Pressure reducer

Abstract

A pressure reducer (100) for reducing fluid pressure includes a pressure reducer body (110) defining at least one pressure reducer chamber (120). The pressure reducer chamber (120) includes an inlet section (122) and an outlet section (124) fluidly connected to the inlet section (122). The pressure reducer chamber (110) also includes a spring-operated piston rod (121), a sealing element (128) operatively coupled to the piston rod (121), and a valve (129). The valve (129) opens and closes due to the rocking motion of the piston rod (121). Furthermore, a sealing element (130) is disposed between the valve (129) and the piston rod (121). The pressure reducer (100) is characterized in that the valve (129) defines a sealing seat (139) for the sealing element (130), and the piston rod (121) is radially sealed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a pressure reducer. More specifically, this disclosure relates to an improved design of a pressure reducer that allows for efficient operation of the pressure reducer. Background Technology

[0002] Pressure regulators are found in many common domestic and industrial applications. For example, they are used to regulate propane in gas grills, natural gas in domestic furnaces, oxygen and anesthetic gases in medical and dental equipment, compressed air in pneumatic automation systems, fuel in engines, and irrigation in gardening systems, among others. As this partial list indicates, pressure regulators have many applications; however, in each of these applications, they provide the same function. A pressure regulator reduces the supply (or inlet) pressure to a lower outlet pressure and maintains this outlet pressure despite fluctuations in the inlet pressure. The reduction of the inlet pressure to a lower outlet pressure is a key characteristic of pressure regulators.

[0003] The pressure reducer includes a spring-operated hollow piston rod, a diaphragm operatively connected to the piston rod, a valve, and a sealing element disposed within the pressure reducer chamber between the piston rod and the valve along the axial direction of the pressure reducer. The valve opens and closes due to the axial rocking motion of the piston rod within the pressure reducer chamber. The valve closes when the piston rod contacts the planar sealing surface of the sealing element. However, during the contact between the piston rod and the sealing element, vibration or pulsation frequently occurs in this arrangement of the pressure reducer, potentially leading to undesirable noise, leakage, and a decrease in the overall efficiency of the pressure reducer.

[0004] U.S. Patent 10,906,052 (hereinafter referred to as '052 Reference) provides a pressure regulator. '052 Reference provides a pressure regulator comprising a housing having an inlet cap and an outlet cap, the inlet cap having an inlet flow channel and the outlet cap having an outlet flow channel. A plunger is reciprocally mounted in the housing. A fixed regulating seat is disposed between the inlet flow channel and the inlet of the plunger. When the plunger moves to contact the regulating seat, the plunger is sealed to temporarily block the inlet flow. However, there remains a need for a simple and improved pressure regulator design that can improve the overall efficiency of the pressure regulator and substantially reduce or eliminate disadvantages such as vibration, as described above.

[0005] Another pressure regulator is disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,257,646A (hereinafter referred to as '646 Reference'). '646 Reference discloses a flow-through type flow regulator having an inlet located at one end of an upstream section and an outlet located at the distal end of a downstream section. Within the upstream section of the regulator housing, a replaceable plastic regulator seat is mounted, having a tapered central portion and an annular seat surface. A regulator plunger slides or reciprocates within the flow regulator housing. One end of the plunger is formed with a tapered edge to ensure precise contact with the seat surface. The plunger can slide within the flow regulator from a first open position to a second closed position, in which the lower edge of the plunger is positioned on the seat surface. Furthermore, the flow regulator includes a flexible diaphragm. At all times, the upstream end of the chamber is always sealed by the diaphragm. In the first open position, fluid flows around the seat from the inlet section toward the outlet section through the regulator, and through the plunger and the outlet section. Therefore, reference '646 explicitly discloses the axial seal between the lower edge of the plunger and the seat surface of the regulator seat. However, a simple and improved pressure reducer design is still needed, which can improve the overall efficiency of the pressure reducer and substantially reduce or eliminate disadvantages such as vibration, as described above. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of the foregoing, the object of the present invention is to solve or at least reduce the aforementioned disadvantages. This object is achieved at least in part by a pressure reducer for reducing fluid pressure. The pressure reducer includes a pressure reducer body that defines at least one pressure reducer chamber along a central axis. The pressure reducer chamber includes an inlet section and an outlet section fluidly connected to the inlet section, such that the inlet section and outlet section allow fluid to enter and exit, respectively. The pressure reducer chamber also includes a spring-operated piston rod, a sealing element operatively connected to the piston rod in the pressure reducer chamber to prevent fluid leakage from the outlet section back into the pressure reducer chamber, and a valve. The valve opens and closes due to the rocking motion of the piston rod and is connected to the inlet section of the pressure reducer chamber. Furthermore, a sealing element is disposed between the valve and the piston rod, wherein the piston rod is configured to stop the supply of fluid by engaging with the sealing element of the valve. The pressure reducer is characterized in that the valve defines a sealing seat for the sealing element, wherein the sealing element rests on the sealing seat, and when the piston rod stops the supply of fluid, the piston rod is radially sealed by the sealing element to prevent fluid from entering the piston rod.

