Drainage system

Abstract

A drainage system is provided that eliminates the need for a private power generation facility to provide the electricity to drive the electric valves. [Solution] The drainage system is equipped with a water-stopping mechanism that maintains a water-stopping state on the discharge side of the pump without using AC power through a private power generation facility.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a drainage system.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] In pump equipment as an example of a drainage system, reduction of costs (including reduction of the burden associated with maintenance and management) is required.

[0003] In pump equipment in which a horizontal shaft pump is installed at a position higher than the suction water level, generally the pump is started after a water filling step of filling the inside of the pump with water. The pump starting torque is large in the water-filled state because it becomes the starting torque including the internal water.

[0004] When the drive machine is an electric motor, the starting current increases according to the starting torque and a voltage drop occurs, so a method of providing expensive starting devices and reactive power compensators (SVC) represented by Korndorfer starters and inverter devices may be adopted. When the drive machine is a diesel engine, a method of providing a clutch mechanism may be adopted in order to prevent starting failure caused by engine stall due to insufficient torque for starting the pump. However, adopting the above method increases the cost of the pump equipment.

[0005] As a method for reducing the cost of pump equipment, dry start operation is known, in which the drive machine is driven in a state where no water is accumulated in the pump, and the water filling step is performed simultaneously therewith. By adopting such a method, the cost of the pump equipment can be reduced.

PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0006]

PATENT DOCUMENT 1

PATENT DOCUMENT 2

PATENT DOCUMENT 3

[0007] In recent years, there has been a growing demand for further cost reductions in pumping equipment. To achieve this, it is desirable to omit the onboard power generation equipment installed in the pumping system. However, this onboard power generation equipment is responsible for the electricity required to drive the electric valves that open and close the water flow path of the pumping system. Therefore, if such electric valves can be omitted, the onboard power generation equipment that provides the electricity to drive the electric valves can be omitted or its capacity reduced, resulting in a reduction in the overall cost of the pumping system.

[0008] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a drainage system (including pump equipment) that eliminates the need for a private power generation facility to drive an electric valve. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In one embodiment, a drainage system is provided that performs a filling process to fill the casing of the pump with water when the pump is started. The drainage system comprises the pump and a water-stopping mechanism that maintains a water-stopped state on the discharge side of the pump without using an AC power source via a private power generation facility.

[0010] In one embodiment, the water-stopping mechanism includes a fluid-driven valve that opens and closes the flow path on the discharge side of the pump by expanding and contracting, and a fluid transfer device that transfers fluid between the fluid-driven valve and the fluid-stopping device. In one embodiment, the fluid-driven valve maintains an expanded state and closes the flow path by supplying pressurized fluid through the fluid transfer device, and releases the expanded state and opens the flow path when the supply of pressurized fluid is stopped. In one embodiment, the fluid-driven valve maintains a contracted state and opens the flow path by drawing in fluid through the fluid transfer device, and releases the contracted state and closes the flow path when the suction of fluid stops.

[0011] In one embodiment, the water-stopping mechanism includes a DC-driven valve powered by a diesel engine starting battery. In one embodiment, the water-stopping mechanism includes a check valve that opens and closes in accordance with the pressure of the water transported by the pump, and an opening / closing limiting structure that restricts the opening and closing operation of the check valve until the water pressure reaches a predetermined pressure. In one embodiment, the opening / closing limiting structure includes a swing arm connected to the valve shaft of the check valve and swinging together with the opening and closing operation of the valve body of the check valve, and a catch mechanism that limits the swinging motion of the swing arm when the valve body is closed.

[0012] In one embodiment, the catch mechanism clamps a restraining projection attached to the swing arm. In one embodiment, the catch mechanism clamps the swing arm itself. In one embodiment, the check valve comprises a first valve body and a second valve body arranged side by side to open and close the flow path of the check valve, and a first valve shaft and a second valve shaft corresponding to the rotation axes of the first valve body and the second valve body, the swing arm is connected to the first valve shaft and has an anti-rotation projection that restricts the rotation of the second valve shaft, and the second valve shaft has a fitting groove into which the anti-rotation projection fits.

[0013] In one embodiment, the opening / closing limiting structure includes a swing arm connected to the valve shaft of the check valve and swinging together with the opening and closing operation of the valve body of the check valve, and an electromagnetic locking mechanism that restricts the swinging motion of the swing arm by electromagnetic force when the valve body is closed. In one embodiment, the opening / closing limiting structure includes a dashpot connected to the valve shaft of the check valve and operating together with the opening and closing operation of the valve body of the check valve to control the opening and closing operation of the valve body. In one aspect, the dashpot includes a cylinder that retains a viscous fluid, and a piston that moves inside the cylinder as the viscous fluid moves, and the piston moves in conjunction with the operation of a crank connected to the valve shaft. Effects of the Invention

