One-Piece Plumbing Manifold for Hot-Cold Thermal Separation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plumbing systems require separate distribution devices for hot and cold fluids, which can be complex and inefficient, especially when integrating both types in a single installation.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece distribution device with a hot side and a cold side, separated by a wall section, allowing for simultaneous distribution of hot and cold fluids, optionally with thermal insulation and mounting means, and connected via clamping rings made of cross-linked polyolefin with memory properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate distribution devices are used for hot and cold fluids, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system complexity increases and installation becomes less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate hot and cold distribution devices into a single integrated distribution device. The device includes a hot fluid distribution section with hot outlets and a cold fluid distribution section with cold outlets, both within one unified structure. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed in the plumbing system while maintaining the ability to distribute both hot and cold fluids independently to multiple locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution device is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - distributing both hot and cold fluids through a single device. The universal design allows one distribution device to replace what would traditionally require two separate devices, thereby reducing system complexity while preserving full distribution capability for both fluid types.
2Loss of energy
If hot and cold fluid lines are distributed separately, then thermal insulation is improved, but the installation process becomes more time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating hot and cold distribution functions into a single device with a unified structure, the patent reduces installation time and labor requirements. The combined design allows installers to mount one device rather than coordinating installation of multiple separate devices, while the internal structure maintains proper thermal insulation between hot and cold sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution device incorporates thermal insulation specifically where needed - between the hot fluid distribution section and the cold fluid distribution section. This localized insulation approach maintains thermal efficiency without requiring insulation throughout the entire device, balancing energy conservation with installation efficiency.
3Ease of manufacture
If a one-piece structure is used for the distribution device, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but adaptability to different configuration requirements may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a one-piece integrated distribution device that combines hot and cold distribution sections into a single manufactured component. This unified structure simplifies manufacturing processes and installation procedures while incorporating multiple outlets and distribution pathways that provide configuration flexibility for different plumbing layouts.
Solution Approach 2:
Within the one-piece structure, the distribution device is segmented into distinct functional sections - hot fluid distribution areas and cold fluid distribution areas - with separate outlet configurations. This internal segmentation allows the single device to accommodate various configuration requirements while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through integrated production.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates efficient and integrated distribution of hot and cold fluids in plumbing systems, enhancing installation simplicity and thermal insulation, while ensuring secure connections.
Implementation Method 1
the wall section comprises a thermal insulating layer
Implementation Method 2
the fluid lines and the clamping rings are made of cross-linked polyolefin having memory properties, wherein each fluid line has been connected to one outlet by reversibly expanding co-jointly the fluid line end and the clamping ring and firmly and sealingly shrunk to the outlet by back shrinkage
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A distribution device (1) for plumbing, comprising a hot side (10) and a cold side (20), wherein the hot side comprises - a hot inlet (11) for receiving hot fluid inside the distribution device, and - at least one hot outlet (12a, 12b,...) arranged to be connected to hot fluid lines for distributing hot fluid to different locations, and the cold side comprises - a cold inlet (21) for receiving cold fluid inside the distribution device, and - at least one cold outlet (22a, 22b,...) arranged to be connected to cold fluid lines for distributing cold fluid to different locations, wherein the distribution device has a one-piece structure.