[0007] Therefore, this disclosure provides an improved pressure reducer with a simple structure and easy installation. By radially sealing the piston rod, a seal that improves only the shaft seal as known in the prior art is achieved. The pressure reducer with its novel design slowly reduces the fluid volume from the inlet section to zero.

[0008] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, at least one of the sealing seat and the sealing element has a non-uniform geometry, making the piston rod suitable for sealing in a staged manner. The resulting gradual reduction in flow prevents pressure shocks and vibrations in the pressure regulator, thereby improving the efficiency and service life of the pressure regulator.

[0009] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the sealing edge of the piston rod's contact sealing element is a sharp edge. The sharp edge of the piston rod can reduce noise during the operation of the pressure reducer.

[0010] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the sealing edge of the piston rod that contacts the sealing element is a blunt edge. The blunt edge of the piston rod can prevent damage to the sealing element due to its circular profile when the sealing edge contacts or engages with the sealing element. Furthermore, the blunt edge of the piston rod can prevent or at least reduce turbulence of the fluid flowing through the pressure reducer.

[0011] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the sealing edge has a non-uniform geometry. This non-uniform geometry allows the piston rod to gradually seal there by preventing vibration of the pressure regulator during operation.

[0012] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the valve is threadedly engaged with the pressure regulator body. The valve can be easily and conveniently engaged with the pressure regulator body. Furthermore, the threaded engagement allows the valve to be easily moved along the longitudinal direction of the pressure regulator according to the application requirements of the pressure regulator.

[0013] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the pressure reducer produces a constant output pressure of 4 bar. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the pressure reducer produces a constant output pressure of 1.5 bar. The constant output pressure can be predetermined and preset during the manufacture of the pressure reducer according to the application requirements. For example, a constant output pressure of 1.5 bar is very suitable for, and optimal for, the operation of drippers and nozzles used in horticultural operations.

[0014] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the pressure reducer is used for drip irrigation. The pressure reducer of this disclosure is applied to horticultural operations, such as, but not limited to, drip irrigation. However, the pressure reducer of this disclosure is not limited to its application area. The pressure reducer can be conveniently and effectively used in any domestic or industrial application.

[0015] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the sealing element is a diaphragm. The diaphragm transmits excess fluid pressure at the outlet section to the piston rod for the downward stroke of the piston rod. Furthermore, the diaphragm allows for connection between the sealing flange and the pressure regulator body. The reusability or application of the diaphragm means that a separate sealing element such as an O-ring is not required for the seal. Therefore, the pressure regulator is easy to assemble with all its necessary components or accessories, and has the further advantage of lower manufacturing costs due to the fewer parts or materials required to assemble or manufacture the pressure regulator.

[0016] Other features and aspects of the invention will be apparent from the following description and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0018] Figure 1 A perspective view of a pressure reducer assembly according to one aspect of this disclosure is shown;

[0019] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a pressure reducer assembly according to one aspect of this disclosure is shown;

[0020] Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of a valve assembly according to one aspect of this disclosure is shown;

[0021] Figure 3B A perspective view of a valve and sealing element according to one aspect of this disclosure is shown;

[0022] Figure 3C A perspective view of a valve assembly according to one aspect of this disclosure is shown;

[0023] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a pressure reducer according to one aspect of this disclosure is shown;

[0024] Figures 5A to 5C The various stages of the gradual sealing of the piston rod according to one aspect of this disclosure are shown;

[0025] Figures 6A to 6E Various non-uniform geometries of the sealing seat according to one aspect of this disclosure are shown; and

[0026] Figures 7A to 7B Various non-uniform geometries of sealing elements according to one aspect of this disclosure are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention incorporating one or more aspects thereof are illustrated. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. For example, one or more aspects of the invention may be used in other embodiments, and even in other types of structures and / or methods. In the drawings, the same numerals denote the same elements.

