Multi-Manifold Flow Control for Precise Fluid Turnover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid distribution systems face challenges in precisely controlling flowrates and efficiently managing fluid turnover due to limitations in valve actuators, complex control systems, and inefficiencies in responding to changing operational conditions, leading to suboptimal power consumption, chemical usage, and temperature management.
Innovation Solution
A manifold-based control system that includes a processor to determine target flow conditions and operate valves and supply devices to achieve precise flowrate settings and adjust fluid turnover based on real-time usage, optimizing operations and reducing inefficiencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves and supply devices are used to convey and direct flow from multiple fluid handling devices, then flow control capability is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fluid handling devices into a single integrated manifold assembly where multiple inlets and outlets are consolidated into one unified structure. This merging approach maintains the flow control capability of multiple devices while reducing overall system complexity and space requirements by eliminating the need for separate valves and supply devices for each device.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a distribution hub for multiple fluid handling devices, provides flow control through integrated valves, and enables selective activation of individual devices. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain high adaptability while reducing the total number of components needed.
2Ease of manufacture
If each fluid handling device requires its own valve with predefined flowrate settings, then flow distribution is simplified, but manufacturing precision and operational flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamically adjustable flow control within the manifold assembly, allowing flowrate settings to be changed in real-time based on operational needs. This dynamic adjustment capability replaces static predefined settings, enabling the system to adapt to varying flow requirements while maintaining ease of operation through integrated controls.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex multi-component control systems are used to manage multiple valves and supply devices, then flow distribution control is improved, but system reliability and responsiveness to changing conditions deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions of multiple valves and supply devices into a single integrated control system within the manifold assembly. This consolidation improves reliability by reducing the number of independent components that could fail and enhances responsiveness by enabling centralized real-time adjustments to changing operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor flow conditions in real-time and automatically adjust valve positions and supply device operations. This feedback loop ensures the system maintains optimal performance and responds quickly to changing conditions without requiring complex multi-component control schemes.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for controlling operations of a fluid distribution may include a first manifold receiving a next mode of operation for the fluid distribution system. The first manifold may calculate first and second flow requirements for the first and second manifolds that may respectively include a first and second total flowrates from the first and second manifolds. The first manifold may determine required operation states for valves of the first manifold and the second manifold for the next mode based on the first and second flow requirements. The first manifold may be controllably operated to cause the second manifold and a supply device of the fluid distribution system to operate in the required operation states and provide first and second flow requirements. The first manifold may direct the second manifold to independently balance individual outlet flowrates of the second manifold while continuing to provide the second flow requirements.