[0014] According to the above means, the drainage system can omit the private power generation facility that bears the electric power for driving the motor-operated valve. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an embodiment of pump equipment as an example of a drainage system. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an example of an operation flow of dry start operation. [Figure 3] Figure 3(a) and Figure 3(b) are diagrams showing another embodiment of a fluid-driven valve. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing another embodiment of pump equipment. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing another embodiment of a fluid-driven valve. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing another example of an operation flow of dry start operation. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing another example of an operation flow of dry start operation. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing another embodiment of a water stop holding mechanism. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing another embodiment of a water stop holding mechanism. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing another embodiment of a water stop holding mechanism. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing another embodiment of a water stop holding mechanism. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing another embodiment of an opening / closing restriction structure. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing another embodiment of an opening / closing restriction structure. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing another embodiment of an opening / closing restriction structure. [Figure 15] This figure shows another embodiment of the opening / closing restriction structure. [Figure 16] This figure shows another embodiment of the opening / closing restriction structure. [Figure 17] This figure shows another embodiment of the opening / closing restriction structure. [Figure 18] This figure shows another embodiment of the pumping equipment. [Figure 19] This figure shows another embodiment of the pumping equipment. [Figure 20] This figure shows another embodiment of the pumping equipment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings described below, the same or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted. In the multiple embodiments described below, the configuration of one embodiment that is not specifically described is the same as that of the other embodiments, so redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0017] Figure 1 shows one embodiment of a pumping system as an example of a drainage system. As shown in Figure 1, the pumping system 1 comprises a pump P positioned higher than the suction water level of the suction tank 2, and a drive unit ENG that drives the pump P. The pump P is, for example, a horizontal-axis (mixed-flow, axial-flow, or volute) pump. The drive unit ENG is, for example, a diesel engine.

[0018] Pump equipment 1 includes a suction pipe SP connected to the suction port of pump P and a discharge pipe DP connected to the discharge port of pump P. The end of the suction pipe SP is located in the suction tank 2, and the end of the discharge pipe DP is located in the discharge tank 3.

[0019] In this embodiment, the pump system 1 is configured to perform a dry start operation by driving the drive unit ENG while the pump P is empty of water, and simultaneously performing a full-water filling process. To perform such a dry start operation, the pump system 1 includes a vacuum pump VP, a suction pipe VCL connecting the vacuum pump VP and the pump P, an intake valve VCV attached to the suction pipe VCL, and a full-water detector WD. The specific method of dry start operation will be described later.

[0020] The vacuum pump VP is connected to the drive unit ENG and is configured to operate using the driving force of the drive unit ENG. With this configuration, there is no need to drive the vacuum pump VP with a private power generation system. On the other hand, conventionally, an electric valve is placed on the discharge side of the pump P to fill the pump P with water during the full-water process.

[0021] The electric valve is driven by a drive unit that operates the electric valve. The drive unit for the electric valve is driven by AC power supplied from a private power generation facility. Therefore, if the water shut-off state on the discharge side of pump P can be maintained without using the electric valve, the private power generation facility can be omitted. As a result, the cost of the pump equipment 1 can be reduced. The following describes the configuration of the pump equipment 1 that allows for the omission of the private power generation facility that bears the power for driving the electric valve.

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, the pump equipment 1 is equipped with a water-stopping mechanism MM that maintains a water-stopping state on the discharge side of the pump P without using an AC power source via a private power generation facility. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the water-stopping mechanism MM includes a fluid-driven valve 10 that opens and closes the flow path on the discharge side of the pump P by expanding and contracting, and a fluid transfer device TD that transfers fluid between the fluid-driven valve 10 and the fluid-stopping device TD.

[0023] The fluid-driven valve 10 is attached to the discharge pipe DP and is made of a balloon-shaped, expandable material (e.g., rubber) to open and close the flow path of the discharge pipe DP. The fluid transfer device TD is configured to inflate (or deflate) the fluid-driven valve 10 when driven.

[0024] The fluid transfer device TD comprises a blower BL, a fluid supply pipe SL1 connecting the blower BL and the fluid drive valve 10, a branch pipe SL1a connected to the fluid supply pipe SL1, and an exhaust valve VL1 (for example, an exhaust solenoid valve) attached to the branch pipe SL1a.

[0025] The blower BL is connected to the drive unit ENG and is configured to be driven by the driving force of the drive unit ENG. For example, the driving force of the drive unit ENG is transmitted to the blower BL through a combination of pulleys and V-belts, or a combination of chains and sprockets. In one embodiment, the blower BL may be configured to be driven by a power source other than the drive unit ENG, for example, a battery (not shown) mounted on the drive unit ENG.

[0026] When the blower BL is driven with the exhaust valve VL1 closed, pressurized fluid is supplied to the fluid drive valve 10 through the fluid supply pipe SL1. The fluid drive valve 10 expands due to the pressurized fluid and closes the flow path of the discharge pipe DP.

[0027] When the fluid-driven valve 10 is expanded and the exhaust valve VL1 is opened, the fluid-driven valve 10 discharges the fluid inside it to the outside through the fluid supply pipe SL1 and the branch pipe SL1a, and then contracts. As a result, the fluid-driven valve 10 opens the flow path of the discharge pipe DP.

