Self-flushing flow restrictor for fluid dispensing system

By designing a rotatable fluid flow limiter, the problem of easy clogging of traditional flow limiters is solved, and an automatic cleaning function without disassembly and cleaning is achieved, which improves the reliability and production efficiency of the system.

CN115551646BActive Publication Date: 2026-01-13NORDSON CORP
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202180031716.6
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2020-03-30
Filing Date
2021-03-23
Publication Date
2026-01-13
Estimated Expiration
2041-03-23

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional fluid flow limiters are prone to clogging, requiring frequent disassembly and cleaning, which can lead to production delays and affect system performance.

Method used

A rotatable fluid flow limiter was designed that can switch between a first orientation and a second orientation without disassembly. The first orientation limits the flow, while the second orientation performs cleaning to prevent clogging.

Benefits of technology

This technology enables automatic cleaning of the flow limiter without affecting normal system operation, thus avoiding production delays and improving system reliability and efficiency.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

In one example, a fluid flow restrictor has a housing outlet offset from a housing inlet along a fluid flow direction so as to define a passage therebetween. A rotatable body disposed in the passage defines a bore extending entirely therethrough such that the bore defines a bore inlet and a bore outlet. The flow restrictor has an inner surface disposed in the bore that defines a bore orifice having a cross-sectional dimension that is smaller than a cross-sectional dimension of the passage such that the bore orifice can restrict a flow of fluid when the fluid flows between the housing inlet and outlet. The rotatable body is rotatable between 1) a first orientation in which the bore outlet is offset from the bore inlet along the fluid flow direction and 2) a second orientation in which the bore inlet is offset from the bore outlet along the fluid flow direction.
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Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 001,826, filed March 30, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein for any and all purposes and for all purposes. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to fluid material dispensing systems, and more particularly, to flow restrictors of fluid dispensing systems and methods of use thereof. BACKGROUND

[0004] In some fluid dispensing systems, a flow restrictor is used to reduce the pressure of fluid from one portion of the system to another portion of the system. For example, in a spray system that sprays a coating onto a product, a pump can supply fluid to a spray gun at a first pressure, and a spray pressure control manifold having a flow restrictor can reduce the pressure of any unused fluid that is not sprayed by the spray gun to a second pressure that is lower than the first pressure before the fluid is returned to the pump. To reduce the pressure, the flow restrictor can employ an orifice in the flow path that has a smaller size than other passages in the flow path. The smaller orifice can restrict the flow of fluid that is returned to the pump. SUMMARY

[0005] In one example, a fluid flow restrictor of a spray pressure control system includes a housing including a housing inlet, a housing outlet offset from the housing inlet in a fluid flow direction, and a channel extending between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. The fluid flow restrictor includes a rotatable body disposed in the channel between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. The rotatable body has an outer surface that is curved about an axis of rotation. The rotatable body defines a bore that extends completely through the rotatable body such that the bore defines a bore inlet at the outer surface and a bore outlet at the outer surface that is offset from the bore inlet. The fluid flow restrictor includes an inner surface disposed in the bore. The rotatable body is rotatable between 1) a first orientation in which the bore outlet is offset from the bore inlet in the fluid flow direction, and 2) a second orientation in which the bore inlet is offset from the bore outlet in the fluid flow direction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0006] The following description of illustrative examples can be better understood with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the potential examples of the disclosed systems and methods are not limited to the systems and methods described.

[0007] Figure 1 A perspective view of a spray pressure control manifold is shown in accordance with one example;

[0008] Figure 2 A perspective view of a spray pressure control manifold is shown in accordance with one example;Figure 1 partial exploded perspective view of a spray pressure control manifold of the

[0009] Figure 3 illustrates Figure 1 cross-sectional view of a spray pressure control manifold of the

[0010] Figure 4 illustrates a flow restrictor of a spray pressure control manifold according to one example Figure 1 perspective view of a flow restrictor of a spray pressure control manifold of the

[0011] Figure 5 illustrates Figure 4 perspective view of a flow restrictor of the

[0012] Figure 6 illustrates a plan view of a flow restrictor of the Figure 4

[0013] illustrates a side plan view of a flow restrictor of the Figure 7 Figure 4 illustrates a plan view of a flow restrictor of the

[0014] Figure 8 Figure 4 illustrates a plan view of a flow restrictor of the

[0015] Figure 9 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a flow restrictor of the Figure 4

[0016] illustrates a cross-sectional view of an orifice support of a flow restrictor of the Figure 10 Figure 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fluid flow restrictor of the in a rotating body in a first orientation in which an outlet of the rotating body is downstream from an inlet of the rotating body

[0017] Figure 11 Figure 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fluid flow restrictor of the in a rotating body in a second orientation in which an inlet of the rotating body is downstream from an outlet of the rotating body

[0018] Figure 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fluid flow restrictor of the in a rotating body in a third orientation in which an orifice of the fluid flow restrictor is bypassed Figure 4

[0019] Figure 13 Figure 4

[0020] ​​​​​​​Figure 14 A perspective view of a spray pressure control manifold according to another example is shown;

[0021] Figure 15 It shows Figure 14 A partially exploded perspective view of the spray pressure control manifold.

[0022] Figure 16 It shows Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the spraying pressure control manifold;

[0023] Figure 17 It shows Figure 14 Another cross-sectional view of the spraying pressure control manifold;

[0024] Figure 18 A simplified schematic diagram of a spraying system according to an example is shown, which includes a spraying pressure control manifold;

[0025] Figure 19 A perspective view of a spray pressure control manifold according to yet another example is shown;

[0026] Figure 20 It shows Figure 19 A partially exploded perspective view of the spray pressure control manifold.

[0027] Figure 21 It shows Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the spraying pressure control manifold;

[0028] Figure 22 An example is shown. Figure 19 A perspective view of the flow limiter component of the spray pressure control manifold, with the flow limiter housing removed; and

[0029] Figure 23 An example is shown. Figure 19 An exploded perspective view of the flow limiter component of the spray pressure control manifold, with the flow limiter housing removed. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Conventional fluid flow limiters (such as those described in the background section) can become clogged over time, adversely affecting the performance of fluid distribution systems. Therefore, conventional fluid flow limiters may require periodic cleaning to remove clogs. However, cleaning conventional fluid flow limiters typically requires disassembling the flow limiter to access the limiting orifice and flushing the line to remove the clog. Such cleaning operations can be time-consuming and require the fluid distribution system to be offline, potentially causing production delays. Therefore, there is a need for fluid flow limiters that can be cleaned without disassembly and without incurring time-consuming production delays.

