Synchronous valve operation unaffected by hydrostatic pressure

Abstract

The present invention generally relates to energy use in a start-stop mechanism for circulating a fluid to a high-altitude container. More specifically, it relates to a method for operating a start-stop mechanism without being affected by any hydrostatic pressure. A plurality of input and output connections are operatively connected to at least one closed container, each of which is operatively connected to a pressurizing system having at least one input and at least one output. The plurality of input and output connections are further operatively connected to another pressurizing system having a pressure difference, each having at least one input and at least one output.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to energy usage in a start-stop mechanism when circulating a fluid to a container at a high elevation. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method for operating a start-stop mechanism without being affected in any way by hydrostatic pressure. A plurality of input connections and output connections are operatively connected to at least one closed container. Each closed container has at least one input part and at least one output part, is operatively connected to a pressurization system, and is further operatively connected to another pressurization system having a pressure difference while having at least one input part and at least one output part.

Background Art

[0002] Regarding the prior art (Patent Document 1) and non-resistance circulation to an elevated container, reference should be made to the operation of conventional start-stop mechanisms (valves) that regulate, direct, or control the fluid flow in the circulation circuit.

[0003] Regarding the prior art, reference should be made to a circulation system whose main operation is to transport fluid upward. When start-stop mechanisms (valves) are used for such circulation, they are exposed to hydrostatic pressure, which results in friction and energy consumption during their operation.

[0004] One group of methods describes start-stop mechanisms (valves), in which the hydrostatic pressure that may affect the start-stop mechanism is defined by the flow or circulation in a horizontal plane. The flow is generated by the circulation unit for the purpose of recirculation or regulating the flow to the demand destination.

[0005] The most significant variation of the method is when fluid is circulated from a supply container to a higher container located above the supply container. In this case, the fluid flows unimpeded from the supply container to the higher container. In such operation, the start-stop mechanism (valve) in the circulation circuit may be subjected to hydrostatic pressure defined by the height between the valve and the fluid level in the higher container, or by the height between the valve and the fluid level in the supply container. This pressure can be quite large. According to the prior art, this is often defined by the pump head (pump head, high-altitude, height difference), which is defined by the difference between the fluid level in the supply container and the fluid level in the higher container. The fluid level in the supply container defines the reference point for height. This height generates a pressure of approximately 100 millibars (10,000 Pascals) per meter.

[0006] These methods are referred to as conventional fluid circulation methods aimed at replacing fluids in elevated containers. The main problems with valve operation in circulation to high altitudes are as follows:

[0007] 1. The start / stop mechanism is subjected to a hydrostatic pressure of approximately 100 millibars (10,000 pascals) per meter. 2. The start-stop mechanism must operate at a very high energy level due to friction within the start-stop mechanism caused by hydrostatic pressure.

[0008] 3. If there are numerous start-stop operations within a given time frame, energy consumption will be amplified and therefore excessive. 4. The start / stop mechanism has a total valve surface area (typically π*R). 2 Here, R is the pipe radius. Pressure is applied over the area. As the dimensions (of the pipe) increase, the force acting on the start-stop mechanism increases with increasing area. This means that higher operating speeds require more energy use, or slower speeds are required to conserve energy use during operation.

[0009] For example, valve operation that is not subject to hydrostatic pressure solves many problems. • Energy consumption will decrease. • Reduced friction allows for higher rotation speeds. The start-stop mechanism enables more frequent starting and stopping of the flow.

[0010] • Frequent start-stop switching in the valve prevents the water flow from stopping. <Prior art> An important insight from prior art is that conventional valves operate primarily under pressure. Operating a valve under pressure is a very resistant operation due to the force acting on the valve surface. This force is usually expressed as F=P*A. At a height of 1 meter and 10,000 Pascals (100 mBar), this pressure applies a force of approximately 32 kgf (approximately 314 N) across a valve opening with a diameter of 200 mm. This energy requires conventional valves to expend a considerable amount of energy to open, close, or even maintain their position. Energy consumption increases with increasing height.

[0011] Many have attempted to solve the problem of how to transport water from a low-pressure system to a high-pressure system. They have primarily sought to overcome obvious obstacles in either the energy equation E=mgh or the pressure force equation F=P*A. From the first equation (E=mgh), it appears impossible to change any parameters to reduce energy consumption when transporting water upward. On the other hand, from F=P*A, it seems more likely that manipulating pressure or area would allow us to overcome the force of gravity.

[0012] One invention that directly addresses the pressure required to move water vertically is Patent Document 2. This invention uses pressure differences to lift water from one section to another in multiple sections, and to even higher elevations. In this invention, the amount of energy used to generate each pressure difference is equal to the pressure produced by hydrostatic force. If the intention is to move water one meter by pressure difference, a hydrostatic pressure of 10,000 Pascals (100 mBar) must be overcome in order to create a flow against the pressure. This invention identifies that this process can be made more efficient by utilizing wasted energy. However, the amount of energy used to lift the water remains the same. This invention is not related to the solution provided in this invention.

[0013] Another invention, Patent Document 3, uses an intermediate reservoir and valve arrangement in a closed system. Each circulation level attempts to avoid exceeding a height of 8 meters (maximum 10 meters), which is the limit of downward flow that the vacuum can withstand. It also uses the pressure difference between vacuum and atmospheric pressure to avoid downward flow. The problem with this invention is that land-based fish tanks are usually very large (4 to 20 meters in diameter). A vacuum of -80000 Pascals (i.e., -800 mBar) is likely to damage the fish tank due to the extremely high pressure and force applied to it. This invention is not relevant to the solution in this invention. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0014] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2022 / 186699 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2010 / 031162 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021 / 0084871 [Patent Document 4] Norwegian Patent No. 347278 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0015] Problems related to pressure and gravity are solved in Patent Document 4. Equal pressure from both sides of the siphon is used to circulate the water. This causes the gravity component in equation E=mgh or equation F=P*A to act on the two pipes, resulting in a hydrostatic pressure balance where E1=E2 or P1=P2. Consequently, height, gravity, and mass have no effect on circulation. One obvious problem in this invention is that the valve must be operated while maintaining hydrostatic pressure from the fluid. This is solved by the present invention, by using a solenoid with a very small valve area as a pressure equalization mechanism, thereby reducing the valve area to a portion of the actual valve size. When A (area) is close to zero, the force, and therefore energy consumption, can be very low. There are significant obstacles to this invention, but the present invention successfully overcomes them.

