Flow regulating assembly and flow regulating device

Abstract

A flow regulating device for regulating a fluid flow therethrough is disclosed, wherein the flow regulating device comprises a regulator inlet for fluid to flow into the flow regulating device, a regulator outlet for the fluid to flow out of the flow regulating device, a fluid channel extending from the regulator inlet to the regulator outlet, and a flow regulating element arranged in the fluid channel to regulate a flow rate of the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet. The flow regulating device may further comprise a flow directing mechanism arranged for inducing a vortex in the fluid around a centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet. Further, a flow regulating assembly is disclosed, comprising an outer housing enclosing the regulator housing of the flow regulating device.

Description

[0001] FLOW REGULATING ASSEMBLY AND FLOW REGULATING DEVICE

[0002] The present invention relates to a flow regulating assembly for regulating a fluid flow therethrough. The present invention further relates to a fluid flow system provided with such a flow regulating assembly, a method of regulating a flow of fluid using such a flow regulating assembly, and a method of adapting an existing fluid flow system using such a flow regulating assembly. The present invention further relates to a flow regulating device for regulating a fluid flow therethrough, and a method of regulating a flow of fluid using such a flow regulating device.

[0003] Clean drinking water is a scarce resource in many regions of the world and thus needs to be efficiently used and its supply carefully regulated and controlled. In the Western world a great deal of clean drinking water is wasted by individuals in taking a bath or shower. Despite the fact that many measures have been taken in Western countries, the amount of energy involved in a shower or bath has continued to increase relatively.

[0004] In order to save clean drinking water, it is known to include flow regulating devices, also referred to as flow limiters, in water piping systems to reduce the water usage, for instance when taking a shower or bath. Pressure-independent flow regulators or limiters are marketed very successfully, particularly in the United Kingdom and other countries. Such flow limiters are for instance described in European patent No. 1 131 687 and Dutch patent No. 1010592.

[0005] Compared to flow limiters of other manufacturers, which usually make use of rubber rings and the like, a considerable improvement is obtained with the aforementioned known flow limiters, this being due to the ability of these known flow limiters to provide over a period of years an accurate flow rate of for instance 7.8 (+ / - 0.1) litres per minute (LPM) within a (dynamic) pressure interval of 2.5-10 bar. Existing flow limiters of other manufacturers appear in practice to generate a much less constant and accurate flow rate, particularly in the case of pressure loss (pressure drop), this being particularly undesirable in the case of showers and the like and with the aim of comfortable use of water.

[0006] The known flow regulators / limiters are typically inserted in taps, shower heads or piping associated therewith to keep the flow of water substantially constant regardless of the water pressure. There is also a need in hotels, cruise ships and in (for instance the petrochemical and / or agricultural) industry for flow limiters in order to limit and / or keep constant the force of a flow of liquid. In order to limit and / or keep constant the flow of liquid on a larger scale, for instance in hotels, cruise ships and in (the petrochemical) industry, it is known to provide a system for limiting or regulating a quantity of fluid flowing therethrough, comprising a housing which comprises a front chamber and a rear chamber; a partition arranged in the housing and provided with two or more openings; and a flow limiter arranged in one or both openings. Such a system is described in international patent application WO 2015 / 069114. By changing the number and / or types of flow limiters in the housing of the system, the flow of water though the system can be accurately adjusted to the specific need.

[0007] The aforementioned known flow limiter is manufactured by means of injection-moulding. It is important for the operation of many injection-moulded products that the dimensioning of these manufactured products corresponds to the required specifications. Particularly in the case of flow limiters which aim to be pressure-independent, the dimensioning of different components is found to be critical in obtaining effective operation.

[0008] A first object of the present invention, amongst other objects, is to further improve known flow regulators, in particular to make known flow regulators available over a greater variation of flow rates.

[0009] A second object of the present invention, amongst other objects, is to provide a further improved flow regulating device, in particular a flow regulating device with which, in particular, a smooth outlet flow can be created, in particular at low flow rates.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a flow regulating assembly for regulating a fluid flow therethrough is provided, wherein the flow regulating assembly comprises a flow regulating device, comprising a regulator housing provided with a regulator inlet for fluid to flow into the flow regulating device and a regulator outlet for the fluid to flow out of the flow regulating device, a fluid channel extending through the regulator housing from the regulator inlet to the regulator outlet, and a flow regulating element arranged in the fluid channel to regulate a flow rate of the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet, wherein the flow regulating assembly further comprises an outer housing enclosing the regulator housing. That is, the outer housing has an outer diameter exceeding an outer diameter of the regulator housing, preferably at least at the regulator inlet and at the regulator outlet.

[0011] Accordingly, if the outer diameter of the regulator housing is smaller than an inner diameter of an existing fluid flow system in which the flow regulating device is to be installed, the flow regulating device can nonetheless be installed in the fluid flow system by enclosing the flow regulating device with the outer housing. For example, in the case of an existing flow regulating system as described in WO 2015 / 069114, the flow regulating device can be installed in the opening provided in the partition of the system even if the outer diameter of the regulator housing is smaller than the inner diameter of the opening. The outer housing thus enables replacing a flow regulating device arranged in an opening in the partition of the existing flow regulating system by a flow regulating device with a lower nominal flow rate and a smaller outer diameter. For instance, in case the partition is provided with six openings that are each provided with a flow regulating device arranged to regulate the fluid flowing therethrough at a flow rate of 7.8 LPM, one or more of these flow regulating devices can be replaced by a respective flow regulating device for regulating the fluid flowing therethrough at a flow rate of 2.5 LPM.

[0012] The outer housing and the flow regulating device are preferably two separate constructional parts, wherein the outer housing can preferably be removably coupled to the flow regulating device for enclosing the regulator housing.

[0013] The flow regulating device, specifically the regulator housing, is made of a first material and the outer housing is made of a second material, wherein the second material may differ from the first material. The first material is preferably a polymer, more preferably plastic. The second material may be, for instance, a polymer like plastic or a metal like brass. In applications wherein the outer housing is not required to be particularly strong, the outer housing can be made of a material that is cheaper than the material of the device. For example, the second material may be a cheaper plastic material.

