Removable Manifold Assembly for Fast Trailer Module Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Trailer/dolly vehicle downtime is caused by failures in the system module and manifold system, which are difficult to access and replace, leading to operational inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for additional vehicles or rentals during servicing.
Innovation Solution
A manifold system that is easily removable and replaceable, with a design allowing it to be slid into a slot and secured using fasteners, featuring internal passageways to minimize fittings and connections, and a boot for protection against contamination, made from materials like plastic, steel, or aluminum, enabling quick replacement and reduced assembly time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the manifold system is integrated into the trailer/dolly vehicle system, then the system provides complete functionality, but the entire vehicle becomes inoperable when the manifold system fails
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold system is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently removed from the trailer/dolly vehicle. This segmentation allows the manifold system to be replaced without making the entire vehicle inoperable, as the failed component can be quickly swapped out while minimizing impact on the rest of the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold system is extracted as a distinct removable module with standardized mounting interfaces. This extraction enables the manifold system to be taken out and replaced independently when failures occur, preventing the need to keep the entire vehicle down for repairs.
2Loss of time
If the manifold system is made removable and replaceable, then vehicle downtime is reduced, but the complexity of the mounting and removal system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses universal, standardized interfaces and fastening mechanisms that can accommodate the manifold system in various positions and configurations. This universality simplifies the removal and replacement process, reducing downtime without requiring overly complex custom-designed mounting solutions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the manifold system uses multiple fittings and connections for plumbing, then it can be adapted to various configurations, but the number of leakage points increases and assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold system integrates multiple plumbing functions and connections into a single unified component. By combining multiple fittings and connections into one integrated manifold body, the design reduces the total number of separate leakage points while maintaining the ability to adapt to various plumbing configurations through the manifold's integrated port arrangements.
4Device complexity
If the manifold system is difficult to access and fix, then the system structure remains compact, but the ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold system is segmented as a separate removable module, making it easily accessible for repair or replacement. This segmentation allows technicians to quickly access the manifold system without disassembling the entire vehicle, improving ease of repair while maintaining a compact overall system structure through modular design.
Data Source
AI summary
A manifold system with a manifold body having a length greater than a width and a height of the manifold body, a top surface with a first groove extending along a length of the manifold body, a bottom surface with a second groove extending along a length of the manifold body, at least one mounting hole extending through one of a first side surface or a second side surface of the manifold body and through one of the first groove or the second groove, a plurality of connection fittings including at least one connection fitting on each of the first and second side surfaces of the manifold body, at least one internal passage way within the manifold body fluidly connecting at least two of the plurality of connection fittings, and at least one fastening element removably engaged within the at least one mounting hole.