[0016] The following issues relate to all known valve operating methods under the influence of hydrostatic forces. • Energy consumption caused by hydrostatic pressure.

[0017] Friction in rotational motion caused by hydrostatic pressure. • It is virtually impossible to perform high-speed valve operation that would enable continuous flow. Normally, when a fluid flows naturally, a difference in elevation causes a downward flow.

[0018] This flow can be prevented by a start-stop mechanism to avoid downward flow of the fluid. Hydrostatic pressure causes several problems for the start-stop mechanism when starting or stopping the flow. The start-stop mechanism is subjected to very high pressure and friction within the valve due to this pressure. As a result, high energy consumption occurs during operation. In addition, since very large forces act on the closing mechanism and the opening mechanism, the forces increase as the dimensions of the pipe increase, and thus as the valve area increases.

[0019] Since the start-stop mechanism stops the flow, it may cause disturbance to the continuous motion of the flow. This will increase energy consumption unless the valve can achieve faster operation and higher start-stop (opening / closing) speeds with lower energy consumption. [Means for Solving the Problems]

[0020] According to the present invention, the above object is achieved by an apparatus for actuating a rotating mechanism in a valve assembly without being affected by hydrostatic force, as defined in the preamble of claim 1, which has the features of the characterizing portion of claim 1. And the above object is achieved by a method for actuating a rotating mechanism in a non-pressurized state, as defined in the preamble of claim 9, which has the features of the characterizing portion of claim 9.

[0021] A plurality of non-limiting embodiments, modifications, or alternatives of the present invention are defined by the dependent claims. The present invention achieves the above object by preventing downward flow through a plurality of operations using at least one start-stop mechanism. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] The technical difference from conventional start-stop mechanisms is the extremely low operating energy consumption of the start-stop mechanism. This is because the valve is always operating with zero differential pressure on both sides. Any hydrostatic force originating from the water column between the supply container and the high-altitude container does not affect the start-stop mechanism. Only friction due to low-pressure flow and seals affects the operating energy consumption.

[0023] These effects bring about several additional beneficial effects. • Enables operation with very low frictional force. • Rapid rotational motion allows for starting and stopping flow through the valve much faster than with conventional valves.

[0024] • Enables a significant reduction in energy consumption during valve operation. • Allows for the removal of pressure spikes from circulation when the valve switches. • This makes it possible to increase the height of the device without affecting valve operation.

[0025] The above and further features of the present invention are specified in the appended claims. These features, along with their advantages, will become more apparent by considering the following detailed description of embodiments of the present invention shown with reference to the appended drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0026] [Figure 1] Figure 1B is a prior art illustration of a circulation system for the resistance-free circulation of fluid from a supply container to a high-altitude container. Figure 1B is a detailed illustration of the prior art, showing an air discharge device for removing unwanted elements from the circulation system. Figure 1C is a detailed illustration of the prior art, showing a group of conveyors forming a circulation circuit for fluid circulation. [Figure 2]Figure 2A is a detailed illustration of the start-stop mechanism, showing a left side view of the start-stop mechanism. Figure 2B is a detailed illustration of the top view of the start-stop mechanism. Figure 2C is a detailed illustration of the front view of the start-stop mechanism. Figure 2D is a detailed illustration and cross-sectional view of the channels connecting the inside and outside for pressure equalization on both sides of the start-stop mechanism. Figure 2E is a detailed illustration of the start-stop mechanism from a viewpoint at the lower left rear corner. [Figure 3] This is a detailed illustration and exploded view of the start / stop mechanism. [Figure 4] Figure 4A is a detailed illustration of two start / stop mechanisms connected to a closed container, which is shown as a centrifugal circulation mechanism (pump). Figure 4C is a detailed illustration and cross-sectional view showing part of the internal circulation mechanism. [Figure 5] This is a detailed illustration showing how the present invention relates to the prior art shown in Figure 1. [Figure 6] This is a detailed illustration showing a method that enables the connection of multiple devices in parallel, in accordance with prior art. [Figure 7] figure. [Figure 8] figure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] The following reference numbers and symbols refer to the drawings.

[0028] [Table 1]

[0029] [Table 2]

[0030] [Table 3]

[0031] [Table 4]

[0032] Various aspects of this disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to any particular structure or function presented throughout this disclosure. Rather, these aspects are provided to make this disclosure sufficient and complete and to fully communicate the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. Based on the teachings herein, those skilled in the art should understand that the scope of this disclosure is intended to encompass all aspects of this disclosure disclosed herein, whether implemented independently of or in combination with any other aspects of this disclosure.

[0033] For example, an apparatus may be carried out by any number of embodiments described herein, or a method may be carried out by any number of embodiments described herein. Furthermore, the scope of this disclosure is intended to include such apparatus or method carried out by other structures, functionalities, or structures and functionalities, in addition to or instead of the various embodiments of the disclosure described herein. Any embodiment of the disclosure disclosed herein may be carried out by one or more elements of the claims.

[0034] <Terminology> The exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described in relation to the following terms to illustrate that numerous alternatives, modifications, and equivalents are available to the exemplary embodiments.

[0035] "Circulation" refers to any form of movement or flow between particles that make up a substance within a circuit, involving a continuous change in location. • The "circulation mechanism" includes any form of mechanism that enables circulation (motor with impeller / propeller, piston, etc.).