[0014] It is preferred if the thermal expansion coefficient of the first material is equal to the thermal expansion coefficient of the second material, such that a proper mutual fitting of the device and the outer housing can be ensured at varying temperatures. Thereto, the materials are preferably the same.

[0015] Since, as mentioned above, the flow regulators are preferably injection-moulded and the right dimensioning of these injection-moulded flow regulators is critical, the moulds are not easily adapted for manufacturing a flow regulator with the same outer diameter but a substantially different nominal flow rate, nor would it in every situation be cost-efficient to make an entirely new mould. More specifically, it has been found that a flow regulating device with a lower nominal flow rate, for instance 2.5 LPM, is not easily customised for fitting in existing fluid flow systems such as an existing flow regulating system as known from WO 2015 / 069114. By, instead, enclosing the flow regulating device by the outer housing to form the flow regulating assembly that is to be arranged in the flow regulating system, the flow regulating system can be made available over an even greater variation of flow rates. The present solution thus provides, for example in this regard, an improved flow regulator compared to the known flow regulators.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment of the flow regulating assembly, the outer housing has a substantially constant outer diameter. Preferably, the outer housing is substantially cylindrical, such that the flow regulating assembly can be fittingly arranged in a circular opening in the partition of a flow regulating system as described above. Similarly, it is preferred if the regulator housing of the flow regulating device is substantially cylindrical. In general, it is preferred if the outer housing form-fittingly encloses the regulator housing.

[0017] The outer diameter of the regulator housing may be in the range of 10 to 30 millimetres, preferably between 14 and 21 millimetres. The outer diameter of the outer housing may be in the range of 14 to 40 millimetres, preferably between 18 and 27 millimetres. In general, it is preferred if the outer diameter of the outer housing exceeds the outer diameter of the regulator housing by at least 4 millimetres.

[0018] According to a further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating assembly, the outer housing has a first outer housing part and a second outer housing part, wherein the outer housing parts together enclose the regulator housing. Preferably, the outer housing parts are releasable from each other such that they can be removed from the flow regulating device and can therefore be conveniently replaced by, for instance, an outer housing with a different shape or outer diameter. The flow regulating device, specifically the regulator housing, is preferably secured between, and by, the first outer housing part and the second outer housing part.

[0019] The outer housing comprises an inlet portion defining a fluid inlet for fluid to flow into the regulator inlet, and an outlet portion defining a fluid outlet for fluid to flow out of the regulator outlet. Preferably, the first outer housing part comprises the inlet portion, wherein the second outer housing part comprises the outlet portion. For instance, the inlet and outlet portions of the outer housing may be annular and may each have a central opening forming respectively the inlet and the outlet, wherein one or each outer housing part further comprises a cylindrical portion extending from the annular portion to form a cylindrical shell enclosing the regulator housing. This way, the regulator housing can be conveniently enclosed by the outer housing by first arranging one end of the flow regulating device in the interior space of one of the housing parts formed by the cylindrical portion and the respective annular portion, after which the other housing part is arranged over the other end of the flow regulating device to fully enclose the regulator housing.

[0020] Alternatively, the outer housing parts may be lateral outer housing parts arranged laterally around the regulator housing. For example, the lateral outer housing parts are semicylindrical shells that together form a cylindrical outer housing when arranged around the regulator housing.

[0021] A further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating assembly further comprises an inlet sieve such as a filter, wherein the inlet sieve is arranged at or in the regulator inlet for sieving the fluid flowing into the flow regulating device. Preferably, the inlet sieve is arranged in the outer housing, preferably in the first outer housing part. The inlet sieve is then preferably secured between, and by, the flow regulating device and the outer housing, specifically the inlet portion thereof.

[0022] Additionally, or alternatively, the flow regulating assembly may further comprise an outlet flow distribution baffle, also referred to as a flow divider or a distributor, wherein the outlet flow distribution baffle is arranged at or in the regulator outlet for distributing the fluid flowing out of the flow regulating device across the fluid outlet. Preferably, the outlet flow distribution baffle is arranged in the outer housing, preferably in the second outer housing part. The outlet flow distribution baffle is then preferably secured between, and by, the flow regulating device and the outer housing, specifically the outlet portion thereof.

[0023] A configuration as described above, wherein the components inside the outer housing are sandwiched by the outer housing, enables a convenient assembly of the flow regulating assembly, especially when it comprises one or more further components like the inlet sieve and the outlet flow distribution baffle.

[0024] A further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating assembly further comprises a seal, preferably an O-ring, wherein the seal is arranged between the flow regulating device and the outer housing and / or between the first outer housing part and the second outer housing part. This way, the assembly, specifically the assembly of the housing parts and / or the fitting of the flow regulating device in the outer housing, can be made fluid tight.

[0025] According to a further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating assembly, the flow regulating device defines a throughflow opening in the fluid channel, wherein the flow regulating element is arranged to adjust the size of the throughflow opening in dependence of a pressure of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel to regulate a flow rate of the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet.

[0026] Preferably, the flow regulating device comprises a valve seat, wherein the flow regulating element comprises a resilient plate-like valve element, wherein the valve seat and the valve element define the throughflow opening therebetween, wherein the valve element is arranged movable to and from the valve seat under the influence of the pressure of the fluid flowing through the flow regulating device to adjust the size of the throughflow opening.

[0027] The flow regulating device, or simply flow limiter, works by restricting the throughflow opening between the resilient plate-like valve element and the valve seat when the pressure increases. Such an increased pressure will act on the upstream side of the resilient plate-like valve element whereby it will bend, such that the resilient plate-like valve element moves towards the valve seat, whereby the throughflow opening is reduced and the flow is limited, or at least kept substantially constant with increasing pressure. Such a flow limiter is described in European patent No. 1 131 687 and Dutch patent No. 1010592, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0028] According to a further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating assembly, the flow regulating device, more specifically the flow regulating element, is arranged to regulate the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet to flow at a predefined flow rate. Preferably, the predefined flow rate is in the range of 1 to 5 LPM, preferably 2 to 3 LPM, for instance 2.5 LPM.