[0031] Referring to Figures 1 to 3 , a spray pressure control manifold 100 is shown in accordance with one example. The spray pressure control manifold 100 includes a flow restrictor 102 that reduces pressure fluctuations in a fluid system. As will be described in further detail below, the flow restrictor 102 can be selectively operated in a first orientation in which a restriction orifice (e.g., 130 in Figure 10 ) of the flow restrictor 102 is oriented to restrict the flow of fluid through the pressure control manifold 100, and a second orientation in which the restriction orifice is oriented to be flushed to remove a blockage that occurs when the flow restrictor 102 is in the first orientation. The flow restrictor 102 can transition between the first and second orientations without disassembly of the manifold 100.

[0032] The spray pressure control manifold 100 can have a manifold inlet 104 and a manifold outlet 106 that is downstream of the manifold inlet 104 with respect to a fluid flow path, which can also be referred to as a fluid flow direction or downstream direction of fluid through the manifold 100. The flow path or flow direction is indicated by the arrow in Figure 3 . The manifold inlet 104 can be defined by a conduit, such as a pipe, a pipe fitting, a pipe fitting, or any other suitable conduit for an inlet. Similarly, the manifold outlet 106 can be defined by a conduit, such as a pipe, a pipe fitting, a pipe fitting, or any other suitable conduit for an outlet.

[0033] Manifold 100 can have a manifold housing 108 configured to support at least a portion of flow restrictor 102 therein. In the present example, fluid flow restrictor 102 can be considered a cartridge configured to be received in manifold housing 108. Housing 108 can be disposed along a flow path between manifold inlet 104 and manifold outlet 106. Housing 108 can define a passageway 110 therethrough that defines at least a portion of the flow path of manifold 100. Thus, passageway 110 can be in fluid communication with manifold inlet 104 and manifold outlet 106. Housing 108 can support flow restrictor 102 such that a restriction orifice of flow restrictor 102 is disposed within the flow path. For example, housing 108 can define a recess 112 therein configured to receive at least a portion of flow restrictor 102. Recess 112 can be open to and in fluid communication with passageway 110 of housing 108. Recess 112 can be configured to receive flow restrictor 102 so as to place the restriction orifice of flow restrictor 102 in series with passageway 110. Manifold 100 is configured such that flow restrictor 102 receives a flow of fluid at a first pressure from housing 108 along the fluid flow path and discharges a flow of fluid at a second pressure to housing 108 along the fluid flow path, the second pressure being lower than the first pressure. Thus, flow restrictor 102 is configured to reduce the pressure of the fluid as it flows through flow restrictor along the fluid flow path. The first pressure can be referred to as a higher pressure and the second pressure can be referred to as a lower pressure.

[0034] Manifold 100 can include a filter 114 disposed along the flow path. Filter 114 can be disposed between manifold inlet 104 and flow restrictor 102. Thus, flow restrictor 102 can be downstream of filter 114. Filter 114 can be configured to filter fluid before it travels along the flow path to flow restrictor 102. Filter 114 can filter fluid so as to prevent debris from clogging the restriction orifice of flow restrictor 102. In one example, housing 108 can be configured to support filter 114. For example, housing 108 can define a recess 116 therein configured to receive at least a portion of filter 114. Housing 108 can support filter 114 such that a filter element of filter 114 is disposed within the flow path. For example, housing 108 can define a recess 116 therein configured to receive at least a portion of filter 114. Recess 116 can be open to and in fluid communication with passageway 110 of housing 108. Recess 116 can be configured to receive filter 114 such that the filter element of filter 114 is in series with passageway 110. In alternative examples, a filter can be supported upstream of housing 108.

[0035] Manifold 100 can include a three-way ball valve 118 disposed along the fluid flow path. Three-way ball valve 118 can be disposed along the flow path between housing 108 and manifold outlet 106. Thus, three-way ball valve 118 can be downstream of housing 108 and / or flow restrictor 102. Three-way ball valve 118 can be selectively operated in a first configuration (as shown) in which three-way ball valve 118 conveys fluid along the fluid flow path toward manifold outlet 106, and a second orientation (not shown) in which three-way ball valve 118 diverts fluid flow from the fluid flow path to a second manifold outlet 120. In one example, second manifold outlet 120 can lead to a drain line and can be used when flushing manifold 100. Figure 3

[0036] Turning now to Figures 4 to 13 , and with particular reference to Figures 9 to 11 , a fluid flow restrictor 102 is shown according to one example. Generally, flow restrictor 102 includes a housing 122. Housing 122 has a housing inlet 122a, a housing outlet 122b offset from housing inlet 122a along a fluid flow direction (as indicated by the arrow in Figures 11 to 13 ), and a housing passage 122c extending between housing inlet 122a and housing outlet 122b. In one example, housing inlet 122a and housing outlet 122b can be offset from one another along a central axis A C . Central axis A C may be angularly offset from a rotational axis A R . For example, central axis A C may be substantially perpendicular to rotational axis A R .

[0037] Flow restrictor 102 includes a rotatable body 124 disposed in housing passage 122c between housing inlet 122a and housing outlet 122b. Rotatable body 124 has an outer surface 124a curved about a rotational axis A R . Rotatable body 124 defines a bore 126 extending completely through rotatable body 124 such that bore 126 defines a bore inlet 126a at outer surface 124a and a bore outlet 126b at outer surface 124a offset from bore inlet 126a. In one example, bore inlet 126a and bore outlet 126b can be offset from one another along a central bore axis A B such that the bore inlet and bore outlet are aligned with one another. In such an example, central bore axis A B may be substantially parallel to central axis A C of housing 122 when rotatable body is in each of the first orientation and the second orientation.In other examples (not shown), the inlet 126a and outlet 126b may be angularly offset from each other. For example, the inlet 126a and outlet 126b may be offset from each other by 90 degrees. The rotatable body 124 is in a first orientation (e.g., Figure 11 (as shown) and the second orientation (as shown) Figure 12 The orifice outlet 126b is rotatable between the orifice outlet 126a and the orifice inlet 126a in the first orientation, and in the second orientation, the orifice inlet 126a is offset from the orifice outlet 126b in the fluid flow direction.

[0038] Flow limiter 102 defines a limiting orifice 130 within orifice 126. The cross-sectional dimension of orifice 130 may be smaller than the cross-sectional dimension of housing passage 122c, such that orifice 130 is configured to limit the flow rate of fluid when fluid flows between housing inlet 122a and housing outlet 122b. In some examples, flow limiter 102 may include an inner surface 128 (e.g., ...) arranged within orifice 126 defining limiting orifice 130. Figure 10 (As shown). In such an example, the cross-sectional dimension of the limiting orifice 130 can be smaller than that of the orifice 126, such that the orifice 130 is configured to limit the flow rate of the fluid when it flows between the orifice inlet 126a and the orifice outlet 126b. In an alternative example, the orifice 126 itself can define the limiting orifice 130.

