One-Piece Manifold Distributor for Multi-Cavity Heating Installations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern heating installations for buildings are complex, requiring numerous hydraulic connections and control technology integrations, leading to increased space requirements, high costs, and a higher risk of errors due to the complexity of traditional installation methods.
Innovation Solution
A distributor device with a manifold that simplifies connections by providing multiple collector cavities and connection points, along with integrated valves and adjustable channels, allowing for easy installation and reduced complexity, and can be made from materials like plastic or metal using 3D printing or machining techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional installation methods with multiple pipes and valves are used, then the heating installation can be customized to specific requirements, but the device complexity and installation space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate pipes and valves into a single integrated manifold structure. The manifold combines multiple connection points, collector cavities, and flow distribution channels into one unified component, eliminating the need for numerous separate pipes and coupling pieces while maintaining the ability to customize heating installations for different requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold is designed as a universal component that can accommodate various heating installation configurations. It provides multiple connection points and collector cavities that can be adapted to different sub-installations (combustion boilers, heat pumps, solar collectors, buffer tanks, etc.) without requiring custom-built solutions for each scenario
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional installation methods with numerous coupling pieces are used, then connections can be made between sub-installations, but the manufacturing cost and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces multiple separate coupling pieces with a single integrated manifold body that contains all necessary connection channels and cavities. This consolidation eliminates the need to purchase and install numerous separate coupling components, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and simplifying the overall system
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold is designed with distinct segmented sections including multiple connection points, collector cavities, and flow channels. This segmentation allows for modular assembly and easy installation while maintaining a compact single-piece structure, reducing both component costs and installation complexity
3Ease of operation
If traditional installation methods are used, then pipes can be connected on-site, but the installation error risk increases due to complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold is pre-fabricated with all internal channels, cavities, and connection points precisely formed during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that the complex internal geometry is accurately created in the factory setting, eliminating the high error risk associated with attempting to create such complex structures during on-site installation
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold provides clearly defined separate connection points and collector cavities that are easily identifiable and accessible. This segmentation allows installers to connect pipes to specific predetermined locations without needing to understand complex internal routing, maintaining on-site connection flexibility while reducing error risk through intuitive design
4Reliability
If a single-piece manifold is used, then the risk of leakages is reduced, but the manufacturing complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs advanced manufacturing parameters and processes such as 3D printing (additive manufacturing) or precision injection molding to produce the single-piece manifold. These manufacturing parameter changes enable the creation of complex internal geometries in a single piece without requiring traditional multi-part assembly methods, thus maintaining reliability while managing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold can be manufactured from composite materials or specialized polymers that allow for complex internal structures to be formed as a single piece. These materials provide the necessary structural integrity and flow characteristics while enabling advanced manufacturing techniques that reduce production complexity compared to traditional metal fabrication and assembly methods
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Distributor device (1) for water, which comprises a manifold (2), whereby the manifold (2) comprises a first collector cavity (4), a second collector cavity (5) and a third collector cavity (6), whereby the manifold (2) comprises connection points (7,8,9) for connecting a pipe or a pump to an aforementioned collector cavity (4,5,6), whereby the connection points (7,8,9) comprise first connection points (7) and second connection points (8) and third connection points (9) for connecting a pipe or a pump to the collector cavity (4,5,6) concerned, whereby the manifold (2) comprises two or more first connection points (7), whereby the manifold (2) comprises three or more second connection points (8), whereby the manifold (2) comprises three or more third connection points (9), whereby the manifold (2) is made in one piece.