[0029] According to a further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating assembly, the flow regulating device further comprises a flow directing mechanism arranged for inducing a vortex in the fluid around a centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet. Preferably, the flow directing mechanism comprises a helical structure provided around the centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet, wherein the helical structure is arranged for inducing the vortex. It is then further preferred if an inner wall of the fluid channel is provided with the helical structure.

[0030] In general, it is found that, due to the flow regulating element, some flow disturbance occurs in the flow regulating device, at times resulting in turbulence downstream of the element and resulting in a turbulent outlet flow. By creating the vortex, turbulence can be reduced and a smooth outlet flow can be achieved that may even be substantially laminar. Such a smoother outlet flow can have the advantageous effect that the flow can be kept constant even more effectively, since the downstream counterpressure experienced by the flow regulating element is more constant due to the vortex. It has been found that this is particularly the case in a flow regulating device with a lower nominal flow rate, for instance 2.5 LPM.

[0031] As mentioned above, flow regulating devices with a low flow rate are not easily customised for fitting in existing fluid flow systems, which can be overcome by enclosing the flow regulating device, specifically its housing, by the outer housing as described above. While the outer housing enables the installation of the flow regulating device with a low flow rate into an existing fluid flow system, the flow directing mechanism for providing a smooth outlet flow has been found to be particularly effective, to an unforeseen extent, in flow regulating devices with such a low flow rate.

[0032] Further specifications of the flow directing mechanism, in particular of the helical structure, are described further below.

[0033] The outer housing of the flow regulating assembly may be arranged to be installed in a fluid flow system, specifically an opening or receptacle therein. Preferably, the outer diameter of the outer housing corresponds to an inner diameter of the fluid flow system, specifically of said opening, such that the flow regulating assembly snugly fits in the fluid flow system.

[0034] As such, a fluid flow system is provided, wherein the fluid flow system is provided with at least one flow regulating assembly according to any of the above embodiments, wherein each flow regulating assembly is installed at a respective location in the fluid flow system, wherein the outer diameter of the outer housing of the flow regulating assembly corresponds to an inner diameter of the fluid flow system at said location such that the flow regulating assembly snugly fits in the fluid flow system.

[0035] The fluid flow system may be a flow regulating system for regulating a fluid flow therethrough. As such, a flow regulating system for regulating a fluid flow therethrough is provided, wherein the flow regulating system comprises a system housing, provided with a front chamber, a system inlet for fluid to flow into the front chamber, a rear chamber, and a system outlet for fluid to flow out of the rear chamber, wherein the system further comprises a partition arranged in the system housing to separate the front chamber and the rear chamber, wherein the partition is provided with at least two openings, wherein the at least one flow regulating assembly is respectively arranged in at least one of the at least two openings, wherein the regulator inlet and the regulator outlet are fluidly connected to respectively the front chamber and the rear chamber. Further, a method of regulating a flow of fluid is provided, wherein the method comprises the steps of providing a flow regulating assembly according to any of the above embodiments and arranging the flow regulating assembly for the fluid to flow into the regulator inlet of the flow regulating device and out of the regulator outlet of the flow regulating device.

[0036] Further, a method of adapting an existing fluid flow system is provided, wherein the method comprises the steps of providing the fluid flow system, providing a flow regulating assembly according to any of the above embodiments, and installing the flow regulating assembly at a location in the fluid flow system, wherein the outer diameter of the outer housing of the flow regulating assembly corresponds to an inner diameter of the fluid flow system at said location such that the flow regulating assembly snugly fits in the fluid flow system.

[0037] Preferably, the step of providing the flow regulating assembly comprises the steps of providing the flow regulating device of the flow regulating assembly, determining the inner diameter of the fluid flow system, and configuring the outer housing based on the inner diameter of the fluid flow system such that the outer diameter of the outer housing corresponds to the inner diameter of the fluid flow system.

[0038] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a flow regulating device for regulating a fluid flow therethrough is provided, wherein the flow regulating device comprises a regulator inlet for fluid to flow into the flow regulating device, a regulator outlet for the fluid to flow out of the flow regulating device, a fluid channel extending from the regulator inlet to the regulator outlet, and a flow regulating element arranged in the fluid channel to regulate a flow rate of the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet, wherein the flow regulating device further comprises a flow directing mechanism arranged for inducing a vortex in the fluid around a centre axis of the fluid channel.

[0039] In particular, the flow directing mechanism is arranged for inducing the vortex in the fluid between the flow regulating element and the fluid outlet. It has been found that, by creating a vortex in the fluid downstream of the flow regulating element, the smoothness of the resulting outlet flow can be enhanced to an unforeseen extent. More specifically, it has been found that this is particularly the case in a flow regulating device with a lower nominal flow rate, for instance 2.5 LPM.

[0040] It is to be appreciated that the flow directing mechanism as described herein may thus also be applied in a flow regulating device or assembly without the outer housing as described above and / or in a flow regulating device with a higher nominal flow rate, while the mechanism still at least partially exhibits the above-noted advantage.

[0041] According to a preferred embodiment of the flow regulating device, the flow directing mechanism comprises a helical structure provided around the centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet, wherein the helical structure is arranged for inducing the vortex. This way, the flow directing mechanism can be formed by, or consist of, a simple structure, such that the manufacture of the flow regulating device is facilitated. Preferably, the flow directing mechanism consists of only the helical structure.

[0042] Preferably, an inner wall of the fluid channel is provided with the helical structure. This way, it can be prevented that the flow directing mechanism forms an undesirable obstruction for the fluid flow in the centre of the fluid channel. In other words, the helical structure is provided on the inner side of the (outer) wall of the fluid channel. Moreover, it can be effectively ensured that the vortex can be created around the centre axis of the fluid channel. For example, the helical structure may be a helical ridge or groove extending across the inner wall. Such a helical structure can be formed during the manufacture of the device in a relatively easy manner. The helix axis is preferably coaxial with the centre axis of the fluid channel. Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, the helical structure may be part groove and / or part ridge. The helical structure then preferably transitions smoothly from the groove part into the ridge part and / or vice versa. The helix axis of such a helical structure can then be, e.g., offset to the centre axis of the fluid channel.

