Flow control system and method for controlling liquid flow

Abstract

A control system and method for controlling the inflow and outflow of liquid (6) into and from a tubular member (10) comprising a perforated section configured to be able to distribute a flow of liquid (6) having a predefined fixed liquid pressure (Pw) through the perforated section and thereby pressurize an intestine (8) suspended on the tubular member (10). The flow control system (2) comprises a flow regulating valve (4) comprising a slidably arranged valve structure (62) arranged in a water chamber (70) filled with pressurized liquid, a resilient water side diaphragm (54) arranged in the water chamber (70) and connected to the valve structure (62) such that the valve structure (62) is able to a) move in a first direction along a longitudinal axis of the valve structure (62) thereby increasing a volume of the water chamber (70), b) move in an opposite direction along the longitudinal axis of the valve structure (62).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and method for controlling the flow of liquid in order to maintain a constant pressure in a tubular member having a perforated portion configured to distribute the flow of liquid through the perforated portion and thereby apply pressure to an intestinal tract suspended on the tubular member. Background Technology

[0002] To determine quality and cut the carcass into valuable meat portions, inspection and processing equipment are controlled relative to the location of the anatomical parts of the carcass. Animal intestines are processed in a similar manner, with natural casings being most useful.

[0003] Processing animal intestines involves several steps, including cleaning the intestines, scraping the inner wall to remove the mucosal layer, and scraping the outer portion of the intestines. An additional measurement step is required for packaging according to the size and quality of the intestines. In this measurement step, the diameter of each intestine is measured to classify them by diameter, and the intestines are then cut into slices along their length according to the diameter.

[0004] The diameter is measured by inflating the intestine with water or air. In practice, the intestine is suspended on a tubular member with perforated portions configured to distribute the flow of fluid through the perforations, thereby pressurizing the intestine suspended on the tubular member.

[0005] Because the diameter of the intestine varies along its length, it is important to be able to quickly regulate the flow of the fluid (usually water or air) used to expand the intestine. When the diameter of the intestine increases, fluid flows into the tubular structure to expand it. However, when the diameter decreases, the fluid flowing from the intestine through the tubular structure exits through an outlet. This flow regulation must be performed quickly and reliably.

[0006] CN209489408U discloses a method and apparatus for automatically detecting the diameter or leakage of intestines. The apparatus includes an electromagnetic flow control valve that can be connected to a pipe on which intestines are suspended. A water tank is arranged between the flow control valve and the pipe. The flow control valve is connected to a pressure sensor that can be used to detect water pressure. However, this solution does not allow excess water to be discharged through the valve.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method for performing sufficiently fast flow regulation in a fast and reliable manner.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a system for controlling liquid flow in a reliable and sufficiently fast manner. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Its purpose is to have a controllable valve, that is, to regulate the flow rate so that the pressure remains constant.

[0010] The method according to the invention is a method for controlling the inflow and outflow of liquid into and from a tubular member, wherein the tubular member includes a perforated portion configured to distribute a liquid flow having a predefined fixed liquid pressure through the perforated portion, thereby pressurizing an intestinal tract suspended on the tubular member. The method includes the step of controlling the liquid flow to maintain the liquid pressure in the tubular member within a predefined pressure range. The method includes the step of applying a flow regulating valve, the flow regulating valve comprising:

[0011] - Inlet, used to allow liquid to enter the flow regulating valve;

[0012] - The outlet is used to discharge liquid from the flow regulating valve;

[0013] -Flow port, in fluid communication with the tubular component;

[0014] - A flow regulating component, in fluid communication with a flow port, wherein the flow regulating component is configured and positioned at:

[0015] a) In the first configuration, liquid can flow into the flow regulating valve from the inlet, but no liquid can be discharged through the outlet;

[0016] b) Second configuration: liquid from the flow control valve can be discharged through the outlet, while liquid from the inlet cannot flow into the flow control valve.

[0017] - A force generating device, connected to a flow regulating component, such that the movement of the force generating device causes the movement of the flow regulating component and

[0018] - A force-reducing device, connected to a flow regulating member, such that movement of the force-reducing device causes movement of the flow regulating member, the method comprising the step of applying a predetermined force toward the force-generating device by means of a force-generating unit.

[0019] Therefore, a method can be provided to perform sufficiently fast flow regulation in a fast and reliable manner.

[0020] In one embodiment, the liquid is an aqueous liquid. In another embodiment, the liquid is water.

[0021] Preferably, the force generating unit is controllable. Therefore, the force applied to it can be set and changed.