[0036] • A "rotating mechanism" is equipped with any form of mechanism that enables rotational motion. A "connection" refers to a mechanism for joining two things together, or the joined objects themselves.

[0037] A "flow" is a sequence of particles that, along a path, involve a continuous change in location between the particles that make up a substance. A "container" is a container that provides all the means to hold a substance.

[0038] • An "elevated container" is a container equipped with all methods for containing material at a height above the zero reference point. A "seal" is a means of joining systems and mechanisms by preventing leaks, maintaining pressure, or eliminating contamination.

[0039] An "equalization mechanism" is a mechanism that distributes things (for example, pressure, fluid, etc.) uniformly and evenly. A "gear" is a circular toothed mechanical component that meshes with another (compatible) toothed member in order to transmit (convert) torque and speed.

[0040] A bearing is a mechanical element that restricts relative motion to only the desired motion and reduces friction between moving parts. A washer is a thin plate (typically disc-shaped, but sometimes square) with a hole (usually in the center) that is typically used to distribute the load of a fastener.

[0041] A "fastener or fastening" is a hardware device that mechanically connects or fastens two or more objects together. A "fluid" is any form of matter that allows its particles to move easily or to change relative positions without the separation of mass.

[0042] A "start-stop mechanism" is any form of mechanism that prevents or allows the passage of a substance. A "circuit" comprises any form of path or route between two or more points in space.

[0043] A "conveyor" is a circuit that comprises any form of circuitry for transporting material along a circuit. • The term "circulation unit" refers to the prior art shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0044] <Principles that form the basis of inventions> The present invention will be further described in relation to exemplary embodiments schematically shown in the drawings. To simplify the exemplary embodiments, water (seawater) is used as the fluid. Furthermore, in all exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the fluid is filled (contained).

[0045] Throughout the description, all start-stop mechanisms are identified as valves, i.e., valves having a rotating mechanism within them (knife valves, check valves, etc.). Throughout the description, all circulating conveyors are identified as pipes. These mechanisms are the most common in circulating systems and are schematically shown in the drawings. All combinations of conveyors, start-stop mechanisms, pipe bends and pipe branches, or other mechanisms forming a circulating circuit are identified as a circulating circuit or simply as a circuit.

[0046] To simplify the term "closed container" used in the prior art, in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, closed container 2 refers to the closed container of the centrifugal pump (83 or 106). This is also referred to as the pump housing. The container for the suction input (91) and the container for the centrifugal pump (88) are operatively connected by an adapter 93 to form a combined closed container, and are therefore collectively referred to as the closed container (83 or 106).

[0047] To clarify the term "circulation mechanism," this is typically considered to be the impeller 94. This is the only mechanism that can provide circulation. The impeller cannot generate rotation without some kind of rotating device 82, i.e., an electric motor.

[0048] When the impeller 94 (or motor 82, 86, or 107) is referred to as the "circulation mechanism," it is implied that both the impeller and the motor, as shown in the diagram, form an integrated electrically operated circulation mechanism.

[0049] Referring to the prior art in Figure 1, the present invention replaces valves 13 and 14. As shown in Figure 4, the present invention is directly connected to the closure container 83. Comparing Figure 1 of the prior art with Figure 5, conveyor groups (pipe groups) 4 and 5 are replaced by a lower conveyor group 101 and an upper conveyor group 112. Valves 13 and 14 are replaced by a lower valve 105 and an upper valve 108. Closed container 2 is replaced by closed container 106 (83). Circulation mechanisms 11 and 12 are replaced by electrically operated impellers 86 and 94.

[0050] The centrifugal pump, or the pump housing with suction and discharge sections, is not part of the present invention and is used merely for illustrative purposes. However, by comparing the prior art shown in Figure 1 with that in Figure 5, it should be possible to understand how the present invention can be used for resistance-free circulation to a high-altitude container.

[0051] It is crucial to understand that the pressure resulting from the height shown in Figure 5 is used in this exemplary embodiment to demonstrate that the lower valve 105 and the upper valve 108 are affected by hydrostatic pressure. This pressure may be generated by the circulation mechanism or by other means. This indicates that it is not a requirement that the supply container 100 and the elevated container 113 have height. The supply container 100 and the elevated container 113 may be closed pressurized tanks located at the same vertical level. A key feature is that the pressures between the containers are substantially different, thereby increasing energy efficiency in establishing fluid circulation (fluid exchange) between two containers with different pressures. In the case of pressurized tanks, if different tanks are used for the input and output conveyors (114, 115, 116, 117), it is important that they are balanced in pairs. According to prior art, it is determined that the pressures are substantially equal in the lower conveyor group 101 (114, 115), the upper conveyor group 112 (116, 117), and the tank (pressure source) to which they are connected.

[0052] The high-pressure circulation circuit of this system is identified as the circulation circuit connected to the elevated container 113. All parts included in the high-pressure circulation circuit are the upper conveyor group (pipe group) 112, which has an upper output pipe 116 and an upper input pipe 117, as well as the upper conveyor (upper pipe) adapter 111, which has an upper check valve (50), an upper solenoid valve 109, an upper valve (upper circular knife valve) 108 and its upper motor 110, and the closed container (pump housing) 106. The high-pressure side indicates that the lower valve 105 maintains the highest pressure in the system when the high-pressure circulation circuit is circulating fluid (Figure 5).

[0053] The low-pressure circulation circuit of this system is identified as the circulation circuit connected to the supply container 100. All parts included in the low-pressure circulation circuit are a group of lower conveyors (lower pipes) 101 equipped with a lower input pipe 114 and a lower output pipe 115, a lower conveyor (lower pipe) adapter 102 equipped with a lower check valve (50), a lower solenoid valve 103, a lower valve (lower circular knife valve) 105, and its lower motor 104, and a closed container (pump housing) 106 connected thereto. The low-pressure side indicates that the upper valve 108 maintains the lowest pressure in the system when the low-pressure circulation circuit is circulating the fluid (Figure 5).

