Sensor cap for charge port
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing configuration of charge ports and sensor ports in refrigeration systems occupies a large amount of packaging space due to the need for two separate coupling structures, which complicates the manufacturing process and increases the risk of fluid leakage.
Innovation Solution
A sensor cap is integrated into the charge port structure, combining the functions of both into a single mechanism. This sensor cap includes a stem with a valve assembly and a body with a flow path and sensor chamber, allowing for fluid communication and sensing of properties within the refrigeration system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate coupling structures (charge port and sensor port) are used, then the refrigeration system can perform charging and sensing functions, but the packaging space is increased and device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the charge port and sensor port into a single integrated coupling structure. The charge port assembly includes both a charging valve and a sensor valve housed within the same port body, allowing refrigerant charging and property sensing to occur through a single coupling interface rather than requiring separate charge port and sensor port installations along the fluid line
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated charge port assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides refrigerant charging capability through the charging valve, enables property sensing through the sensor valve and attached sensor device, and maintains system sealing through integrated sealing mechanisms. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated charge ports and sensor ports
2Adaptability or versatility
If two separate coupling structures (charge port and sensor port) are used, then the refrigeration system can perform charging and sensing functions, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the charging valve and sensor valve into a single charge port assembly that can be manufactured as one unit or pre-assembled module. This reduces the number of separate components that need to be installed and sealed along the fluid line, simplifying the manufacturing and assembly process compared to providing separate charge port and sensor port installations
3Adaptability or versatility
If two separate coupling structures (charge port and sensor port) are used, then the refrigeration system can perform charging and sensing functions, but the risk of fluid leakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple valve assemblies into a single integrated charge port structure with unified sealing mechanisms. By providing one integrated coupling point rather than multiple separate ports, the system reduces the number of potential leakage points and simplifies the sealing requirements, thereby improving reliability and reducing fluid leakage risk
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 integration of the sensor cap into the charge port reduces packaging space, simplifies the manufacturing process, and minimizes the risk of fluid leakage, while maintaining the ability to monitor and measure the properties of the refrigerant.
Implementation Method 1
A surface of the body is configured to engage a valve body of the valve assembly during axial insertion of a first portion of the body into the opening of the stem to cause the valve body to disengage from a valve seat of the valve assembly
Implementation Method 2
The sensing device disposed in the sensor chamber is fluidly coupled to the flow space by way of the flow path when the valve assembly is adjusted to the open position thereof, thereby allowing the sensing device to sense a property of a fluid originating from the flow space
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor cap configured for removable coupling to a charge port includes a body having a flow path including a sensor chamber formed therein. A surface of the body is configured to engage a valve body of a valve assembly disposed within an opening of the charge port during axial insertion of a first portion of the body into the opening to cause the valve body to disengage from a valve seat of the valve assembly and adjust the valve assembly from a closed position to an open position providing fluid communication between a flow space disposed axially beyond the valve assembly and the flow path of the body. A sensing device disposed in the sensor chamber is fluidly coupled to the flow space by way of the flow path when the valve assembly is adjusted to the open position thereof.