[0022] In one embodiment, the force-generating unit includes a spring.

[0023] In one embodiment, the force-generating unit is a spring.

[0024] In one embodiment, the force generating unit includes a magnetic actuator.

[0025] In one embodiment, the force-generating unit is a magnetic actuator.

[0026] In one embodiment, the force generating unit includes a pneumatic actuator.

[0027] In one embodiment, the force generating unit is a pneumatic actuator.

[0028] In one embodiment, the force generating unit includes a hydraulic actuator.

[0029] In one embodiment, the force generating unit is a hydraulic actuator.

[0030] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of using a flow regulating valve, comprising:

[0031] - A slidable valve structure is arranged in a water chamber filled with pressurized liquid;

[0032] - An elastic water-side diaphragm, disposed in the water chamber and connected to the valve structure, such that the water-side diaphragm allows the valve structure to:

[0033] a) Move along the longitudinal axis of the valve structure in the first direction, thereby increasing the volume in the water chamber;

[0034] b) Move in the opposite direction along the longitudinal axis of the valve structure, thereby reducing the volume in the water chamber.

[0035] The method includes the step of providing a force to the slidably arranged valve structure by means of a force generating unit, the force generating unit being arranged and configured to provide a predefined force to move the slidably arranged valve structure in a predefined direction.

[0036] By controlling the flow of liquid to maintain the liquid pressure within a predetermined range in a tubular component, the diameter of the intestine can be measured by inflating the intestine with a liquid (such as water).

[0037] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: applying a force to a slidably arranged valve structure using a force generating unit, the force generating unit being arranged and configured to provide a predetermined force such that the slidably arranged valve structure moves in a predefined direction.

[0038] In one embodiment, the predefined direction corresponds to the opposite direction.

[0039] The tubular member may include a rod-shaped portion. In one embodiment, the distal portion of the tubular member tapers gradually.

[0040] In one embodiment, the perforated portion is formed as a plurality of holes (through holes) on the radial surface of the tubular member.

[0041] In one embodiment, the perforated portion is formed as one or more grooves on the radial surface of the tubular member.

[0042] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the tubular member is formed as a pipe.

[0043] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of applying a flow regulating valve, the flow regulating valve comprising a slidably arranged valve structure disposed in a chamber filled with pressurized liquid.

[0044] The valve structure may preferably include a hollow central portion and a plurality of holes disposed along the radial surface of the valve structure.

[0045] In one embodiment, the valve structure includes a hollow cylindrical portion having a plurality of holes along its radial surface. Thus, the valve structure can establish fluid communication between tubular members through the hollow portion and an inlet or outlet via the holes.

[0046] The resilient water-side diaphragm can be formed from any suitable material, such as an elastomer. The water-side diaphragm is disposed within the water chamber and connected to the valve structure such that when the water-side diaphragm is subjected to force, it moves the valve structure.

[0047] The arrangement and configuration of the water-side diaphragm allow the valve structure to move along its longitudinal axis in the first direction, thereby increasing the volume in the water chamber. When the diameter of the intestinal tract decreases, leading to an increase in pressure within the tract, the flow control valve exchanges fluid with the tubular component, thus establishing fluid communication with the water within the tract, and the water pressure within the flow control valve also increases accordingly. This increased pressure causes the valve structure to move, thereby establishing fluid communication between the valve structure and the outlet of the flow control valve to discharge excess liquid from the tract.

[0048] In one embodiment, the first direction is a direction in which the distal portion of the valve structure moves toward the central portion of the flow regulating valve.

[0049] The water-side diaphragm is arranged and configured to allow the valve structure to move in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis of the valve structure, thereby reducing the volume in the water chamber. When the pressure inside the intestinal tract decreases, the valve structure moves due to the pressure of the connection between the intestinal diameter regulating valves, thereby establishing fluid communication between the valve structure and the inlet of the flow regulating valve to receive the liquid supply (e.g., inlet pipe or reservoir).

[0050] The step of applying force to the valve structure can be achieved by using various types of force generating units arranged and configured to provide a predefined force, causing the slidably arranged valve structure to move in a predefined direction.

[0051] In one embodiment, the force generating unit includes a spring arranged and configured to press against the water-side diaphragm.

[0052] In one embodiment, the force generating unit includes an electric actuator arranged and configured to press against the water-side diaphragm.

[0053] In one embodiment, the predetermined fixed liquid pressure is in the range of 5-100 mbar.

[0054] In one embodiment, the predetermined fixed liquid pressure is in the range of 10-80 mbar.