[0054] <Low energy use> The primary function of the present invention is to remove hydrostatic pressure from the fluid during valve operation. This can be understood by Figure 2, in which a solenoid valve 24 is connected to both sides of the valve by conveyors 27 and 28. Channels 35 and 36 inside the housing form a path between the two sides of the valve 21.

[0055] The effect is that any pressure difference across valve 21 is equalized when the solenoid valve 24 is open. The present invention does not limit such equalization mechanisms to just one, and may include multiple such mechanisms to ensure rapid and efficient pressure equalization between all input and output sections present on both sides of the valve.

[0056] The operation of the valves is specified in the prior art, where when valve 14 is open, valve 13 must be closed, and similarly, when valve 13 is open, valve 14 must be closed. This requirement from the prior art is used in the present invention to transfer hydrostatic pressure from the actuated valve to the non-actuated valve.

[0057] From Figure 5, both the lower valve 105 and the upper valve 108 are closed, and both the lower solenoid valve 103 and the upper solenoid valve 109 are also closed. Then the upper valve 108 has a pressure determined by the fluid level in the elevated container 113, and the lower valve 105 has a pressure determined by the fluid level in the supply container 100. When the upper solenoid valve 109 is opened, the upper valve 108 is unaffected by any hydrostatic pressure, while the lower valve 105 is affected by hydrostatic pressure determined by both the fluid level in the elevated container 113 and the fluid level in the supply container 100. When the upper valve 108 is actuated and opened, it is unaffected by any hydrostatic pressure. Even when the upper valve 108 is closed, it is still unaffected by any hydrostatic pressure.

[0058] When both the upper valve 108 and the upper solenoid valve 109 are closed and the lower solenoid valve 103 is open, the lower valve 105 is unaffected by any pressure, while the upper valve 108 is affected by the pressure determined by both the fluid level in the upper container 113 and the fluid level in the supply container 100. When the lower valve 105 is actuated and opened, it is unaffected by any hydrostatic pressure. Even when the lower valve 105 is closed, it is still unaffected by any hydrostatic pressure. The above operation can be repeated by closing the lower solenoid valve 103.

[0059] Based on the above logic, the switching operation between valves 13 and 14 in the prior art has problems due to hydrostatic forces, but in the present invention, the effect of hydrostatic forces is zero during operation, so this problem can be said to be solved.

[0060] As a requirement, both valves must be aware of their respective positions, thus necessitating electronic control and monitoring of the positions of the lower motor 104 and upper motor 110, the rotating gears 60 and 61, and the lower solenoid valve 103 and upper solenoid valve 109. This is made possible by sensors for pressure and rotation monitoring. Electronic control also implies programmed control of electronic devices such as motors, solenoid valves, and circulation mechanisms.

[0061] This enables valve operation with significantly lower energy consumption compared to prior art and current valve technologies. This is because the synchronous operation of the two valves and four conveyor connections (inputs and outputs) is used as a dual valve switching operation in resistance-free circulation to high-altitude containers.

[0062] <Rotational motion> According to prior art, conventional valve operation is an on / off mechanical motion. This means that most valves must rotate in one direction when opening and in the opposite direction when closing. This is usually due to the significant effect of hydrostatic forces or resistance due to high flow rates.

[0063] This change in rotation direction is not advantageous for valves that require high-frequency operation. This is solved by the rotary gears 60 and 61 shown in Figure 3. The rotary gear 61 has two valve openings for both the valve input and output. This dual opening closes both the input and output when rotated 90 degrees from the open position. When rotated another 90 degrees, both the input and output open again for flow.

[0064] The rotation of the gear is supported by mechanical thrust bearings 58, 59, 63, 65, 66, and 67, as well as several washers 62 and 64. The rotational motion is affected only by slight friction from O-ring seals 56, 57, and 68, 69 mounted on the outer casings 54 and 70. This friction is low because the valve is not affected by hydrostatic forces.

[0065] The rotational motion is synchronized in both the lower valve 105 and the upper valve 108, and is further synchronized with the opening and closing of the lower solenoid valve 103 and the upper solenoid valve 109. According to the prior art shown in Figure 1, the lower valve 105 and the upper valve 108 must not open simultaneously, and similarly, the lower solenoid valve 103 and the upper solenoid valve 109 must not open simultaneously.

[0066] This enables high-frequency operation, so that the lower valve 105 and the upper valve 108, and their O-ring seals 56, 57, 68, and 69, are only affected by hydrostatic pressure when they are in the stationary closed position. The hydrostatic pressure on the valves in the closed position enhances the sealing function of the O-ring seals 56, 57, 68, and 69, while it is released by the operation of the solenoid valve 71 when the valves are operated (gear rotation).

[0067] This invention eliminates hydrostatic force during the operation of a start-stop mechanism. Therefore, it solves the problem in the prior art where rotational motion is slowed due to high friction caused by hydrostatic pressure.

[0068] According to prior art, typical gate knife valves are actuated by a threaded stem connecting an actuator (e.g., a handwheel or motor) to the gate knife, and therefore need to be rotated at high speed to close completely.

[0069] <High-frequency operation> From the prior art shown in Figure 1, it is understood that opening and closing valves, and starting and stopping the circulation mechanism, negatively affect the fluid motion. When one valve closes, the fluid in the conveyor group (pipe group) 4 stops. This interruption reduces the effect of resistance-free circulation because the fluid must be moved again when the circulation mechanism 11 starts moving again by opening the valve again.

[0070] From the prior art shown in Figure 1, it can be understood that resistance-free circulation is achieved by switching valves during continuous operation. That is, the operation involves closing valve 14 and opening valve 13, then closing valve 13 and opening valve 14.

[0071] The interruption of flow caused by this switching operation can be mitigated by using a very large enclosed container 2 and a very long switching time (low frequency). Alternatively, it can be resolved by increasing the switching frequency so that the fluid motion restarts before it stops.

