Unit for distributing fluids
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid distribution units face challenges in quickly generating sanitary heated water without energy wastage and require precise pipe cutting for installation in small spaces.
Innovation Solution
A modular fluid distribution unit with a thermally insulating inner housing and a recirculation circuit that maintains effective heating while minimizing energy consumption, featuring a thermally insulating inner housing and a recirculation circuit to ensure immediate hot water delivery and flexible modular design for easy installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If hot water circulates continuously inside the unit, then hot water is delivered immediately, but energy is wasted considerably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-heating water in a storage tank before it is needed. The recirculation circuit periodically circulates hot water through the supply pipes to pre-heat them, so when hot water is demanded, it is already available immediately without continuous circulation. This resolves the contradiction by preparing the system in advance rather than maintaining continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through a recirculation circuit that operates intermittently rather than continuously. A recirculation pump periodically circulates hot water through the system to maintain temperature in the pipes and storage tank, then stops to conserve energy. This periodic operation ensures hot water availability while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous circulation.
2Volume of moving object
If the unit is installed in small spaces, then space is optimized, but pipe cutting precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the fluid distribution system into modular components: a main distribution unit, separate storage tanks, and interchangeable connection pieces. This modular design allows the unit to be installed in small spaces while using standardized connection interfaces that compensate for imprecise pipe cutting, eliminating the need for high-precision custom fitting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by incorporating adjustable connection mechanisms and flexible piping solutions that can accommodate variations in pipe dimensions. The modular design allows for adjustment of connection parameters to compensate for cutting errors, enabling installation in confined spaces without requiring precision cutting.
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 solution enables rapid generation of sanitary heated water with reduced energy consumption and allows for precise installation in small spaces without requiring precise pipe cutting, optimizing space and energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a second inflow segment (27) arranged to be connected, at its inlet, with a source of heated sanitary water under pressure... a thermally insulating inner housing
Implementation Method 2
a recirculation circuit (71) connected, at its inlet, to the second inflow segment (27) and hydraulically connected, at its outlet, to the pressurized heat carrier water source
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
Unit for distributing fluids (10, 10a, 10b), comprising a main housing (12) which encloses within itself a supply pipe (14) comprising an inflow segment (20) arranged to be connected, at its inlet, to a pressurized sanitary water source and a first distribution segment (22) intended to deliver cold sanitary water; a sanitary heated water supply pipe (11) comprising a second inflow segment (27) arranged to be connected, at its inlet, with a source of heated sanitary water under pressure and a second distribution segment (24) intended to deliver heated sanitary water; a heating circuit (16) comprising a delivery segment (28) arranged for being hydraulically connected, at its inlet, to a pressurized heat carrier fluid source, and a return segment (30) arranged for being hydraulically connected, at its outlet, to the heat carrier fluid source; an inner housing (26) made of thermally insulating material and enclosed within said main housing (12); said inner housing (26) enclosing within itself said sanitary heated water supply pipe (11) and said heating circuit (16), while leaving outside said first distribution segment (22) and at least the portion of said inflow segment (20) which is located upstream of said first distribution segment (22); said unit (10, 10a, 10b) further comprising a recirculation circuit (71) with a regulator valve (72) connected, at its inlet, to the second inflow segment (27) and hydraulically connected, at its outlet, to the pressurized heat carrier fluid source.