[0039] For more specific reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The housing 122 of the flow limiter 102 may have a housing body 122d. The housing body 122d may have a shape along the rotation axis A. R The extended cylindrical shape is shown in the figure. Therefore, the shell body 122d can have a shape about the rotation axis A. R The curved outer surface 122e, and along the axis of rotation A R The first end 122f and the second end 122g are offset from each other. The outer surface 122e can be shaped to conform to... Figures 1 to 3 The inner surface of the housing 108 is defined by the recess 112. In other examples, the housing 122 and / or the housing body 122d may have any other suitable shape. In yet another example, the housing 122 may be made of... Figures 1 to 3 The housing 108 is implemented such that the housing 122 and the housing 108 are integrated together.

[0040] The outer surface 122e may define at least one recess 122j, 122k (e.g. Figure 9 (As marked), at least one recess 122j, 122k is configured to receive a seal 132, 134 therein. Each seal 132, 134 is configured in the housing 122 and defining the recess 112. Figures 1 to 3A seal is formed between the inner surfaces of the housing 108. Each seal 132, 134 may be an O-ring, a gasket, or any other suitable seal. Each recess 122j, 122k may extend around the outer surface 122e of the housing body 122d. The at least one recess may include an angled recess 122j located relative to the axis of rotation A. R In a non-right-angled plane, the angled recess 122j can be positioned relative to the central axis A of the housing channel 122c. C An angle is formed such that a portion of the recess 122j is positioned between the housing inlet 122a and the second end 122g of the housing body 122d (e.g. Figure 4 (As can be seen), and a portion of the recess 122j is positioned between the housing outlet 122b and the first end 122f of the housing body 122d (as shown). Figure 5 (As can be seen). Therefore, when arranged in the recess 122j, the seal 134 can be configured to separate the higher-pressure fluid flow at the housing inlet 122a from the lower-pressure fluid flow at the housing outlet 122b. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one recess may include a recess 122k located relative to the axis of rotation A. R In a plane forming a right angle. A recess 122k can be arranged between the housing channel 122c and the first end 122f of the housing body 122d. For example, a recess 122k can be arranged between a recess 122j and the first end 122f of the housing body 122d. When arranged in the recess 122k, the seal 132 can be configured to seal the first end 122f of the housing body 122d to prevent fluid leakage through the first end 122f in a direction extending from the second end 122g toward the first end 122f.

[0041] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 11 The housing 122 can define an intersecting channel 122m along the rotation axis A. R Extending into housing 122. Cross passage 122m may open to housing passage 122c. Flow limiter 102 may include handle 142, which is configured to allow rotatable body 124 to be in a first orientation (e.g., Figure 11 (as shown) and the second orientation (as shown) Figure 12 The orientation changes between the orifice outlet 126b and the orifice inlet 126a in the fluid flow direction, respectively, in the first orientation where the orifice outlet 126b is offset from the orifice inlet 126a in the fluid flow direction, and in the second orientation where the orifice inlet 126a is offset from the orifice outlet 126b in the fluid flow direction. The cross channel 122m can be configured to receive at least a portion of the handle 142 such that the handle 142 is coupled to the rotatable body 124 when the rotatable body 124 is received in the housing channel 122c.

[0042] The housing passage 122c can include an upstream portion, a downstream portion, and an intermediate portion between the upstream portion and the downstream portion. The upstream portion can extend from the housing inlet 122a toward the intermediate portion. The downstream portion can extend from the housing outlet 122b toward the intermediate portion. The intermediate portion can be sized to receive the rotatable body 124 therein. At least one of the upstream portion and the downstream portion of the housing passage 122c can have a cross-sectional dimension that is smaller than a cross-sectional dimension of the rotatable body 124. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the upstream portion and the downstream portion of the housing passage 122c can have a cross-sectional dimension that is larger than a cross-sectional dimension of the rotatable body 124 such that the rotatable body 124 can be received in the intermediate portion of the housing passage 122c through at least one of the upstream portion and the downstream portion. Figure 11 An example is shown in which the downstream portion has a larger cross-sectional dimension; however, it should be understood that the upstream portion can additionally or alternatively have a larger cross-sectional dimension.

[0043] At least one of the upstream portion and the downstream portion can be configured to receive a plug 140 that is configured to retain the rotatable body 124 in the housing passage 122c. In one example, the plug 140 can define external threads that are configured to engage internal threads of the housing passage 122c. In other examples, other suitable fasteners other than threads can be used to secure the plug 140 to the housing body 122. The plug 140 can define a plug passage 140a therethrough that has a cross-sectional dimension that is smaller than a cross-sectional dimension of the rotatable body 124. Optionally, at least a portion of the plug passage 140a can be defined by a drive surface that is configured to be engaged by a drive implement, such as a screwdriver, to rotate the plug 140 to engage or disengage the plug 140 from the housing body 122. The drive surface can have a non-circular cross-sectional shape, such as, but not limited to, a hexagonal shape, a star shape, a cross shape, or other suitable shape.

[0044] The flow limiter 102 may include at least one seat 136, 138 configured to receive a portion of a rotatable body 124, such that the rotatable body 124 rotates within the seat 136, 138. Each seat may have an annular shape. Each seat 136, 138 may have an inner engagement surface configured to engage the rotatable body 124. The inner engagement surface may conform to the outer surface 124a of the rotatable body 124 to form a seal with the rotatable body 124. In one example, as shown, the inner engagement surface may have a partially spherical shape. In another example, the inner engagement surface may have a partially cylindrical shape. The at least one seat may include a seat 136 adjacent to an upstream portion of the housing channel 122c. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one seat may include a seat 138 adjacent to a downstream portion of the housing channel 122c.

[0045] The housing 122 may include a flange 122h, which is attached to a first end 122f of the housing body 122d. The flange 122h can be positioned perpendicular to the axis of rotation A. R The radial direction extends outward from the housing body 122d. Therefore, the cross-sectional dimension of the flange 122h in the radial direction can be larger than the cross-sectional dimension of the housing body 122 in the radial direction. Similarly, the cross-sectional dimension of the flange 122h can be larger than... Figures 1 to 3 The recess 112 of the housing 108 has a radial cross-sectional dimension. Thus, the flange 122h can define a stop that limits the insertion depth of the housing 122 into the recess 112. The flange 122h can define one or more fasteners 131 configured to support the connection between the flange 122h and the housing 108. For example, the one or more fasteners 131 can define an opening configured to receive a screw or bolt through it to connect the flange 122h (and thus the housing 122) to the housing 108. In other examples, each fastener 131 can be a fastener other than an opening, such as (but not limited to) a protrusion received in the recess of the housing 108.

