Flow Control Device Integrating Check and Shut-Off Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing check valves lack the ability to conveniently restrict forward flow and often require additional components or installations, leading to increased labor, space, and cost when trying to control fluid flow directionally in pipeline systems.
Innovation Solution
A flow regulation device with a pivoting flapper and an adjustable limiting element, utilizing a non-metallic spring and rotatable spindle, allows for customizable flow control and integration of shut-off functionality within a single valve, reducing the need for separate components and installations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a check valve is used to maintain unidirectional fluid flow, then backflow prevention is achieved, but the ability to restrict forward flow is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a check valve function and a shut-off valve function into a single integrated device. The housing contains both a flapper mechanism for check valve operation and a plug with actuator for shut-off operation, allowing both backflow prevention and forward flow restriction in one component.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated valve performs multiple functions: it acts as a check valve to prevent backflow through the flapper mechanism, and simultaneously serves as a shut-off valve through the plug and actuator mechanism, enabling both unidirectional flow control and complete flow restriction capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a shut-off valve is installed in series with a check valve to restrict forward flow, then flow control capability is improved, but device complexity and installation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate valve functions into one integrated housing. The check valve mechanism (flapper, seat, spring) and shut-off valve mechanism (plug, actuator, seal) share a common housing and internal chamber, reducing the total component count from two separate valves to one unified device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a shut-off valve is installed in series with a check valve, then flow control versatility is improved, but installation space and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating both valve functions into a single housing with a unified port structure, the patent reduces the installation space required from that needed for two separate valves with intervening piping to a single compact unit that occupies less pipeline space and requires fewer installation steps.
4Force
If a metal spring is used to bias the flapper to the closed configuration, then closing force is improved, but corrosion resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a metal spring for the flapper biasing mechanism while using elastomeric seals and corrosion-resistant coatings on metal components. The combination of metal (for structural strength and spring force) and elastomer (for corrosion resistance and sealing) creates a composite material system that balances mechanical performance with environmental durability.
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 solution provides cost-effective, space-efficient, and labor-saving fluid flow control by enabling adjustable forward flow restriction and eliminating the need for separate check and shut-off valves, while ensuring reliable sealing and durability in hostile environments.
Implementation Method 1
A non-metallic spring is positioned within the chamber and is configured to bias the flapper to the closed configuration
Implementation Method 2
A rod extends within the chamber, and the flapper is pivotally attached to the rod
Implementation Method 3
A limiting element is located within the chamber, and is adjustably positionable in relation to the flapper to limit the amount by which the flapper pivots
Data Source
AI summary
A flow control device in which a flapper is continuously biased to the closed position by a leaf spring that may have a plurality of fingers. The same valve includes a shutoff mechanism allowing the user to adjust forward flow through the valve or shut it off entirely. The leaf spring is made to include polyoxymethylene.