Fluid Distribution Manifold for Precise Multi-Outlet Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid distribution systems for applications like pool management face challenges in achieving precise flow rates due to limitations in valve actuators, requiring numerous valves and actuators, which increase complexity, cost, and space requirements, and are unstable under varying operational conditions.
Innovation Solution
A fluid distribution manifold with multiple valve assemblies and a control system that includes sensors and actuators to dynamically adjust flow rates, allowing for precise control and seamless integration of additional devices, enabling independent operation and maintenance of valve assemblies without disrupting the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves and actuators are used to direct fluid flow to different fluid handling devices, then flow distribution capability is improved, but system complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the fluid distribution function into multiple independent valve assemblies, each serving a specific fluid handling device. Each valve assembly is a self-contained unit with its own actuator, valve body, and flow control mechanism, allowing independent operation and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold structure provides a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different types of fluid handling devices (pumps, filters, heaters, water features) through standardized valve assemblies. The same basic valve assembly design can serve different devices, reducing the need for custom components.
2Measurement precision
If multiple valves and actuators are installed to serve different fluid handling devices, then flow control precision is improved, but installation time and labor cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assemblies are pre-assembled and pre-configured with actuators and connections before installation. This preliminary preparation allows for quick installation by simply mounting the complete assemblies onto the manifold, significantly reducing on-site installation time and labor requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the system into modular valve assemblies, each unit can be independently installed and configured. This modular approach allows installers to work on one assembly at a time and enables parallel installation of multiple units, reducing overall installation time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more valves and plumbing components are used to serve additional fluid handling devices, then system functionality is improved, but physical space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple valve assemblies are merged onto a single manifold structure, consolidating what would otherwise be separate components into one integrated unit. This combining approach maintains full functionality for multiple fluid handling devices while occupying significantly less physical space than distributed valve installations.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold structure utilizes three-dimensional space efficiently by arranging valve assemblies in a compact configuration along the manifold body. This spatial arrangement allows multiple valves to be accessed and operated independently while maintaining a compact footprint suitable for pool equipment rooms.
4Measurement precision
If each valve has its own controller for independent operation, then flow rate precision is improved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into independent controllers for each valve assembly, allowing each valve to be controlled individually based on specific flow rate requirements. This segmentation enables precise flow control for each fluid handling device while keeping the control logic for each valve relatively simple and manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid distribution manifold may receive a first required flow rate for a first flow of fluid that flows to a fluid handling device or a reservoir. A first operation state may be determined for a first valve assembly that regulates the first flow, the manifold may operate the first valve assembly based on the first operation state, and a first position tracker may be incremented based on the first operation. Based on a value of a cycle tracker, the manifold may identify a second valve assembly in an operation cycle and access a second control input that includes a second required flow rate for a second flow of fluid regulated by the second valve assembly. The manifold may cause the second valve assembly to operate based on at least one of a second operation state and a change in the second actual flow rate resulting from the first operation.