Floor Drain Valve Assembly With Flexible Seal Against Gas Backflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for preventing gas flow back into buildings through drain pipes, such as u-shaped or s-shaped bends, are often ineffective and not suitable for all building configurations.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly comprising a cylindrical seal frame with a support wall and a flexible sealing member, configured to allow fluid flow in one direction while preventing gas flow, using a crossbar member and attachment tabs to secure the sealing member, and featuring sealing ribs and a stepped section to support the sealing member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a u-shaped, s-shaped, or j-shaped bend is used in the drain pipe, then gas flow back into buildings is prevented, but the solution is ineffective in many cases and not suitable for all building configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The drain pipe system is segmented into a rigid pipe portion and a flexible hose portion with a collapsible seal. This segmentation allows the flexible portion to adapt to different building configurations while maintaining the gas prevention function through the collapsible seal mechanism that closes when fluid flow stops.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal is designed to be dynamic rather than static - it collapses and expands based on fluid flow conditions. When fluid flows through the drain, the seal opens to allow passage; when flow stops, the seal collapses to prevent gas backflow. This dynamic behavior provides reliable gas prevention across various building configurations without requiring fixed geometric bends.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid pipe configuration is used, then structural stability is maintained, but adaptability to different building layouts is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges rigid and flexible components into a single drain pipe system. The rigid pipe portion provides structural stability and secure connection points, while the flexible hose portion with collapsible seal provides adaptability to different building layouts. This combination maintains structural integrity while enabling versatile installation configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible hose portion with collapsible seal serves multiple functions: it provides structural connection, adapts to various building configurations, prevents gas backflow, and allows fluid drainage. This multi-functionality replaces the need for multiple separate components or complex rigid pipe arrangements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible hose with collapsible seal is used, then adaptability to building configurations is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible seal is designed to operate automatically based on fluid flow conditions without requiring external control mechanisms. When fluid flows through the drain, the pressure differential naturally opens the seal; when flow stops, the seal collapses under its own weight and elasticity to prevent gas backflow. This self-service operation reduces the need for additional valves, actuators, or control systems, keeping the device relatively simple despite its adaptability.
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
Effectively prevents gas flow back into buildings while allowing fluid to drain through the pipe, providing a solution adaptable to various building configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible sealing member located proximate a distal end of the seal frame
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides valve assembly for use in a floor drain. In various embodiments, the valve assembly comprises a substantially cylindrical seal frame, the seal frame defining a seal frame wall and at least one support wall extending in the longitudinal direction of the seal frame, a flexible sealing member located proximate a distal end of the seal frame, and an attachment tab configured to secure the flexible sealing member to the seal frame, wherein the seal frame and the support wall are further configured to create a resting deflection of the flexible sealing member, such that fluid may flow through the valve assembly in one direction, and the flow of gasses through the valve assembly is prevented in the opposite direction.