Fluid Control Valve Casing Layout for Port Access in Slim Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid control devices face challenges in securing sufficient installation space for communication ports and improving user operability due to dimensional restrictions, particularly when arranged closely together.
Innovation Solution
A sloping surface is formed on the top surface of the casing, allowing for increased installation area for communication ports and improved user access, while maintaining a slim design by providing communication ports on a flat surface and status lamps and switches on a sloping surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the device dimensions are reduced to make the device slimmer, then the device occupies less space and is easier to arrange in arrays, but the installation area on the top surface for communication ports becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sloping surface dimension on the top surface of the casing, transforming a traditionally two-dimensional flat surface into a three-dimensional surface with varying elevation. This dimensional change allows communication ports to be arranged on different levels (flat and sloping surfaces), effectively increasing the usable installation area without expanding the device's footprint dimensions.
2Ease of operation
If communication ports are provided on the top surface to improve user operability and viewability, then user accessibility is enhanced, but the device requires larger dimensions which conflicts with the requirement to be made slimmer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a sloping surface with specific directional orientation on the top surface of the casing. This localized geometric modification provides optimal viewing angles and accessibility for communication ports positioned on the sloping surface, while the rest of the device maintains its compact dimensions. The sloping surface is strategically positioned to enhance user interaction without requiring overall device enlargement.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid control device includes a body inside which is formed a flow path, a fluid control valve that is mounted on the body and controls a fluid flowing through the flow path, and a casing that is mounted on the body in such a way as to house the fluid control valve. A sloping surface that slopes towards the body is formed on a top surface of the casing, which is a surface facing towards an opposite side from the body.