[0072] The introduction of the check valve 25 prevents the water from stopping when the valve 21 is closed. Since the check valve 25 is directional, when the valve 21 is closed, it directs the water input to the valve 21 (input / output conveyor adapter 23 or 26) to flow to the output (input / output conveyor adapter 26 or 23). When the valve 21 is opened again, the check valve 25 closes and the fluid flow resumes. In Figure 5, both check valves in the lower conveyor adapter 102 or the upper conveyor adapter 111 have this function.

[0073] As a requirement, the circulation mechanism within the closed container 106 must always supply flow when the valve is open. The direction of the check valve is directed from the conveyor input to the conveyor output. This is because the output side has a higher pressure than the suction input, causing the check valve to close when valve 21 is open. When valve 21 is closed, the suction input has a higher pressure than the output, and as a result, the check valve opens.

[0074] Rotary operation using low energy consumption, along with the incorporation of the check valve 25 and the higher rotational frequency operation of the valve, enables more continuous flow. The prior art in Figure 1 represents a single circulation unit. This definition can also be used in Figure 5. Therefore, it is understood that in parallel operation of circulation units specified in the prior art, a higher frequency of valve operation generates continuous flow, and the significance of the check valve 25 becomes smaller, so it may become unnecessary for multiple parallel-connected circulation units (three or more).

[0075] <Drawing Description> <Figure 1 - Prior Art> I will not explain this figure in detail, as it is sufficiently explained in prior art, Patent Document 1, as a circulation unit that performs resistanceless circulation from a supply container to a high-altitude container.

[0076] According to prior art, circulation units can be connected in parallel or in series to increase flow rate or operational height. The prior art in Figure 1 is equivalent to Figure 5 and defines a circulation unit.

[0077] <Figure 2> Figure 2A is a detailed left side view of the start-stop mechanism. Valve 21 is shown as a very thin rotary knife valve, equipped with a solenoid 22 and an electric motor 20.

[0078] Figure 2B is a detailed top view of the start-stop mechanism. The knife valve is shown as a very thin rotary knife valve having two casing elements 29 and 30. Here, the input / output conveyor adapters 23, 26 are fitted with standard adapter plates. The solenoid valve 24 is connected to tubes and fittings (27, 28) into the interior on both sides of the valve. By opening the solenoid valve 24, the pressure on both sides of the valve is equalized, so it acts as an equalizing mechanism.

[0079] Figure 2C is a detailed front view of the start / stop mechanism, showing the adapters for the conveyor input or output connection parts 31 and 34, and the closed container input or output connection parts 32 and 33.

[0080] Figure 2D is a detailed illustration and cross-sectional view of channels connecting the inside and outside on both sides of the start-stop mechanism for pressure equalization. Channel 35 equalizes the pressure on both sides of the valve by connecting the inside (closed container) to the outside (conveyor adapters 23, 31) via channel 36. When these channels are connected by fittings and tubes via the solenoid valve 24, the solenoid allows either the pressure on both sides of the valve to be equalized in the open position, or the pressure to be different on both sides of the valve in the closed position. Both of these conditions usually occur when the valve 21 is closed.

[0081] Figure 2E is a detailed illustration of the start / stop mechanism from a viewpoint at the lower left rear corner, showing the standard connectors 37 and 38. <Figure 3> Figure 3 shows a detailed illustration and exploded view of the start-stop mechanism (valve). The main function of the valve is a rotary knife valve, in which mechanical rotary gears 60 and 61 rotate the knife (61). The start-stop mechanism is fully open when the two holes in the largest gear (61, knife) align with the hole in the outer casing 54 and the hole in the outer casing 70. It is fully closed when the two holes in the rotary gear 60 and the largest gear (61) rotate 90 degrees from the fully open position.

[0082] Both casings (54, 70) are equipped with O-ring seals 56, 57, 68, and 69. In the fully closed position, the valve can receive pressure from the input or output conveyors 51, 52. This pressure enhances the sealing function of the O-rings. The solenoid valve 71 has a pressure equalization function, so it equalizes the pressure at the closed position of the valve before valve operation (opening), and also has a pressure rise function at the closed position of the valve after valve operation (closing).

[0083] The check valve 50 is a flow continuation device. Since water flows into the valve's input and out through its output, the check valve 50 has directionality and can open from input to output. This has an advantageous effect when the valve is in the closed position. Because water has momentum, when the valve closes, this momentum is transferred from input to output through the check valve 50, thus providing a pressure release function to prevent the pressure from the flow from acting on the valve. The momentum is then taken back in after the valve opens, restarting the flow.

[0084] The flow is interrupted, but the impact of this interruption decreases as the frequency of valve switching (opening and closing) increases. <Figure 4> Figure 4 shows a detailed illustration of two start-stop mechanisms connected to a closed container, which is shown as a centrifugal circulation mechanism (pump housing).

[0085] Figure 4A shows conveyor adapters 80 and 85 with check valves, a lower valve 81 and an upper valve 84, a centrifugal pump housing as a closed container 83, and a rotating device (rotary circulator, motor) 82 connected to the impeller 94 inside the centrifugal pump housing (83).

[0086] The centrifugal pump, which is the circulation mechanism, is not part of this patent, but it differs from conventional centrifugal pumps in that it has two suction input sections 90 and 92, and two pressure output sections 87 and 89. The suction housing 91 is connected to the impeller housing 88 in the centrifugal pump via an adapter 93. The suction housing 91 and the impeller housing 88 together form a closed container having a circulation mechanism similar to that of the prior art shown as reference numeral "2" in Figure 1.

[0087] <Figure 5> Figure 5 is a detailed illustration showing how the present invention relates to the prior art shown in Figure 1. The following list shows the relationship between Figure 1 and Figure 5.

