Fluid Deflection Enclosure for Backflow Splash Redirection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid distributor outlets eject fluid in various directions, including towards users, when backflow preventers cause a splash, necessitating a solution to deflect the fluid in a controlled manner.
Innovation Solution
A fluid deflection device with a body forming an enclosure that can be coupled to the outlet, featuring a first and second opening, and mechanisms for securing it around the outlet to direct the ejected fluid away from the user.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a backflow preventer is attached to the fluid distributor outlet, then fluid backflow into the supply system is prevented, but fluid is ejected in various directions including towards the user
Solution Approach 1:
A deflection device is introduced as an intermediary component between the backflow preventer and the user. This device captures the fluid ejected by the backflow preventer and redirects it away from the user, thereby maintaining the backflow prevention function while eliminating the harmful splashing effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The backflow preventer inherently ejects fluid as a byproduct of its operation. Instead of treating this ejection purely as a harmful effect, the deflection device captures and redirects this fluid flow to serve a useful purpose - preventing it from reaching the user while maintaining the pressure relief function of the backflow preventer.
2Ease of operation
If the fluid distributor outlet allows free ejection of fluid, then the backflow preventer can operate effectively, but the fluid travels in all directions causing unwanted splashing
Solution Approach 1:
The deflection device employs a flexible enclosure that can be collapsed for storage and deployment. This flexible shell structure allows the device to be easily installed around the fluid distributor outlet while providing an enclosed space to capture and redirect the fluid flow, preventing it from splashing in unwanted directions.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a deflection device is added to control fluid direction, then fluid splashing towards the user is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deflection device is constructed as a simple flexible enclosure that can be collapsed into a compact form for storage and easily deployed around the fluid distributor outlet. This simple structure minimizes the added complexity while effectively capturing and redirecting fluid flow away from the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflection device is designed to be easily installed and removed by the user without requiring specialized tools or complex assembly procedures. The flexible nature of the device allows it to self-adjust to the outlet geometry, reducing the complexity of installation and maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are fluid deflection devices and methods for deflecting fluid from a fluid distributor outlet. The fluid deflection device includes a body forming an enclosure, the enclosure having a first end and a second end, a first opening formed in the first end of the enclosure, a second opening formed in the second end of the enclosure, and the first opening configured to be placed around a fluid distributor outlet. The method for deflecting a fluid includes the steps of: placing a fluid deflecting device around a fluid distributor outlet; and latching the fluid deflecting device to the outlet of the fluid distribution system.