[0028] Certain terms are used herein for convenience only and should not be considered as limiting the invention. For example, “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” “side,” “longitudinal,” “lateral,” “transverse,” “upward,” “downward,” “forward,” “backward,” “left,” “right,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “inner,” “outer,” “inward,” “outer,” “top,” “bottom,” “higher,” “above,” “below,” “center,” “middle,” “between,” “end,” “adjacent,” “near,” “far,” “radial,” “circumferential,” etc., describe only the constructions shown in the figures. In practice, components may be oriented in any direction, and therefore, the terms should be understood to cover such variations unless otherwise specified.

[0029] Figure 1 A pressure reducer 100 is shown. The pressure reducer 100 of this disclosure is used to reduce the fluid pressure of fluids intended for drip irrigation or other gardening operations. However, the pressure reducer 100 of this disclosure is not limited to its application areas. The pressure reducer 100 can be conveniently and effectively used in any other domestic or industrial application.

[0030] Furthermore, the fluid used with the pressure reducer 100 can be a liquid (such as water) or a gas (such as air), depending on the application requirements of the pressure reducer 100. The fluid can be selectively supplied by a fluid source (not shown) at a pressure equal to or greater than the output pressure requirement of the application using the pressure reducer 100.

[0031] The fluid source can advantageously be equipped with valves, for example, to regulate the flow of fluid from the fluid source. Furthermore, the fluid source can be equipped with automatically operable accessories that can automatically regulate the flow of fluid from the fluid source. For example, when the fluid is water, the fluid source can be equipped with a water supply computer. The water supply computer can allow and regulate the flow of water from the fluid source (or water source) based on factors such as the time of day and preset water outflow timing.

[0032] The fluid source may be fluidly connected to the pressure reducer 100 via a hose or any other means known and understood in the relevant art, without limiting the scope of this disclosure. In some embodiments, the fluid source may be fluidly connected to multiple pressure reducers 100 via a fluid distributor (which is typically available in the relevant art).

[0033] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the pressure reducer 100 includes a pressure reducer body 110. The pressure reducer body 110 of this disclosure is a cylindrical body having a central axis X-X' along the longitudinal direction of the pressure reducer 100. However, in practical implementations of this disclosure, the pressure reducer body 110 may have any other shape without limiting the scope of this disclosure. The pressure reducer body 110 may be made of brass, plastic, and aluminum. Various grades of stainless steel (e.g., 303, 304, and 316) may also be used to manufacture the pressure reducer body 110. However, any other material suitable for handling various fluids and operating environments may be used to make or manufacture the pressure reducer body 110. Furthermore, without limiting the scope of this disclosure, any suitable manufacturing process may be used to manufacture the pressure reducer body 110.

[0034] The pressure reducer body 110 defines at least one pressure reducer chamber 120 along a central axis X-X'. The pressure reducer chamber 120 includes an inlet section 122 and an outlet section 124 fluidly connected to the inlet section 122, such that the inlet section 122 and the outlet section 124 allow fluid to enter and exit, respectively. The inlet section 122 is defined along a central axis Y-Y', and the outlet section 124 is defined along a central axis Z-Z'. In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the central axes Y-Y', Z-Z', and X-X' coincide with each other along the longitudinal direction of the pressure reducer 100. In some embodiments, the central axes Y-Y', Z-Z', and X-X' may be parallel to each other, but do not necessarily have to coincide with each other. In some embodiments, the central axes Y-Y', Z-Z', and X-X' may have any other angular orientation relative to each other or relative to the longitudinal direction of the pressure reducer 100, without limiting the scope of this disclosure in any way.

[0035] Inlet section 122 is fluidly connected to a fluid source via coupling nipple 126, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown. The coupling 126 can be advantageously designed such that it selectively allows fluid to pass through (receive from a fluid source) only when it is fluidly connected to the inlet section 122 of the pressure regulator 100. This design of the coupling 126 substantially prevents fluid leakage when the pressure regulator 100 is not in operation or not in use. In some embodiments, the inlet section 122 can be hermetically coupled to the coupling 126. This seal can be provided by a gasket, O-ring, or any other known and readily available sealing device (or sealing element).