[0046] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The rotatable body 124 has an outer surface 124a, which may have a generally spherical shape as shown in the figure or may have another suitable shape, such as having a shape along the rotation axis A. Rcylindrical shape of the extended central axis. As discussed above, the rotatable body 124 defines a bore 126 that extends completely through the rotatable body 124 such that the bore 126 defines a bore inlet 126a at the outer surface 124a and a bore outlet 126b at the outer surface 124a that is offset from the bore inlet 126a. The flow restrictor 102 includes an inner surface 128 (shown in Figure 10 FIG. 1) arranged in the bore 126. The inner surface 128 defines an orifice 130 having a cross-sectional dimension that is smaller than a cross-sectional dimension of the housing passage 122c such that the orifice 130 is configured to restrict a flow of fluid when the fluid flows between the housing inlet 122a and the housing outlet 122b. In one example, the orifice 130 can have a cross-sectional dimension that is smaller than a cross-sectional dimension of the bore 126, as shown, such that the orifice 130 is configured to restrict a flow of fluid when the fluid flows between the bore inlet 126a and the bore outlet 126b. In another example, the orifice 130 can have a cross-sectional dimension that is equal to a cross-sectional dimension of the bore 126. In one example, the orifice 130 can have a cross-sectional dimension of between about 0.005 inches and 0.05 inches, including increments of 0.001 therebetween.

[0047] In one example, as shown in Figure 9 and Figure 10 the flow restrictor 102 can include a bracket 144 that includes the inner surface 128 that defines the orifice 130. The bracket 144 can have a tubular shape or other suitable shape. The bracket 144 can be configured to be supported in the bore 126 of the rotatable body 124. The bracket 144 can be configured to be removably coupled to the rotatable body 124. For example, the bracket 144 can have a fastener 144a configured to fasten the bracket 144 to the rotatable body 124. In one example, the fastener 144a can include a thread configured to engage a thread of the rotatable body 124. The thread can be an external thread configured to engage an internal thread defined in the bore 126 of the rotatable body. In other examples, the fastener 144a can be another suitable fastener other than a thread. Further, in other examples, the flow restrictor 102 can be without the removable bracket 144 and the inner surface 128 can be fixedly attached within the bore 126 of the rotatable body 124 such that the inner surface 128 is not removable from the rotatable body 124.

[0048] The cradle 144 can have a drive surface 144b configured to be engaged by a drive implement, such as a screwdriver, to rotate the cradle 144 to engage or disengage the cradle 144 with the rotatable body 124. The drive surface 144b can have a non-circular cross-sectional shape, such as, but not limited to, a hexagonal shape, a star shape, a cross shape, or other suitable shape configured to be engaged by a drive. The cradle 144 can be configured to be removably coupled to the rotating body 124 through the housing inlet 122a of the housing 122 without requiring the rotating body 124 to be disassembled from the flow restrictor 102. For example, the outer cross-sectional dimension of the cradle 144 can be smaller than the cross-sectional dimension of the housing inlet 122a such that the cradle 144 can be inserted and removed through the housing inlet 122a. The cradle 144 can be configured to be supported within the bore 126 of the rotating body adjacent the inlet 126a.

[0049] The orifice 130 is configured to receive a flow of fluid at a first pressure from the housing inlet 122a along a fluid flow path and to discharge a flow of fluid at a second pressure, lower than the first pressure, along the fluid flow path to the housing outlet 122b. Thus, the orifice 130 is configured to reduce the pressure of the fluid as it flows through the flow restrictor 102 along the fluid flow path. The amount of pressure reduction is at least partially dependent on the size of the orifice 130. Generally, a smaller orifice 130 will result in a greater pressure reduction than a larger orifice 130. In other words, a smaller orifice 130 will generally result in a lower pressure at the housing outlet 122b than a larger orifice 123. By making the cradle 144 removable, a desired pressure reduction can be selected by choosing from among a plurality of cradles 144, each having a differently sized orifice 130. Thus, in one example, the present invention can include a kit or system including a flow restrictor 102 and a plurality of cradles 144, each having a differently sized orifice 130.

[0050] With reference to Figure 9 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 , the flow restrictor 102 can include a handle 142 attached to the rotatable body 124 such that the handle 142 and the rotatable body 124 rotate relative to the housing 122 about the rotation axis A RThe handle 142 is rotatably fixed to each other by rotation. The handle 142 may include a shaft 142a configured to be received in a cross passage 122m extending into the housing 122. The handle 142 may include a connector 142b configured to engage a connector 124b of the rotatable body 124. The connector 142b is any suitable connector rotatably fixed to the connector 124b of the rotatable body 124. In one example, the connector 142b may include an outer surface having a non-circular cross-section, and the connector 124b may be a recess having a non-circular cross-section conforming to the outer surface of the connector 142b, such that rotation of the handle 142 results in a corresponding rotation of the rotatable body 124. It should be understood that the connectors 142b and 124b may be configured in another suitable manner. In other examples, the handle 142 may be fixedly attached to the rotatable body 124.

[0051] The rotatable body 124 can be in a first orientation (e.g. Figure 11 (as shown) and the second orientation (as shown) Figure 12 The orifice 130 is oriented to restrict the flow rate of fluid through the flow limiter 102 (as shown). In the first orientation, the orifice 130 is oriented to limit the flow rate of fluid through the flow limiter 102. Furthermore, in the first orientation, the orifice outlet 126b is offset from the orifice inlet 126a along the fluid flow direction. In the second orientation, the orifice 130 is oriented to flush out blockages that occur when the flow limiter 102 is in the first orientation. In the second orientation, the orifice inlet 126a is offset from the orifice outlet 126b along the fluid flow direction. For example, in the second orientation, relative to the position of the orifice 130 in the first orientation, the orifice 130 can be positioned about the rotation axis A. R Rotate 180 degrees. The rotatable body 124 can be changed between a first orientation and a second orientation by rotating the handle 142, which results in a corresponding rotation of the rotatable body 124. In one example, this is achieved by rotating the handle 142 (and therefore the rotatable body 124) about the axis of rotation A. R Rotating 180 degrees allows the rotatable body 124 to switch between a first orientation and a second orientation. In other examples (not shown), the rotatable body 124 can switch between the first and second orientations by rotating the handle 142 (and thus the rotatable body 124) by an angle other than 180 degrees. In some examples, such as the one shown, the flow limiter 102 can restrict fluid flow when the rotatable body 124 is in both the first and second orientations. The flow limiter 102 can operate in one of the first and second orientations to restrict the flow of fluid, and can subsequently switch to the other of the first and second orientations to flush the orifice 130.

[0052] Now go to Figure 9 and Figure 13The rotatable body 124 may optionally define at least one bypass hole 127 (such as a plurality of bypass holes 127) extending through the rotatable body 124. Each bypass hole 127 may be angularly offset from the hole 126. In one example, each bypass hole 127 may extend along a central axis perpendicular to the central axis of the hole 126. Each bypass hole 127 may be offset from the hole 126 so as not to be in fluid communication with the hole 126. Figure 13 As shown, the rotatable body 124 (and therefore the flow limiter 102) can be configured to operate in a third orientation in which the flow limiter 102 is configured to allow fluid to flow through the at least one bypass orifice 127 but not through the orifice 126. Thus, in the third orientation, the at least one bypass orifice 127 is arranged in series with the fluid flow from the housing inlet 122a to the housing outlet 122b, such that the at least one bypass orifice 127 is in fluid communication with both the housing inlet 122a and the housing outlet 122b. By rotating the handle 142, the rotatable body 124 can be switched between (1) the first orientation or the second orientation and (2) the third orientation, resulting in a corresponding rotation of the rotatable body 124. In one example, this is achieved by causing the handle 142 (and therefore the rotatable body 124) about the axis of rotation A. R By rotating 90 degrees, the rotatable body 124 can be switched between (1) a first orientation or a second orientation and (2) a third orientation. In other examples (not shown), the rotatable body 124 can be switched between (1) a first orientation or a second orientation and (2) a third orientation by rotating the handle 142 (and thus the rotatable body 124) by an angle other than 90 degrees. For example, the third orientation can be used when it is desired to flush the housing 108 or the flow limiter 102 without flushing the orifice 130.

