Elastic Connecting Element for Pipeline Backflow Preventer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closure devices for backflow preventers in pipeline systems fail to effectively compensate for manufacturing tolerances and angular errors in the contact surface, leading to increased friction, wear, and vibrations, which result in noise and mechanical stress, and can cause damage to the pump and pipeline components.
Innovation Solution
A closure device with a connecting element made of elastic material, such as polyurethane, that forms a flexible connection between the closing element and the strike plate, allowing for deformation to compensate for manufacturing tolerances and angular errors, and absorbs kinetic energy to reduce vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid connecting element is used to connect the closing element to the strike plate, then the structural strength and stability are improved, but the ability to compensate for manufacturing tolerances and angular errors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element changes its physical state from rigid to elastic, allowing it to deform and adapt to angular errors and manufacturing tolerances while maintaining structural integrity. The elastic material properties enable the element to flex and compensate for misalignments without compromising strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by combining elastic material with metallic components (closing element, strike plate). This creates a hybrid system where the elastic connecting element provides adaptability while the metallic parts provide structural strength, achieving both compensation for tolerances and mechanical durability.
2Manufacturing precision
If a rigid connecting element is used, then the manufacturing precision and stability are improved, but the friction and wear between components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element transitions from a rigid state to an elastic state, enabling it to deform and accommodate angular misalignments. This elastic deformation eliminates the need for high-precision manufacturing tolerances while simultaneously reducing friction and wear by allowing smooth relative movement between components.
3Force
If the closing element is rigidly connected to the strike plate, then the closing force is improved, but the vibrations and noise during closing increase
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic connecting element acts as a pre-installed cushioning mechanism that absorbs impact energy during the closing process. When the closing element strikes the strike plate, the elastic material deforms to absorb the shock, thereby reducing vibrations and noise while maintaining effective closing force.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic properties of the connecting element allow it to dynamically change its stiffness during operation. During normal operation, it provides a rigid connection for effective force transmission, but during impact, it becomes more compliant to absorb vibrations and reduce noise.
4Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid connecting element is used, then the mechanical stability is improved, but the lifespan of pipeline components deteriorates due to increased mechanical stress
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic connecting element serves as a protective cushion that absorbs and dissipates mechanical stress during the closing operation. By preventing stress peaks and shocks from being transmitted to the pipeline components, it extends their operational lifespan while maintaining the mechanical stability needed for reliable operation.
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 elastic connecting element ensures a secure seal, reduces wear and vibrations, and extends the lifespan of pipeline components by effectively compensating for manufacturing tolerances and angular errors, thereby preventing damage and noise.
Implementation Method 1
a connecting element (16) which mechanically connects the closing element (12) to the strike plate (14), the connecting element (16), which has a head area (22) and a foot area (38), made of an elastic material, in particular of polyurethane (PUR)
Implementation Method 2
This impact of the closing element on the contact surface of the backflow preventer generates strong vibrations within the locking device, the backflow preventer and the pipeline, which in turn can lead to a not inconsiderable noise development in the environment. In addition, these vibrations increase the mechanical stress on the individual components within the pipeline
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a closure device for a backflow preventer in a pipeline. The closure device comprises a closing element (12), a rotatably mounted strike plate (14), and a connecting element (16) which mechanically connects the closing element to the strike plate. To compensate for manufacturing tolerances and angular errors of the contact surface and to prevent vibrations during closing, the connecting element is made of an elastic material, in particular polyurethane (PUR).