[0036] The inlet section 122 also includes a threaded portion 123, such that the threaded portion 123 engages threadedly with the complementary threaded portion 127 of the coupling joint 126. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the inlet section 122 and the coupling joint 126 are threadedly engaged or connected to each other. However, in a practical implementation of this disclosure, the fluid connection between the inlet section 122 and the coupling joint 126 can be achieved by any suitable means known and understood in the relevant art.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, such as Figure 2 As shown, the inlet section 122 also includes a filter element 125. The filter element 125 is operatively coupled to the inlet section 122 such that it filters the fluid received from the fluid source before it enters the pressure regulator chamber 120. The filter element 125 prevents clogging of the inlet section 122, thereby promoting smooth operation of the pressure regulator 100. The filter element 125 can be coupled to the inlet section 122 in any manner known in the art. For example, the filter element 125 can be glued to the inlet section.

[0038] Furthermore, the filter element 125 can have any shape, size, and type, depending on the application requirements. In some embodiments, the filter element 125 can be a surface filter made of tightly woven fabric or treated paper with uniform pore size. Fluid from a fluid source flows through the pores of the filter element 125, causing contaminants to be trapped on the surface of the filter element. In some embodiments, the filter element 125 can be a depth filter made of layers of fabric or fibers, providing numerous tortuous paths for fluid flow. The pores or channels are larger than the rated size of the filter element 125 so that particles are retained in the depth of the medium rather than on the surface. In some embodiments, the filter element 125 can be 5-micron, woven mesh, micron-scale, porous metal, or magnetic types. Micron-scale and 5-micron elements have non-washable filter media and can be discarded when removed, while porous metal, woven mesh, and magnetic filter elements are designed to be washed and reused.

[0039] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the inlet section 122 of the pressure regulator chamber 120 includes a valve 129. The valve 129 can be made of plastic or any other suitable valve material conventionally used in the relevant field. The valve 129 selectively allows fluid from a fluid source through the pressure regulator chamber 120. The valve 129 selectively allows and blocks fluid flow via the inlet section 122. The valve 129 selectively allows fluid to flow to the outlet section 124, for example, to maintain a constant output pressure of the pressure regulator 100.

[0040] Valve 129 is located downstream of filter element 125 in the direction of fluid flow. In some embodiments, valve 129 may be located inside filter element 125. In some embodiments, valve 129 may be at least partially located within filter element. The position of valve 129 relative to filter element 125 prevents contamination of the valve by the filter element. Filter element 125 prevents valve 129 from being exposed to foreign elements (mixing with fluid received from the fluid source) to improve the life and service life of valve 129.

[0041] Valve 129 can be connected to the inlet section 122 or the pressure regulator chamber 120 of the pressure regulator body 110 by any suitable means known in the art. However, in a preferred embodiment, valve 129 is connected to the pressure regulator body 110 in a form-fit manner. Valve 129 is screwed or threaded into the inlet section 122 of the pressure regulator chamber 120. Valve 129 is threaded into the pressure regulator body 110. Valve 129 (e.g. Figures 3A to 3C As shown, the valve 129 includes a fourth threaded portion 142, and the inlet 122 of the pressure chamber 120 includes a fifth threaded portion 143, such that the fourth threaded portion 142 and the fifth threaded portion 143 have the same pitch. The valve 129 is screwed or threaded into the inlet section 122 by means of the fourth threaded portion 142 and the fifth threaded portion 143.

[0042] The threaded or threaded connection between valve 129 and inlet section 122 allows valve 129 to move relative to the inlet section along the longitudinal direction of pressure regulator 100, depending on the application requirements of pressure regulator 100. Movement of valve 129 along the longitudinal direction of pressure regulator 100 can also help regulate the constant output pressure generated by pressure regulator 100.

[0043] In some embodiments, valve 129 may be along the central axis X-X' of pressure reducer body 110. In some embodiments, valve 129 may be along the central axis Y-Y' of inlet section 122. In some embodiments, valve 129 may be parallel to the central axis X-X' of pressure reducer body 110. In some embodiments, valve 129 may be offset relative to the central axis X-X' of pressure reducer body 110. In some embodiments, valve 129 may be at an angle to the central axis X-X' of pressure reducer body 110. In some embodiments, valve 129 may be parallel to the central axis Y-Y' of inlet section 122. In some embodiments, valve 129 may be offset relative to the central axis Y-Y' of inlet section 122. In some embodiments, valve 129 may be at an angle to the central axis Y-Y' of inlet section 122. Valve 129 may have any suitable orientation relative to the longitudinal direction of pressure reducer 100 without limiting the scope of this disclosure in any way.

[0044] like Figure 2 , Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C As shown, valve 129 defines a U-shaped geometry. The U-shaped geometry allows for convenient adjustment of valve 129 along the longitudinal direction of pressure regulator 100. The U-shaped geometry allows for adjustment or movement of valve 129 without the need for tools used to regulate the constant output pressure generated by pressure regulator 100.