[0028] Figure 2 shows an example of the operation flow for dry start operation. When performing dry start operation (see step P101), the pump P and blower BL are started (see steps P102 and P103). At this time, the intake valve VCV is opened (see step P104) and the exhaust valve VL1 (i.e., the exhaust solenoid valve) is closed (see step P105).

[0029] After starting the operation of pump P, when the vacuum pump VP is driven (see step P106), the water in the suction tank 2 is introduced into pump P through the suction pipe SP. When the blower BL is driven, the fluid drive valve 10 closes the flow path of the discharge pipe DP (see step P107). By closing the flow path of the discharge pipe DP, water gradually accumulates in pump P, and eventually pump P is filled with water.

[0030] When the water level detector WD detects that the pump is full (see step P108), a timer (not shown) that stops the vacuum pump VP is activated (see step P109). Furthermore, the intake valve VCV is closed (see step P110), and after a predetermined time has elapsed according to the timer, the vacuum pump VP stops operating (see step P111). In this way, in order to completely discharge any remaining air from the pump P, the vacuum pump VP continues to operate for a predetermined time after the water level detector WD detects that the pump is full.

[0031] When the vacuum pump VP is stopped, the exhaust valve VL1 is opened (see step P112), and the fluid drive valve 10 opens the flow path of the discharge pipe DP (see step P113). As a result, the water in the suction tank 2 flows through the discharge pipe DP into the discharge tank 3 and is drained (see step P114).

[0032] According to this embodiment, the pump system 1 includes a fluid transfer device TD that operates by the driving force of a drive unit ENG, and a fluid drive valve 10 that opens and closes the discharge side of the pump P based on the operation of the fluid transfer device TD. With this configuration, the pump system 1 can eliminate the need for an electric valve operated by a private power generation system, as in the conventional system. As a result, the cost of the pump system 1 can be reduced.

[0033] As shown in Figure 1, the fluid transfer device TD may include a fluid tank (specifically, an air tank) AT for storing pressurized fluid, a fluid supply pipe SL2 connecting a blower BL and a fluid drive valve 10 through the air tank AT, a branch pipe SL2a connected to the fluid supply pipe SL2, and an exhaust valve VL2 attached to the branch pipe SL2a.

[0034] In this configuration, the pressurized fluid is sent to the air tank AT by the drive of the blower BL and stored in the air tank AT. A check valve SLV is positioned upstream of the air tank AT in the direction of the pressurized fluid flow. The check valve SLV prevents backflow of the pressurized fluid stored in the air tank AT.

[0035] By opening the on-off valve VL3 attached to the fluid supply pipe SL2 and supplying the pressurized fluid stored in the air tank AT to the fluid drive valve 10, the fluid drive valve 10 closes the flow path of the discharge pipe DP. With this configuration, it is not necessary to drive the blower BL each time to operate the fluid drive valve 10, thereby reducing the labor required for the blower BL.

[0036] The combination of fluid supply pipe SL1, branch pipe SL1a, and exhaust valve VL1, and the combination of fluid supply pipe SL2, branch pipe SL2a, and exhaust valve VL2, are not mutually exclusive and may be compatible.

[0037] Figures 3(a) and 3(b) show other embodiments of the fluid-driven valve. In the embodiments described above, a balloon-shaped fluid-driven valve 10 was described, but the fluid-driven valve 10 may be a pinch valve that is operated by pressurized fluid supplied through a fluid transfer device TD.

[0038] The fluid-driven valve 10 is arranged concentrically with the discharge pipe DP. The fluid-driven valve 10 comprises a valve body 12 connected to the discharge pipe DP, and flow path throttling 11A and 11B fixed to the valve body 12 and forming a flow path (i.e., a portion through which water passes).

[0039] The valve body 12 is connected to the fluid supply pipe SL1 (and / or fluid supply pipe SL2) and is configured to hold the pressurized fluid supplied from the blower BL. Upon supply of pressurized fluid, the flow path restrictors 11A and 11B deform toward each other to restrict the flow path of the fluid-driven valve 10, thereby closing the flow path (see Figure 3(a)). When the exhaust valve VL1 (and / or exhaust valve VL2) is opened, the flow path restrictors 11A and 11B deform toward each other to separate, opening the flow path (see Figure 3(b)).

[0040] Thus, the fluid-driven valve 10 may be of the balloon type or the pinch valve type. When cost-effectiveness is a requirement, it is preferable to use a balloon-type fluid-driven valve 10. When piping losses (i.e., energy loss of water flowing through the discharge pipe DP) are to be minimized, or when there is a risk of the fluid-driven valve 10 becoming clogged due to dust and debris contained in the pressurized fluid, it is preferable to use a pinch valve type fluid-driven valve 10.