[0053] Although not shown, the rotatable body 124 (and therefore the flow limiter 102) can be configured to operate in a fourth orientation in which the flow limiter 102 is configured to allow fluid to flow through the at least one bypass orifice 127 but not through the orifice 126. In the fourth orientation, the at least one bypass orifice 127 is arranged in series with the fluid flow from the housing inlet 122a to the housing outlet 122b, such that the at least one bypass orifice 127 is in fluid communication with both the housing inlet 122a and the housing outlet 122b. By rotating the handle 142, the rotatable body 124 can be switched between (1) a first orientation, a second orientation, or a third orientation and (2) a fourth orientation, resulting in a corresponding rotation of the rotatable body 124. In the fourth orientation, the rotatable body 124 can be oriented relative to the third orientation about the axis of rotation A. R It is 180 degrees. For example, a fourth orientation can be used when it is desired to flush housing 108 or flow limiter 102 without flushing orifice 130.

[0054] Return to reference Figures 1 to 3 The housing 108 can have any suitable shape. For example, the housing 108 can have a first end 108a and a second end 108b offset from each other along a first direction D1. The housing 108 can have a first side 108c and a second side 108d offset from each other along a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1. The first side 108c and the second side 108d can extend between the first end 108a and the second end 108b. The flow path can be defined from the first end 108a to the second end 108b. A recess 112 configured to receive the flow limiter 102 can extend toward the second side 108d into the first side 108c. Additionally or alternatively, a recess 116 configured to receive the filter 114 can extend toward the second side 108d into the first side 108c.

[0055] Figures 14 to 17 Another example of a spray pressure control manifold 200 is shown, wherein the manifold housing 208 is alternatively configured such that the flow path through the manifold housing differs from that through the... Figures 1 to 3 The flow path of the manifold housing 108. Figures 14 to 17 In the middle, and the above about Figures 1 to 13 The same features discussed are identified by similar reference numerals. The spray pressure control manifold 200 may optionally include a regulator 202 and a bracket 204. The regulator 202 and housing 208 may be mounted to the bracket 204. The housing 208 may have a first end 208a and a second end 208b offset from each other along a first direction D1. The housing 208 may have a first side 208c and a second side 208d offset from each other along a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1. The first side 208c and the second side 208d may extend between the first end 208a and the second end 208b. The housing 208 may have a third side 208e and a fourth side 208f offset from each other along a third direction D3 perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The third side 208e and the fourth side 208f may extend between the first end 208a and the second end 208b. The flow path may be defined from the second end 208b to the fourth side 208f. The recess 212 configured to receive the flow limiter 102 may extend toward the second side 208d into the first side 208c. Additionally or alternatively, the recess 216 configured to receive the filter 114 may extend toward the fourth side 208f into the third side 208e.

[0056] Go to Figure 18A simplified schematic diagram of a spraying system 300 according to an example is shown. The spraying system 300 includes a supply line 302 configured to supply fluid to at least one spray gun 304, which is configured to discharge the fluid as a spray. The fluid may be supplied to the supply line 302 by a pump (not shown). The spraying system 300 includes at least one spraying pressure control manifold 306 configured to receive fluid from the spray gun 304 that is not discharged by the spray gun 304. The at least one spraying pressure control manifold 306 may be implemented as discussed above with respect to manifolds 100 and 200. The fluid is received by the at least one spraying pressure control manifold 306 at a first pressure. In one example, the first pressure may be between approximately 800 and 1100 psi, but other pressures are also contemplated. In one example, the at least one spray gun 304 may be configured to discharge the spray at a pressure between approximately 400 and 800 psi, but other pressures are also contemplated. The spraying system 300 includes a return line 308 configured to return fluid received from the at least one manifold 306 to the pump at a second pressure, wherein the second pressure is less than the first pressure. In one example, the second pressure may be less than approximately 50 psi, but other pressures are also conceivable.

[0057] exist Figure 18 In the diagram, the supply line 302 provides fluid to a pair of spray guns 304, each of which supplies excess fluid to a corresponding manifold 306. However, it should be understood that the supply line 302 may also supply fluid to only a single spray gun 304, or to an additional spray gun (not shown) downstream of the pair of spray guns 304, as indicated by the rightmost supply arrow and the rightmost return arrow. In the example using a pair of spray guns 304, the pair of spray guns may be mounted to a common panel 308.

[0058] System 300 may optionally include a filter 310 configured to filter fluid supplied to the at least one spray gun 304. The filter 310 may be located upstream of the at least one spray gun 304. For example, the filter may be arranged in the flow path between the supply line 302 and the at least one spray gun 304. System 300 may optionally include a pressure regulator 312 configured to regulate the pressure of the fluid supplied to the at least one spray gun 304. The pressure regulator 312 may be located upstream of the at least one spray gun 304. For example, the pressure regulator 312 may be arranged in the flow path between the supply line 302 and the at least one spray gun 304. System 300 may optionally include at least one drain pipe 314 arranged adjacent to the second manifold outlet 120 of each manifold 306. Each drain pipe 314 may be configured to receive fluid from the corresponding manifold 306 during flushing of the manifold 306. System 300 may optionally include at least one valve 316 configured to isolate the at least one spray gun 304 from the supply line 302. Additionally or alternatively, system 300 may include at least one valve 318 configured to isolate the at least one spray gun 304 from the return line 308.

[0059] refer to Figures 19 to 21 The image shows a spray pressure control manifold 400 according to another example. Similar to the embodiments described above, the spray pressure control manifold 400 includes a flow limiter 402 that reduces pressure fluctuations in the fluid system. However, in this example, the manifold housing 408 is also the housing of the flow limiter 402 (which is consistent with...). Figure 2 The difference lies in Figure 2 The middle housing 122 is separate from the manifold housing 108. Similar to the flow limiter 102, the flow limiter 402 can operate selectively in a first orientation and a second orientation, in which the flow limiter 402 restricts the orifice (e.g., Figure 10 The flow limiter 402 (130) is oriented to restrict the flow rate of fluid through the pressure control manifold 400. In this second orientation, the limiting orifice is oriented to be flushed to remove blockages that occur when the flow limiter 402 is in the first orientation. The flow limiter 402 can switch between the first and second orientations without disassembling the manifold 400.

