Bleed valve for controlling release of fluids or gases

Abstract

A bleed valve 100 for a central heating radiator includes a housing 102 having at least one outlet opening 104,108 for releasing air. A plunger 110 is biased by a compressible element, such as a sprin

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure generally relates to bleed valves and, more specifically, to a bleed valve for controlling release of fluids or gases from a system, for example, from a radiator of a central heating system. BACKGROUND Typically, a bleed valve is a type of valve used to remove or bleed off small amounts of fluids or gas from a larger system, for example, a tank or a radiator of a central heating system. Existing bleed valves are threaded or screw type bleed valves, which make maintenance of such larger systems quite inconvenient. Typically, a radiator is propagated with water and a uniform circulation is required to ensure efficient and even heating. In case of excess air built up, the radiator may not heat up effectively. Thus, to achieve effective heating, any air that may be trapped inside the radiator needs to be released. A maintenance task may be regularly performed to ensure that the radiator is uniformly filled with water and is free-of-air. Typically, during the maintenance task, the conventional bleed valve needs to be opened, allowing any air to escape to ensure functioning of the radiator at its desired level. However, the technical problem with such conventional bleed valves is that they are difficult to operate. This makes the maintenance task of the systems in which such conventional bleed valves are used to be often neglected. For example, the conventional bleed valve, such as the screw-type bleed valve, requires a special tool (e.g., a key) to unscrew the bleed valve in order to allow the trapped air-to-escape. However, such special tools for unscrewing the bleed valve may be often misplaced, and it may be cumbersome to operate such conventional bleed valves. Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks associated with conventional bleed valves as described above. SUMMARY The present disclosure provides an improved bleed valve for releasing fluids or gases. The present disclosure provides a solution to the existing problem of conventional bleed valves that are difficult to operate, making maintenance of systems in which such conventional bleed valves are used, cumbersome. An aim of the present disclosure is to provide a solution that overcomes at least partially the problems encountered in the prior art and provides an improved bleed valve that is easier and more convenient for a user to operate for bleeding out air or excess fluid from a system (e.g., a radiator) in which such improved bleed valve is used. One or more objectives of the present disclosure are achieved by the solutions provided in the enclosed independent claims. Advantageous implementations of the present disclosure are further defined in the dependent claims. In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a bleed valve for controlling release of fluids or gases. The bleed valve includes a housing having an outlet opening for releasing the fluids or gases. The bleed valve further includes a spring-loaded plunger with a compressible element. The spring-loaded plunger is movably disposed within the housing such that when the spring-loaded plunger is pushed from a first position to a second position inside the housing, the compressible element is compressed creating an escape route at one side of the housing through which the fluid or gas escapes via the outlet opening. When the spring-loaded plunger is released from the second position to the first position based on decompression of the compressible element, the outlet opening is closed to prevent the fluid or gas from escaping. The bleed valve effectively controls the release of fluids or gases. When the bleed valve is installed in a given system (e.g., a radiator), the bleed valve ensures an effective release of fluids or gases from such a system without the need to remove or unscrew the entire bleed valve from the system. The spring-loaded plunger simplifies the operation of the bleed valve by a user. For example, the spring-loaded plunger can be pushed to activate and deactivate the process of releasing the fluid or gas from the system in which the bleed valve is installed. This makes the maintenance task of the systems in which the bleed valve of the present invention is installed very efficient and effective. In an implementation form, the housing has a tubular structure that includes a through-hole along a length of the housing. Beneficially, the tubular structure of the housing and the through-hole within the housing provides an easy access to different components within the housing, thereby making it easy and convenient to replace any components or perform a maintenance task of the system in which the bleed valve is installed. In a further implementation form, the spring-loaded plunger has a T-shaped structure. The T-shape of the spring-loaded plunger improves user experience and makes it easy to operate the bleed valve. For example, the T-shape provides a sufficient surface area for users to push the spring-loaded plunger so that a necessary force can be applied on the compressible element to create the escape route for the release of fluids or gases from the outlet opening. Moreover, the T-shape provides a stable grip while operating the bleed valve. In a further implementation form, the bleed valve further