[0041] Figure 4 shows another embodiment of the pump equipment. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the pump equipment 1 includes a fluid drive valve 20 having a different configuration from the fluid drive valve 10 described above. In the embodiment described above, the fluid drive valve 10 maintains an expanded state by supplying pressurized fluid through the fluid transfer device TD, closing the flow path of the discharge pipe DP, and releases the expanded state and opens the flow path of the discharge pipe DP when the supply of pressurized fluid is stopped.

[0042] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the fluid-driven valve 20 maintains a contracted state by the suction of fluid through the fluid transfer device TD, opening the flow path of the discharge pipe DP, and releases the contracted state and closes the flow path of the discharge pipe DP when the suction of fluid stops. Specifically, the fluid-driven valve 20 is configured to close the flow path of the discharge pipe DP under atmospheric pressure conditions.

[0043] For example, the fluid-driven valve 20 is equipped with a biasing member (not shown) such as a spring or rubber, and the biasing force provided by the biasing member closes the flow path of the discharge pipe DP. By drawing the fluid inside the fluid-driven valve 20, a deformation force (contraction force) greater than the biasing force acts on the fluid-driven valve 20, causing the fluid-driven valve 20 to contract.

[0044] The fluid transfer device TD includes a first suction pipe VCL1 connecting the vacuum pump VP and pump P, and a second suction pipe VCL2 connecting the vacuum pump VP and the fluid drive valve 20 through the suction pipe VCL1. The first suction pipe VCL1 and the second suction pipe VCL2 are connected to each other.

[0045] Furthermore, the fluid transfer device TD includes a first intake valve VCV1 attached to the first suction pipe VCL1, a first branch pipe VBL1 connected to the first suction pipe VCL1, and a first vacuum breaking valve VBV1 attached to the first branch pipe VBL1.

[0046] Similarly, the fluid transfer device TD includes a second intake valve VCV2 attached to the second suction pipe VCL2, a second branch pipe VBL2 connected to the second suction pipe VCL2, and a second vacuum breaking valve VBV2 attached to the second branch pipe VBL2. The second intake valve VCV2 is a valve for shutting off water from the discharge pipe DP, and corresponds to, for example, a solenoid valve or a pressure regulating valve.

[0047] Figure 5 shows another embodiment of the fluid-driven valve. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the pump equipment 1 is equipped with a balloon-shaped fluid-driven valve 20, but in the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the pump equipment 1 is equipped with a ring-shaped fluid-driven valve 20.

[0048] Specifically, the fluid-driven valve 20 includes a valve body 23 connected to a discharge pipe DP, a closing ball 22 that moves in a flow path 23a formed inside the valve body 23, and an elastic ring 21 that restricts the movement of the closing ball 22.

[0049] The flow path 23a is in communication with the flow path of the discharge pipe DP, and the closing ball 22 is configured to close the flow path 23a due to the action of gravity. The elastic ring 21 is positioned in the path of the closing ball 22 and is connected to the second suction pipe VCL2. The elastic ring 21 expands under atmospheric pressure and contracts by drawing fluid through the second suction pipe VCL2.

[0050] When gravity acts on the closing ball 22, the closing ball 22 closes the flow path 23a, and the elastic ring 21 expands under atmospheric pressure, the elastic ring 21 restricts the movement of the closing ball 22. In this way, the fluid-driven valve 20 closes the flow path of the discharge pipe DP.

[0051] When the elastic ring 21 contracts due to fluid suction, it releases the restriction on the movement of the closing ball 22. Consequently, the closing ball 22 is pushed up by the water flowing through the passage 23a, and as a result, the water passes through the passage 23a. In this way, the fluid-driven valve 20 opens the passage of the discharge pipe DP.

[0052] Figures 6 and 7 illustrate other examples of the operation flow for dry start operation. Figure 6 shows the operation flow for dry start operation when the second intake valve VCV2 is a solenoid valve. Figure 7 shows the operation flow for dry start operation when the second intake valve VCV2 is a pressure regulating valve.

[0053] In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, when performing a dry start operation (see step P201), the operation of the pump P is started (see step P202). At this time, the first vacuum breaking valve VBV1 is closed, the first intake valve VCV1 is opened (see step P203), and the second intake valve VCV2 is closed. By opening the second vacuum breaking valve VBV2, the fluid-driven valve 20 closes the flow path of the discharge pipe DP by atmospheric pressure.

[0054] After starting the operation of pump P, the vacuum pump VP is driven (see step P204), and eventually the water level detector WD detects that the tank is full (see step P205). Subsequently, the second vacuum breaking valve VBV2 is closed while the second intake valve VCV2 is opened (see step P206), and a timer (not shown) is activated (see step P207). When the second intake valve VCV2 is opened, the vacuum pump VP sucks the fluid from the fluid drive valve 20.

[0055] As a result, the fluid-driven valve 20 opens the flow path of the discharge pipe DP (see step P208). By closing the second intake valve VCV2 and the second vacuum breaking valve VBV2, the fluid-driven valve 20 continues to keep the flow path of the discharge pipe DP open. As a result, the water in the intake tank 2 flows through the discharge pipe DP into the discharge tank 3 and is drained (see step P211). After a predetermined time has elapsed according to the timer, the first intake valve VCV1 is closed (see step P210), and the operation of the vacuum pump VP is stopped (see step P209).