[0045] Valve 129 defines a sealing seat 139. In some embodiments, the sealing seat 139 may be integrally formed with valve 129. In some embodiments, the sealing seat 139 may be removably coupled to valve 129. In some embodiments, the sealing seat 139 may be in the form of a recess. In practical implementations of this disclosure, the sealing seat 139 may have any other form and arrangement without limiting the scope of this disclosure in any way.

[0046] Valve 129 also includes a sealing element 130. The sealing element 130 rests on a sealing seat 139 defined by valve 129. The sealing element 130 also moves with movement of valve 129. The sealing element 130 can be an O-ring or any other type of seal commonly available in the relevant art. The sealing element 130 is mounted on the sealing seat 139 of valve 129. The sealing element 130 is further supported by a bracket 141 formed with the sealing seat 139. The bracket 141 prevents the sealing element 130 from shifting due to factors such as fluid forces. The bracket 141 at least partially covers or compresses the sealing element 130 along the longitudinal direction of pressure regulator 100, such that the sealing element 130 maintains its position in the pressure regulator throughout the operation of pressure regulator 100. In some embodiments, the bracket 141 may be tapered. However, in practical implementations, the bracket 141 may have any other shape without limiting the scope of this disclosure in any way.

[0047] In some embodiments, the sealing element 130 may be a flat seal. However, in a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the sealing element 130 is a radial seal, i.e., it provides a seal for fluid in the radial direction.

[0048] Continue to refer to Figure 2The pressure reducing chamber 120 also includes a spring-operated piston rod 121. The piston rod 121 is a hollow rod that allows fluid with reduced pressure to pass through the pressure reducing chamber 100. The valve 129 opens and closes due to the rocking motion of the piston rod 121 within the pressure reducing chamber 120. Furthermore, a sealing element 130, as described above, is disposed between the valve 129 and the piston rod 121. The sealing edge 144 of the piston rod 121 contacting the sealing element 130 is a sharp edge. The sharp edge of the piston rod 121 reduces noise during the operation of the pressure reducing chamber 100. The sharp edge of the piston rod 121 reduces noise during the rocking motion of the piston rod 121. The sharp edge of the piston rod 121 reduces noise under conditions of high inlet pressure and low fluid flow. Additionally, the interior of the hollow piston rod 121 provides reinforcement for the sealing element 130.

[0049] In some embodiments, the sealing edge 144 of the piston rod 121 that contacts the sealing element 130 is a blunt edge. The blunt edge of the piston rod 121 prevents damage to the sealing element 130 due to its circular profile when the sealing edge 144 contacts or engages with the sealing element 130. Furthermore, the blunt edge of the piston rod 121 can prevent or at least reduce turbulence in the fluid flowing through the pressure reducer 100, which could cause an increase in flow velocity of up to 20%.

[0050] Spring 131 may be a compression spring or any other known type of spring commonly used to operate piston rod 121. In some embodiments, spring 131 may be wound along the outer peripheral surface of piston rod 121. In some embodiments, spring 131 may be a plurality of springs 131 equidistantly positioned along the outer peripheral surface of piston rod 121, such that the plurality of springs 131 are oriented along the longitudinal direction of pressure reducer 100. Spring 131 may have a strength sufficient to operate piston rod 121. Spring 131 may have a length sufficient to produce the strength required to operate piston rod 121. The strength of spring 131 may not exceed the strength required to operate piston rod 121, because a greater strength of spring 131 would result in a larger installation space for spring 131, and thus an unnecessarily larger size of pressure reducer 100.

[0051] Furthermore, the piston rod 121 may be concentric with the pressure reducer body 110 or the pressure reducer chamber 120. In some embodiments, depending on the operational feasibility of the pressure reducer 100, the piston rod 121 may have any other suitable orientation relative to the previously defined central axes X-X', Y-Y', and Z-Z'. The piston rod 121 of this disclosure is configured to oscillate substantially back and forth or exhibit a rocking motion within the pressure reducer chamber 120. The back-and-forth movement of the piston rod 121 is due to the differential force experienced by the piston rod 121. When the pressure at the outlet section 124 is greater than the pressure required by the application to which the pressure reducer 100 is intended, the piston rod 121 is forced to exhibit a downward stroke, i.e., toward the inlet section 122. Furthermore, when the pressure at the outlet section 124 is equal to the pressure required by the application to which the pressure reducer 100 is intended, the piston rod 121 exhibits an upward stroke, i.e., toward the outlet section 124.