includes a pair of support structures disposed between the spring-loaded plunger and the through-hole of the housing. Beneficially, the pair of support structures between the spring-loaded plunger and the through-hole of the housing reduces the risk of leakage, thereby ensuring that the fluid or gas remains contained and is only released when needed. In case the bleed valve is used in a radiator of a central heating system, the pair of support structures helps to improve the efficiency and safety of the radiator by ensuring that the fluids or gases are contained within the radiator and are not leaked into other parts of the central heating system or environment. The pair of support structures also helps to maintain the pressure within the radiator, ensuring optimal operation of the central heating system. In a further implementation form, the compressible element is one of: a Schrader valve core or a compression spring. The use of Schrader valve core as the compressible element increases durability and the bleed valve is able to maintain high levels of performance and reliability. Additionally, the use of the Schrader valve core simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces costs, and improves the overall design of the bleed valve. Like the Schrader valve core, the compression spring too simplifies the operation of the bleed valve without compromising on the control of the release of the fluid or gases via the bleed valve. In a further implementation form, the spring-loaded plunger has a first end and a second end. The bleed valve further includes a sealing material seat coupled with the second end of the spring-loaded plunger and the compressible element is engaged with the first end of the spring-loaded plunger. The sealing material seat provides a secure and reliable sealing between the spring-loaded plunger and the housing. As a result, the sealing material seat helps to prevent leaks and ensure that the outlet opening effectively opens and closes as needed. In a further implementation form, when the first end of the spring-loaded plunger is pushed, the compressible element is compressed against a first side of the housing causing the sealing material seat to be moved away from a second side of the housing creating the escape route through which the fluid or gas escapes via the outlet opening. By using the compressible element to hold the sealing material seat away from the housing, the outlet opening is opened to allow the fluids or gases to escape. When the compressible element is decompressed, the housing is sealed against the sealing material seat, thereby closing the outlet opening and preventing the fluids or gases from escaping. This provides a simple, yet effective way for controlling the release of fluids or gases. In a further implementation form, the bleed valve is for a radiator. When the spring-loaded plunger is pushed from the first position to the second position, the fluid or gas escapes from the radiator via the outlet opening. When the spring-loaded plunger is released from the second position to the first position, the outlet opening is closed to prevent the fluid or gas from escaping from the radiator. The bleed valve provides the efficient and reliable release of fluids or gases from the radiator, which maintains proper functioning of the radiator. The bleed valve also provides a simple and easy-to-use solution for controlling the release of fluids or gases from the radiator, as the spring-loaded plunger can be activated by a simple push. In a further implementation form, the housing further includes an outer thread for removably coupling the bleed valve with the radiator. The outer thread of the housing allows easy installation and maintenance of the bleed valve. As a result, time and resources are saved, as the bleed valve can be quickly removed and replaced without affecting other parts of the radiator. In a further implementation form, the housing further includes an inner thread for removably coupling the spring-loaded plunger with the bleed valve. The inner thread of the housing allows easy installation, replacement, and maintenance of the spring-loaded plunger and the compressible element. In a further implementation form, the bleed valve further includes a guard component coupled with the spring-loaded plunger for preventing accidental actuation of the spring-loaded plunger. The guard component prevents accidental actuation of the spring-loaded plunger. This helps to prevent the release of fluids or gases without intentional activation. The guard component makes the bleed valve more user-friendly and safer to operate. In a further implementation form, the guard component includes a safety mechanism that actuates the spring-loaded plunger when the safety mechanism is pressed by a pin-like object. The safety mechanism reduces the risk of accidental activation of the spring-loaded plunger. Further, the safety mechanism allows the spring-loaded plunger to be activated with the pin-like objects or other narrow objects such as a butter knife or flat screwdriver, eliminating the need for any specialised tools or keys to open the bleed valve, thereby increasing user-friendliness and practicality of the bleed valve. In a further implementation form, the guard component further includes a protective cover disposed on the spring-loaded plunger to restrict direct access to the spring-loaded plunger. The protective cover provides safety and prevents any accidental or unintended actuation of the spring-loaded plunger. In a further implementation