Flow Control Assembly Integrating Swing Check Valve and Electrical Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fire sprinkler systems require significant space and multiple connections, leading to potential leaks and system failures due to the arrangement of valves, flow indicators, and pressure gauges in limited mechanical spaces.
Innovation Solution
A flow control assembly with a valve housing, flow control valve, swing check valve, and mechanical linkage that includes an electrical switch, reducing the need for multiple connections and minimizing space requirements while providing a compact solution for fluid communication between a standpipe riser and sprinkler heads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If valves, flow indicators, and pressure gauges are arranged in series extending horizontally from the standpipe riser, then each component can be individually accessed and maintained, but a large amount of valuable space within the stairwell or mechanical space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple components (flow control valve, swing check valve, flow indicator, and pressure gauge) into a single integrated assembly that mounts directly to the standpipe riser. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate horizontal extensions of multiple components, dramatically reducing the space required in the stairwell while maintaining all necessary functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly nests multiple functional components within a compact structure that mounts to the standpipe riser. The flow control valve, swing check valve, flow indicator, and pressure gauge are arranged in a nested configuration where each component occupies a specific zone within the overall assembly footprint, maximizing space utilization.
2Reliability
If multiple valves and components are connected in series, then flow control and monitoring functions are provided, but multiple flange-to-flange joints, pipe taps, and threaded connections are required creating leak and system failure opportunities
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the flow control valve, swing check valve, flow indicator, and pressure gauge into a single assembly unit, the patent eliminates multiple separate connections. The assembly connects to the standpipe riser and sprinkler head as a unified component, reducing the number of flange-to-flange joints, pipe taps, and threaded connections from multiple separate components to just the inlet and outlet connections of the integrated assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the fire sprinkler system into distinct functional modules: the integrated valve assembly containing flow control and check valves, the flow indicator, and the pressure gauge. This modular segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured and tested, then assembled into a compact unit that reduces overall connection points while maintaining functional reliability.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact flow control assembly is used to minimize space, then space requirements are reduced and connection points are minimized, but the mechanical linkage and electrical switch must be integrated within the valve housing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mechanical linkage that actuates the swing check valve with the electrical switch that provides flow indication into the valve housing. The mechanical linkage connects the flow control valve mechanism to the swing check valve, while the electrical switch is integrated to detect flow conditions and provide external signaling, all within the compact assembly footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical linkage serves as an intermediary mechanism that translates the operation of the flow control valve into actuation of the swing check valve. The electrical switch acts as an intermediary sensor that detects flow conditions and provides external electrical signaling, allowing the compact assembly to maintain both mechanical and electrical functions within integrated boundaries.
Data Source
AI summary
A flow control assembly for a fire sprinkler system includes a valve housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The valve housing defines a fluid flow path that extends between the inlet opening and the outlet opening. A flow control valve is disposed within the fluid flow path. A swing check valve is disposed within the fluid flow path of the valve housing downstream from the flow control valve. The swing check valve includes a clapper that is connected to an actuator arm. An electrical switch is disposed outside of the valve housing. A mechanical linkage includes a first end that extends through the valve housing and engages with the actuator arm. The mechanical linkage also includes a second end that is coupled to the electrical switch. The first end translates with said actuator arm.