[0043] It is then further preferred if the helical structure is formed integrally with the inner wall. Moreover, it is preferred if, additionally or alternatively, the helical structure is formed smoothly with the inner wall, i.e., without sharp edges or corners. In other words, the surface of the helical ridge is preferably continuous with the inner wall surface of the fluid channel. This way, turbulence can be further reduced or minimised.

[0044] According to a further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating device, the helical structure extends less than one complete helix turn around the centre axis of the fluid channel. As such, it can be ensured that the flow directing mechanism has a simple structure. Alternatively, the helical structure may extend at least half of a complete helix turn around the centre axis of the fluid channel. This way, it can be ensured that the flow directing mechanism can effectively induce the vortex. Preferably, the helical structure extends at least half of, but less than one, complete helix turn around the centre axis of the fluid channel. According to a further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating device, a distance between the helical structure and the flow regulating element is less than a pitch or radius of the helical structure, preferably less than half the pitch or radius. This way, it can be ensured that the flow directing mechanism is located sufficiently close to the flow regulating element for effectively reducing the turbulence resulting from the flow regulating element during operation.

[0045] According to a further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating device, the helical structure is formed as a single helix, such that the flow directing mechanism has a simple structure.

[0046] According to a further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating device, the helical structure has a constant radius. This facilitates the manufacture of the flow regulating device. Alternatively, the helical structure may be formed as a conical helix. That is, for example in the case of the groove or ridge, the helical structure may gradually or progressively increase in size towards or away from the outlet. For instance, the ridge may gradually increase in ridge height from zero at the flow regulating element to its peak in the vicinity of the regulator outlet.

[0047] A further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating device defines a throughflow opening in the fluid channel, wherein the flow regulating element is arranged to adjust the size of the throughflow opening in dependence of a pressure of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel to regulate a flow rate of the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet. Preferably, the flow regulating device comprises a valve seat, wherein the flow regulating element comprises a resilient plate-like valve element, wherein the valve seat and the valve element define the throughflow opening therebetween, wherein the valve element is arranged movable to and from the valve seat under the influence of the pressure of the fluid flowing through the flow regulating device to adjust the size of the throughflow opening.

[0048] Preferably, the flow directing mechanism, more specifically the helical structure, is arranged between the valve seat and the regulator outlet. Preferably, the distance between the helical structure and the valve seat is then less than the pitch or radius of the helical structure, preferably less than half the pitch or radius.

[0049] According to a further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating device, the flow regulating device, more specifically the flow regulating element, is arranged to regulate the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet to flow at a predefined flow rate. Preferably, the predefined flow rate is in the range of 1 to 5 LPM, preferably 2 to 3 LPM, for instance 2.5 LPM. According to a further preferred embodiment of the flow regulating device, the centre axis of the fluid channel extends from the flow directing mechanism to the regulator outlet in a straight manner. Preferably, the regulator outlet is aligned with the centre axis of the fluid channel. As such, a compact flow regulating device can be provided.

[0050] Further, a method of regulating a flow of fluid, comprising the steps of providing a flow regulating device according to any of the above embodiments and arranging the flow regulating device for the fluid to flow into the regulator inlet of the flow regulating device and out of the regulator outlet of the flow regulating device.

[0051] The method preferably further comprises the step of inducing, using the flow directing mechanism, a vortex in the fluid around the centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet. It is then further preferred if the flow of fluid through the regulator outlet is substantially laminar.

[0052] In the following, the invention is further elucidated with reference to the attached drawings, wherein:

[0053] Figure 1 represents an exploded view of a flow regulating assembly in cross-section;

[0054] Figure 2A shows the assembly of Figure 1 in the assembled state in cross-section;

[0055] Figure 2B shows the assembly of Figure 2A in an opposite cross-sectional view;

[0056] Figure 3 represents a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the assembly;

[0057] Figure 4 represents a cross-sectional view of a flow regulating device for the assembly;

[0058] Figure 5 represents a partially cut-away perspective view of a flow regulating system; Figures 6A-B represent different isometric views of a regulator housing;

[0059] Figure 6C shows the regulator housing of Figures 6A-B in fish-eye perspective.

[0060] Throughout the drawings, like elements are indicated by like reference signs.

[0061] In Figure 1 , a flow regulating assembly 1 according to the present invention is shown in exploded cross-sectional view. The flow regulating assembly 1 comprises a flow regulating device 100 for regulating a liquid flow therethrough. For illustration, an embodiment of the flow regulator 100 is shown in detail in Figure 4, which represents a cross-sectional view of the flow regulator 100. The flow regulator 100 comprises an injection-moulded cylindrical regulator housing 101 which has, as a regulator inlet 102, a fluid opening on the upstream side and, as a regulator outlet 103, a fluid opening on the downstream side. The direction of flow is indicated by the different arrows A and is in the direction as seen from the inlet 102 to the outlet 103. Within the housing 101, a resilient plate-like valve element 104 is arranged, comprising a retained section 107 and a resiliently movable section 108. The plate-like resilient valve element 104 is supported on a support part 105 in the central downstream part of housing 101, wherein said support part 105 and a cushion part 106 in the peripheral upstream part of housing 101 hold in place the retained section 107 of resilient plate-like valve element 104. This fixation is brought about as follows. The resilient valve element 104 in principle lies unattached in housing 101 and is supported on one side over the whole width by support part 105 and held in place by a pin 116 on support part 105 which fits loosely in a hole arranged in resilient element 104. Both sides, i.e., the smaller retained section 107 and the larger resilient section 108 of the resilient element, are exposed to the water pressure and a force is therefore exerted on both sides. The outer end of retained section 107 on the opposite side of resilient valve element 104 rests against cushion 106, whereby the resilient valve element 104 is fixed in its position by the flow of the liquid. The size of the throughflow opening 111 can be adjusted in the rest state of valve element 104 by adjusting the thickness of cushion 106. The resilient section 108 of plate-like valve element 104 determines, together with a valve seat 109 with thickness t inclining downward to the outer end of resilient part 108, the width and length of the throughflow opening 111, wherein said opening 111, together with the space 112 located on the liquid outlet side of resilient element 104, realises a pressure drop such that the liquid flow rate at the outlet 103 is constant. The valve seat 109 is provided with one or more cams or protrusions 113, 114 that limit the stroke of the resilient element 104 under the influence of the inlet pressure. Reference is also made to Figures 6A-C. Each pair of cams 113, 114 is arranged asymmetrically, i.e. the distance of the two cams 113, 114 from the fixation point differs to some extent. This creates bias in the resilient valve element 104, whereby vibrations of valve element 104 are prevented. The flow regulator 100 is arranged to regulate the liquid flowing through the outlet 103 to flow at a predefined flow rate of 2.5 LPM.

