Dual Check Backflow Preventer Turbulence Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backflow preventers suffer from premature wear, leakage, and flow-retarding turbulence due to complex designs with multiple components, which can lead to failure under harsh conditions and reduced flow efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A dual check backflow preventer design featuring a housing with an upstream and downstream check disc assembly, a diaphragm supported by a check plate with flow ports, and a vent to atmosphere, which reduces turbulence and enhances sealing and stress resistance, using integrally-formed check discs and stems to minimize leak paths and improve flow capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple components are used to ensure backflow prevention functionality, then reliability of backflow protection is improved, but device complexity increases and more leak paths are created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple backflow prevention mechanisms (check valves, atmospheric vent, seal elements) into a single integrated housing structure. The upstream and downstream check assemblies are merged with the vent mechanism and seal system into one unified device, reducing the number of separate components while maintaining comprehensive backflow protection functionality.
2Reliability
If multiple components and seals are used to prevent backflow, then sealing capability is improved, but potential leak paths increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs uniform elastomeric seal elements throughout the device, including O-rings and gaskets made from the same material composition. This homogeneity in sealing material ensures consistent sealing performance across all interfaces while reducing variability that could create leak paths. The elastomeric seals are designed with uniform thickness and composition to maintain reliable sealing under varying pressure and temperature conditions.
3Reliability
If traditional check valve design is used, then backflow prevention is achieved, but flow turbulence increases and flow capacity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved flow passages and rounded check disc surfaces to streamline water flow through the device. The flow path is designed with smooth transitions and minimal sharp angles, reducing turbulence and energy loss. The check discs are positioned and shaped to allow laminar flow during forward operation while maintaining effective backflow blocking capability.
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 significantly reduces flow turbulence and enhances the backflow preventer's ability to withstand pressure variations, improving longevity and flow efficiency while minimizing leakage and turbulence, ensuring reliable operation under harsh conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Each check valve is designed to hold a specified pressure in the direction of flow. When a backflow condition occurs, both check valves close
Implementation Method 2
the atmospheric vent opens to permit air to enter the intermediate zone where the vent is located
Data Source
AI summary
A backflow preventer that includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet adapted to be mounted in a liquid flow configuration in a liquid supply circuit. An upstream check disc assembly is positioned in the housing downstream of the inlet, and includes an upstream check plate supporting a downstream diaphragm. An upstream check disc is positioned downstream of the diaphragm and integrally formed with an upstream stem mounted in an aperture in a central hub formed in the check plate for movement between an normally open, flow position and a closed position preventing backflow of liquid through the inlet. A downstream check disc assembly is positioned in the housing downstream from the upstream check disc assembly. A vent discharges liquid to atmosphere upstream of the downstream check disc assembly.