Backflow Prevention Cartridge With Dual-Zone Test Cock Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backflow prevention assemblies are cumbersome, time-consuming to repair, and require multiple components, leading to increased downtime and material costs due to their elongated design and complex testing procedures.
Innovation Solution
A compact backflow prevention assembly design featuring a body with upstream and downstream buckets, single and dual zone test covers, and cartridge assemblies with interchangeable valve members and spring bias assemblies, which reduce fabrication and installation difficulties, and allow for easier testing and reduced component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If three taps or test cocks are spread out along the BFP assembly body for checking pressures, then pressure testing capability is improved, but the assembly becomes unduly elongated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple test cock functions into a single integrated test cock assembly. The test cock includes multiple ports that can be connected to different chambers (first chamber upstream of valve seat, second chamber downstream of valve seat) through internal routing, eliminating the need for separate taps spread along the assembly body.
Solution Approach 2:
The single test cock assembly serves multiple functions by providing access to multiple pressure zones through its multiple ports. It can test pressure in the first chamber, second chamber, and potentially other zones, replacing what would traditionally require multiple separate test cocks positioned at different locations.
2Ease of repair
If inlet and outlet shutoff valves are closed to repair or replace check valve, then repair capability is improved, but downtime and complexity of repair process increase
Solution Approach 1:
The check valve is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently removed and replaced. The valve is housed in its own chamber with dedicated access points, allowing it to be serviced without affecting other parts of the assembly or requiring closure of inlet and outlet shutoff valves.
Solution Approach 2:
The check valve can be extracted from its housing through a dedicated access mechanism. The design allows the valve to be removed and replaced through the test cock assembly or dedicated service ports, enabling repair without shutting down the entire system or closing main shutoff valves.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are used in BFP assembly, then functionality is improved, but device complexity and material costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional components are merged into integrated assemblies. The test cock assembly combines pressure testing functionality for multiple chambers into one component. The valve housing integrates multiple chambers (first chamber upstream of valve seat, second chamber downstream of valve seat) with dedicated access points into a single unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Components are designed to perform multiple functions. The single test cock assembly provides pressure testing access to multiple zones. The integrated housing serves as both structural support and fluid containment for multiple chambers. The valve assembly combines sealing, flow control, and testing functions in one modular unit.
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
The design simplifies assembly, reduces repair time, saves space and materials, and enhances testing efficiency by creating distinct pressure zones with integrated test cocks, ensuring effective backflow prevention while minimizing contamination risks.
Implementation Method 1
a spring urging the valve member into the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A backflow prevention assembly includes a body forming two buckets, wherein flow passes through the body from an inlet to an outlet along an axis and consecutively through each of the buckets. A single zone test cover encloses a first of the buckets to form a single zone chamber. A dual zone test cover encloses a second of the buckets with a dual zone cartridge assembly therein. The dual zone test cover has two test cocks. The dual zone cartridge assembly includes a frame having a valve seat, wherein the frame includes a lumen providing fluid communication from a dual zone chamber upstream of the valve seat to a first of the two test cocks of the dual zone test cover, and wherein the second of the two test cocks of the dual zone test cover is in fluid communication with the dual zone chamber downstream of the valve seat.