[0055] In one embodiment, the predetermined fixed liquid pressure is in the range of 15-60 mbar.

[0056] In one embodiment, the predetermined fixed liquid pressure is in the range of 20-40 mbar.

[0057] In one embodiment, the predetermined fixed liquid pressure is in the range of 25-35 mbar.

[0058] In one embodiment, the predetermined fixed liquid pressure is 30 mbar.

[0059] Advantageously, the force-generating unit is integrated into the flow control valve. Therefore, a more compact solution can be provided.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the force generating unit includes an air-side diaphragm, wherein the flow regulating valve includes a pressure chamber for containing air or gas, which is separated from the rest of the valve by the air-side diaphragm. Therefore, a compressible air space can be provided, enabling the supply of a transmittable force to and applied to the slidably arranged valve structure. Furthermore, the pressure inside the air or gas pressure chamber can be controlled.

[0061] In one embodiment, the liquid-containing water chamber is separated from the rest of the valve by a water-side diaphragm, wherein a slider is slidably arranged within the valve's internal space. The air-side and water-side diaphragms are arranged and configured such that even if air or gas in the pressure chamber provides pressure, forcing the air-side diaphragm against the slider, the liquid (e.g., water) in the water chamber provides pressure, forcing the water-side diaphragm against the slider in the opposite direction to the air-side diaphragm. This makes it possible to provide simple, reliable, and very rapid flow regulation.

[0062] Advantageously, an intermediate chamber is provided between the water-side diaphragm and the air-side diaphragm.

[0063] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of maintaining a pressure in an intermediate chamber corresponding to the ambient pressure. Therefore, when controlling the pressure inside the pressure chamber, there is no need to compensate for fluctuations in the ambient pressure.

[0064] The flow control system according to the invention is a flow control system for controlling the inflow and outflow of liquid from a tubular member, wherein the tubular member includes a perforated portion configured to distribute a liquid flow having a predefined fixed liquid pressure, thereby pressurizing an intestinal tract suspended on the tubular member.

[0065] The flow control system includes a flow regulating valve, the flow regulating valve comprising:

[0066] - Inlet, used to allow liquid to enter the flow regulating valve;

[0067] - The outlet is used to discharge liquid from the flow regulating valve;

[0068] -Flow port, in fluid communication with the tubular component;

[0069] - A flow regulating component, in fluid communication with a flow port, wherein the flow regulating component is configured and positioned at:

[0070] a) In the first configuration, liquid can flow into the flow regulating valve from the inlet, but no liquid can be discharged through the outlet;

[0071] b) Second configuration: liquid from the flow control valve can be discharged through the outlet, while liquid from the inlet cannot flow into the flow control valve;

[0072] - A force generating device, connected to a flow regulating member, such that movement of the force generating device causes movement of the flow regulating member; and

[0073] - A force-canceling device is connected to the flow regulating member in such a way that the movement of the force-canceling device causes the flow regulating member to move;

[0074] - A force generating unit configured to provide a predetermined force to the force generating device.

[0075] In one embodiment, the flow regulating valve is a ball valve.

[0076] In one embodiment, the flow control valve is a needle valve.

[0077] In one embodiment, the flow control valve is a rotary valve (e.g., a butterfly valve).

[0078] In one embodiment, the flow regulating valve is a gate valve.

[0079] In one embodiment, a pressure regulating valve is used to control a flow regulating valve, allowing liquid from the liquid supply to enter the tubular member through the flow regulating valve if the pressure in the tubular member is too low (below Pw1), and allowing liquid to exit the tubular member from the outlet if the pressure in the tubular member is too high (above Pw2).

[0080] The ability to allow liquids to flow in and out of a tubular component separately can occur in one or two different valves.

[0081] In one embodiment, the flow regulating valve includes:

[0082] - A slidable valve structure is arranged in a water chamber filled with liquid;

[0083] - An elastic water-side diaphragm, disposed within the water chamber and connected to the valve structure, such that the water-side diaphragm allows the valve structure to:

[0084] a) Move along the longitudinal axis of the valve structure in the first direction, thereby increasing the volume in the water chamber;

[0085] b) Move in the opposite direction along the longitudinal axis of the valve structure, thereby reducing the volume in the water chamber.

[0086] The flow control system includes a force generating unit arranged and configured to provide a predetermined force to move a slidably arranged valve structure in a predefined direction. The force generating unit is configured to control the flow of liquid in such a way that the pressure of the liquid in the tubular member is maintained within a predefined pressure range.