[0060] The spray pressure control manifold 400 may have a manifold inlet 104 and a manifold outlet 106, the manifold outlet being located downstream of the manifold inlet 104 relative to the fluid flow path, which may also be referred to as the fluid flow direction or downstream direction of the fluid through the manifold 400. The flow path or flow direction is determined by... Figure 21 The arrows indicate this. The manifold inlet 104 and manifold outlet 106 can be configured as described above.

[0061] The flow restrictor 402 of the manifold 400 may have a housing 408. The housing 408 may be arranged along a flow path between the manifold inlet 104 and the manifold outlet 106. The housing 408 may have an inlet 408a and an outlet 408b. The housing 408 may define a passage or channel 410 therethrough, which defines at least a portion of the flow path of the manifold 400. The passage 410 may extend from the inlet 408a to the outlet 408b. Thus, the passage 410 may be in fluid communication with the manifold inlet 104 and the manifold outlet 106. The housing 408 may support a rotatable body 124 therein, such that a limiting orifice of the flow restrictor 102 is arranged within the flow path. The rotatable body 124 may be configured in a manner similar to that described above. For example, the housing 408 may define a recess 412 therein, which is configured to receive the rotatable body 124. The recess 412 may be arranged within the passage 410 of the housing 408. The recess 412 can be configured to receive the rotatable body 124 such that the limiting orifice of the rotatable body 124 is positioned in series with the passage 410. The manifold 400 is configured such that the flow restrictor 402 receives a fluid flow at a first pressure from the inlet 104 along the fluid flow path and discharges a fluid flow at a second pressure, lower than the first pressure, along the fluid flow path toward the outlet 106. Therefore, as fluid flows through the flow restrictor along the fluid flow path, the flow restrictor 402 is configured to reduce the pressure of the fluid. The first pressure may be referred to as the higher pressure, and the second pressure may be referred to as the lower pressure.

[0062] Manifold 400 may include a filter 114 arranged along a flow path. Filter 114 may be arranged between manifold inlet 104 and rotatable body 124. Thus, rotatable body 124 may be located downstream of filter 114. Filter 114 may be configured to filter fluid before it travels along the flow path to rotatable body 124. Filter 114 may filter fluid to prevent debris from clogging the limiting orifice of flow limiter 102. In one example, housing 408 may be configured to support filter 114. For example, housing 408 may define a recess 116 therein, which is configured to receive at least a portion of filter 114. Housing 408 may support filter 114 such that filter elements of filter 114 are arranged within the flow path. Recess 116 may open to and be in fluid communication with passage 410 of housing 408. Recess 116 may be configured to receive filter 114 such that filter elements of filter 114 are connected in series with passage 410. In an alternative example, filter 114 may be supported upstream of housing 408.

[0063] Manifold 400 may include a three-way ball valve 118 arranged along a fluid flow path. The three-way ball valve 118 may be arranged along the flow path between housing 408 and manifold outlet 106. Therefore, the three-way ball valve 118 may be located downstream of housing 408 and / or flow restrictor 402. The three-way ball valve 118 may be in a first configuration (e.g., Figure 21 The first configuration (shown) and the second orientation (not shown) selectively operate, in which the three-way ball valve 118 delivers fluid along the fluid path toward the manifold outlet 106, and in the second orientation, the three-way ball valve 118 diverts the fluid flow from the fluid path to the second manifold outlet 120. In one example, the second manifold outlet 120 may lead to a drain pipe and may be used when flushing the manifold 400.

[0064] Now go to Figure 22 and Figure 23 The fluid flow limiter 402 may include a plug 422. The plug 422 may be configured to retain the rotatable body 124 within a recess 412 of the housing 408. The plug 422 may have a first end 422a and a second end 422b, the second end being offset from the first end 422a. The first end 422a and the second end 422b may be along a central axis A. P They are offset from each other. The first end 422a of the plug 422 can be configured to support the rotatable body 124, such that the rotatable body 124 can rotate around the axis of rotation A. R Rotation. In one example, the first end 422a may support a seat 138, which is configured as described above and is configured to receive a portion of the rotatable body 124 such that the rotatable body 124 rotates within the seat 138. The flow limiter 402 may additionally or alternatively include a seat 136, which is configured to support the rotatable body 124 opposite to the seat 138. The seat 136 may be positioned upstream of the rotatable body 124, while the seat 138 may be positioned downstream of the rotatable body 124.

[0065] The plug 422 may have an outer curved surface 422c between the first end 422a and the second end 422b. The outer surface 422c may be about the central axis A. P The plug 422 may have a generally cylindrical shape, but other shapes are conceivable. An outer surface 422c may define a thread 422d configured to engage the thread of a recess 412 in the housing 408. A second end 422b may have a drive surface configured to engage by a drive mechanism (not shown) to drive the plug 422 into the recess 412 of the housing 408. The drive surface may have a non-circular cross-sectional shape, such as (but not limited to) a hexagonal, star-shaped, cross-shaped, or other suitable shape.

[0066] The plug 422 may have a channel 424 therethrough. The channel 424 may extend into a first end 422a. The channel 424 may extend toward a second end 422b and terminate before the second end 422b. The channel 424 may extend through an outer surface 422c. In other words, the channel 424 may have an inlet 424a at the first end 422a and an outlet 424b at the outer surface 422c between the first end 422a and the second end 422b. When the plug 422 is received in the recess 412, the channel 424 is in fluid communication with the passage 410 of the housing 408. The plug 422 may support at least one seal 426, such as at least one O-ring, which is configured to provide a seal between the outer surface 422c and the recess 412. For example, the plug 422 may support a pair of seals 426 arranged on the opposite side of the outlet 424b of the channel 424 to prevent leakage from the outlet 424b.

[0067] refer to Figure 20 and Figure 21 The housing 408 may define a cross passage 428 along the rotation axis A. R Extending into housing 408. Cross passage 428 may open to housing passage 410. Flow limiter 402 may include handle 142, which is configured to allow rotatable body 124 to be in a first orientation (e.g., Figure 11 (as shown) and the second orientation (as shown) Figure 12 The orientation changes between the orifice outlet 126b and the orifice inlet 126a in the fluid flow direction, respectively, in the first orientation where the orifice outlet 126b is offset from the orifice inlet 126a in the fluid flow direction, and in the second orientation where the orifice inlet 126a is offset from the orifice outlet 126b in the fluid flow direction. The cross channel 428 can be configured to receive at least a portion of the handle 142 such that the handle 142 is coupled to the rotatable body 124 when the rotatable body 124 is received in the housing channel 122c. The handle 142 can be configured to... Figures 1 to 17 The configuration is similar to the description.