[0062] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-2B, an inner wall of the fluid channel 110 extending through the regulator housing 101 from the regulator inlet 102 to the regulator outlet 103 is provided with a single helical ridge 117 extending around a centre axis of the fluid channel 110 and across said inner wall between the valve seat 109 and the regulator outlet 103. In Figures 6A- C, the helical ridge 117 is shown from alternative perspectives. The helical ridge 117 is formed integrally and smoothly with the inner wall, i.e., without sharp edges or corners. In other words, the surface of the helical ridge 117 is continuous with the inner wall surface 118 of the fluid channel 110. The helical ridge 117 is arranged for inducing a vortex in the liquid around the centre axis of the fluid channel 110 between the valve seat 109 and the regulator outlet 103, which results in a smoother outlet flow. In other words, the helical ridge 117 influences the liquid flow in the flow regulating device 100, preferably such that the direction of the outgoing liquid flow at the outlet 103 is substantially the same as the direction of the ingoing liquid flow at the inlet 102. Such a flow directing mechanism, embodied as the helical ridge 117 in the shown example, has been found to be particularly effective in flow regulating devices with a low nominal flow rate like 2.5 LPM in the present example.

[0063] The helical ridge 117 extends at least half of a, but less than one, complete helix turn around the centre axis of the fluid channel 110. The distance between the helical ridge 117, specifically an upstream starting point thereof, and the valve seat 109 is less than a radius r of the helical ridge 117.

[0064] As illustrated in Figures 1-2B, the flow regulating assembly 1 further comprises a cylindrical outer housing 200 form- fittingly enclosing the cylindrical housing 101 of the flow regulating device 100. The outer housing 200 comprises a first outer housing part 210 and a second outer housing part 220 that together enclose the regulator housing 101. The housing parts 210, 220 comprise respective cylindrical portions 211, 221 together forming a cylindrical shell enclosing the regulator housing 101, and respective annular portions 212, 222, provided at an end of the respective cylindrical portion 211, 221, wherein the annular portions 212, 222 form respective central openings 213, 223 for liquid to flow respectively into the regulator inlet 102 and out of the regulator outlet 103.

[0065] The flow regulating assembly 1 further comprises an inlet sieve 122 arranged in the regulator inlet 102 for sieving the liquid flowing into the flow regulating device 100, and an outlet flow distribution baffle 123 arranged in the regulator outlet 103 for distributing the liquid flowing out of the flow regulating device 100 across the fluid outlet 103.

[0066] With reference to Figure 1 which represents the flow regulating assembly 1 in its disassembled state, it can be illustrated that the assembly 1 can be conveniently assembled with the following steps. First, the baffle 123 is arranged in the regulator outlet 103. Secondly, the subassembly of the regulator housing 101 and the baffle 123 is arranged in the interior space of the second outer housing part 220 such that the baffle 123 and the end of the regulator housing 101 that includes the regulator outlet 103 are supported by said annular outlet portion 222 extending radially inwards from the cylindrical portion 221 of the second outer housing part 220. Subsequently, an O-ring 300 for creating a sealed connection between the regulator housing 101 and the housing parts 210, 220 is arranged in an inner groove 201 of the outer housing 200 that is formed in the free end of the cylindrical portion 221 of the second outer housing part 220. Then, the inlet sieve 122 is arranged in the regulator inlet 102, after which the first outer housing part 210 is arranged over the end of the regulator housing 101 that includes the regulator inlet 102.

[0067] This way, the components 101, 122, 123 are conveniently arranged in a sandwiched manner such that the inlet sieve 122 is secured between, and by, said annular inlet portion 212 of the first outer housing part 210 and the end of the regulator housing 101 that includes the regulator inlet 102, and such that the outlet baffle 123 is secured between, and by, said annular outlet portion 222 of the second outer housing part 220 and the end of the regulator housing 101 that includes the regulator outlet 103. Similarly, the regulator housing 101 is secured between, and by, the annular portions 212, 222 of the outer housing 200.

[0068] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-2B, the groove 201 with the O-ring 300 is situated at an end of the outer housing 200, in this case near the annular inlet portion 212. In general, it is preferred if the distance between the groove 201 and one end of the outer housing 200 is at least twice the distance between the groove 201 and the other end of the outer housing 200. This way, in the embodiment shown in Figures 1-2B, the O-ring 300 can be conveniently arranged in the groove 201 when the regulator housing 101 is already arranged in one of the housing parts. Vice versa, in an alternative embodiment, it may be possible to conveniently arrange the regulator housing 101 in the one housing part when the O-ring 300 is already arranged in the groove 201. Furthermore, embodiments can be envisaged wherein the groove 201 with the O-ring 300 is situated in the centre of the outer housing 200, i.e., at a substantially equal distance to both ends of the outer housing 200, as exemplified in Figure 3, in which embodiment, furthermore, the helical ridge is omitted.

[0069] In Figure 5, a flow regulating system 10 for regulating a fluid flow therethrough is provided. The flow regulating system 10 comprises a system housing 11, which is provided with a front chamber 23 and a rear chamber 24. The system 10 further comprises, connected to the system housing 11, an inlet tube 21 debouching in the front chamber 23 for fluid to flow into the front chamber 23 and an outlet tube 22 for fluid to flow out of the rear chamber 24. The system 10 further comprises a central partition 12 received in the system housing 11 to separate the front chamber 23 and the rear chamber 24. The partition 12 has six openings 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, in each of which a flow regulating device can be arranged. In this example, three openings 14, 16, 18 are covered with cover plates 19.