[0088] [Table 5]

[0089] Figure 5 differs from Figure 1 only in that the electrically operated circulation mechanism 107 replaces both circulation mechanisms 11 and 12. The outer pipe 8 in Figure 1 is unnecessary and therefore not included in Figure 5.

[0090] The discharge mechanism 16 for discharging air 15 is not included in the closed container 106 in Figure 5, because in a centrifugal pump, air is normally and naturally discharged in the flow. Aside from these differences, the operation of the circulation unit in the prior art is similar.

[0091] <Figure 6> Figure 6 is a detailed illustration showing a method that enables the connection of multiple devices in parallel according to the prior art.

[0092] The parallel operation of this invention requires electronic control and synchronous operation of all components. Electronic control also means programmed control of electronic devices such as motors, solenoid valves, and circulation mechanisms.

[0093] In Figure 6, input units 123 and 125 are connected by a conveyor and also connected to a pipe leading to a high-altitude container. Similarly, output units 124 and 126 are connected by a conveyor and also connected to a pipe leading to a high-altitude container.

[0094] Similar connections are made for input sections 136 and 138, and output sections 137 and 139. This means that when the parallel configuration replaces the single configuration in Figure 5, the parallel-connected units share the lower conveyor group 101 and the upper conveyor group 112.

[0095] The centrifugal pump housings 129 and 130 are separated by an adapter (housing adapter) 133 having a seal according to the prior art, and are therefore two separate closed vessels. However, as shown, these centrifugal pump housings 129 and 130 share the same shaft 132 and motor 131.

[0096] <Best mode for carrying out the invention> <Optimal operating mode for valve switching> Figure 5 illustrates the present invention in relation to the prior art of Figure 1, where two electronically controlled and synchronized start-stop mechanisms (105, 108) represent the present invention. Electronic control also means programmatic control of electronic devices such as motors, solenoid valves, and circulation mechanisms.

[0097] The start / stop mechanism (valve) contributes to resistance-free circulation to containers at high altitudes and solves the problem of how to achieve high-speed switching operation without being affected by hydrostatic pressure.

[0098] Hydrostatic pressure causes problems in the operation of conventional valves, resulting in significant energy consumption during their start-stop (opening and closing) operation. We have demonstrated that switching between valves can avoid hydrostatic pressure during operation and allow for faster introduction of rotational motion using circular knife valves.

[0099] Prior to valve operation, the system must be filled with water. In the prior art, this is usually done by priming the centrifugal pump housing (106) or other external system. In unresisted circulation to a high-altitude vessel, the entire system must be filled with water without lifting the water (if only circulation is performed).

[0100] The initial state of the system is assumed to be with all valves (105, 108, 103, 109) closed and all circulation mechanisms stopped. If the centrifugal pump housing (106) is filled with water, the electrically operated circulation mechanism 107 can be started even if the valve is closed. This generates both input and output pressure at the valve. According to the prior art in Figure 1, the only pressure to be overcome in circulation is friction in the pipe, which is a very low pressure (no resistance) compared to the prior art.

[0101] Before opening the lower valve (lower knife valve) 105, the hydrostatic pressure generated by the lower conveyor group 101 is released by equalizing the pressure on both sides of the lower valve 105, thereby opening the lower solenoid valve 103. This makes the lower valve 105 unaffected by any hydrostatic pressure, because the hydrostatic pressure from the lower conveyor group 101, the upper conveyor group 112, and the centrifugal pump (106) is transferred to the upper valve (upper knife valve) 108.

[0102] In the exemplary embodiment, water is used, which is considered an incompressible fluid, so during operation, there is no (negligible) flow in the circuit formed by the lower solenoid valve 103 and the tubes and fittings connected to it. Because the flow is almost negligible, the lower solenoid valve 103 can be made very small, and the tubes and fittings can also be made with very small diameters, because their sizes are adjusted according to the rate of equalization and the fluid flow rate.

[0103] The downward motor 104 rotates the downward valve (downward knife valve) 105 by 90 degrees (clockwise), causing the downward valve 105 to open. Except for the low-pressure flow from the circulation mechanism (circulation device) 107, no hydrostatic force affects the valve operation.

[0104] Within a short time frame after the lower valve 105 is opened, the volume of water in the centrifugal pump housing (106) is replaced, so the lower valve 105 then rotates another 90 degrees to close. After the lower valve 105 is closed, the lower solenoid valve 103 closes.

[0105] Since the water in the lower conveyor group (pipe group) 101 is still moving even when the lower valve 105 is closed, this movement is diverted through the check valve in the lower conveyor adapter 102. Before opening the upper valve (upper knife valve) 108, the upper solenoid valve 109 is opened by releasing the hydrostatic pressure generated by the upper conveyor group 112 and the centrifugal pump housing (106) by equalizing the pressure on both sides of the upper valve 108. This makes the upper valve 108 unaffected by any hydrostatic pressure, because the hydrostatic pressure from the lower conveyor group 101, the upper conveyor group 112, and the centrifugal pump (106) is transferred to the lower valve (lower knife valve) 105. Since water is used and is considered an incompressible fluid, there is no flow (or it can be ignored) in the circuit formed by the upper solenoid valve 109 and the tubes and fittings connected to it during operation.

[0106] The upper motor 110 rotates the upper valve (upper knife valve) 108 by 90 degrees (clockwise), causing the upper valve 108 to open. Except for the low-pressure flow from the circulation mechanism (circulation device) 107, no hydrostatic force affects the valve operation.

[0107] Within a short time frame after the valve opens, the volume of water in the centrifugal pump housing (106) is replaced, and then the valve rotates another 90 degrees to close. After the valve closes, the upper solenoid valve 109 closes.

[0108] Since the water in the upper conveyor group (upper pipe group) 112 is still moving even when the upper valve 108 is closed, this movement is diverted through the check valve in the upper conveyor adapter 111. The circulating device rotates continuously throughout the entire operation, constantly supplying the appropriate pressure to overcome friction within the upper conveyor group 112 and the lower conveyor group 101. To account for the difference in friction between the lower conveyor group 101 and the upper conveyor group 112, it is also possible to provide a variable rotational speed in the circulating mechanism.

