RV Holding Tank Drain Clearing Assembly Using Compressed Air
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waste tank drain clearing devices for recreational vehicles are ineffective in efficiently removing blockages from holding tank drains, leading to reduced flow and clogging issues.
Innovation Solution
A tube-based system with mating members for connecting to the holding tank and drainage conduit, featuring an air inlet for injecting compressed air to dislodge blockages, allowing for increased flow through the drain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional drain clearing devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the effectiveness in removing blockages is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple functional segments: a tube for fluid communication, a closure member for sealing, an air inlet for compressed air injection, and mating members for connection. Each segment performs a specific function, collectively achieving effective blockage removal while maintaining reasonable structural organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes pneumatic pressure by injecting compressed air through the air inlet into the tube, which transmits the pressure to dislodge blockages in the holding tank drain. This pneumatic mechanism significantly enhances blockage removal effectiveness compared to traditional mechanical tools.
2Productivity
If compressed air is injected to remove blockages, then flow through the drain is increased, but there is risk of fluid backflow or tank damage
Solution Approach 1:
The closure member is positioned and sealed before compressed air injection begins, preparing the system to contain and direct the air pressure solely toward the blockage. This preliminary sealing action prevents harmful fluid backflow and directs energy effectively, protecting the tank from damage while maximizing drain flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows controlled injection of compressed air with the closure member regulating the pressure release. The system provides feedback control by allowing the operator to monitor and adjust the air injection process, ensuring blockage removal while preventing excessive pressure that could cause tank damage or fluid backflow.
3Reliability
If a tube system with mating members is used, then connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mating members are designed with universal connection capabilities, allowing the tube to be reliably connected to both the holding tank drain and the drainage conduit using standardized interfaces. This multi-functional connection design achieves high connection reliability while minimizing the number of unique components required.
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
Effectively clears blockages in recreational vehicle holding tank drains by using compressed air to enhance flow, ensuring efficient emptying of waste fluids without damaging the tank or causing fluid backflow.
Implementation Method 1
Air is injected into the tube through the air inlet such that the air removes material in the holding tank drain to increase flow from the holding tank through the holding tank drain
Data Source
AI summary
A recreational vehicle holding tank drain clearing assembly includes a tube having a first end, a second end and a perimeter wall. A first mating member is attached to the first and engages a first connecting member of a holding tank drain. A second mating member is attached to the second end and engages a drainage conduit. A cap is removably coupled to the second end of the tube. An air inlet is mounted on the cap and is fluidly coupled to the tube. A closure is mounted on the tube and is positioned in a first position preventing fluid movement through the tube or in a second position allowing fluid movement through the tube. Air is injected into the tube through the air inlet such that the air removes material trapped in the holding tank drain to increase flow from the holding tank through the holding tank drain.