Backpressure Regulator Automatic Start-Up Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid delivery and handling systems require manual intervention for start-up and overpressure relief, which can be inefficient and prone to errors, as these functions operate independently and lack automatic control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A fluid control system incorporating a main valve, start-up pilot device, and overpressure pilot device that operate automatically based on pressure changes, eliminating the need for external signaling or manual manipulation, with the start-up pilot device being 'normally open' and the overpressure pilot device being 'normally closed', both directly connected to the main valve and communicating through dedicated fluid lines to manage pressure effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual valves are used for start-up and overpressure relief, then the system can be operated with simple components, but manual intervention is required which reduces operational efficiency and increases error risk
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs start-up and overpressure relief functions automatically without requiring manual intervention. The main valve responds autonomously to pressure changes in the system, opening during start-up to relieve pressure and closing when normal operation is achieved, then remaining closed except for overpressure conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve operates based on feedback from pressure sensing in the system. When pressure exceeds the spring bias force during start-up, the valve opens automatically. During normal operation, when pressure remains at target levels, the valve remains closed. This continuous pressure feedback enables automatic control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If independent start-up and overpressure relief valving arrangements are used, then each function can be controlled separately, but the system requires more components and coordination between separate arrangements
Solution Approach 1:
A single main valve performs both start-up relief and overpressure relief functions. The valve is designed to respond to pressure conditions in both scenarios, eliminating the need for separate valving arrangements while maintaining the ability to handle both functions effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the start-up relief valve and overpressure relief valve into one integrated main valve assembly. This merging reduces the total number of components while preserving both functions, as the single valve responds appropriately to different pressure conditions during both start-up and normal operation phases.
3Extent of automation
If automatic pressure sensing is implemented, then manual intervention is eliminated, but the system requires additional sensing mechanisms and control arrangements
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex electronic or mechanical control systems with a simpler mechanical pressure-spring mechanism. The spring-biased valve opens automatically when system pressure exceeds the spring force during start-up, and remains closed when pressure is at target levels during normal operation, providing automatic control through direct mechanical pressure sensing.
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 system ensures a simple, robust, and reliable automatic operation for start-up and overpressure relief, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing the risk of errors, while maintaining fluid within the system without releasing it to the atmosphere, thus enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
the valve plug can be movable between a closed position engaging the valve port and an open position spaced away from the valve port. In some versions, the valve plug of the start-up pilot device can be biased toward the open position by a start-up control force applied to the first surface of the diaphragm
Implementation Method 2
The valve plug can be biased toward the closed position via a control spring
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for automatically performing start-up and overpressure relief functions in association with a primary fluid carrier such as, for example, a liquid handling pipeline or tank. The system includes a main valve for primarily exhausting air from the system as it fills with a liquid. A start-up pilot device is also provided for exhausting air from the system upon start-up, but prior to the main valve opening. Finally, an overpressure pilot device is provided to relieve overpressure situations during normal operation.