[0087] Therefore, it is possible to provide a system that controls liquid flow in a reliable and sufficiently fast manner.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment, the force generating unit is integrated into the flow regulating valve. Integrating the force generating unit provides a more compact system. Furthermore, flow regulation can be achieved easily and quickly.

[0089] Advantageously, the force-generating unit includes an air-side diaphragm, and the flow control valve includes a pressure chamber that contains air or gas, which is separated from the rest of the valve by the air-side diaphragm. Therefore, the flow rate can be adjusted by means of a pneumatic regulator that can provide the required pilot pressure. Furthermore, the pilot pressure can be changed quickly and easily.

[0090] In one embodiment, the flow control system includes:

[0091] - A pressure chamber that contains air or gas, separated from the rest of the valve by an air-side diaphragm;

[0092] - The water chamber containing the liquid is separated from the rest of the valve by a water-side diaphragm;

[0093] - A slider, which is slidably arranged in the internal space of the valve;

[0094] The air-side diaphragm and the water-side diaphragm are arranged and configured such that air or gas in the pressure chamber provides pressure, forcing the air-side diaphragm to press against the slider, while liquid (e.g., water) in the water chamber provides pressure, forcing the water-side diaphragm to press against the slider in the opposite direction to the air-side diaphragm.

[0095] In one embodiment, the liquid-containing water chamber is separated from the rest of the valve by a water-side diaphragm, wherein a slider is slidably arranged in the internal space of the valve, and the air-side diaphragm and the water-side diaphragm are arranged and configured such that air or gas in the pressure chamber provides pressure, forcing the air-side diaphragm against the slider, while liquid in the water chamber provides pressure, forcing the water-side diaphragm against the slider in the opposite direction to the air-side diaphragm.

[0096] In one embodiment, the liquid in the water chamber is water.

[0097] Advantageously, an intermediate chamber is provided between the water-side diaphragm and the air-side diaphragm.

[0098] In one embodiment, the intermediate chamber is in fluid communication with the central chamber via one or more vents. Thus, the pressure in the intermediate chamber corresponds to the ambient pressure. Therefore, when controlling the pressure in the pressure chamber, it is not necessary to compensate for fluctuations in ambient pressure.

[0099] In one embodiment, the slidably arranged valve structure is a hollow rod member.

[0100] In a preferred embodiment, the valve structure includes a hollow central portion and a plurality of holes disposed along the radial surface of the valve structure.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, the valve structure includes a hollow cylindrical portion having a plurality of holes along its radial surface.

[0102] In one embodiment, the pressure-area product ratio of the air-side diaphragm and the water-side diaphragm is in the range of R:1, where R is between 20 and 50.

[0103] In one embodiment, the pressure-area product ratio of the air-side diaphragm and the water-side diaphragm is in the range of R:1, where R is between 25 and 40.

[0104] In one embodiment, the pressure-area product ratio of the air-side diaphragm and the water-side diaphragm is in the range of R:1, where R is between 30 and 35.

[0105] In one embodiment, the pressure-area product ratio of the air-side diaphragm and the water-side diaphragm is in the range of R:1, where R is 33.

[0106] The flow control system includes a pressure control unit, and the pressure chamber includes an air inlet, allowing air to flow between the pressure chamber and the pressure control unit. Therefore, the pressure control unit can be used to change a preset fixed pressure within the liquid chamber. Attached Figure Description

[0107] The invention will be more fully understood from the detailed description given below. The accompanying drawings are given by way of illustration only and are therefore not intended to limit the invention. In the drawings:

[0108] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a flow control system according to the present invention is shown, which is used to regulate the flow rate of a processing unit configured to detect intestinal diameter;

[0109] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The diagram shows another structural schematic of the flow control system.

[0110] Figure 3 A flow regulating valve of a flow control system according to the present invention is shown.