[0052] A sealing element 128, operatively coupled to the piston rod 121 in the pressure regulator chamber 120, prevents fluid leakage from the outlet section 124 back into the pressure regulator chamber 120. The sealing element 128 can be a lip seal, an O-ring, or any other known type of sealing element 128 known and understood in the relevant art. However, in a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the sealing element 128 is a diaphragm. The diaphragm transmits excess fluid pressure at the outlet section 124 to the piston rod 121 for the downstroke of the piston rod 121. Furthermore, for the remainder of this disclosure, the sealing element 128 will be treated as a diaphragm.

[0053] The differential force experienced by piston rod 121 is due to the spring 131 and diaphragm operatively connected to piston rod 121 within pressure reducing chamber 120. The direction of movement of piston rod 121 at any given moment is determined by the direction of the net force generated by spring 131 and diaphragm on piston rod 121. For example, when the net force is in the upstream direction, piston rod 121 moves in the upstream direction because the force generated by the diaphragm is greater than the force generated by spring 131.

[0054] During the manufacture of the pressure reducer 100, the constant output pressure generated by the pressure reducer 100 can be adjusted by changing the initial distance or gap between the piston rod 121 and the sealing element 130. This gap can be changed without the aid of tools. For example, the constant output pressure can be predetermined and preset during the manufacture of the pressure reducer 100 according to the application requirements of the pressure reducer 100. Some applications may require a constant output pressure of 4 bar, while other applications, such as drippers and nozzles for gardening operations, may require a constant output pressure of 1.5 bar. Therefore, the initial distance or gap between the piston rod 121 and the sealing element 130 is increased to produce a constant output pressure of 4 bar, while it is relatively decreased to produce a constant output pressure of 1.5 bar.

[0055] Continue to refer to Figure 2 The pressure reducer body 110 includes a first threaded portion 112 on its outer surface facing the direction opposite to the pressure reducer chamber 120. The first threaded portion 112 can be used to connect the pressure reducer body 110 to other accessories of the pressure reducer 100. The pressure reducer body 110 also includes a pressure compensation hole 114 in the first threaded portion 112. The pressure compensation hole 114 ensures unrestricted movement of the piston rod 121. When the piston rod 121 moves upstream of the fluid flow in the pressure reducer 100, the pressure compensation hole 114 allows the release of air pressure generated in the pressure reducer chamber 120. When the piston rod 121 moves upstream of the fluid flow in the pressure reducer 100, the pressure compensation hole 114 allows air to escape from the pressure reducer chamber 120. Conversely, when the piston rod 121 moves downstream of the fluid flow in the pressure reducer 100, the pressure compensation hole 114 allows the suction of surrounding air (outside the pressure reducer 100).

[0056] In some embodiments, the pressure compensation hole 114 is a circular hole. The hole is preferably circular because it is easier to drill. Furthermore, it substantially prevents material waste compared to manufacturing or producing holes of other shapes. However, the hole can have any other suitable shape without limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0057] In some embodiments, a sealing element 133 is used to seal the air in the pressure regulator chamber 120 surrounding the spring-operated piston rod 121 from the valve 129. The sealing element 133 prevents the air in the pressure regulator chamber 120 from mixing with the fluid introduced into the pressure regulator 100 via the inlet section 122. The sealing element 133 may be an O-ring or any other commonly available sealing element known in the art, without limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0058] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Flange 132 is sealingly connected to pressure regulator body 110 such that the seal prevents fluid backflow through outlet section 124. Flange 132 is concentric with pressure regulator body 110. A diaphragm (or sealing element 128) seals the connection between flange 132 and pressure regulator body 110. The boundary or end of the diaphragm abuts or presses between flange 132 and pressure regulator body 110, thereby providing a fluid-impermeable seal. This fluid-impermeable seal is a result of the contact pressure applied to the diaphragm due to the connection between flange 132 and pressure regulator body 110.

[0059] The seal prevents or disallows fluid backflow through the outlet section 124, thereby eliminating any potential leakage and improving the overall efficiency of the pressure regulator 100. Furthermore, the repeated use or application of the diaphragm means that the seal does not require a separate sealing element such as an O-ring. Therefore, the pressure regulator 100 is easy to assemble with all its necessary parts or accessories, and a further advantage is lower manufacturing costs due to the fewer parts or materials required to assemble or manufacture the pressure regulator 100. Additionally, the fewer parts also reduce the pressure regulator's maintenance costs. Moreover, the seal prevents air from entering the outlet section 124, thereby preventing air drawn in from the compensation orifice from mixing with the fluid (such as a liquid).