[0056] The dry start operation shown in Figure 7 is basically the same as the dry start operation shown in Figure 6. When performing the dry start operation (see step P301), the pump P is started (see step P302). At this time, the first vacuum breaking valve VBV1 is closed, the first intake valve VCV1 is opened (see step P303), and the second intake valve VCV2 is closed. By opening the second vacuum breaking valve VBV2, the fluid drive valve 20 closes the flow path of the discharge pipe DP due to atmospheric pressure.

[0057] After starting pump P, drive vacuum pump VP (see step P304) and close the second vacuum breaking valve VBV2.

[0058] After the vacuum pump VP is driven, the water level detector WD eventually detects that the pump is full (see step P307). The second intake valve VCV2 is configured to open when the second suction pipe VCL2 drops to a predetermined pressure (for example, the same pressure as when the pump P is full). When the second intake valve VCV2 opens (see step P305), the vacuum pump VP draws fluid into the fluid drive valve 20, and the fluid drive valve 20 opens the flow path of the discharge pipe DP (see step P306).

[0059] Subsequently, a timer (not shown) is activated (see step P308). After the predetermined time set by the timer has elapsed, the first intake valve VCV1 is closed (see step P311), and the operation of the vacuum pump VP is stopped (see step P310).

[0060] By closing the first intake valve VCV1, the pressure in the second suction pipe VCL2 becomes lower than atmospheric pressure. Since the second vacuum breaking valve VBV2 is closed, the fluid drive valve 20 continues to keep the flow path of the discharge pipe DP open. As a result, the water in the suction tank 2 flows through the discharge pipe DP into the discharge tank 3 and is drained.

[0061] Figures 8 and 9 show other embodiments of the water-stopping mechanism. In the embodiments shown in Figures 8 and 9, the water-stopping mechanism MM includes a check valve CVL that opens and closes in accordance with the pressure of water transported by the pump P, and an opening / closing limiting structure 100 that limits the opening and closing operation of the check valve CVL until the water pressure reaches a predetermined pressure (i.e., the required discharge pressure).

[0062] When performing a dry start operation, it is necessary to fill the pump P with water from an empty state, and the check valve CVL opens the flow path of the discharge pipe DP according to the water flow. If the flow path of the discharge pipe DP is opened before the pump P is filled with water, there is a risk that the dry start operation cannot be reliably performed. Therefore, the opening / closing limiting structure 100 restricts the water flow until the pump P is full of water.

[0063] The check valve CVL is a swing-type check valve. The check valve CVL comprises a valve body 101, a valve element 102 located within the valve body 101 and controlling the flow of water, and a valve stem 103 that supports the valve element 102 and corresponds to the axis of rotation of the valve element 102. The valve stem 103 penetrates the valve body 101 and extends to the outside of the valve body 101.

[0064] The valve body 102 opens in response to the flow of water in the forward direction (i.e., from upstream to downstream) and closes in response to the flow of water in the reverse direction (i.e., from downstream to upstream). Thus, the valve body 102 is configured to open and close according to the direction of water flow. When the valve body 102 is open, the valve stem 103 rotates with the valve body 102 in one direction (counterclockwise in Figure 9), and conversely, when the valve body 102 is closed, the valve stem 103 rotates with the valve body 102 in the other direction (clockwise in Figure 9).

[0065] The opening / closing limiting structure 100 includes a swing arm 110 connected to the valve stem 103 and swinging together with the opening and closing operation of the valve body 102, and a catch mechanism 111 that limits the swinging motion of the swing arm 110 when the valve body 102 is closed.

[0066] The swing arm 110 rotates counterclockwise with the valve stem 103 when the valve stem 103 rotates counterclockwise, and rotates clockwise with the valve stem 103 when the valve stem 103 rotates clockwise.

[0067] The catch mechanism 111 is positioned on the trajectory of the swing arm 110, which rotates clockwise. The catch mechanism 111 is attached to the outer surface of the valve body 101. In one embodiment, the catch mechanism 111 may be positioned independently of the check valve CVL.

[0068] The catch mechanism 111 is configured to restrict the movement of the swing arm 110 when the valve body 102 completely closes the flow path of the check valve CVL. Specifically, the swing arm 110 has a restraining projection 110a attached to its tip, and the catch mechanism 111 clamps the restraining projection 110a.

[0069] As shown in Figure 9, the catch mechanism 111 includes a catch portion 111a that grips the restraining projection 110a, a holding portion 111c that holds the catch portion 111a, and an adjustment screw 111b that adjusts the holding force of the catch portion 111a.

[0070] Tightening the adjustment screw 111b increases the holding force of the catch part 111a by the retaining part 111c, and loosening the adjustment screw 111b decreases the holding force of the catch part 111a by the retaining part 111c. The holding force of the catch part 111a by the adjustment screw 111b is adjusted so that the opening / closing limiting structure 100 restricts the flow of water until the inside of the pump P is full of water.