form, the protective cover includes a first aperture configured to receive a pin-like object to actuate the spring-loaded plunger. In such implementation, the first aperture allows an easy access to the spring-loaded plunger for actuation. In a further implementation form, the protective cover further includes a second aperture through which the fluids or gases released further exits from the bleed valve (200) when the spring-loaded plunger is actuated. The second aperture provides a pathway for the fluids or gases to exit, making it easy to monitor and control the release process. It is to be appreciated that all the aforementioned implementation forms can be combined. It is to be noted that all devices, elements, units, and means described in the present application could be implemented in hardware elements of any kind or combination thereof. All steps which are performed by the various entities described in the present application, as well as the functionalities described to be performed by the various entities, are intended to mean that the respective entity is adapted to or configured to perform the respective steps and functionalities. Even if, in the following description of specific embodiments, a specific functionality or step to be performed by external entities is not reflected in the description of a specific detailed element of that entity that performs that specific step or functionality, it should be clear for a skilled person that these methods and functionalities can be implemented in respective hardware elements. It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various 6 combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Additional aspects, advantages, features, and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative implementations construed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers. Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein: FIG. 1A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a bleed valve in an open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. IB is a schematic cross-sectional view of the bleed valve in a close position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. IC is a schematic front view of a support structure of the bleed valve, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another bleed valve, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure; and FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a radiator, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the 7 non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible. FIG. 1A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a bleed valve in a close position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. With reference to FIG. 1 A, there is shown a schematic cross-sectional view 100A of the bleed valve 100 in a close position. The bleed valve 100 is used for controlling release of the fluids or gases from systems in which the bleed valve 100 is used. In an implementation, the bleed valve 100 is used in a radiator of a central heating system to control release of the fluids or gases from the radiator. An exemplary implementation of the bleed valve 100 in a radiator is shown and described, for example, in FIG. 3. Other examples of the systems in which the bleed valve 100 is used may include but are not limited to a hydraulic system to remove trapped air or excess fluid, a steam system to remove condensate, a heating and cooling system, a fuel system to remove air bubbles that may be trapped in the fuel lines, and the like. The bleed valve 100 includes a housing 102 having an outlet opening 108 for releasing the fluids or gases. The housing 102 has an elongated shape that extends along the longitudinal axis Al. In an implementation, the housing 102 is a metallic housing. The housing 102 may be made of various materials including brass, stainless steel, or other durable metals. In another implementation, the housing 102 may be made of a polymeric material. The material chosen for the metallic housing may depend on factors, such as durability, resistance to corrosion, cost, and the system in which it is to be used. Further, the outlet opening 108 is a point from where the fluids or gases are released from the housing 102 to a surroundings area outside the system (e.g., a radiator) in which the bleed valve 100 is installed. In an example, the outlet opening 108 may be a narrow channel or opening extending from one side of the housing to the other side of the housing 102. In an implementation, the housing 102 has a tubular structure that includes a through-hole 104 along a length L of the housing 102. Beneficially, the tubular structure of the housing 102 and the through-hole 104 within the housing 102 provides an easy access to different components within the housing 102, thereby making it easy and convenient to replace any components or perform a maintenance task of the system in which the bleed valve 100 is installed. The bleed valve 100 further includes a spring-loaded plunger 110 with a compressible element 112. The spring-loaded plunger 110 is a component that consists of a plunger that is loaded by the compressible element 112. The spring-loaded plunger 110 is used to provide a means of actuation or control. When the spring-loaded plunger 110 is pushed or pulled, the spring-loaded plunger 110 compresses or decompresses the compressible element 112, which creates motion. The spring-loaded plunger 110 is movably disposed within the housing 102. Specifically, the spring-loaded plunger 110 is