Dual functional temperature control system applicator system

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing temperature control systems for hose assemblies are ineffective in precisely controlling temperature-dependent characteristics of materials, such as viscosity, and are often overly complex or expensive, particularly in configurations that require upward or downward temperature adjustments, especially in deadhead application scenarios.

Innovation Solution

A dual temperature control system featuring a thermoelectric temperature regulator, a manifold device with serpentine channels for temperature control and process fluid, and sensors to monitor and adjust the temperature of the material at the applicator nozzle, using a recirculating temperature control fluid to maintain precise temperature control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional temperature control systems are used for hose assemblies, then basic temperature regulation is provided, but precise control of temperature-dependent characteristics such as viscosity is ineffective

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature control precisionVSAvoidmaterial flow control reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The temperature control system is segmented into multiple independent heating zones along the hose assembly, each with its own heater and temperature sensor. This allows different sections of the hose to be controlled at different temperatures, enabling precise control of material viscosity at the dispensing point while maintaining proper flow characteristics in the supply lines.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Temperature sensors are positioned at critical locations including the dispensing tip, and the system uses feedback control to continuously monitor and adjust heating power. This ensures that the material temperature at the point of application is precisely maintained, directly controlling viscosity and flow characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If conventional temperature control systems are used, then basic functionality is achieved, but the systems are unduly complicated and unduly expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature control effectivenessVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple heating elements and temperature control functions are merged into an integrated hose assembly design. The heaters are embedded within the hose structure itself, and the control system consolidates temperature monitoring and regulation into a unified controller that manages all zones simultaneously, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The temperature control system is designed to be universally applicable to various material types and hose configurations. The modular heater and sensor design allows the same basic system architecture to be used across different applications, reducing development costs and simplifying maintenance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If conventional temperature control systems are used, then basic temperature regulation is provided, but upward and downward adjustment of material temperature is not permitted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature adjustment flexibilityVSAvoidmaterial dispensing reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The temperature control system is designed as a dynamic, bidirectional adjustment system where heating power can be varied continuously to achieve both temperature increases and decreases. The system can respond to changing material properties or environmental conditions by adjusting heating levels in real-time, maintaining reliable dispensing across varying operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 provides precise temperature control for materials dispensed through the applicator nozzle, enabling effective flow and adhesion management, and can be integrated with robotic or non-robotic systems, including deadhead configurations, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing complexity and cost.

Implementation Method 1

at least one thermal adjustment device is in thermal contact with the manifold device and includes at least one thermoelectric temperature regulator such as at least one peltier circuit device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPeltier effect: Peltier Effect

Implementation Method 2

at least one serpentine temperature control fluid channel defined therein. The serpentine temperature control fluid channel being in fluid communicates with the temperature control fluid conduit and is configured to convey the liquid temperature control fluid

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectConvection: Convection

Implementation Method 3

at least one thermal adjustment device is in thermal contact with the manifold device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS9733654B2Dual functional temperature control system applicator system
Publication Date: 2017.08.15 CLINE WILLIAM A
  • US9733654B2 patent drawing
  • US9733654B2 patent drawing
  • US9733654B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A temperature control system for dispensing a fluid material from an applicator nozzle at a controlled temperature that includes at least one temperature control fluid conduit at least one fluid material supply conduit and at least one manifold device. The manifold device is in thermal communication with the temperature control fluid conduit and the fluid conduit and may also be in thermal communication with the fluid material supply conduit. At least one thermal adjustment device is in thermal contact with the manifold device. The thermal adjustment device includes at least one thermoelectric device such as at least one peltier circuit. The temperature control system also includes at least one sensor positioned proximate to the applicator nozzle that produces at least one signal actionable on the Peltier circuit device.