[0071] Figures 10 and 11 show other embodiments of the water-stopping mechanism. In the embodiments shown in Figures 10 and 11, the check valve CVL comprises a first valve body 102A and a second valve body 102B arranged side by side to open and close the flow path of the check valve CVL.

[0072] These two valve bodies 102A and 102B are configured to open and close independently. Specifically, the first valve body 102A is connected to the first valve shaft 103A, and the second valve body 102B is connected to the second valve shaft 103B.

[0073] During dry start operation, if at least one of the valve bodies 102A and 102B is opened, the pump P cannot be filled with water. Therefore, the opening / closing limiting structure 100 is configured to maintain the closed state of the valve bodies 102A and 102B until the water pressure in the check valve CVL reaches the required discharge pressure.

[0074] Specifically, as shown in Figure 11, the swing arm 110 connected to the first valve stem 103A has an anti-rotation projection 110b that restricts the rotation of the second valve stem 103B. The second valve stem 103B has a fitting groove 115 into which the anti-rotation projection 110b fits.

[0075] The anti-rotation projection 110b engages with the fitting groove 115 of the second valve shaft 103B when the second valve body 102B completely closes the passage of the check valve CVL. When the anti-rotation projection 110b engages with the fitting groove 115, the anti-rotation projection 110b restricts the rotation of the second valve shaft 103B. Therefore, in this state, the second valve body 102B cannot open or close and remains closed.

[0076] When the anti-rotation projection 110b is engaged with the fitting groove 115, the catch mechanism 111 is configured to clamp the restraining projection 110a of the swing arm 110. Therefore, in this state, the first valve body 102A cannot open or close and remains closed. In this way, the opening / closing limiting structure 100 can simultaneously close both the first valve body 102A and the second valve body 102B until the water pressure in the pump P reaches the required discharge pressure.

[0077] Figures 12 and 13 show other embodiments of the opening and closing limiting structure. In the embodiments shown in Figures 12 and 13, the opening and closing limiting structure 100 includes a counterweight 160 attached to the tip of the swing arm 110 and a catch mechanism 151 that grips the swing arm 110 itself.

[0078] The counterweight 160 is configured to quickly open and close the valve body 102. The catch mechanism 151 has a main body 152 and a bent portion 153 that extends from the main body 152 toward the swing arm 110.

[0079] The bent portion 153 includes catch portions 153a, 153a that grip the swing arm 110, support portions 153b, 153b that support the catch portions 153a, 153a, a holding portion 153c that holds the support portions 153b, 153b, and an adjustment screw 154 that adjusts the holding force of the catch portion 153a.

[0080] Each of the catch parts 153a has a convex shape that faces each other. When the adjustment screw 154 is tightened, the holding force of the catch parts 153a increases, and when the adjustment screw 154 is loosened, the holding force of the catch parts 153a decreases.

[0081] Figures 14 and 15 show other embodiments of the opening / closing limiting structure. In the embodiments shown in Figures 14 and 15, the opening / closing limiting structure 100 includes an electromagnetic locking mechanism 200 that restricts the swinging motion of the swing arm 110 by electromagnetic force when the valve body 102 is closed. In the embodiments shown in Figures 14 and 15, as in the embodiments shown in Figures 12 and 13, the opening / closing limiting structure 100 also includes a counterweight 160 attached to the tip of the swing arm 110.

[0082] The electromagnetic locking mechanism 200 comprises a main body 201 positioned at the same angle as the inclination angle of the swing arm 110 when the valve body 102 completely closes the flow path of the check valve CVL, and an electromagnet 201a embedded in the main body 201. When the valve body 102 is completely closed, the main body 201 of the electromagnetic locking mechanism 200 is brought into close contact with the swing arm 110 by the electromagnet 201a.

[0083] As shown in Figure 14, the electromagnetic lock mechanism 200 is linked to a delay timer 205 that delays the signal detected by the water level detector WD. When the water level detector WD detects a water level detection signal, the water level detection signal is sent to the delay timer 205. When the delay timer 205 receives the water level detection signal, it activates, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, it sends a release signal to the electromagnetic lock mechanism 200.

[0084] When the electromagnetic locking mechanism 200 receives a release signal, it releases the energization to the electromagnet 201a. By releasing the energization, the electromagnetic locking mechanism 200 releases the restriction on the swinging motion of the swing arm 110. With this configuration, the opening / closing restriction structure 100 can release the closed state of the valve body 102 after a predetermined time has elapsed following the detection of full water level by the water level detector WD.

[0085] Figures 16 and 17 show other embodiments of the opening / closing limiting structure. In the embodiments shown in Figures 16 and 17, the opening / closing limiting structure 100 includes a dashpot 300 connected to the valve stem 103 and operating together with the opening / closing operation of the valve body 102 to limit the opening / closing operation of the valve body 102. In this embodiment as well, the opening / closing limiting structure 100 includes a counterweight 160 attached to the tip of the swing arm 110.