disposed within the through-hole 104 of the housing 102. In some implementations, the spring-loaded plunger 110 has a T-shaped structure. The T-shape of the spring-loaded plunger 110 improves user experience and makes it easy to operate the bleed valve 100. For example, the T-shape provides a sufficient surface area for a user to push the spring-loaded plunger 110 so that a necessary force is applied on the compressible element 112 to create the escape route 126 for the release of fluids or gases from the outlet opening 108. The T-shape provides a stable grip while operating the bleed valve 100. In an example, the compressible element 112 is a component that may be compressed or reduced in size under force, and when the force is removed, the compressible element 112 may return to its original size and shape. In an implementation, the compressible element 112 is one of a Schrader valve core or a compression spring. In some other implementations, the compressible element 112 may include any commercially available valve similar to the Schrader valve core. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. I A, the 9 compressible element 112 is a compression spring. However, in some implementations, the compressible element 112 may include any component that may be compressed, without any limitations. The use of Schrader valve core as the compressible element 112 increases durability and the bleed valve 100 is able to maintain high levels of performance and reliability. Additionally, the use of the Schrader valve core simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces costs, and improves the overall design of the bleed valve 100. Like the Schrader valve core, the compression spring too simplifies the operation of the bleed valve 100 without compromising on the control of the release of the fluid or gases via the bleed valve 100. In some implementations, the spring-loaded plunger 110 has a first end 124A and a second end 124B. In some implementation, the bleed valve 100 further includes a sealing material seat 114 coupled with the second end 124B of the spring-loaded plunger 110 and the compressible element 112 is engaged with the first end 124A of the spring-loaded plunger HO.The sealing material seat 114 refers to a component that seals the bleed valve 100 against the housing 102 to prevent the fluids and gases from leaking out of the bleed valve 100 when it is closed. The sealing material seat 114 may be made of a flexible material, such as rubber or silicone, which may deform slightly to create a tight seal when the valve is closed. The sealing material seat 114 provides a secure and reliable sealing between the spring-loaded plunger 110 and the housing 102. As a result, the sealing material seat 114 helps to prevent leaks and ensure that the outlet opening 108 effectively opens and closes as needed. In some implementations, the bleed valve 100 is of the radiator (not shown in FIGs. 1A and IB). In such implementations, the housing 102 further includes an outer thread 106 to removably couple the bleed valve 100 with the radiator. The outer thread 106 of the housing 102 allows easy installation and maintenance of the bleed valve 100. As a result, time and resources are saved, as the bleed valve 100 may be quickly removed and replaced without affecting other parts of the radiator. In some implementations, the housing 102 further includes an inner thread (not shown in FIGs. 1A and IB) for removably coupling the spring-loaded plunger 110 with the bleed valve 100. The inner thread of the housing 102 allows easy installation, replacement, and maintenance of the spring-loaded plunger 110 and the compressible element 112. In some implementations, the bleed valve 100 further includes a pair of support structures 116 disposed between the spring-loaded plunger 110 and the through-hole 104 of the housing 102. Each of the pair of support structures 116 refers to a component that supports the spring-loaded plunger 110 and allow a fluid to pass through it. The pair of support structures 116 may be used to keep the spring-loaded plunger 110 in place and to prevent any unwanted movement that may cause the bleed valve 100 to open or close unexpectedly. The pair of support structures 116 between the spring-loaded plunger 110 and the through-hole 104 of the housing 102 allow the fluid to pass through, thereby ensuring that the fluid or gas remains contained and is only released when needed. When needed, the fluid may be drained along the through-hole 104 that is occupied by the spring-loaded plunger 110. In case the bleed valve 100 is used in the radiator of the central heating system, the pair of support structures 116 helps to improve the efficiency and safety of the radiator by ensuring that the fluids or gases are contained within the radiator and are not leaked into other parts of the central heating system or environment. The pair of support structures 116 also helps to maintain the pressure within the radiator, ensuring optimal operation of the central heating system. In some implementations, each of the pair of support structures 116 may be a low friction bush placed in a similar position to keep the spring-loaded plunger 110 steady and to limit its movement in other directions. In some other implementations, the bleed valve 100 may further include a sealing ring (not shown) that prevent any fluid from escaping from the bleed valve 100. In some implementations, the bleed valve 100 further includes a guard component 118 coupled with the spring-loaded plunger 110 for preventing