[0068] The rotatable body 124 can be in a first orientation (e.g. Figure 21 (As shown) and the second orientation are related to the above regarding Figures 1 to 17 The similar transformation discussed above. Furthermore, the rotatable body 124 (and therefore the flow limiter 402) can optionally be configured as described above. Figures 1 to 17 The description refers to operation in the third and / or fourth orientation.

[0069] Various aspects of this disclosure can be understood through the following examples:

[0070] Example 1: A fluid flow limiter for a spraying pressure control system, the fluid flow limiter comprising:

[0071] A housing, comprising a housing inlet, a housing outlet offset from the housing inlet along the fluid flow direction, and a housing passage extending between the housing inlet and the housing outlet; and

[0072] A rotatable body is disposed in a housing channel between a housing inlet and a housing outlet. The rotatable body has an outer surface curved about a rotation axis. The rotatable body defines a hole that extends completely through the rotatable body, such that the hole defines a hole inlet at the outer surface and a hole outlet at the outer surface, the hole outlet being offset from the hole inlet.

[0073] The rotatable body is capable of rotating between 1) a first orientation and 2) a second orientation, in which the orifice outlet is offset from the orifice inlet along the fluid flow direction, and in which the orifice inlet is offset from the orifice outlet along the fluid flow direction.

[0074] Example 2: The fluid flow limiter of Example 1, wherein the housing inlet and housing outlet are offset from each other along the housing axis, which is angularly offset from the axis of rotation.

[0075] Example 3: A fluid flow limiter of either Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the housing axis is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0076] Example 4: A fluid flow limiter of any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein when the rotatable body is in each of the first and second orientations, the orifice inlet and orifice outlet are offset from each other along an axis substantially parallel to the housing axis.

[0077] Example 5: A fluid flow limiter of any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the housing has a housing body having a first end and a second end offset from each other along a rotation axis, and an outer surface curved about the rotation axis.

[0078] Example 6: The fluid flow limiter of Example 5, wherein an outer surface defines at least one recess, the at least one recess being configured to receive a seal therein to form a seal between the housing and the inner surface of the manifold housing of the spray pressure control system.

[0079] Example 7: The fluid flow restrictor of Example 6, wherein the at least one recess includes an angled recess located in a plane that is not perpendicular to the axis of rotation, and the angled recess is angled relative to the central axis of the housing channel, such that a portion of the angled recess is positioned between the housing inlet and a second end of the housing body, and a portion of the recess is positioned between the housing outlet and a first end of the housing body.

[0080] Example 8: A fluid flow limiter of any one of Examples 1 to 7, including a handle configured to rotate to change the rotatable body between a first orientation and a second orientation.

[0081] Example 9: A fluid flow limiter of any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the rotatable body has an outer surface with a generally spherical shape.

[0082] Example 10: A fluid flow limiter of any one of Examples 1 to 9, including an inner surface disposed in an orifice defining an orifice with a cross-sectional dimension smaller than that of the orifice, such that the orifice is configured to limit the flow rate of the fluid when fluid flows between the orifice inlet and the orifice outlet.

[0083] Example 11: The fluid flow limiter of Example 10 includes a support having an inner surface defining an orifice, wherein the support is configured to be removably supported in an orifice of a rotatable body.

[0084] Example 12: A fluid flow limiter of any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the rotatable body changes between a first orientation and a second orientation by rotating the rotatable body about 180 degrees about a rotation axis.

[0085] Example 13: A fluid flow limiter of any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein a rotatable body defines at least one bypass orifice through the rotatable body, each bypass orifice being angularly offset from the orifice.

[0086] Example 14: A fluid flow limiter of Example 13, wherein each bypass orifice extends along a central axis that extends in a direction perpendicular to the central axis of the orifice.

[0087] Example 15: A fluid flow limiter of Example 13, wherein the rotatable body is configured to operate in a third orientation in which the at least one bypass orifice is arranged in series with the fluid flow from the housing inlet to the housing outlet, such that the at least one bypass orifice is in fluid communication with the housing inlet and the housing outlet.

[0088] Example 16: The fluid flow limiter of Example 15, wherein the rotatable body can be switched between at least one of a first orientation or a second orientation and a third orientation by rotating the rotatable body about 90 degrees about a rotation axis.

[0089] Example 17: A system comprising:

[0090] Fluid flow limiter of any one of Examples 1 to 16; and

[0091] The manifold defines a passage therethrough and a recess extending into the manifold housing, such that the recess is open to the passage, and the recess is configured to support a fluid flow restrictor therein, such that the orifice of the fluid flow restrictor is in fluid communication with the passage.

[0092] Example 18: A fluid flow limiter of any one of Examples 1 and 8 through 16, wherein the fluid flow limiter includes a plug configured to retain a rotatable body in a recess of the housing.

[0093] Example 19: A fluid flow limiter of Example 18, wherein the plug has a first end and a second end, the second end being offset from the first end along a central axis, and the first end of the plug is configured to support a rotatable body such that the rotatable body can rotate about a rotation axis.

[0094] Example 20: A fluid flow limiter of Example 19, wherein the plug has an outer surface between a first end and a second end of the plug, and the plug defines a channel extending into the first end of the plug and exiting the outer surface.

[0095] Example 21: A method for a fluid flow limiter in a spray pressure control system, the fluid flow limiter comprising a housing having a housing inlet, a housing outlet offset from the housing inlet along the fluid flow direction, and a housing channel extending between the housing inlet and the housing outlet, the method comprising:

[0096] The rotatable body is rotated about a rotation axis within a housing channel. The rotatable body defines a hole extending completely through the rotatable body, such that the hole defines a hole inlet at an outer surface of the rotatable body and a hole outlet at an outer surface offset from the hole inlet. The rotation step includes rotating the rotatable body about the rotation axis from a first orientation to a second orientation, in which the hole outlet is offset from the hole inlet along the fluid flow direction, and in which the hole inlet is offset from the hole outlet along the fluid flow direction; and

[0097] The fluid is allowed to flow through the fluid flow limiter, causing the fluid to flow from the orifice outlet to the orifice inlet.

[0098] Example 22: The method of Example 21 includes passing fluid through a fluid flow restrictor prior to the rotation step, such that the fluid flows to the orifice inlet at a first pressure, flows from the orifice inlet to the orifice outlet at a second pressure less than the first pressure, and flows out of the orifice outlet at a second pressure less than the first pressure.

[0099] Example 23: A method of either Example 21 or Example 22, wherein the rotation step includes rotating the rotatable body by approximately 180 degrees.

[0100] It should be noted that the illustrations and descriptions in the accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure contemplates various examples. Furthermore, it should be understood that the concepts and examples described above can be used alone or in combination with any other examples described above. It should also be understood that, unless otherwise stated, the various alternative examples described above with respect to an illustrative example are applicable to all examples described herein.

[0101] Unless otherwise expressly stated, each value and range shall be interpreted as an approximate value and approximate range, such as if preceded by words such as “about,” “approximately,” or “roughly”.