[0086] The dashpot 300 is configured to open the valve body 102 slowly in two stages, from a fully closed state to a fully open state. Specifically, the dashpot 300 comprises a crank 301 connected to a valve stem 103, a cylinder 302 for holding a viscous fluid (e.g., oil), a piston 304 that moves (i.e., up and down) within the cylinder 302 in conjunction with the operation of the crank 301, and a piston rod 303 connecting the crank 301 and the piston 304.

[0087] The cylinder 302 is divided into a first space S1 and a second space S2 by the piston 304. When the valve body 102 opens, the valve stem 103 rotates counterclockwise, and with this rotation, the piston rod 303 and piston 304 rise. As the piston rod 303 and piston 304 rise, the viscous fluid in the second space S2 flows into the first space S1 through the small-diameter pipe 305A.

[0088] The dashpot 300 is equipped with a needle valve 306 attached to a small-diameter pipe 305A. The needle valve 306 is configured to regulate the flow rate of viscous fluid flowing into the first space S1. Therefore, reducing the flow rate of the viscous fluid reduces the upward velocity of the piston 304, and as a result, the speed at which the valve body 102 opens is also reduced.

[0089] When the piston 304 rises to a predetermined height, the viscous fluid in the second space S2 flows into the first space S1 through the large-diameter pipe 305B. The large-diameter pipe 305B has a larger diameter than the small-diameter pipe 305A. Therefore, the flow rate of the viscous fluid flowing through the large-diameter pipe 305B is greater than the flow rate of the viscous fluid flowing through the small-diameter pipe 305A.

[0090] The piston 304 rises at a first velocity due to the viscous fluid flowing through the small-diameter pipe 305A, and then rises at a second velocity greater than the first velocity due to the viscous fluid flowing through the large-diameter pipe 305B. The speed at which the valve body 102 opens depends on the upward speed of the piston 304. Therefore, the valve body 102 opens slowly in two stages, depending on the upward speed of the piston 304. In the embodiments shown in Figures 16 and 17, the opening / closing limiting structure 100 can also limit the opening and closing operation of the check valve CVL until the water pressure reaches the required discharge pressure.

[0091] When the valve body 102 is closed, the viscous fluid in the first space S1 flows into the second space S2 through the small hole 304a formed in the piston 304, and the valve body 102 is quickly closed.

[0092] Figures 18 and 19 show other embodiments of the pumping equipment. In the embodiment shown in Figure 18, the pumping equipment 1 includes a first discharge pipe DP1 that extends parallel (i.e., horizontally) to the ground on which the pump P is located, and a second discharge pipe DP2 that extends perpendicularly or inclined to the first discharge pipe DP1.

[0093] The water-stopping mechanism MM includes a check valve 400 attached to the second discharge pipe DP2. The check valve 400 includes a valve body 32 connected to the second discharge pipe DP2, and a closing ball 31 that moves in a vertically extending flow path 32a formed within the valve body 32.

[0094] In the embodiment shown in Figure 19, the check valve 400 is a ball check valve, but it may also be a swing-type check valve. By attaching the check valve 400 to the second discharge pipe DP2, the closing ball 31 closes the flow path 32a due to its own weight. When the pump P is operated in this state, the closing ball 31 restricts the flow of water until the inside of the pump P is full of water, that is, until the discharge pressure of the pump P reaches a constant pressure.

[0095] When water flows into the second discharge pipe DP2, the water flowing through the discharge pipe DP2 pushes up the closing ball 31, and as a result, the water flows through the flow path 32a. In the embodiments shown in Figures 18 and 19, the pump system 1 can reliably perform dry start operation. Furthermore, a pump system 1 having such a configuration can achieve simplification of the system and further cost reduction.

[0096] Figure 20 shows another embodiment of the pump equipment. In the embodiment shown in Figure 20, the water-stopping mechanism MM includes a DC drive valve 500 driven by a diesel engine starting battery BTL. The battery BTL may be a battery mounted on the drive unit ENG, or it may be a battery provided separately from the drive unit ENG.

[0097] The method of driving the DC-driven valve 500 is not particularly limited, as long as the DC-driven valve 500 can open and close the flow path of the discharge pipe DP. For example, an electromagnetic drive method or an electric motor drive method can be used as the driving method for the DC-driven valve 500.

[0098] In the embodiment shown in Figure 20, the DC-driven valve 500 can be driven without using an AC power source via a private power generation facility. Therefore, the pump equipment 1 can omit the private power generation facility.