[0111] List of reference numerals

[0112] 2. Flow Control System

[0113] 4 valves

[0114] 6 liquids

[0115] 8 intestines

[0116] 10. Tubular components

[0117] 14. Liquid reservoir

[0118] 16 Entrances

[0119] 17 strokes

[0120] 18 Exports

[0121] 20 processing units

[0122] 22 Flow Ports

[0123] 24 drive rollers

[0124] 26 clamping rollers

[0125] 30 sensors

[0126] 32 air intakes

[0127] 36 Inlet

[0128] 38. Water outlet

[0129] 40 sliders

[0130] 42 Ventilation openings

[0131] 44 Pressure Chamber

[0132] 46. ​​Inlet valve opening

[0133] 48. Outlet valve opening

[0134] 50 pieces

[0135] 52 Air-side diaphragm

[0136] 54 Water-side diaphragm

[0137] 56, 58 Housing components

[0138] 60 Housing

[0139] 62 rods

[0140] 64 Cylindrical main body

[0141] 66 Opening

[0142] 68 Intermediate Room

[0143] 70 Water Chamber

[0144] 72 Air Pressure Control Unit

[0145] 74, 74′ Sleeve-shaped circumferential part D diameter

[0146] X longitudinal axis

[0147] Pressure in the Pc pressure chamber

[0148] Pressure in the water chambers Pw, Pw1, and Pw2 Detailed Implementation

[0149] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 The flow control system 2 of the present invention is shown in the figure. Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The diagram shows the configuration of the flow control system 2, in which the intestine 8 is suspended on the tubular member 10 of the processing unit 20 including the flow control system 2.

[0150] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a flow control system 2 according to the present invention is shown, which is used to regulate the flow rate of a processing unit 20 configured to detect the diameter D of an intestinal 8.

[0151] The processing unit 20 is configured to detect the diameter D of the intestine 8, which is suspended on a tubular member 10 having a perforated portion configured to distribute the flow of liquid 6 through the perforated portion and thereby pressurize the intestine 8. Therefore, the detected diameter can be used to classify the intestine 8 and cut it into pieces. The tubular member 10 can be formed as a metal tube. The perforated portion can be created by providing multiple slots or holes in the metal tube.

[0152] The tubular member 10 extends horizontally. The processing unit 20 includes two drive rollers 24. At least one drive roller 24 includes a circumferential track configured to engage with the tubular member 10.

[0153] At least one drive roller 24 is arranged and configured to move the intestine 8 along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 10 at a non-zero speed V. Accordingly, at least one drive roller 24 is connected to a motor (not shown). Therefore, the drive roller 24 is able to pull the intestine 8 to the right of the drive roller 24, and thereby move the intestine at a speed V, such as... Figure 1 As shown.

[0154] In a preferred embodiment, the drive rollers 24 are shaped in the same manner so that both drive rollers 24 include a circumferential track configured to engage with the tubular member 10.

[0155] Processing unit 20 includes two clamping rollers 26 arranged in a clamping configuration, wherein the intestine 8 is clamped by the clamping rollers 26.

[0156] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the processing unit 20 shown, the diameter D is detected by inflating the intestine 8 with water or other liquid. An optical sensor 30 is arranged to detect the diameter D of the intestine 8.

[0157] Valve 4 is connected to a first end of tubular member 10. The other end of tubular member 10 tapers and is configured to receive inlet 8. Valve 4 includes a flow port 22 connected to tubular member 10. Valve 4 includes an inlet connected to inlet pipe 16. Similarly, valve 4 includes an outlet 18 connected to outlet pipe 18.

[0158] In one embodiment, inlet pipe 16 is connected to a water source. In another embodiment, inlet pipe 16 is connected to a water storage device (e.g., a water tank).

[0159] In one embodiment, outlet pipe 18 is connected to drain pipe.

[0160] In one embodiment, the flow control system 2 includes a suction device connected to the outlet pipe 18. Therefore, excess liquid can be drawn out from the valve 4 in a very rapid manner.

[0161] Valve 4 must be configured to allow for rapid regulation of the water flow for inflating the intestine 8. When the diameter D of the intestine 8 increases, water flows from valve 4 into tubular member 10 to inflate the intestine 8. When the diameter D of the intestine 8 decreases, liquid 6 (e.g., water) flows from the intestine 8 into flow port 22 of valve 4 through tubular member 10.

[0162] The inlet pipe 16 can be connected to a water storage tank. In principle, the outlet pipe 18 can be connected to a water tank so that water can be reused to inflate the intestine 8. However, under normal circumstances, excess liquid in the intestine 8 is drained.

[0163] In one embodiment, valve 4 includes a pressure chamber pressurized by air. In this embodiment, valve 4 is configured to regulate flow rate based on air pressure. Therefore, valve 4 is controlled by regulating air pressure through a pneumatic control unit 72 connected to the air inlet 32 ​​of valve 4, valve 4 including a housing 60 composed of several housing components.

[0164] The processing unit 20 is designed to process an intestine 8 having an open end. In one embodiment, the processing unit 20 includes a conductive tubular member 10. The tubular member 10 has a perforated portion and is configured to distribute the flow of a liquid (such as water) through the perforated portion. The tubular member 10 is arranged and configured to receive the open end of the intestine 8, thereby suspending the intestine 8 on the tubular member 10 and pressurizing the intestine 8 with the liquid.

