Portable Valve Assembly for Continuous Machine Fluid Service
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for performing fluid maintenance functions, such as evacuation and refill processes, in large machinery are inefficient due to inconveniently located fluid discharge ports, leading to prolonged downtime and increased economic costs, with a need for improved sequencing and data collection methods to optimize maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a portable fluid transfer conduit with a flexible tubing and flow control means, including a pump and valve system, that allows for efficient fluid evacuation and refill operations, with data collection and analysis to optimize maintenance schedules and reduce downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple evacuations and refills of fluid receptacles are performed during maintenance, then complete fluid replacement is achieved, but the process becomes time consuming and downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a continuous fluid transfer system where the pump maintains uninterrupted flow from the fluid receptacle through the filter to the storage container. This continuous action eliminates the need for multiple stop-start evacuation cycles, achieving complete fluid replacement in a single continuous operation and significantly reducing maintenance downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a portable pump system as an intermediary device between the fluid receptacle and storage container. This intermediary pump enables efficient, continuous fluid transfer that eliminates the need for manual pouring or multiple evacuation attempts, thereby reducing maintenance time while ensuring complete fluid replacement.
2Productivity
If data collection systems are implemented during fluid operations, then maintenance scheduling can be optimized, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates data collection capabilities into the existing portable pump system, allowing the same device to perform both fluid transfer and maintenance data recording. This multi-functionality approach optimizes maintenance scheduling through data collection without requiring separate complex data systems, thereby improving productivity while minimizing additional system complexity.
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
The system enables efficient fluid management, reducing downtime and economic costs by facilitating convenient fluid transfer and data-driven maintenance scheduling, thereby extending the life of machinery components.
Implementation Method 1
a pump means connected to the valve system and configured to transfer fluid from the fluid receptacle through the filter and through the discharge conduit
Implementation Method 2
utilize gravity flow
Data Source
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AI summary
Various embodiments of valve assemblies are provided for use in connection with the fluid systems of machines such as engine-powered machines. The valve assemblies may be used for performing fluid refill operations, fluid evacuation operations, fluid purge operations, and other types of fluid operations in connection with machine maintenance.