Universal Cryogenic Gas Manifold with Interchangeable Headers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior art cryogenic gas manifolds are typically location and utilization specific, costly, and not adaptable for reuse in other systems, often requiring dedicated support structures that serve no active function and are discarded upon system dismantling.
Innovation Solution
A universal cryogenic gas manifold design featuring interchangeable tubular headers with threaded connections, allowing for easy assembly, disassembly, and modification, where the stand itself serves as an active conduit for gas distribution, accommodating various valves, regulators, and sensors, and can be used across different cryogenic gas systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a manifold is constructed with dedicated support structures and custom-configured components for a specific location and application, then it provides stable support and optimized performance for that specific use, but it becomes costly, non-adaptable for reuse, and requires discarding the entire structure upon system dismantling
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed with universal mounting brackets that can attach to different tank sizes and configurations. The manifold body itself serves dual purposes: as the main gas distribution component and as the structural support framework. This eliminates the need for dedicated passive support stands while enabling the same manifold to be reused across different cryogenic gas systems with varying requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the previously separate functions of the manifold body and the support structure into a single integrated assembly. The manifold housing incorporates mounting points and structural elements that provide both gas distribution and mechanical support, eliminating redundant components and enabling the entire assembly to be dismantled, transported, and reinstalled in different locations or systems.
2Productivity
If a manifold is constructed with custom-configured pipes and components for a specific application, then it provides optimized gas distribution for that application, but it becomes costly and impossible to reuse for other purposes
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold is designed as a modular assembly of standardized components including interchangeable tubular headers, bayonet-style connectors, and modular valve assemblies. This segmentation allows the manifold to be configured for different applications by simply rearranging or replacing modules rather than custom-building entire systems, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining optimized performance for each specific use.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold accommodates different gas distribution requirements by changing configurable parameters such as the number and position of outlet ports, valve types, and regulator configurations. These parameter changes are achieved through modular component selection rather than custom fabrication, allowing the same basic manifold structure to be adapted to various applications at low cost.
3Strength
If a manifold uses traditional sweat-fit and threaded pipe connections, then it provides secure permanent connections, but it becomes difficult to disassemble, transport, and modify
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from static permanent welds and threads to dynamic bayonet-style connectors that can be quickly inserted and locked into place. These connectors provide secure mechanical and gas-tight connections through bayonet engagement and sealing elements, yet can be rapidly disconnected and reconnected without special tools, enabling easy assembly, disassembly, and modification of the manifold configuration.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If a manifold is designed as a fixed permanent installation, then it provides stable long-term operation, but it becomes impossible to modify or adapt when system requirements change
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold incorporates modular components with quick-connect interfaces that allow the system to transition from a fixed permanent installation to a flexible reconfigurable system. The tubular headers with bayonet connectors enable components to be easily added, removed, or repositioned, allowing the manifold to adapt to changing system requirements while maintaining stable operation during each configured state.
Data Source
AI summary
A cryogenic gas manifold for use in a cryogenic gas system includes first and second interchangeable tubular headers. Each of the tubular headers has a nipple for receiving cryogenic gas from a source or for providing such cryogenic gas to a user. Each of the tubular headers has opposed branch nipples for threadedly receiving devices that interconnect at least certain of the branch nipples of the pair of tubular headers. This interconnection is by threaded engagement of at least certain devices such as regulators, valves, gauges, sensors, bypass valves, low-temperature shutoff valves, and the like. The interconnection of these various devices with the pair of headers establishes a structural integrity for the manifold. Feet may be clamped to the bottom of each of the headers to allow the manifold to be freestanding. The threaded engagement of all of the various elements makes the manifold cost-effective.