[0165] The processing unit 20 includes two clamping rollers 26, which are configured as a clamping structure, and the intestine 8 is clamped by the clamping rollers 26.

[0166] The distal end of the tubular member 10 is arranged between the drive roller 24 and the clamping roller 26. The processing unit 20 includes a detection unit 2 according to the invention. The detection unit 2 is disposed between the drive roller 24 and the clamping roller 26.

[0167] Each clamping roller 26 is partially covered by a screen 36. The screen 36 is preferably made of a non-conductive material (e.g., plastic). The processing unit 20 includes a detection unit configured to detect leakage holes in the intestine 8 suspended on the tubular member as the intestine 8 moves at a non-zero velocity V along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 10. The detection unit includes conductive and axially extending sleeve-shaped surrounding portions 74, 74', configured to enter another configuration (e.g., Figure 2 As shown in the figure, the surrounding portion surrounds the circumference of the tubular member 10.

[0168] The detection unit includes circuitry arranged and configured to measure electrical quantities, such as resistance or current, established between the surrounding portion and the tubular member 10.

[0169] The lowermost drive roller 24 and the lowermost clamping roller 26 are slidably mounted on the slide bar 17 so as to easily adjust the horizontal position of rollers 24 and 26.

[0170] exist Figure 2 According to the present invention, the intestine 8 is suspended on an intestinal detector 38. The intestinal detector 38 includes a first end detector 40 and a second end detector 40', the second end detector being disposed at a non-zero distance from the first end detector. The intestinal detector 38 includes an intermediate detector 42 disposed between and at a distance from each end detector 40, 40'; in such a configuration, the intermediate detector 42 is electrically connected to any part of the intestine suspended on the end detectors 40, 40' and extending between the first end detector 40 and the second end detector 40'.

[0171] Each end detector 40, 40' is shaped to receive and hold the intestine suspended on the end detector 40, 40'; the end detectors 40, 40' have the same geometry. The end detectors 40, 40' include hook-shaped portions. However, the intermediate detector has a straight distal portion extending between the first end detector 40 and the second end detector 40'.

[0172] End detectors 40, 40' extend through a mounting box, which includes electrical connection structures for connecting circuitry configured to perform one or more electrical measurements by means of detectors 40, 40', 42.

[0173] The intestine 8 is supported by and suspended from the tubular member 10. Furthermore, the intestine 8 is pressurized by water from the tubular member 10 and thus expands. The intestine 8 is held by clamping roller 26 in a first position and by drive roller 24 in another position.

[0174] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a valve 4 according to a flow control system based on the present invention is shown. The valve 4 includes a housing 60 having a first housing component 56 and a second housing component 58 attached to each other by bolts. The first housing component 56 includes an internal space. A slider 40 is slidably disposed within the internal space of the first housing component 56. Therefore, the slider can move along the longitudinal axis X of the valve 4. The slider 40 has a cylindrical body portion 64, which is provided with a series of openings 66 along the circumference of the central portion of the cylindrical body.

[0175] Inlet 36 and outlet 38 are arranged adjacent to each other. Inlet 36 extends from inlet valve opening 46 located in the internal space to the outer periphery of the first housing member 56. Similarly, outlet 38 extends from outlet valve opening 48 located in the internal space to the outer periphery of the first housing member 56. Thus, these ports 36, 38 are configured to establish fluid communication between the internal space and external pipes connected to inlet 36 and outlet 38 respectively, allowing water to flow between the internal space and valve openings 46, 48 respectively when slider 40 is positioned.

[0176] A water chamber 70 is provided at the proximal end of the internal space. The water chamber 70 is in fluid communication with the internal space, as well as the water inlet 36, the water outlet 38, and the flow port 22.

[0177] A pressure chamber 44 is provided in the second housing component 58. An intermediate chamber 68 is provided between the pressure chamber 44 and the plate 50, from which the rod 62 protrudes. The intermediate chamber 68 is connected to the surrounding environment via a vent 42. Therefore, the pressure in the intermediate chamber 68 corresponds to the ambient pressure. By increasing the pressure Pc in the pressure chamber 44, the rod 62 can be moved.

