Dual Set-Point PRV Switching for Leakage and Energy Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional hydraulic pressure reducing valves (PRVs) are limited in their ability to adapt to changing fluid pressure demands, leading to inefficient use of water and energy, as they maintain a constant downstream pressure regardless of varying upstream pressures, which can result in unnecessary high pressure and increased leakage during low demand periods.
Innovation Solution
A dual set-point pressure regulating system that includes a pressure-motion transducer and an auxiliary valve, allowing the PRV to select between two distinct working pressures based on upstream pressure, adjusting the set pressure to optimize fluid flow and reduce energy consumption by switching between high and low pressure profiles accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional PRV maintains constant downstream pressure regardless of upstream pressure variations, then downstream pressure stability is improved, but energy consumption increases and water leakage occurs during low demand periods
Solution Approach 1:
The PRV system transitions from a static constant pressure setting to a dynamic dual set-point system that automatically adjusts between high and low pressure levels based on upstream pressure conditions. The selection system enables the PRV to adapt its downstream pressure output dynamically, switching between first and second set-points to optimize energy consumption while maintaining adequate pressure stability for different demand conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the pressure parameter by selecting between two distinct set-points (first and second set pressures) based on upstream pressure conditions. When upstream pressure is high, the system selects the lower second set-point to reduce energy consumption and leakage; when upstream pressure is low, it selects the higher first set-point to maintain adequate downstream pressure, thereby optimizing energy efficiency while preserving necessary pressure stability
2Reliability
If traditional PRV maintains constant downstream pressure, then pressure reliability is improved, but water leakage increases during low demand periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts downstream pressure between two set-points based on real-time upstream pressure conditions and demand patterns. By switching to the lower second set-point during high upstream pressure conditions, the system maintains pressure reliability when needed while reducing excessive pressure that causes leakage during low demand periods
Solution Approach 2:
The dual set-point system changes the downstream pressure parameter between first and second set pressures based on upstream conditions. This parameter switching enables the system to maintain adequate pressure reliability for water supply while minimizing water leakage by avoiding excessively high pressure during periods when lower pressure suffices
3Loss of energy
If PRV uses dual set-point system with selection mechanism, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The selection system operates autonomously by automatically sensing upstream pressure conditions and selecting the appropriate set-point without requiring external control or manual intervention. The system self-regulates between the two pressure settings based on real-time conditions, improving energy efficiency while minimizing the complexity of external control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback through the selection system that continuously monitors upstream pressure conditions and automatically adjusts the downstream set-point accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables energy-efficient operation by responding to changing conditions, while the automated nature of the feedback loop avoids adding significant operational complexity
4Adaptability or versatility
If PRV adapts to varying upstream pressure with dual set-point, then adaptability is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The PRV system becomes dynamic and adaptive by automatically switching between two set-points based on upstream pressure variations. The selection system enables the PRV to adapt to different operating conditions (high and low upstream pressure) without requiring complex control algorithms, achieving versatility through simple binary selection between predetermined pressure levels
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 effectively manages fluid pressure by adjusting to changing demand conditions, reducing water and energy usage by maintaining a higher pressure during high demand and a lower pressure during low demand, thereby minimizing leakage and optimizing resource utilization.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure-motion transducer operatively connected to the pressure regulating system so as to actively direct the set pressure when being brought into pressure communication with the PRV inlet
Implementation Method 2
the auxiliary valve being configured to selectively establish pressure communication between its auxiliary inlet and auxiliary outlet when pressure in the PRV inlet traverses a predetermined threshold
Implementation Method 3
a pressure regulating system operatively disposed therebetween being configured to maintain a set pressure at the PRV outlet by regulating the flow of fluid between the PRV inlet and the PRV outlet
Data Source
AI summary
A PRV is provided, comprising an inlet, an outlet, and a pressure regulating system therebetween to maintain a set pressure at the outlet. The PRV further comprises a selection system configured to select between the two working pressures based on the pressure of the fluid at the inlet of the PRV, and to direct the pressure regulating system to maintain the set pressure at the outlet at the selected working pressure. The selection system comprises a pressure-motion transducer for directing the set pressure when in pressure communication with the inlet, and an auxiliary valve having an auxiliary inlet in pressure communication with the inlet and an auxiliary outlet in pressure communication with the pressure-motion transducer. The auxiliary valve is configured to establish pressure communication between its inlet and outlet when pressure in the inlet traverses a predetermined threshold.