Asymmetric Float Valve for Adjustable Minimum Water Level
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing float valves lack adjustability in maintaining a minimum fluid level, which can lead to inefficiencies in water supply systems, particularly in varying reservoir depths and rainfall conditions, potentially causing water level drops below critical levels and wasting mains water during refills.
Innovation Solution
A float valve design featuring a pivotable actuating arm, a weighted element with negative buoyancy, and an asymmetric float with varying volumes along its axis, allowing for two orientations to adjust the minimum fluid level, enabling the valve to open and close based on fluid level changes, and accommodating different reservoir depths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional float valve is used, then the valve can maintain a water level, but it lacks adjustability for different reservoir depths and conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The float is designed with asymmetric volume distribution along its longitudinal axis, having a greater volume at one end and a smaller volume at the other end. This asymmetry allows the float to be attached to the line in two different orientations, enabling adjustment of the minimum fluid level without changing the overall float structure or adding complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The float is made slidable on the line, allowing it to move dynamically as the fluid level changes. This sliding capability, combined with the two possible orientations, provides adaptability for different reservoir depths and operating conditions while maintaining a relatively simple device structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the float valve is designed for fixed minimum level, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate varying reservoir depths and rainfall conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric float design enables two distinct operating orientations that correspond to different minimum fluid levels. Users can select the appropriate orientation based on reservoir depth and rainfall conditions, providing adaptability without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or difficult operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The single asymmetric float component serves multiple functions by being attachable in two different orientations, allowing the same valve design to accommodate varying reservoir depths and environmental conditions. This multi-functionality achieves adaptability while maintaining simplicity in operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design ensures the water level is maintained above a minimum, preventing damage to water pumps and optimizing water usage by allowing precise control over the water level, reducing waste and accommodating various reservoir configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a float (16, 30) supported by the water within the reservoir
Implementation Method 2
a weighted element of negative buoyancy
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A float attachable to a line in either a first orientation or a second orientation, between an actuating arm of a float valve and a weighted element to cause the arm to open the float valve when a minimum fluid level in a reservoir is reached and the float is no longer fully supported by the fluid within the reservoir, comprises a hollow body having a greater volume at or towards one end of its longitudinal axis than at or towards the other end of its longitudinal axis, and two separate volumes extending length-wise of the float.