[0178] Valve 4 includes an air-side diaphragm 52 that separates the central portion of pressure chamber 44 from intermediate chamber 68. Therefore, the pressure gradient between pressure chamber 44 and intermediate chamber 68 determines the magnitude and direction of the force exerted by the air-side diaphragm 52 against the rod 62. Since the rod 62 is part of a plate 50 mechanically attached to a slider 40, the force from the air-side diaphragm 52 to the rod 62 moves the slider 40 along the longitudinal axis X of valve 4. Water in water chamber 70 presses against the water-side diaphragm 54 and the plate 50 it covers. Therefore, the position and movement of the slider 40 along the longitudinal axis X of valve 4 are influenced by the force applied to the slider 40.

[0179] The valve 4 operates based on the equivalent relationship between the forces acting on the air-side diaphragm 52 and the water-side diaphragm 54, respectively. In one embodiment, the ratio of the pressure to the product of the pressure area is 1:33.

[0180] If the pressure in water chamber 70 is too low, slider 40 will be pushed to the left. The inlet valve opening 46 is opened by aligning opening 66 with the inlet valve opening 46. Water then flows into valve 4 through inlet 36.

[0181] As the pressure in water chamber 70 increases, the force on plate 50 increases until the forces acting on air-side diaphragm 52 and water-side diaphragm 54 become equal, and slider 40 moves to... Figure 2 The center position is shown, thus closing the inlet valve opening 46.

[0182] If the water pressure increases further, slider 40 will be pushed to the right. In this case, slider 40 is positioned such that even if outlet valve opening 48 is open, excess water will flow out from valve 4 through outlet 38.

[0183] When the pressure in water chamber 70 drops to the equal level, slider 40 is pushed back to the center position. At this time, slider 40 closes the inlet 36 and outlet 38.

[0184] Valve 4 is designed to accommodate high flow rates at low pressure.

[0185] Therefore, the inlet 36 and outlet 38 must be relatively large in order to reduce flow resistance.

Claims

1. A method for controlling the inflow and outflow of liquid (6) into and from a tubular member (10), the tubular member (10) including a perforated portion configured to distribute a flow rate of liquid (6) having a predefined fixed liquid pressure (Pw) through the perforated portion, thereby pressurizing an intestinal (8) suspended on the tubular member (10), the method comprising the step of controlling the flow of liquid (6) such that the pressure of the liquid (6) in the tubular member (10) is maintained within a predefined pressure range of Pw1-Pw2, characterized in that, The method includes the step of applying a flow regulating valve (4), the flow regulating valve comprising: - Inlet (36) for allowing liquid (6) to enter the flow regulating valve (4); - Outlet (38) for discharging liquid (6) from the flow regulating valve (4); -Flow port (22) is in fluid communication with tubular component (10); A flow regulating component (62) is in fluid communication with the flow port (22), and the flow regulating component (62) is configured and positioned such that: a) In the first configuration, liquid (6) can flow into the flow regulating valve (4) from the inlet (36), and no liquid can be discharged through the outlet (38); b) Second configuration, liquid (6) from flow regulating valve (4) can be discharged through outlet (38), and liquid (6) from inlet (36) cannot flow into flow regulating valve (4). - An air-side diaphragm (52) is connected to the flow regulating member (62), such that movement of the air-side diaphragm (52) causes movement of the flow regulating member (62) and - A water-side diaphragm (54) is connected to the flow regulating member (62) such that movement of the water-side diaphragm (54) causes movement of the flow regulating member (62), the method comprising the step of applying a predefined force to the air-side diaphragm (52) by a force generating unit.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method includes the step of applying a flow regulating valve (4), comprising: - A slidably arranged flow regulating component (62) is arranged in a water chamber (70) filled with pressurized liquid; - A water-side diaphragm (54), disposed in the water chamber (70) and connected to the flow regulating member (62), such that the water-side diaphragm (54) allows the flow regulating member (62) to: a) Moving along the longitudinal axis of the flow regulating member (62) in the first direction, thereby increasing the volume in the water chamber (70) and b) Moving in the opposite direction along the longitudinal axis of the flow regulating member (62) thereby reducing the volume in the water chamber (70), The method includes the step of providing a force to the slidably arranged flow regulating member (62) by means of a force generating unit, the force generating unit being arranged and configured to provide a predefined force to move the slidably arranged flow regulating member (62) in a predefined direction.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The force generating unit is integrated into the flow regulating valve (4).

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The force generating unit includes an air-side diaphragm (52), and the flow regulating valve (4) includes a pressure chamber (44) for containing gas, the pressure chamber being separated from the rest of the flow regulating valve (4) by the air-side diaphragm (52).

