Flow Path Opening Closing Portion Replacement Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing flow path opening/closing portions in piping systems discharge fluid wastefully when being replaced, as they stop fluid flow during the replacement process.
Innovation Solution
A flow path opening/closing portion replacement device comprising a first enclosing portion with a shutter and a second enclosing portion with a detachable member, allowing for the replacement of the flow path opening/closing portion without discharging fluid, by enclosing the existing portion with the detachable member and rotating it to remove and insert new ones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the flow path opening/closing portion is removed from the piping to replace it, then the existing valve can be exchanged for a new one, but the fluid (supplied water) is discharged wastefully from the piping
Solution Approach 1:
The device encloses the valve and piping end portion within an enclosing portion that has an internal space. The shutter closes the opening to contain the fluid inside this enclosed space, allowing the valve to be removed and replaced without discharging fluid to the external environment. The nested structure of the enclosing portion surrounding the valve creates a controlled environment for maintenance work.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter acts as an intermediary element that controls the opening and closing of the enclosing portion's opening. By opening the shutter, fluid can be supplied into the enclosed space to maintain pressure and prevent vacuum formation. By closing the shutter, fluid discharge to the external environment is prevented while allowing fluid circulation within the enclosed space.
2Loss of substance
If the flow path opening/closing portion stops fluid flow in the piping, then the valve can be replaced without fluid discharge, but the replacement process becomes more complex requiring enclosing portions and shutters
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: an enclosing portion that provides the enclosed space, a shutter that controls fluid access to this space, and a support structure that holds components in position. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosing portion serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, creates an enclosed workspace, and works with the shutter to control fluid flow. The shutter not only opens and closes but also guides fluid flow patterns. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting device complexity.
3Loss of substance
If the shutter closes the opening of the enclosing portion, then fluid is contained within the piping system during valve replacement, but access for removing and inserting the flow path opening/closing portion is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter is designed to be movable between open and closed positions, allowing the system to dynamically switch between fluid containment and access modes. During valve replacement operations, the shutter can be opened to provide access. Once replacement is complete, the shutter closes to contain fluid. This dynamic operation resolves the contradiction between containment and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosing portion is pre-configured with an internal space and support structures that facilitate valve removal and insertion before the shutter is closed. The opening is designed to provide adequate access while the shutter remains open during the replacement operation. Only after the valve is successfully replaced does the shutter close to contain fluid, ensuring that accessibility requirements are met before containment begins.
Data Source
AI summary
The flow path opening/closing portion replacement device comprises a first enclosing portion having a first opening and a shutter, and enclosing, in a state where the shutter has closed the first opening, an end portion of a converging pipe through which a fluid passes and a valve which is attached to the end portion; a second enclosing portion having a detachable member enabling the valve to be detached and a second opening which can be contiguous with the first opening and enabling removal/insertion of the detachable member, and enclosing the valve together with the first enclosing portion in a contiguous opening state in which the first opening and the second opening are contiguous, wherein, in a state where the second enclosing portion has enclosed the valve together with the first enclosing portion in the contiguous opening state, the valve can be replaced by the detachable member.