P-Trap Drain Apparatus with Integrated Biocide Delivery and Pressurized Clearing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
P-trap drain systems in air conditioning units face blockages due to the growth of contaminants like algae, fungus, and bacteria, leading to overflow and potential damage, with existing methods like chlorine tablets being laborious to implement and flushing mechanisms difficult to attach safely.
Innovation Solution
A drainpipe apparatus with an additive delivery mechanism that introduces biocides without accessing the pan interior, combined with a clearing mechanism for safely and effectively clearing blockages, utilizing a float switch to manage liquid levels and valves to control fluid flow, and a pressurized fluid system for clearing clogs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If chlorine tablets are placed in the pan to prevent slime growth, then slime accumulation is reduced, but accessing the pan interior becomes laborious and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The additive delivery mechanism is pre-installed in the drainpipe, allowing biocides to be automatically delivered to the pan without requiring later manual intervention. The system performs the protective action in advance through automated delivery rather than requiring periodic manual tablet placement
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the flowing condensed water itself to transport the biocide from the delivery mechanism to the pan, eliminating the need for external human intervention. The fluid flow serves dual purposes: both condensation drainage and biocide delivery
2Ease of operation
If flushing mechanisms are attached to the drainpipe to clear blockages, then drain clearing capability is improved, but safe fixed attachment becomes difficult and insulation shortcomings cause condensation issues
Solution Approach 1:
The flushing mechanism is integrated into the existing drainpipe structure rather than being attached as a separate external component. This merging eliminates the attachment problems and insulation issues by making the flushing system an inherent part of the drainpipe assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The drainpipe system serves multiple functions: it drains condensed water, delivers biocides to prevent slime, and provides flushing capability to clear blockages. By combining these functions into a single integrated system, the patent eliminates the need for separate attachment mechanisms
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
Prevents blockages by continuously exposing the drain system to biocides and safely clears clogs using a pressurized fluid, reducing labor and risk while maintaining system functionality.
Implementation Method 1
introduction of a flushing medium, such as a liquid or a gas, at a pressure and/or flow rate designed to dislodge the slime and clear the p-trap
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a float switch to manage liquid levels
Implementation Method 3
introduces biocides without accessing the pan interior
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of an apparatus for draining liquid generally include a liquid inlet, a p-trap, an additive reservoir, a fluid outlet, a float switch, a valve, and a fitting, wherein the liquid inlet allows for introduction of liquid, the p-trap allows for maintenance of a liquid level whereby contact is provided between the liquid and an additive contained in the additive reservoir, the fluid outlet is configured to maintain the liquid level above an additive reservoir bottom interior surface, the float switch provides indication of high liquid level, the valve allows for blockage of fluid flow between the p-trap and the liquid inlet, and the fitting allows for introduction of high-pressure fluid into the apparatus. Embodiments of a method for clearing a liquid draining apparatus generally include ceasing flow of liquid there into, operating a valve to substantially prevent reverse flow of liquid therefrom, and providing high-pressure fluid into the apparatus.