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The liquid in the water chamber (70) is separated from the remainder of the flow control valve (4) through the water-side diaphragm (54). The slider (40) is slidably arranged in the internal space of the flow control valve (4). The air-side diaphragm (52) and the water-side diaphragm (54) are arranged and configured such that the gas in the pressure chamber (44) provides pressure, forcing the air-side diaphragm (52) to press against the slider (40), and the water in the water chamber (70) provides pressure, forcing the water-side diaphragm (54) to press against the slider (40) in the opposite direction to the air-side diaphragm (52).

6. The method according to any one of claims 4-5, characterized in that, An intermediate chamber (68) is provided between the water-side diaphragm (54) and the air-side diaphragm (52).

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method includes the step of maintaining a pressure corresponding to the ambient pressure in an intermediate chamber (68).

8. A flow control system (2) for controlling the inflow of liquid (6) into and outflow from a tubular member (10), the tubular member (10) including a perforated portion configured to distribute the flow rate of liquid (6) having a predefined fixed liquid pressure (Pw) through the perforated portion, and thereby pressurizing an intestinal (8) suspended on the tubular member (10), characterized in that, The flow control system (2) includes a flow regulating valve (4), which includes: - Inlet (36) for allowing liquid (6) to enter the flow regulating valve (4); - Outlet (38) for discharging liquid (6) from the flow regulating valve (4); -Flow port (22) is in fluid communication with tubular component (10); A flow regulating component (62) is in fluid communication with the flow port (22), and the flow regulating component (62) is configured and positioned such that: a) In the first configuration, liquid (6) can flow into the flow regulating valve (4) from the inlet (36), and no liquid is discharged through the outlet (38); b) Second configuration, liquid (6) from flow regulating valve (4) can be discharged through outlet (38), and liquid (6) from inlet (36) cannot flow into flow regulating valve (4). - An air-side diaphragm (52) is connected to a flow regulating member (62), such that movement of the air-side diaphragm (52) causes movement of the flow regulating member (62); - The water-side diaphragm (54) is connected to the flow regulating member (62) in such a way that the movement of the water-side diaphragm (54) causes the flow regulating member (62) to move. - A force generating unit configured to provide a predetermined force to the air-side diaphragm (52).

9. The flow control system (2) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The flow regulating valve (4) includes: - A slidably arranged flow regulating component (62) is arranged in a water chamber (70) filled with liquid; - A water-side diaphragm (54), disposed in the water chamber (70) and connected to the flow regulating member (62), such that the water-side diaphragm (54) allows the flow regulating member (62) to: a) Moving along the longitudinal axis of the flow regulating member (62) in the first direction, thereby increasing the volume in the water chamber (70) and b) Moving in the opposite direction along the longitudinal axis of the flow regulating member (62) thereby reducing the volume in the water chamber (70), The flow control system (2) includes a force generating unit arranged and configured to provide a predetermined force to move a slidably arranged flow regulating member (62) in a predefined direction. The force generating unit is configured to control the flow of liquid (6) in such a way that the pressure of the liquid (6) in the tubular member (10) is maintained within a predefined pressure range of Pw1-Pw2.

10. The flow control system (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The force generating unit is integrated into the flow regulating valve (4).

11. The flow control system (2) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The force generating unit includes an air-side diaphragm (52), and the flow regulating valve (4) includes a pressure chamber (44) for containing gas, the pressure chamber being separated from the rest of the flow regulating valve (4) by the air-side diaphragm (52).

12. The flow control system (2) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The liquid in the water chamber (70) is separated from the remainder of the flow control valve (4) through the water-side diaphragm (54). The slider (40) is slidably arranged in the internal space of the flow control valve (4). The air-side diaphragm (52) and the water-side diaphragm (54) are arranged and configured such that the gas in the pressure chamber (44) provides pressure, forcing the air-side diaphragm (52) to press against the slider (40), and the water in the water chamber (70) provides pressure, forcing the water-side diaphragm (54) to press against the slider (40) in the opposite direction to the air-side diaphragm (52).

13. The flow control system (2) according to claim 12, characterized in that, An intermediate chamber (68) is provided between the water-side diaphragm (54) and the air-side diaphragm (52).

14. The flow control system (2) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The intermediate chamber (68) is in fluid communication with the surrounding environment through the ventilation opening (42).

15. The flow control system (2) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The ratio of the pressure and area product of the air-side diaphragm (52) and the water-side diaphragm (54) is R:1, where R is between 20 and 50.

16. The flow control system (2) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The flow control system (2) includes a pressure control unit (72) and a pressure chamber (44) includes an air inlet (32) for allowing air to flow between the pressure chamber (44) and the pressure control unit (72).

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