Externally Accessible Throttling Valve Bezels for Local Fountain Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water fountain systems face challenges in individually controlling water streams from multiple fountains, especially when embedded in pavement, due to centralized valve locations requiring operators to adjust flow settings remotely, complicating installation, maintenance, and expansion.
Innovation Solution
A modular fountain structure with an adjustable bezel and valve mechanism allows on-site adjustment of water flow by rotating a bezel, which is mechanically coupled to an adjustable valve, enabling localized control and feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If valves are located at the central water source, then flow control is centralized, but operators must leave the fountain area to make adjustments, increasing operation time and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system is segmented into individual units at each fountain location rather than having a single centralized valve. Each fountain structure contains its own valve assembly, allowing independent control and adjustment at the source without affecting other fountains.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve access point is relocated from the horizontal plane (central control room) to the vertical plane (top of fountain structure). The adjustable bezel protrudes through the cover, providing vertical access to the valve mechanism while maintaining the compact horizontal footprint of the embedded fountain.
2Measurement precision
If multiple operators are used for flow adjustment, then accurate control can be achieved, but system complexity and personnel requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fountain valve system is designed for self-adjustment by a single operator. The adjustable bezel with protruding features provides tactile feedback and mechanical advantage, enabling one person to precisely control water flow without needing a second operator for observation or assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism incorporates mechanical feedback through the adjustable bezel structure. The protruding features on the bezel engage with corresponding features on the valve, providing tactile feedback to the operator about the valve position and flow rate, enabling precise control through direct sensory feedback.
3Shape
If fountains are embedded in pavement, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but valve access and maintenance become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is nested within the fountain structure, which itself is embedded in the pavement. The adjustable bezel is nested within the cover, protruding just enough to provide access while maintaining the flush appearance when not in use. This nested arrangement allows maintenance access without compromising aesthetic integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The bezel is designed to be dynamically adjustable and removable. During normal operation, the bezel can be rotated to adjust flow while maintaining aesthetic appearance. During maintenance, the bezel can be removed entirely to provide full access to the valve mechanism, transforming the structure from a static aesthetic element to a dynamic maintenance-friendly design.
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
Facilitates easy installation, maintenance, and expansion of fountain systems by allowing operators to adjust water flow directly at the fountain location, reducing the need for multiple personnel and providing immediate feedback on adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
the valve includes a throttle that is configured to change flow of the fluid based on a position of the valve relative to the throttle
Implementation Method 2
the first portion of the bezel is configured to rotate about a central axis of the fountain structure, wherein rotational movement of the first portion of the bezel causes the valve position to change
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to water fountain structures, and more specifically relate to modular fountain structures that include an adjustment bezel for changing a flow of water via an adjustable valve housed within them fountain structure. Adjustments to the valve to adjust the flow of water are effected by accessing the valve at the site of the fountain structure. The adjustment bezel or other manipulable device is incorporated with each fountain structure to provide control for flow of water emitted from the fountain, as the adjustment bezel is accessible without removal and/or disassembly of the fountain structure.