Multi-Thread Manifold Segment for Flexible Angular Installation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing manifold segments and filling and venting devices for heating and cooling systems are inflexible, making it difficult to adapt to narrow spaces and are costly due to complex assembly requirements, and there is a risk of incorrect assembly. Additionally, adjustment devices can be accidentally modified, affecting system performance.

Innovation Solution

The manifold segment features a multi-thread design allowing connection in multiple angular orientations without additional parts or tools, and the filling and venting device uses identical valves for simplified assembly and placement at various locations, while the adjustment device restricts accidental rotation with a positioning member.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single-thread connection is used in the manifold segment, then the construction is simple, but the manifold cannot be adapted to different spatial configurations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to spaceVSAvoidconstruction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The thread means are designed with multiple threads (e.g., double thread, triple thread, or quadruple thread) that allow the manifold segment to be connected in multiple angular orientations (e.g., 0°, 120°, 240° for triple thread). This enables a single manifold segment design to serve multiple spatial configuration needs without requiring different connection types, thereby achieving adaptability while maintaining construction simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple additional parts or tools are used to achieve multiple connection positions, then the manifold can be adapted to different orientations, but the construction becomes complex and assembly becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnectability in multiple positionsVSAvoidassembly ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple connection functions are merged into a single integrated thread means structure. Instead of using separate connection components for different orientations, the patent integrates multiple threads directly into the fluid passage body, allowing all connection orientations to be achieved through a single assembly action without additional parts or tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If the manifold segment has fixed connection orientation, then the construction is simple, but it cannot be installed in narrow spaces requiring different orientations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidthread means complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The thread means are designed with multiple threads having different angular parameters (e.g., spaced at 120° or 240° intervals). By changing the angular parameter of the threads, the manifold segment can be installed in different orientations to accommodate narrow spaces and various installation scenarios while maintaining a relatively simple overall construction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP2075496B1Fluid manifold for a heating and/or cooling system
Publication Date: 2011.10.05 WAVIN BV
  • EP2075496B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2075496B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2075496B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a manifold segment for integration in a fluid manifold for a heating and/or cooling system, comprising a fluid tight body comprising a fluid passage for passing fluid in and/or out of the fluid tight body, wherein the fluid passage comprises thread means for in use connecting said fluid passage to the manifold, such that the manifold segment is positioned in a fixed position relative to said manifold, wherein the thread means comprise a multi thread by which the manifold segment is connectable in at least one further fixed position with a different angular orientation relative to the manifold, and also to a filling and venting device, an adjustment device, a fluid manifold and a heating and/or cooling system.