Color Coded Valve Identification Bands for Utility Infrastructure
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Solution Overview
Problem
In municipal utility infrastructures, multi-valve distribution and transmission systems face challenges due to poor identification of valve types and sizes, leading to increased human error, safety risks, and higher costs for emergency mitigation.
Innovation Solution
A flexible, adjustable color-coded band system is secured to valve boxes, using distinct colors to identify different types and sizes of valves, accompanied by a color coding chart for easy recognition, and may include features like arrow apertures for direction indication and notches for alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If color coded bands are applied to valve boxes, then visual identification accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color coded bands to valve boxes where different colors represent different valve types, sizes, or operational characteristics. This visual coding system dramatically improves identification accuracy without requiring complex mechanical or electronic systems, thus resolving the contradiction between identification precision and device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable bands are used to fit different valve box sizes, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs adjustable bands that can be modified to fit different valve box sizes and configurations. The adjustability mechanism allows a single band design to adapt to various dimensions, reducing the need for multiple precision-manufactured sizes while maintaining versatility across different valve types.
Solution Approach 2:
The bands incorporate adjustable parameters such as expandable sections, flexible materials, or adjustable fastening mechanisms that allow the same band to accommodate different valve box dimensions. This parameter adjustability provides versatility without requiring high-precision manufacturing for each specific size.
3Reliability
If detailed identification systems are implemented, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a color-coded identification system where different colors or color combinations immediately convey valve type, size, and operational characteristics. This visual system enhances reliability by reducing misidentification while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive, quick visual recognition without requiring complex procedures or specialized training.
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed an apparatus and method for visual identification of valves in multi valve distribution and transmission systems, and particularly for municipal utility infrastructures such as mainline, connection, drain, pressure district, pressure regulating and pressure sustaining valves. In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises a flexible, adjustable, color coded band that when assembled the apparatus forms a generally tubular shape; and the apparatus includes one or more securing mechanisms adapted to secure the apparatus to a valve.