[0102] Unless otherwise specified, or otherwise understood in the context in which they are used, the conditional language used herein (such as "may," "can," "possibly," "able to," "for example," etc.) is generally intended to mean that some examples include certain features, elements, and / or steps, while other examples do not include certain features, elements, and / or steps. Therefore, such conditional language generally does not imply that one or more examples require features, elements, and / or steps in any way, or that one or more examples must include such features, elements, and / or steps. The terms "comprise," "include," "have," etc., are synonyms and are used in an open-ended manner, not excluding additional elements, features, behaviors, operations, etc.

[0103] While some examples have been described, these examples are given by way of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention disclosed herein. Therefore, nothing in the foregoing description implies that any particular feature, characteristic, step, module, or block is necessary or indispensable. In fact, the novel methods and systems described herein can be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made to the form of the methods and systems described herein without departing from the spirit of the invention disclosed herein. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of certain inventions disclosed herein.

[0104] It should be understood that the steps of the exemplary methods presented herein do not necessarily have to be performed in the order described, and the order of the steps in such methods should be understood as merely exemplary. Similarly, in methods conforming to various examples of the invention, additional steps may be included, and certain steps may be omitted or combined.

[0105] Although the elements in the following method claims (if any) are enumerated in a particular order by corresponding labels, these elements are not necessarily limited to being implemented in that particular order unless the enumeration of the claims otherwise implies implementation of some or all of these elements in that particular order.

[0106] It should be understood that references herein to "a" or "an" describing a feature (such as a component or step) do not exclude additional features or multiple features. For example, a reference to a device having or defining "a" feature does not exclude that the device having or defining more than one feature, provided that the device has or defines at least one feature. Similarly, a reference herein to "a" of multiple features does not exclude that the invention includes two or more, or even all, features. For example, a reference to a device having or defining "one of X and Y" does not exclude that the device has both X and Y.

Claims

1. A fluid flow restrictor of a related spray pressure control system, the fluid flow restrictor comprising: a housing including a housing inlet, a housing outlet offset from the housing inlet along a fluid flow direction, and a housing passage extending between the housing inlet and the housing outlet; and a rotatable body disposed in the housing passage between the housing inlet and the housing outlet, the rotatable body having an outer surface curved about a rotation axis, the rotatable body defining: a bore extending completely through the rotatable body such that the bore defines a bore inlet at the outer surface and a bore outlet at the outer surface, the bore outlet offset from the bore inlet; and at least one bypass bore extending through the rotatable body, the bypass bore angularly offset from the bore, wherein the rotatable body is rotatable between 1) a first orientation, 2) a second orientation, and 3) a third orientation, wherein in the first orientation the bore outlet is offset from the bore inlet along the fluid flow direction; in the second orientation the bore inlet is offset from the bore outlet along the fluid flow direction; and in the third orientation the at least one bypass bore is disposed in series with fluid flow from the housing inlet to the housing outlet such that the at least one bypass bore is in fluid communication with the housing inlet and the housing outlet.

2. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 1, wherein, The bore inlet and the bore outlet are offset from one another along a bore axis, the bore axis angularly offset from the rotation axis.

3. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 1, further comprising a plug configured to retain the rotatable body in a recess of the housing.

4. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 3, wherein, The plug has a first end and a second end, the second end offset from the first end along a central axis, the first end of the plug configured to support the rotatable body such that the rotatable body is rotatable about the rotation axis.

5. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 1, wherein, The housing includes a housing body having (a) a first end and a second end offset from one another along the rotation axis, and (b) an outer surface extending about the rotation axis.

6. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 5, wherein, The outer surface of the housing body defines at least one recess configured to receive a seal therein to form a seal between the housing and an inner surface of a related manifold housing of a related spray pressure control system.

7. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 6, wherein, The at least one recess includes an angled recess, the angled recess lying in a plane forming a non-right angle with the rotation axis, and the angled recess is angled relative to a central axis of the housing passage such that a portion of the angled recess is positioned between the housing inlet and the second end of the housing body, and a portion of the recess is positioned between the housing outlet and the first end of the housing body.

8. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 1, further comprising a handle configured to be rotated to transition the rotatable body between the first orientation and the second orientation.

9. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 1, wherein, The outer surface of the rotatable body has a generally spherical shape.

10. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 1, further comprising: an inner surface disposed in the bore, the inner surface defining an orifice, a cross-sectional dimension of the orifice being smaller than a cross-sectional dimension of the bore, such that, when fluid flow flows between the bore inlet and the bore outlet, the orifice is configured to restrict a flow rate of the fluid.

11. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 10, further comprising a cradle, the cradle including the inner surface defining the orifice, the cradle configured to be removably supported in the bore of the rotatable body.

12. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 1, wherein, The rotatable body is rotatable between the first orientation and the second orientation by rotating the rotatable body about the rotation axis by approximately 180 degrees.

13. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 1, wherein, The at least one bypass bore extends along a central axis, the central axis extending in a direction perpendicular to a central axis of the bore.

14. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 1, wherein, The rotatable body is rotatable between 1) at least one of the first orientation or the second orientation and 2) the third orientation by rotating the rotatable body about the rotation axis by approximately 90 degrees.

15. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 1, wherein: in the first orientation, fluid flows through the fluid flow restrictor and into the bore inlet at a first pressure, from the bore inlet to the bore outlet, and out of the bore outlet at a second pressure that is less than the first pressure, and in the third orientation, fluid flows through the at least one bypass bore without flowing through the bore.

16. The fluid flow restrictor of claim 15, wherein, in the third orientation, the rotatable body is configured to output fluid flow to the housing outlet at a higher flow rate than when in the first orientation or the second orientation.

17. A system, comprising: the fluid flow restrictor of claim 1; and a manifold housing defining a passageway therethrough and a recess extending into the manifold housing such that the recess is open to the passageway, the recess configured to support the fluid flow restrictor therein such that the bore of the fluid flow restrictor is in fluid communication with the passageway.

18. A method of purging the fluid flow restrictor of claim 1, the method comprising: flowing fluid through the fluid flow restrictor such that the fluid flows into the bore inlet at a first pressure, from the bore inlet to the bore outlet, and out of the bore outlet at a second pressure that is less than the first pressure; rotating the rotatable body within the housing passageway about a rotation axis from the first orientation to the second orientation; and flowing fluid through the fluid flow restrictor such that fluid flows from the bore outlet to the bore inlet.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: rotating the rotatable body within the housing passageway about a rotation axis from the second orientation to the third orientation; and flowing fluid through the fluid flow restrictor such that the fluid flows from the housing inlet to the housing outlet through the at least one bypass bore without flowing through the bore. ​ ​ 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: In the third orientation, fluid flow is output to the housing outlet at a higher flow rate than when in the first or second orientations.

21. The method of claim 18, wherein, Rotating the rotatable body comprises rotating the rotatable body by about 180 degrees.

Citation Information

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