[0099] The embodiments described above are intended to enable persons with ordinary skill in the art to implement the present invention. Various modifications of the above embodiments can be made naturally by those skilled in the art, and the technical idea of ​​the present invention can be applied to other embodiments as well. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described, but is to be interpreted in the broadest sense according to the technical idea defined by the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 1. Pumping equipment 2 Water absorption tank 3. Discharge tank 10 Fluid-driven valves 11A, 11B flow path restriction 12 valve boxes 20 Fluid-driven valves 21 Elastic ring 22 Closing ball 23 Valve box 23a Flow channel 31 Closing ball 32 valve box 32a Flow channel 100 Opening / Closing Restriction Structure 101 Valve Box 102 Valve body 102A First valve body 102B Second valve body 103 Valve stem 103A 1st valve stem 103B 2nd valve stem 110 Swingarm 110a Restriction protrusion 110b Anti-rotation projection 111 Catch mechanism 111a Catch section 111b Adjustment screw 111c Holding part 115 Fitting groove 151 Catch mechanism 152 Main body 153 Bent section 153a Catch section 153b Support part 153c Holding part 154 Adjustment screw 160 Counterweight 200 Electromagnetic locking mechanism 201 Main body 201a electromagnet 205 Delay Timer 300 Dashpot 301 Crank 302 cylinders 303 Piston Rod 304 Piston 304a Small hole 305A Small Diameter Piping 305B Large Diameter Piping 306 Needle valve 400 Check valve 500 DC driven valve P Pump ENG drive unit SP suction pipe DP discharge pipe DP1 1st discharge pipe DP2 2nd discharge pipe VP Vacuum Pump VCL suction tube VCV Intake Valve WD Water Level Detector MM Water-stop retention mechanism TD fluid transfer device BL blower SL1 Fluid supply pipe SL1a Branch pipe VL1 Exhaust Valve AT fluid tank (air tank) SL2 fluid supply pipe SL2a branch pipe VL2 Exhaust Valve VL3 Shut-off Valve SVL check valve VCL1 1st suction tube VCL2 2nd suction tube VCV1 First Intake Valve VCV2 Second Intake Valve VBL1 First Branch Pipe VBL2 Second Branch Pipe VBV1 First Vacuum Breaking Valve VBV2 Second Vacuum Breaking Valve CVL check valve S1 1st space S2 2nd space BTL Battery

Claims

1. A drainage system that performs a filling process to fill the casing of the pump with water when the pump is started, The aforementioned pump, A drainage system comprising a water-stopping mechanism that maintains a water-stopping state on the discharge side of the pump without using an AC power source via a private power generation facility.

2. The aforementioned water-stopping and holding mechanism is A fluid-driven valve that opens and closes the discharge flow path of the pump by expanding and contracting, The drainage system according to claim 1, further comprising a fluid transfer device for transferring fluid to and from the fluid-driven valve.

3. The drainage system according to claim 2, wherein the fluid-driven valve maintains an expanded state and closes the flow path by supplying pressurized fluid through the fluid transfer device, and releases the expanded state and opens the flow path by stopping the supply of pressurized fluid.

4. The drainage system according to claim 2, wherein the fluid-driven valve maintains a contracted state and opens the flow path by suction of fluid through the fluid transfer device, and releases the contracted state and closes the flow path when the suction of fluid stops.

5. The drainage system according to claim 1, wherein the water-stopping mechanism includes a DC-driven valve powered by a diesel engine starting battery.

6. The aforementioned water-stopping and holding mechanism is A check valve that opens and closes due to the pressure of the water transferred by the pump, The drainage system according to claim 1, further comprising an opening / closing limiting structure that limits the opening and closing operation of the check valve until the water pressure reaches a predetermined pressure.

7. The aforementioned opening / closing restriction structure is A swing arm connected to the valve shaft of the check valve and swinging in conjunction with the opening and closing operation of the valve body of the check valve, The drainage system according to claim 6, further comprising a catch mechanism that restricts the swinging motion of the swing arm when the valve body is closed.

8. The drainage system according to claim 7, wherein the catch mechanism clamps a restraining projection attached to the swing arm.

9. The drainage system according to claim 7, wherein the catch mechanism clamps the swing arm itself.

10. The aforementioned check valve is The first valve body and the second valve body are arranged side by side and open and close the flow path of the check valve, It comprises a first valve shaft and a second valve shaft, which correspond to the rotation axes of the first valve body and the second valve body, The swing arm is connected to the first valve shaft and has an anti-rotation projection that restricts the rotation of the second valve shaft. The drainage system according to claim 7, wherein the second valve shaft has a fitting groove into which the anti-rotation projection fits.

11. The aforementioned opening / closing restriction structure is A swing arm connected to the valve shaft of the check valve and swinging in conjunction with the opening and closing operation of the valve body of the check valve, The drainage system according to claim 6, further comprising an electromagnetic locking mechanism that restricts the swinging motion of the swing arm by electromagnetic force when the valve body is closed.

12. The drainage system according to claim 6, wherein the opening / closing limiting structure is connected to the valve shaft of the check valve and operates together with the opening / closing operation of the valve body of the check valve to control the opening / closing operation of the valve body.

13. The aforementioned dashpot is A cylinder that holds a viscous fluid, The system comprises a piston that moves within the cylinder due to the movement of the viscous fluid, The drainage system according to claim 12, wherein the piston moves together with the operation of a crank connected to the valve shaft.

Images