Threaded Flow Control Insert for Uniform Agent Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agent distribution systems face challenges in achieving uniform agent concentration across different areas while minimizing the total mass of the agent, particularly in systems with asymmetrical junctions and phase-changing agents, requiring iterative design and adjustment processes that are inefficient in terms of time and cost.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a flow control insert with a diverter mechanism that can be threaded into pipes at junctions to control the mass split and flow energy, allowing for selective adjustment of agent distribution by positioning and selecting specific inserts based on concentration testing results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional agent distribution systems are used with asymmetrical junctions, then the system structure is simple, but the agent concentration becomes non-uniform across different areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing flow control inserts with diverters at specific junction locations within the distribution system. These inserts locally modify the flow characteristics at asymmetrical junctions to achieve uniform agent concentration across different areas, rather than requiring complete redesign of the entire distribution system geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by adjusting the flow split ratios at junctions through the diverter mechanism. By changing the flow distribution parameters (mass split and flow energy) at key locations, the system achieves uniform agent concentration while maintaining the overall simple structure of the distribution system.
2Quantity of substance
If the total mass of fire suppression agent is minimized, then the system cost is reduced, but the agent concentration in different areas becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the flow split ratios at junctions using the diverter mechanism. This allows precise control over agent distribution, enabling the system to use minimal total agent mass while ensuring sufficient concentration in all protected areas through optimized flow management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback by using concentration testing results to determine the positioning and selection of flow control inserts. This iterative adjustment process allows the system to achieve uniform agent concentration with minimal agent mass by continuously optimizing the flow distribution based on measured concentration data.
3Manufacturing precision
If iterative design and adjustment processes are used to achieve uniform agent concentration, then the agent distribution precision is improved, but the time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning flow control inserts with diverters at strategic junction locations before final system operation. The inserts are positioned based on preliminary concentration testing, allowing the system to achieve uniform agent distribution without extensive iterative adjustments during commissioning, thereby reducing time and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes feedback by implementing a systematic process where concentration testing results directly inform the positioning and selection of flow control inserts. This feedback mechanism enables efficient optimization of agent distribution, reducing the need for repeated iterative design cycles and significantly cutting down development time and costs.
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
This approach enables precise tuning of agent distribution, reducing the need for iterative design and minimizing agent mass, thereby improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness in achieving uniform agent concentration across different areas.
Implementation Method 1
The diverter controls a mass split of the agent or flow energy of the agent flowing in the pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A flow control insert includes a main body that is shaped as a cylinder, is hollow, and includes an opening at a first end and at a second end, opposite the first end, along an axial length of the cylinder. An outer surface of the main body includes threading to screw into complementary threading on an inner surface of a pipe configured to flow an agent. The flow control insert also includes a diverter within the main body or extending from the first end of the main body. The diverter controls a mass split of the agent or flow energy of the agent flowing in the pipe.