[0109] The above operation is continuously repeated by the clockwise rotation of both knife valves and the circulation device. This operation, using the prior art shown in Figure 1, demonstrates that the present invention can actuate valves with very low energy by switching hydrostatic pressure between valves within a closed container. Since a valve holding pressure by hydrostatic force is never actuated under pressurized conditions, the actuated valve is only affected by low-pressure flow and friction in the O-ring seal. However, since the flow affecting the valve is both input and output flow, it can be understood as two opposing forces acting on the rotating gear 61 as a valve gear. Therefore, the flow has little effect on valve operation.

[0110] <Optimal operating mode for parallel configuration> Prior art has identified that the circulation units shown in Figure 1 can be connected in parallel. This is shown in Figure 6, where two centrifugal pumps are connected by an adapter 133 and share a shaft 132 and a motor (electric motor) 131. Here, the shaft 132 rotates through both units.

[0111] The sawtooth pattern shown on the left side of Figure 6 indicates that the drawing may continue to other drawings that have multiple units. According to prior art, such a configuration is generally known as a multi-stage centrifugal pump, and the pump head (water lifting height) is increased by connecting the discharge side to the suction side.

[0112] In this invention, multiple stages are not required, and the inputs and outputs of the parallel-connected units are connected in such a way that the flow is not interrupted. In the optimal operating configuration for parallel operation, the inputs to the elevated containers are connected to each other, and the outputs from the elevated containers are also connected to each other. This is as explained in the "Drawing Description" section for Figure 6. Similar connections are made to the inputs and outputs to the supply containers.

[0113] The valve switching in the first unit (130) is reused as a series of operations called the first switch operation (Switch_Operation_1). • Activate the first low-pressure valve 134.

[0114] 1. Open the solenoid valve. 2. Open the knife valve by rotating it 90 degrees. 3. Allow a certain amount of flow to pass through.

[0115] 4. Close the knife valve by rotating it 90 degrees. 5. Close the solenoid valve. Repeat the above steps (1-5) to operate the first high-pressure valve 128.

[0116] The valve switching in the second unit (129) is reused as a series of operations called the second switch operation (Switch_Operation_2). • Activate the second high-pressure valve 127.

[0117] 1. Open the solenoid valve. 2. Open the knife valve by rotating it 90 degrees. 3. Allow a certain amount of flow to pass through.

[0118] 4. Close the knife valve by rotating it 90 degrees. 5. Close the solenoid valve. Repeat the above steps (1-5) to operate the second low-pressure valve 135.

[0119] The best form of parallel operation is to perform the electronically controlled first and second switch operations simultaneously and synchronously. 1. The first and second switch operations simultaneously open the first low-pressure valve 134 and the second high-pressure valve 127.

[0120] 2. The first and second switch operations simultaneously close the first low-pressure valve 134 and the second high-pressure valve 127. 3. The first and second switch operations simultaneously open the second low-pressure valve 135 and the first high-pressure valve 128.

[0121] 4. The first and second switch operations simultaneously close the second low-pressure valve 135 and the first high-pressure valve 128. The above sequence (1-4) is repeated during the operation of the parallel-connected circulating units.

[0122] This means that, since the resistance-free circulation in Figure 1 of the prior art is unaffected by hydrostatic forces, and the present invention also provides a valve that operates without any influence of hydrostatic forces, continuous operation can be achieved in both centrifugal pumps with extremely low energy consumption in the valve.

[0123] This valve operation represents a significant improvement over current technology, which primarily operates under pressure, when the valve is used in a configuration where hydrostatic pressure is generated by height. <Alternative Embodiment> Numerous variations can be imagined.

[0124] <Combinations of high-pressure / low-pressure valves> The two valves (105, 108) can be incorporated as a single start-stop mechanism having four connections. One input and one output define a low-pressure circulation circuit to the supply vessel, while one input and one output define a high-pressure circulation circuit to the elevated vessel.

[0125] When the device is configured as a single unit, a mechanical connection is made between the rotating elements (60, 61) and the circulating device (94) to allow for a minimum of only one motor.

[0126] The anticipated rotational transmission could become even more complex, but it would allow for even less electronic control of elements in the mechanical design. If mechanical connections are provided between all rotating elements, these can also be incorporated into the mechanical control of the solenoid valve.

[0127] In a configuration with two separate valves, one valve operates without hydrostatic pressure while the other valve maintains pressure. This function must be implemented in a coupled valve having four connection points, where one valve input-output pair maintains pressure and the other valve input-output pair operates without pressure.

[0128] <Combinations of high / high and low / low pressure> In parallel operation, the second high-pressure valve 127 and the first high-pressure valve 128 from the supply container can be coupled into a single unit having four connection points. One input and one output define the first low-pressure circulation circuit to the supply container, and another input and one output define the second low-pressure circulation circuit to the supply container.

[0129] This device may be similar to the low-pressure / high-pressure valve combinations identified above. <Valve patterns for multiple pumps, supply sources, and containers> Figure 7 shows an alternative valve where the rotating element (61) is replaced by rotating elements 150 and 158. While the input / output conveyors shown in Figures 2-6 are connected to a rotary knife valve having only two pipe connections, the rotating elements have four pipe connections to the valve.

[0130] This solution allows two valves to be combined into one valve, so it has one input / output 151, 152, 159, 160 and one input / output 154, 155, 161, 162. Indicator lines A 153, B 156, and C 157 indicate three possible states. State A represents input / output to either the supply container or the high-altitude container. State B represents input / output to either the supply container or the high-altitude container. State C represents valve closed.

[0131] This solution can be extended to multiple inputs and outputs far beyond the four connections. In this case, the state patterns can become far more complex than the three states shown.