accidental actuation of the spring-loaded plunger 110. The guard component 118 refers to a component that is included in the bleed valve 100 to prevent accidental actuation of the spring-loaded plunger 110. This helps to prevent the release of fluids or gases without intentional activation. The guard component 118 makes the bleed valve 100 more user-friendly and safer to operate. In some implementations, the guard component 118 includes a safety mechanism 120 that actuates the spring-loaded plunger 110 when the safety mechanism 120 is pressed by a pinlike object. The safety mechanism 120 may include any device that allows the spring-loaded plunger 110 to be actuated by using the pin-like object. In an example, the safety mechanism 120 may include a hole (not shown) to allow the pin-like object to be used to actuate the spring-loaded plunger 110. In some examples, the safety mechanism 120 may include a slot (not shown) to allow a flat screwdriver to be pushed in to actuate the spring-loaded plunger 110. In another example, the safety mechanism 120 is a lock and key mechanism in which any pin-like object may function as a key. The pin-like object may be receivable within the safety mechanism 120 to actuate the spring-loaded plunger 110. The pin-like object may include, but not limited to, a butter knife, a flat screwdriver, or any other pin-like object that is easily available in a household and receivable within the safety mechanism 120. The safety mechanism 120 reduces the risk of accidental activation of the spring-loaded plunger 110. Further, the safety mechanism 120 allows the spring-loaded plunger 110 to be activated with the pin-like objects or other narrow objects such as a butter knife or flat screwdriver, eliminating the need for any specialised tools or keys to open the bleed valve 100, thereby increasing user-friendliness and practicality of the bleed valve 100. FIG. IB is a schematic cross-sectional view of the bleed valve of FIG. 1A in an open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. With reference to FIG. IB, there is shown a schematic cross-sectional view 100B of the bleed valve 100 in an open position to allow release of fluid or gas. The spring-loaded plunger 110 is movably disposed within the housing 102 such that when the spring-loaded plunger 110 is pushed from a first position 122A (FIG. 1A) to a second position 122B (FIG. IB) inside the housing 102, the compressible element 112 is compressed creating an escape route 126 at one side of the housing 102 through which the fluid or gas escapes via the outlet opening 108. The escape route 126 created by compressing the compressible element 112 is depicted by a solid arrow. The movement of the spring-loaded plunger 110 from the first position 122A (FIG. 1A) to the second position 122B (FIG. IB) inside the housing 102 refers to movement to the first end 124A of the spring-loaded plunger 110 towards one side of housing 102 so that the compressible element 112 is compressed against the housing 102. Further, a gap is created between the second end 124B and the other side (opposite end) of the housing 102. This gap provides the escape route 126 for the fluid or gas from a system (e.g., radiator or other system) in which the bleed valve 100 is installed. Furthermore, when the spring-loaded plunger 110 is released from the second position 122B to the first position 122A (FIG. 1 A), based on the decompression of the compressible element 112, the outlet opening 108 is closed to prevent the fluid or gas from escaping. In other words, there is no gap between the second end 124B and the other side (opposite end) of the housing 102, and thus no escape route 126 is available. When a user stops pushing the spring-loaded plunger 110, the compressible element 112 gets decompressed and the spring-loaded plunger 110 automatically returns to its initial position, i.e., it moves back to the first position 122A from the second position 122B. In some implementations, when the first end 124A of the spring-loaded plunger 110 is pushed, the compressible element 112 is compressed against a first side of the housing 102 causing the sealing material seat 114 to be moved away from a second side of the housing 102 creating the escape route 126 through which the fluid or gas escapes via the outlet opening 108. In some implementations, the bleed valve 100 may be used in a radiator of a central heating system. In such a case, when the spring-loaded plunger 110 is pushed from the first position 122A to the second position 122B, the fluid or gas escapes from the radiator via the outlet opening 108, and when the spring-loaded plunger 110 is released from the second position 122B to the first position 122A, the outlet opening 108 is closed to prevent the fluid or gas from escaping from the radiator. The bleed valve 100 provides the efficient and reliable release of fluids or gases from the radiator, which maintains proper functioning and temperature of the radiator. The bleed valve 100 also provides a simple and easy-to-use solution for controlling the release of fluids or gases from the radiator, as the spring-loaded plunger 110 may be activated by a simple push. FIG. IC is a schematic front view of a support structure of the bleed valve, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. IC is explained in conjunction with FIGs. 1A and IB. With reference to FIG. IC, there is shown a schematic front view of one of the pair of support structures 116. As depicted, the support structure 116 includes a plunger hole 128 to accommodate the spring-loaded plunger 110. In other words, the spring-loaded plunger 110 may be disposed within the plunger hole 128. The support structure 116 further includes a pair of rectangular slots 128 and a circular hole 130. The pair of rectangular slots 128 and the circular hole 130 allow the fluid to pass through it. Specifically, the fluid may pass through the pair of rectangular slots 128 and the circular hole 130 based on the activation and deactivation of the spring-loaded plunger 110. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another bleed valve of the radiator, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. With reference to FIG. 2, there is shown a schematic cross-sectional view of a bleed valve 200. The bleed valve 200 may be used in the radiator for controlling release of the fluids and gases. The bleed valve 200 is substantially similar to the bleed valve 100 of FIG. 1, in terms of functionality. Thus, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and, in the drawings, to identify like elements. The bleed valve 200 includes a housing 202. The housing 202 is substantially similar to the housing 102, in terms of material composition and functionality. However, the housing 202 includes an outlet opening 204 at a centre of the housing 202 that is used for releasing the fluid or gases and the spring-loaded plunger 110 is movably disposed within the same outlet opening 204. Further, the outlet opening 204 at the centre of the housing 202 further acts as an escape route for the fluids or gases when the spring-loaded plunger 110 is compressed. In addition, the housing 202 further includes an inner thread 214 for removably coupling the spring-loaded plunger 110 with the bleed valve 200. The bleed valve 200 further includes the spring-loaded plunger 110 with a compressible element 206. As depicted, the compressible element 206 is the Schrader valve core. The Schrader valve core refers to a type of valve stem that is characterised by its cylindrical shape and a spring-loaded valve core inside. The Schrader valve core is depressed by pressing a pin in a centre to release air or gas. When the Schrader valve core is pressed, the Schrader valve core creates the escape route for the fluids or gases to escape through the outlet opening 204 of the housing 202. However, in some other implementations, the compressible element 206 may include any commercially available valve similar to the Schrader valve core. The bleed valve 200 further includes the guard component 118. In some implementations, the guard component 118 further includes a protective cover 208 disposed on the spring-loaded plunger 110 to restrict a direct access to the spring-loaded plunger 110. The protective cover 208 is a component that may cover and shield the first end 124A of the spring-loaded plunger 110 from damage, or unwanted actuation. In some implementations, the protective cover 208 includes a first aperture 210 configured to receive the pin-like object to actuate the spring-loaded plunger 110. The first aperture 210 allows an easy access to the spring-loaded plunger 110 for actuation. In some implementations, the protective cover 208 further includes a second aperture 212 through which the fluids or gases released further exits from the bleed valve 200 when the spring-loaded plunger 110 is actuated. In some implementations, the protective cover 208 further includes a pair of third apertures 214 that provides a pathway for the fluids or gases to exit, making it easy to monitor and control the release process. The guard component 118 includes a movable piston / plunger 220 that has a seal. The movable piston / plunger 210 of the guard component 118 prevents any fluid from leaking out of the first aperture 210 where the spring-loaded plunger 110 is located. Instead, all of the fluid is directed towards the pair of third apertures 214, ensuring there are no leaks. FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a radiator, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. With reference to FIG. 3, there is shown a schematic perspective view of a radiator 300 used for heating. Specifically, in some examples, the radiator 300 may be used in a central heating system (not shown) to warm a closed environment such as buildings, vehicles, and the like. The radiator 300 may transfer heat from a hot fluid, such as water or oil, to a relatively cooler environment, such as air or another fluid. The radiator 300 has a first end 302 and a second end 304 opposite the first end 302. The radiator 300 defines a longitudinal axis Al along its length. The radiator 300 includes a casing 306 extends axially relative to the longitudinal axis Al. The casing 306 may be made up of 15 metallic materials. Some examples of the metallic materials for the casing 306 may include, but not limited to, aluminium, cast iron, or brass. The radiator 300 further includes a plurality of heat radiating elements 308A to 308N disposed axially relative to the longitudinal axis Al. In some examples, the plurality of heat radiating elements 308A to 308N may include a set of tubes, a set of fins, or combinations thereof. The set of tubes refers to internal tubes used for circulation of the hot fluid. The set of fins refers to heat dissipating elements, disposed on the set of tubes, used for dissipation of heat into the closed environment. The plurality of heat radiating elements 308A to 308N carries the hot fluid and transfer heat to the surrounding air or fluid. The casing 306 is used to hold the plurality of heat radiating