[0070] Cover plates 19 may be added or removed so that the system 10 allows a smaller or larger quantity of liquid to pass therethrough within a determined pressure range of for instance 6 x 5.0 litres per minute or 6 x 7.8 litres per minute. Similarly, the flow regulating devices are easily exchangeable from the disc-shaped central partition 12. By means of bolts 33, the front part of the housing 11 that defines the front chamber 23 is coupled to the partition 12 and the rear part of the housing 11 that defines the rear chamber 24. That is, the bolts 33 protrude from the rear housing part 24 through holes in the central partition 12 and are screwed fixedly into the front housing part 23. Thus, the system 10 can be easily disassembled and reassembled, such that one or more of these flow regulating devices with flow rates of for instance 5 or 7.8 LPM can be replaced by a respective flow regulating device 100 as described above for regulating the fluid flowing therethrough at a flow rate of 2.5 LPM. Although the cylindrical regulator housing 101 has a constant outer diameter di that is smaller than the inner diameter of the openings 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, an outer housing 200 can be selected that has an outer diameter d corresponding to the inner diameter of the openings 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 such that the flow regulating assembly 1, comprising the device 100 and the outer housing 200, snugly fits in the system 10.

[0071] In general, flow regulating devices 100 with a low flow rate are not easily customised for fitting in existing fluid flow systems such as the shown flow regulating system 10, which can be overcome by enclosing the flow regulating device 100, specifically its housing 101, by the outer housing 200 as described above. While the outer housing 200 enables the installation of the flow regulating device 100 with a low flow rate of, e.g., 2.5 LPM in the system 10, the flow directing mechanism 117 for providing a smooth outlet flow has been found to be particularly effective, to an unforeseen extent, in flow regulating devices with such a low flow rate.

[0072] It is thus apparent that the system 10 can have a wide variation in possible flow rates, in this case from 1 x 2.5 LPM to 6 x 7.8 LPM and many flow rates therebetween, for instance 2 x 5.0 LPM or 3 x 7.8 LPM.

[0073] The drawings and the above description serve to illustrate specific embodiments of the invention and do not limit the scope of protection defined by the appended claims.

[0074] The present disclosure also includes the following embodiments:

[0075] 1. Flow regulating assembly for regulating a fluid flow therethrough, wherein the flow regulating assembly comprises a flow regulating device, comprising a regulator housing provided with a regulator inlet for fluid to flow into the flow regulating device and a regulator outlet for the fluid to flow out of the flow regulating device, a fluid channel extending through the regulator housing from the regulator inlet to the regulator outlet, and a flow regulating element arranged in the fluid channel to regulate a flow rate of the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet, wherein the flow regulating assembly further comprises an outer housing enclosing the regulator housing.

[0076] 2. Flow regulating assembly according to embodiment 1 , wherein an outer diameter of the outer housing exceeds an outer diameter of the regulator housing at least at the regulator inlet and at the regulator outlet.

[0077] 3. Flow regulating assembly according to embodiment 2, wherein the outer housing has a substantially constant outer diameter.

[0078] 4. Flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer housing form-fittingly encloses the regulator housing.

[0079] 5. Flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer housing has a first outer housing part and a second outer housing part, wherein the outer housing parts together enclose the regulator housing.

[0080] 6. Flow regulating assembly according to embodiment 5, wherein the first outer housing part comprises an inlet portion defining a fluid inlet for fluid to flow into the regulator inlet, wherein the second outer housing part comprises an outlet portion defining a fluid outlet for fluid to flow out of the regulator outlet.

[0081] 7. Flow regulating assembly according to embodiment 6, wherein the flow regulating assembly further comprises an inlet sieve arranged in the first outer housing part for sieving the fluid flowing into the flow regulating device, wherein the inlet sieve is secured between, and by, the inlet portion and the flow regulating device.

[0082] 8. Flow regulating assembly according to embodiment 6 or 7, wherein the flow regulating assembly further comprises an outlet flow distribution baffle arranged in the second outer housing part for distributing the fluid flowing out of the flow regulating device across the fluid outlet, wherein the outlet flow distribution baffle is secured between, and by, the outlet portion and the flow regulating device. 9. Flow regulating assembly according to embodiment 6, 7 or 8, further comprising a seal, preferably an O-ring, wherein the seal is arranged between the flow regulating device and the outer housing and / or between the first outer housing part and the second outer housing part.

[0083] 10. Flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments 5 - 9, wherein the regulator housing is secured between, and by, the first outer housing part and the second outer housing part.

[0084] 11. Flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the flow regulating device defines a throughflow opening in the fluid channel, wherein the flow regulating element is arranged to adjust the size of the throughflow opening in dependence of a pressure of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel to regulate a flow rate of the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet.

[0085] 12. Flow regulating assembly according to embodiment 11, wherein the flow regulating device comprises a valve seat, wherein the flow regulating element comprises a resilient plate-like valve element, wherein the valve seat and the valve element define the throughflow opening therebetween, wherein the valve element is arranged movable to and from the valve seat under the influence of the pressure of the fluid flowing through the flow regulating device to adjust the size of the throughflow opening.

[0086] 13. Flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the flow regulating device is arranged to regulate the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet to flow at a predefined flow rate.

[0087] 14. Flow regulating assembly according to embodiment 13, wherein the predefined flow rate is in the range of 1 to 5, preferably 2 to 3, litres per minute.

[0088] 15. Flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the flow regulating device further comprises a flow directing mechanism arranged for inducing a vortex in the fluid around a centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet.

[0089] 16. Flow regulating assembly according to embodiment 15, wherein the flow directing mechanism comprises a helical structure provided around the centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet, wherein the helical structure is arranged for inducing the vortex.

[0090] 17. Flow regulating assembly according to embodiment 16, wherein an inner wall of the fluid channel is provided with the helical structure.

[0091] 18. Fluid flow system provided with at least one flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments 1-17, installed at a location in the fluid flow system, wherein the outer diameter of the outer housing of the flow regulating assembly corresponds to an inner diameter of the fluid flow system at said location such that the flow regulating assembly snugly fits in the fluid flow system.

