Upright Control Board Layout in Flow Ratio Control Assemblies
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flow rate measurement systems with multiple mass flow controllers and a control device arranged above the casing are bulky and limited by installation space, making it difficult to integrate a control board within the casing.
Innovation Solution
The control board is positioned upright with respect to the upper surfaces of the flow path blocks, allowing easy arrangement without interference with fluid control valves or sensors, and utilizing surplus space above sensors to reduce height dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the control device is arranged above the casing of the plurality of mass flow controllers, then the control device can be easily installed, but the entire system becomes bulky and installation space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is integrated into the casing that accommodates the mass flow controllers, merging two previously separate components into one unified structure. This eliminates the need for separate mounting space above the casing while maintaining installation simplicity, thereby reducing overall system volume without compromising ease of installation.
2Volume of stationary object
If the plurality of mass flow controllers and control device are housed in one casing, then the system size is reduced, but it becomes difficult to arrange the control board inside the casing
Solution Approach 1:
The control board is arranged vertically along the arrangement direction of the mass flow controllers, utilizing the longitudinal space within the casing rather than attempting to fit it horizontally among the controllers. This dimensional reorientation allows the control board to be accommodated within the existing casing volume without increasing complexity of arrangement.
3Volume of stationary object
If the control board is arranged above the fluid sensors, then the surplus space is effectively utilized and device size is reduced, but the control board may interfere with fluid control valves
Solution Approach 1:
The control board is positioned in the specific local region above the fluid sensors where surplus space exists, while maintaining sufficient clearance from the fluid control valves. This localized placement optimizes space utilization without creating interference, as the control board's position is precisely tailored to fit the available space geometry without impeding valve movement or operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a structure in which a control board is easily arranged in a flow rate ratio control device, and includes a plurality of fluid control devices 2 in each of which a fluid sensor 22 and a fluid control valve 23 are provided on a flow path block 21, and a control board 4 that controls the plurality of fluid control devices 2. The control board 4 stands upright with respect to upper surfaces of the flow path blocks 21 along an arrangement direction of the plurality of fluid control devices 2.