elements 308A to 308N in place. The radiator 300 further includes a radiator valve 310 located proximal to the first end 302. The radiator valve 310 controls a flow of the hot fluid into and out of the radiator 300. In an example, the radiator valve 310 includes a valve body 312 and a valve head 314. The valve body 312 is connected to the radiator 300 and the valve head 314 is located outside the radiator 300, connected to a plumbing system (not shown). The valve head 314 controls the flow of hot fluid into the radiator 300 by regulating the opening and closing of the radiator valve 310. In an example, in case of the central heating system including multiple radiators, the radiator valve 310 may be adjusted to control the temperature in each room individually by controlling the flow of water into each radiator. In some examples, the radiator valve 310 may also be equipped with a thermostatic element, which may automatically adjust the flow of water in response to changes in room temperature. The radiator 300 further includes a lock shield valve 316 located proximal to the second end 304. In some examples, the lock shield valve 316 is placed on an opposite side of the radiator from the radiator valve 310. The lock shield valve 316 includes a cap 318 that is locked in place to prevent accidental adjustment. In an example, the lock shield valve 316 balances the water flow through radiators and ensures that each radiator in the central heating system receives the correct amount of water flow. As a result, each room is heated to the desired temperature and over-heating in some rooms and under-heating in others may be prevented. The radiator 300 further includes the bleed valve 100 or 200 of the present invention. The bleed valve 100 or 200 is used to control the release of fluids or gases. Specifically, the bleed valve 100 or 200 is used to remove air that is trapped inside the radiator 300. The bleed valve 100 or 200 is located at top of the radiator 300 (in an example) and proximal to the first end 302 where air is most likely to accumulate. The bleed valve 100 or 200 is used to maintain the proper functioning of the radiator 300, and to ensure that water is uniformly circulated in the radiator. Although, the bleed valve 100 and 200 can be used in the radiator 300, the application of the bleed valves 100 and 200 may not be limited to only radiators. The bleed valves 100 and 200 can be utilised in various systems apart from the radiators, such as hydraulic systems to eliminate excess fluid or trapped air, fuel systems to remove air bubbles in fuel lines, steam systems to remove condensate, heating and cooling systems, and so on. Thus, the bleed valves 100 and 200 effectively control the release of fluids or gases from the radiator 300. The bleed valves 100 and 200 ensure that the radiator 300 operates at optimal levels and prevents any damage to the central heating system due to the build-up of pressure. Further, the bleed valves 100 and 200 improves the performance of the radiator 300 with increased safety and reduced maintenance requirements. By having the spring-loaded plunger 110 in the bleed valves 100 and 200 that accurately controls the release of fluid or gas, the radiator 300 is able to operate at peak efficiency and minimise the risk of damage thereto. The spring-loaded plunger 110 provides easy and convenient activation for releasing the fluids or gases from the radiator 300. The spring-loaded plunger 110 simply requires a push to activate the process of releasing the fluid or gas from the radiator 300. By the use of the spring-loaded plunger 110 in the bleed valve 100 or 200, the need for complex mechanisms or tools to control the release of fluids or gases is eliminated. Further, the spring-loaded plunger 110 can be pushed using any pin-like object, such as a flat screwdriver or butter knife, making the bleed valve 100 or 200 more accessible to the user for the maintenance task. Furthermore, the bleed valve 100 or 200 may not rely on intricate moving parts that may wear down over time, thus using the bleed valve 100 or 200 in the radiators is more economical. Modifications to embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance or illustration". Any embodiment described as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or to exclude the incorporation of features from other embodiments. The word "optionally" is used herein to mean "is provided in some embodiments and not provided in other embodiments". It is appreciated that certain features of the present disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A bleed valve (100, 200) for controlling release of fluids or gases, the bleed valve (100, 200) comprising:a housing (102, 202) having an outlet opening (108, 204) for releasing the fluids or gases; anda spring-loaded plunger (110) with a compressible element (112, 206), wherein the spring-loaded plunger (110) is movably disposed within the housing (102, 202) such that:when the spring-loaded plunger (110) is pushed from a first position (122A) to a second position (122B) inside the housing (102, 202), the compressible element (112, 206) is compressed creating an escape route (126) at one side of the housing (102, 202) through which the fluid or gas escapes via the outlet opening (108, 204), andwhen the spring-loaded plunger (110) is released from the second position (122B) to the first position (122A) based on decompression of the compressible element (112, 206), the outlet opening (108, 204) is closed to prevent the fluid or gas from escaping.

