure includes adjustable legs with feet that can be positioned and adjusted at the installation location. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the pre-fabricated valve module to be aligned precisely with existing pipe connections on-site, eliminating the need for extremely tight manufacturing tolerances while maintaining quick installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve module is designed as a segmented modular unit with the support structure, valve module, and pipe assemblies as distinct but integrated components. This segmentation allows the module to be fabricated separately with standard tolerances, then positioned and adjusted at the installation location to achieve precise alignment with existing connections.
3Stability of the object's composition
If fixed support structure is used, then structural stability is ensured, but adaptability to different installation surfaces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates adjustable legs that can be extended or retracted and positioned at different angles, allowing the rigid valve module to be adapted to various installation surfaces and heights. The adjustable legs provide the necessary flexibility while the main support structure maintains structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure with adjustable legs serves multiple functions: providing structural support, enabling adaptation to different surfaces, allowing height adjustment, and facilitating alignment with existing connections. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for different support structures for different installation scenarios.
4Adaptability or versatility
If integrated components are added to support structure, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is merged with the valve module, lighting, and condensate pan into a single integrated assembly. This combining of functions into one modular unit simplifies installation and maintenance while providing comprehensive functionality. The integrated design allows all components to be fabricated and tested together before delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure serves as a multi-functional platform that provides mechanical support, structural stability, and mounting for lighting and condensate management. This universal design consolidates multiple functions into a single structure rather than requiring separate components for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A support structure for a valve module of a refrigeration system includes a support structure that can be supported on the roof or floor of a building by adjustable legs, or can be suspended from the ceiling of a building. The support structure has cross members allowing the components of a valve module to be pre-assembled thereon and transported as a valve control station to an installation location. The pipes of the pre-assembled valve control station can be aligned with pipes laid out at the installation location, thereby allowing off-site fabrication of a valve control station for a refrigeration system.