[0060] Flange 132 has a second threaded portion 134 complementary to the first threaded portion 112, such that the pressure reducer body 110 and flange 132 are threadedly connected to each other via the first threaded portion 112 and the second threaded portion 134. Flange 132 also includes a third threaded portion 136. The third threaded portion 136 is formed on the outer surface of flange 132, opposite to the second threaded portion 134 formed on the inner surface of flange 132. The third threaded portion 136 faces pressure reducer body 110, while the second threaded portion 134 faces away from pressure reducer body 110 in the opposite direction.

[0061] The second threaded portion 134 connects the flange 132 to the pressure reducer body 110, while the third threaded portion 136 connects the flange 132 to the connector 138 (or fitting 138). The connector 138 completes the pressure reducer assembly and allows fluid with reduced pressure to be transported for various domestic and industrial applications. The connection between the flange 132 and the connector 138 is a threaded connection due to the threaded engagement of the third threaded portion 136 and the threaded portion 140 of the connector 138. However, in some embodiments, the connection between the flange 132 and the connector 138 may be due to any other connection method known and understood in the relevant art.

[0062] In some embodiments of the pressure reducer 100 disclosed herein, such as Figure 4 As shown, the sealing edge 144 of the piston rod 121, which internally contacts the sealing element 130, has a non-uniform geometry. This non-uniform geometry of the sealing edge 144 allows for gradual sealing of the piston rod 121, thereby preventing vibration of the pressure reducer 100 during operation. The non-uniform geometry of the sealing edge 144 may correspond to an angular geometry or any other known geometry, without limiting the scope of this disclosure in any way. Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5CThe diagram illustrates a progressive or staged seal of the piston rod 121. A portion of the sealing edge 144 of the piston rod 121 at least partially surrounds or engages the sealing element 130 before the remainder of the sealing edge 144. A portion of the sealing element 130 engages with the sealing edge 144 before the remainder of the sealing element 130.

[0063] Furthermore, in some implementations, such as Figures 6A to 6E and Figures 7A to 7B As shown, at least one of the sealing seat 139 and the sealing element 130 has a non-uniform geometry, making the piston rod 121 suitable for radial sealing in a staged manner. The seal between the sealing element 130 and the piston rod 121 occurs gradually. The sealing seat 139 can be formed as an inclined body, a semi-diagonal body, a V-shaped recess, a U-shaped recess, or a roof-shaped recess, respectively, as shown in... Figures 6A to 6E As shown. The shape of the sealing seat 139 can be selected from the stated shape, or any other non-uniform geometry, to prevent shocks, vibrations, and other benefits during operation of the pressure reducer 100. Alternatively, the sealing element 130 can be formed as an inclined or V-shaped body, or any other type of non-uniform body, as shown below. Figures 7A to 7B As shown.

[0064] The piston rod 121, having a non-uniform geometry, is combined with at least one of a sealing seat 139 and a sealing element 130, both having non-uniform geometries. This allows for a gradual radial seal between the piston rod 121 and the sealing element 130, preventing or eliminating shocks and vibrations when the piston rod 121 temporarily stops the flow of fluid from the inlet section 122 to the outlet section 124, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the pressure reducer 100. The non-uniform geometry of the piston rod 121, the sealing seat 139, or the sealing element 130 causes the volumetric flow rate to decrease slowly toward zero, preventing or eliminating shocks or vibrations within the pressure reducer 100.

[0065] In operation, fluid from a fluid source enters the pressure reducer 100 at high pressure from inlet section 122. The fluid is filtered using filter element 125 before reaching valve 129. Valve 129 selectively allows fluid to pass toward a spring-operated hollow piston rod 121. Fluid from piston rod 121 flows outward toward flange 132 and ultimately to connector 138 for various domestic and industrial applications.

[0066] The pressure of the high-pressure fluid from the fluid source is reduced by the oscillating or rocking motion of the piston rod 121 essentially within the pressure reducing chamber 120. The piston rod 121 oscillates to reduce the fluid pressure to a constant output pressure. The piston rod 121 temporarily stops or impedes the supply of fluid from the inlet section 122 to the outlet section 124. The supply of fluid is stopped by engaging the sealing element 130 of the valve 129. The sealing element 130 radially seals the piston rod 121 to prevent fluid from entering the piston rod 121.