2. The bleed valve (100, 200) of claim 1, wherein the housing (100, 202) has a tubular structure that comprises a through-hole (108, 204) along a length (L) of the housing (102, 202).

3. The bleed valve (100, 200) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the spring-loaded plunger (110) has a T-shaped structure.

4. The bleed valve (100) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a pair of support structures (116) disposed between the spring-loaded plunger (110) and the through-hole (104) of the housing (102).

195. The bleed valve (100, 200) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the compressible element (112, 206) is one of: a Schrader valve core or a compression spring.

6. The bleed valve (100) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring-loaded plunger (110) has a first end (124A) and a second end (124B), and wherein the bleed valve (100) further comprises a sealing material seat (114) coupled with the second end (124B) of the spring-loaded plunger (110) and the compressible element (112) is engaged with the first end (124A) of the spring-loaded plunger (HO).

7. The bleed valve (100) of claim 6, wherein, when the first end (124A) of the spring-loaded plunger (110) is pushed, the compressible element (112) is compressed against a first side of the housing (102) causing the sealing material seat (114) to be moved away from a second side of the housing (102) creating the escape route (126) through which the fluid or gas escapes via the outlet opening (108).

8. The bleed valve (100, 200) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bleed valve (100, 200) is for a radiator (300), and wherein:when the spring-loaded plunger (110) is pushed from the first position (122A) to the second position (122B), the fluid or gas escapes from the radiator (300) via the outlet opening (108, 204), andwhen the spring-loaded plunger (110) is released from the second position (122B) to the first position (122A), the outlet opening (108, 204) is closed to prevent the fluid or gas from escaping from the radiator (300).

9. The bleed valve (100, 200) of claim 8, wherein the housing (102, 202) further comprises an outer thread (106) to removably couple the bleed valve (100, 200) with the radiator (300).

10. The bleed valve (200) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (202) further comprises an inner thread (214) to removably couple the spring-loaded plunger (110) with the bleed valve (200).

11. The bleed valve (100, 200) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a guard component (118) coupled with the spring-loaded plunger (110) for preventing accidental actuation of the spring-loaded plunger (110).

12. The bleed valve (100, 200) of claim 11, wherein the guard component (118) comprises a safety mechanism (120) that actuates the spring-loaded plunger (110) when the safety mechanism (120) is pressed by a pin-like object.

13. The bleed valve (100, 200) of claims 11 or 12, wherein the guard component (118) further comprises a protective cover (208) disposed on the spring-loaded plunger (110) to restrict a direct access to the spring-loaded plunger (110).

14. The bleed valve (200) of claim 13, wherein the protective cover (208) comprises a first aperture (210) configured to receive a pin-like object to actuate the spring-loaded plunger (110).

15. The bleed valve (200) of claim 13 or 14, wherein the protective cover (208) further comprises a second aperture (212) through which the fluids or gases released further exits from the bleed valve (200) when the spring-loaded plunger (110) is actuated.

Images