[0132] The holes may be aligned along the diameter as shown in Figure 7, or the holes (connectors) may be rotated along the circumference as shown in Figure 8. Or both may be present, as is evident in the pattern in Figure 7.

[0133] A valve having multiple input and output sections can realize the two valves in the valve replacement examples described above. High-pressure / low-pressure valve combinations, high-pressure / high-pressure combinations, and low-pressure / low-pressure combinations are realized by the clutch operation of multiple rotating elements.

[0134] <Clutch operation between multiple rotating elements> In the alternative example, gears or knife valves 174 and 175 are stacked on top of each other, thereby forming multiple alternative connections to the valve.

[0135] In a layered pattern, aligning the holes creates a path for flow in a circulating circuit. The two discs can be pressed against each other using conventional clutch technology common in automobiles. This ensures that the seals or O-rings (not shown) around the holes are properly sealed when the openings align to form the correct input or output flow at the correct pipe input or output.

[0136] Multiple rotating elements are made capable of forming many alternatives for opening four holes simultaneously, as well as many alternatives for opening only three or two holes simultaneously. By using patterns, laminated discs (knife valves), and clutch technology, the available options for forming complex circulating circuits are similar to the patterns on a jacquard loom.

[0137] This solution allows multiple pumps to share a single valve when circulating from a supply source or elevated container. It also allows a single pump to circulate between multiple elevated containers or multiple supply sources. [Industrial applicability]

[0138] The invention described herein is used in resistance-free circulation in containers located at high altitudes. In particular, it employs an energy-efficient start-stop mechanism in which the effect of hydrostatic pressure from the water column is zero. Only friction originating from the flow and valve seals affects the operation.

[0139] Land-based aquaculture, industrial and data center cooling, and elevated greenhouses are applications that primarily require energy-efficient circulation at high altitudes. However, start-stop mechanisms in prior art are either slow to switch or excessively energy-intensive when speed increases are required.

[0140] The primary application of this invention is for resistance-free circulation to elevated containers, because this method involves switching valves via a closed container, thereby providing the functionality for which the invention is applicable.

[0141] However, resistance-free circulation to elevated containers has high industrial applicability. This valve is likely to be used in many industries where this technology can be utilized.

[0142] The high operating speed and low energy consumption of this valve, due to these characteristics, make it usable in many other applications as well.

Claims

1. A system for starting and stopping the exchange of fluid in a closed container in a hydrostatically balanced fluid system, without being affected by the hydrostatic pressure difference between the low-pressure side and the high-pressure side, wherein the system is A high-pressure circulation circuit comprising a closed container (106), a valve assembly (108), a high-pressure conveyor adapter (111), a high-pressure output conveyor (116), and a high-pressure input connection part (117), A low-pressure circulation circuit comprising a closed container (106), a valve assembly (105), a low-pressure conveyor adapter (102), a low-pressure output conveyor (114), and a low-pressure input conveyor (115), A rotating mechanism (61) for adjusting the valve assemblies of the high-pressure circulation circuit and the low-pressure circulation circuit in order to start or stop the fluid flow, It is equipped with, The aforementioned system further, A high-pressure equalization mechanism (109) is operationally connected between the high-pressure conveyor adapter (111) and the closed container (106), A low-pressure equalization mechanism (103) is operationally connected between the low-pressure conveyor adapter (102) and the closed container (106), It is equipped with, The high-pressure equalization mechanism (109) and the low-pressure equalization mechanism (103), when activated, provide a fluid flow that bypasses the rotation mechanism, thereby equalizing the pressure difference between the high-pressure output conveyor (111) and the closed container (106), or between the low-pressure output conveyor (102) and the closed container (106). The high-pressure rotating mechanism can operate without being affected by any hydrostatic pressure in the high-pressure circulation circuit, or the low-pressure rotating mechanism can operate without being affected by any hydrostatic pressure in the low-pressure circulation circuit. The rotating mechanisms for the high-pressure and low-pressure valve assemblies never open simultaneously, thereby ensuring that the closure vessel becomes either part of the high-pressure circulation circuit or part of the low-pressure circulation circuit, and that there is no flow from the high-pressure circulation circuit through the closure vessel to the low-pressure circulation circuit, thereby enabling fluid exchange from the low-pressure side to the high-pressure side. system.

2. The system further includes multiple start-stop mechanisms connected in parallel. The system according to claim 1.

3. The system further includes a start-stop mechanism for transferring pressure from input to output in order to reduce the operating pressure on the rotating mechanism due to the flow when the start-stop mechanism is closed. The system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The system further includes sensors for monitoring pressure. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The system further includes sensors for monitoring rotation. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The system further comprises a plurality of pressure equalization units. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The system further includes means for electronically controlling the start-stop mechanism. The system according to any one of claims 3 to 6.

8. The system further includes means for programmatic control of the start-stop mechanism. The system according to any one of claims 3 to 7.

9. The system further includes a rotating mechanism having multiple perforations that enable multiple circulation circuits to multiple closed containers or multiple elevated containers. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A method for starting and stopping the exchange of fluid in a closed container in a hydrostatically balanced fluid system between a low-pressure side and a high-pressure side, without being operationally affected by hydrostatic pressure, the method being: (a) A step of operating one equalization mechanism (103, 109) to provide the fluid flow that bypasses the rotating mechanism in order to equalize the pressure difference in the high-pressure circulation circuit or the low-pressure circulation circuit, (b) The step of activating one of the rotating mechanisms in one valve assembly (108, 105) in order to initiate the fluid flow by adjusting the flow in the high-pressure circulation circuit or the low-pressure circulation circuit, (c) The step of activating one of the rotating mechanisms in one valve assembly (108, 105) in order to stop the fluid flow by adjusting the flow in the high-pressure circulation circuit or the low-pressure circulation circuit, (d) A step of deactivating one of the equalization mechanisms (109, 103) in order to terminate the fluid flow that bypasses the rotating mechanism, A method that includes [the following features].

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