[0067] When the piston rod 121 is squeezed upstream of the fluid flow by the diaphragm overcoming the spring force, the piston rod temporarily stops supplying fluid from the inlet section 122. Furthermore, as the fluid squeezes the diaphragm, it may also lose some energy, causing the diaphragm to further squeeze the piston rod 121, moving the piston rod upstream of the fluid flow. This reduces the high fluid pressure to the final output pressure.

[0068] Furthermore, when the fluid pressure near the output section 124 decreases to its final value, the spring 131 can overcome the force of the diaphragm, causing the piston rod 121 to move downstream toward its initial position. As discussed above, the pressure compensation orifice 114 assists in the oscillating motion of the piston rod 121.

[0069] Therefore, this disclosure provides an improved pressure regulator 100, which is simple in structure and easy to install. The pressure regulator 100, with its novel design, slowly reduces the fluid volume from the inlet section 122 to zero. This slow reduction in flow rate prevents pressure surges and vibrations in the pressure regulator 100, thereby improving the efficiency and service life of the pressure regulator 100.

[0070] Preferred embodiments and examples of the invention have been disclosed in the accompanying drawings and description, and although specific terminology has been used, it is used in a general and descriptive sense only and not to limit the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

[0071] Component list

[0072] 100 Pressure Reducer

[0073] 110 Pressure Reducer Body

[0074] 112 First thread section

[0075] 114 Pressure compensation hole

[0076] 120 Pressure Regulator Chamber

[0077] 121 Piston Rod

[0078] 122 Entrance section

[0079] 123 Threaded section

[0080] 124 Exit Section

[0081] 125 filter element

[0082] 126 Connecting joint

[0083] 127 Threaded portion

[0084] 128 Sealing components

[0085] 129 valve

[0086] 130 Sealing element

[0087] 131 Spring

[0088] 132 flange

[0089] 133 Sealing element

[0090] 134 Second thread section

[0091] 136 Third thread section

[0092] 138 connector / connector

[0093] 139 Sealing seat

[0094] 140 threaded portion

[0095] 141 bracket

[0096] 142 Fourth threaded section

[0097] 143 Fifth threaded section

[0098] 144 Sealing edge

[0099] X-X' central axis

[0100] Y-Y' central axis

[0101] Z-Z' central axis

Claims

1. A pressure reducer (100) for reducing fluid pressure, comprising: A pressure reducer body (110) defines at least one pressure reducer chamber (120) along a central axis (X-X'), the pressure reducer chamber (120) comprising: An inlet section (122) and an outlet section (124) fluidly connected to the inlet section (122) allow the fluid to enter and exit, respectively. Spring-operated piston rod (121); A sealing component (128) is operatively connected to the piston rod (121) in the pressure reducing chamber (120) to prevent fluid leakage from the outlet section (124) back into the pressure reducing chamber (120). A valve (129), wherein the valve (129) opens and closes due to the rocking motion of the piston rod (121), and wherein the valve (129) is connected to the inlet section (122) of the pressure reducing chamber (120); and A sealing element (130) is disposed between the valve (129) and the piston rod (121), wherein the piston rod (121) is configured to stop the supply of fluid by engaging with the sealing element (130) of the valve (129); Its features are: The valve (129) defines a sealing seat (139) for the sealing element (130), wherein the sealing element (130) rests on the sealing seat (139); and, When the piston rod (121) stops supplying fluid, the piston rod (121) is radially sealed by the sealing element (130) to prevent fluid from entering the piston rod (121), wherein at least one of the sealing seat (139) and the sealing element (130) has a non-uniform geometry, such that the piston rod (121) is adapted to be sealed in a staged manner.

2. The pressure reducer (100) according to claim 1. in, The sealing edge (144) of the piston rod (121) that contacts the sealing element (130) is a sharp edge.

3. The pressure reducer (100) according to claim 1. in, The sealing edge (144) of the piston rod (121) that contacts the sealing element (130) is a blunt edge.

4. The pressure reducer (100) according to claim 2 or 3. in, The sealing edge (144) has an uneven geometry.

5. The pressure reducer (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3. in, The valve (129) is threadedly connected to the pressure reducing body (110).

6. The pressure reducer (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3. in, The pressure reducer (100) generates a constant output pressure of 4 bar.

7. The pressure reducer (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3. in, The pressure reducer (100) generates a constant output pressure of 1.5 bar.

8. The pressure reducer (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3. in, The pressure reducer (100) is used for drip irrigation.

9. The pressure reducer (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3. in, The sealing component (128) is a diaphragm.

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