Component-Based Utility Supply with Integrated Lighting and Seamless Surfaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wall-mounted systems for delivering fluid and power to hospital rooms and laboratory facilities are labor-intensive to install, prone to dust and debris accumulation, and lack integrated lighting, with complex plumbing connections that are difficult to clean and sanitize.
Innovation Solution
A component-based utility supply apparatus featuring a mounting bracket, utility distribution unit, and equipment management rail with integrated lighting, using O-ring flanged fittings that eliminate the need for brazing and allow for customizable configurations, including fluid, power, and equipment management, with continuous contoured surfaces for easy cleaning and sanitation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If brazed pipe fittings are used to connect fluid conduits in prior art systems, then fluid connections are achieved, but installation becomes labor intensive and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the thermal brazing process with a mechanical compression fitting system. The compression fitting uses a ferrule that is compressed by a tightening mechanism to create a secure seal, eliminating the need for heat, flames, and skilled brazing labor while maintaining connection reliability and significantly reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable compression fittings that are pre-assembled and designed for quick installation without requiring complex tools or skilled labor. These fittings are intended for single-use installation scenarios where speed and ease of installation are prioritized over long-term reusability, reducing both labor costs and installation complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If brazed pipe fittings and multiple joints are used in prior art systems, then fluid distribution is achieved, but exposed joints and gaps promote dust and debris collection, making cleaning and sanitization difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fluid conduit connections into a continuous, seamless surface by using compression fittings that eliminate gaps and joints. The fittings are designed to create a flush, continuous exterior that does not trap dust or debris, allowing the entire surface to be easily cleaned and sanitized while maintaining fluid distribution functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs uniform coloring and surface treatment of the compression fittings to match the surrounding conduit surface, creating a visually continuous appearance that hides the presence of joints. This aesthetic integration reduces the visual impact of necessary connections while the actual design of the fittings eliminates physical gaps where debris could accumulate.
3Adaptability or versatility
If component-based modular systems are used, then system configuration flexibility is improved, but installation complexity increases due to multiple exposed joints and gaps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the utility supply system into modular components that can be independently configured and assembled. Each module uses standardized compression fittings that simplify connections between segments, allowing flexible system configuration while reducing installation complexity through consistent, tool-friendly connection methods that eliminate the need for complex brazing procedures at each joint.
4Adaptability or versatility
If prior art systems are designed with multiple functional components, then utility delivery capability is improved, but integrated lighting and seamless surfaces are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into the compression fitting design, combining fluid sealing, structural support, and aesthetic surface continuity into a single component. The fitting also provides mounting surfaces for integrated lighting elements, creating a multi-functional assembly that simplifies the overall system while maintaining ease of cleaning and sanitization through its seamless exterior.
Data Source
AI summary
A component-based utility supply apparatus includes a wall mounting bracket, a utility distribution unit mounted to the wall mounting bracket and an equipment management rail. The wall mounting bracket includes a longitudinally extending wall mounting flange and at least one longitudinally extending supporting flange. The utility distribution unit can comprise a fluid (gas) manifold, or a power distribution assembly, or both the gas manifold and the power distribution assembly may be coupled together with the wall mounting bracket and equipment rail to provide a combined power and gas utility configuration. The utility supply apparatus further comprises integrated lighting devices and light transmissive lens panel for supplying light along at least a portion of the utility supply apparatus.