[0092] 19. Fluid flow system according to embodiment 18, wherein the fluid flow system is a flow regulating system for regulating a fluid flow therethrough, wherein the flow regulating system comprises a system housing, provided with a front chamber, a system inlet for fluid to flow into the front chamber, a rear chamber, and a system outlet for fluid to flow out of the rear chamber, wherein the system further comprises a partition arranged in the system housing to separate the front chamber and the rear chamber, wherein the partition is provided with at least two openings, wherein the at least one flow regulating assembly is respectively arranged in at least one of the at least two openings, wherein the regulator inlet and the regulator outlet are fluidly connected to respectively the front chamber and the rear chamber.

[0093] 20. Method of regulating a flow of fluid, comprising the steps of providing a flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments and arranging the flow regulating assembly for the fluid to flow into the regulator inlet of the flow regulating device and out of the regulator outlet of the flow regulating device.

[0094] 21. Method of adapting an existing fluid flow system, wherein the method comprises the steps of providing the fluid flow system, providing a flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments 1-17, and installing the flow regulating assembly at a location in the fluid flow system, wherein the outer diameter of the outer housing of the flow regulating assembly corresponds to an inner diameter of the fluid flow system at said location such that the flow regulating assembly snugly fits in the fluid flow system.

[0095] 22. Method according to embodiment 21, wherein the step of providing the flow regulating assembly comprises the steps of providing the flow regulating device of the flow regulating assembly, determining the inner diameter of the fluid flow system, and configuring the outer housing based on the inner diameter of the fluid flow system such that the outer diameter of the outer housing corresponds to the inner diameter of the fluid flow system.

[0096] 23. Flow regulating device for regulating a fluid flow therethrough, wherein the flow regulating device comprises a regulator inlet for fluid to flow into the flow regulating device, a regulator outlet for the fluid to flow out of the flow regulating device, a fluid channel extending from the regulator inlet to the regulator outlet, and a flow regulating element arranged in the fluid channel to regulate a flow rate of the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet, wherein the flow regulating device further comprises a flow directing mechanism arranged for inducing a vortex in the fluid around a centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet.

[0097] 24. Flow regulating device according to embodiment 23, wherein the flow directing mechanism comprises a helical structure provided around the centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet, wherein the helical structure is arranged for inducing the vortex.

[0098] 25. Flow regulating device according to embodiment 24, wherein an inner wall of the fluid channel is provided with the helical structure.

[0099] 26. Flow regulating device according to embodiment 25, wherein the helical structure is a helical ridge or groove extending across the inner wall.

[0100] 27. Flow regulating device according to embodiment 25 or 26, wherein the helical structure is formed smoothly with the inner wall.

[0101] 28. Flow regulating device according to embodiment 25, 26 or 27, wherein the helical structure is formed integrally with the inner wall.

[0102] 29. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding embodiments 24-28, wherein the helical structure extends less than one complete helix turn around the centre axis of the fluid channel, and / or wherein the helical structure extends at least half of a complete helix turn around the centre axis of the fluid channel. 30. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding embodiments 24-29, wherein a distance between the helical structure and the flow regulating element is less than a pitch or radius of the helical structure.

[0103] 31. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding embodiments 24-30, wherein the helical structure is formed as a single helix.

[0104] 32. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding embodiments 24-31, wherein the helical structure has a constant radius.

[0105] 33. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the flow regulating device defines a throughflow opening in the fluid channel, wherein the flow regulating element is arranged to adjust the size of the throughflow opening in dependence of a pressure of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel to regulate a flow rate of the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet.

[0106] 34. Flow regulating device according to embodiment 33, wherein the flow regulating device comprises a valve seat, wherein the flow regulating element comprises a resilient plate-like valve element, wherein the valve seat and the valve element define the throughflow opening therebetween, wherein the valve element is arranged movable to and from the valve seat under the influence of the pressure of the fluid flowing through the flow regulating device to adjust the size of the throughflow opening.

[0107] 35. Flow regulating device according to embodiment 34, wherein the flow directing mechanism is arranged between the valve seat and the regulator outlet.

[0108] 36. Flow regulating device according to at least embodiments 24 and 35, wherein the helical structure is arranged between the valve seat and the regulator outlet.

[0109] 37. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the flow regulating device is arranged to regulate the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet to flow at a predefined flow rate.

[0110] 38. Flow regulating device according to embodiment 37, wherein the predefined flow rate is in the range of 1 to 5, preferably 2 to 3, litres per minute. 39. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the centre axis of the fluid channel extends from the flow directing mechanism to the regulator outlet in a straight manner, wherein the regulator outlet is aligned with the centre axis of the fluid channel. 40. Method of regulating a flow of fluid, comprising the steps of providing a flow regulating device according to any of the preceding embodiments and arranging the flow regulating device for the fluid to flow into the regulator inlet of the flow regulating device and out of the regulator outlet of the flow regulating device. 41. Method according to embodiment 40, further comprising the step of inducing, using the flow directing mechanism, a vortex in the fluid around the centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet.

[0111] 42. Method according to embodiment 41, wherein the flow of fluid through the regulator outlet is substantially laminar.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Flow regulating device for regulating a fluid flow therethrough, wherein the flow regulating device comprises a regulator inlet for fluid to flow into the flow regulating device, a regulator outlet for the fluid to flow out of the flow regulating device, a fluid channel extending from the regulator inlet to the regulator outlet, and a flow regulating element arranged in the fluid channel to regulate a flow rate of the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet, wherein the flow regulating device defines a throughflow opening in the fluid channel, wherein the flow regulating element is arranged to adjust the size of the throughflow opening in dependence of a pressure of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel to regulate a flow rate of the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet, wherein the flow regulating device further comprises a flow directing mechanism arranged for inducing a vortex in the fluid around a centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet.

2. Flow regulating device according to claim 1 , wherein the flow directing mechanism comprises a helical structure provided around the centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet, wherein the helical structure is arranged for inducing the vortex.

3. Flow regulating device according to claim 2, wherein an inner side of the wall of the fluid channel is provided with the helical structure.

4. Flow regulating device according to claim 3, wherein the helical structure is a helical ridge or groove extending across the inner wall.

5. Flow regulating device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the helical structure is formed smoothly with the inner wall.

6. Flow regulating device according to claim 3, 4 or 5, wherein the helical structure is formed integrally with the inner wall.

7. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding claims 2-6, wherein the helical structure extends less than one complete helix turn around the centre axis of the fluid channel, and / or wherein the helical structure extends at least half of a complete helix turn around the centre axis of the fluid channel.

8. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding claims 2-7, wherein a distance between the helical structure and the flow regulating element is less than a pitch or radius of the helical structure.

9. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding claims 2-8, wherein the helical structure is formed as a single helix.

10. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding claims 2-9, wherein the helical structure has a constant radius.

11. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the flow regulating device comprises a valve seat, wherein the flow regulating element comprises a resilient plate-like valve element, wherein the valve seat and the valve element define the throughflow opening therebetween, wherein the valve element is arranged movable to and from the valve seat under the influence of the pressure of the fluid flowing through the flow regulating device to adjust the size of the throughflow opening.

12. Flow regulating device according to claim 11, wherein the flow directing mechanism is arranged between the valve seat and the regulator outlet.

13. Flow regulating device according to at least claims 2 and 12, wherein the helical structure is arranged between the valve seat and the regulator outlet.

14. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the flow regulating device is arranged to regulate the fluid flowing through the regulator outlet to flow at a predefined flow rate.

15. Flow regulating device according to claim 14, wherein the predefined flow rate is in the range of 1 to 5, preferably 2 to 3, litres per minute.

16. Flow regulating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the centre axis of the fluid channel extends from the flow directing mechanism to the regulator outlet in a straight manner, wherein the regulator outlet is aligned with the centre axis of the fluid channel.

17. Method of regulating a flow of fluid, comprising the steps of providing a flow regulating device according to any of the preceding claims and arranging the flow regulating device for the fluid to flow into the regulator inlet of the flow regulating device and out of the regulator outlet of the flow regulating device.

18. Method according to claim 17, further comprising the step of inducing, using the flow directing mechanism, a vortex in the fluid around the centre axis of the fluid channel between the flow regulating element and the regulator outlet.

19. Method according to claim 18, wherein the flow of fluid through the regulator outlet is substantially laminar.

20. Flow regulating assembly for regulating a fluid flow therethrough, wherein the flow regulating assembly comprises a flow regulating device according to any of the preceding claims 1-16, wherein the flow regulating assembly further comprises an outer housing enclosing the regulator housing of the flow regulating device.

21. Flow regulating assembly according to claim 20, wherein an outer diameter of the outer housing exceeds an outer diameter of the regulator housing at least at the regulator inlet and at the regulator outlet.

22. Flow regulating assembly according to claim 21, wherein the outer housing has a substantially constant outer diameter.

23. Flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the outer housing form- fittingly encloses the regulator housing.

24. Flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the outer housing has a first outer housing part and a second outer housing part, wherein the outer housing parts together enclose the regulator housing.

25. Flow regulating assembly according to claim 24, wherein the first outer housing part comprises an inlet portion defining a fluid inlet for fluid to flow into the regulator inlet, wherein the second outer housing part comprises an outlet portion defining a fluid outlet for fluid to flow out of the regulator outlet.

26. Flow regulating assembly according to claim 25, wherein the flow regulating assembly further comprises an inlet sieve arranged in the first outer housing part for sieving the fluid flowing into the flow regulating device, wherein the inlet sieve is secured between, and by, the inlet portion and the flow regulating device.

27. Flow regulating assembly according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the flow regulating assembly further comprises an outlet flow distribution baffle arranged in the second outer housing part for distributing the fluid flowing out of the flow regulating device across the fluid outlet, wherein the outlet flow distribution baffle is secured between, and by, the outlet portion and the flow regulating device.

28. Flow regulating assembly according to claim 25, 26 or 27, further comprising a seal, preferably an O-ring, wherein the seal is arranged between the flow regulating device and the outer housing and / or between the first outer housing part and the second outer housing part.

29. Flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding claims 24 - 28, wherein the regulator housing is secured between, and by, the first outer housing part and the second outer housing part.

30. Fluid flow system provided with at least one flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding claims 20-29, installed at a location in the fluid flow system, wherein the outer diameter of the outer housing of the flow regulating assembly corresponds to an inner diameter of the fluid flow system at said location such that the flow regulating assembly snugly fits in the fluid flow system.

31. Fluid flow system according to claim 30, wherein the fluid flow system is a flow regulating system for regulating a fluid flow therethrough, wherein the flow regulating system comprises a system housing, provided with a front chamber, a system inlet for fluid to flow into the front chamber, a rear chamber, and a system outlet for fluid to flow out of the rear chamber, wherein the system further comprises a partition arranged in the system housing to separate the front chamber and the rear chamber, wherein the partition is provided with at least two openings, wherein the at least one flow regulating assembly is respectively arranged in at least one of the at least two openings, wherein the regulator inlet and the regulator outlet are fluidly connected to respectively the front chamber and the rear chamber.

32. Method of regulating a flow of fluid, comprising the steps of providing a flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding claims 20-29 and arranging the flow regulating assembly for the fluid to flow into the regulator inlet of the flow regulating device and out of the regulator outlet of the flow regulating device.

33. Method of adapting an existing fluid flow system, wherein the method comprises the steps of providing the fluid flow system, providing a flow regulating assembly according to any of the preceding claims 20-29, and installing the flow regulating assembly at a location in the fluid flow system, wherein the outer diameter of the outer housing of the flow regulating assembly corresponds to an inner diameter of the fluid flow system at said location such that the flow regulating assembly snugly fits in the fluid flow system.

34. Method according to claim 33, wherein the step of providing the flow regulating assembly comprises the steps of providing the flow regulating device of the flow regulating assembly, determining the inner diameter of the fluid flow system, and configuring the outer housing based on the inner diameter of the fluid flow system such that the outer diameter of the outer housing corresponds to the inner diameter of the fluid flow system.

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