Fluid Pressure Regulator Reverse Flow Capability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid pressure regulators in aerial refueling systems do not allow reverse flow when downstream pressure exceeds the regulated outlet pressure, leading to issues such as high axial loads and potential damage to the boom and fuel manifolds.
Innovation Solution
A fluid pressure regulator system with a valve assembly and check valves that enable reverse flow from the outlet to the inlet when the outlet pressure exceeds a threshold, using a piston and spring mechanism to control fluid flow and include a second fluid path for reverse flow, allowing pressure reduction to prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fluid pressure regulators are used to control downstream fuel pressure, then pressure control is achieved, but reverse flow capability is lost leading to high axial loads and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid pressure regulator is divided into multiple functional segments: a first check valve for reverse flow protection, a second check valve for forward flow control, and a pressure regulating valve. This segmentation allows each component to handle specific flow directions and pressure control tasks independently, resolving the contradiction by enabling both reverse flow capability and reliable pressure control without damage.
Solution Approach 2:
Check valves are introduced as intermediary components between the inlet and outlet of the pressure regulator. These check valves act as mediators that selectively allow or block fluid flow based on pressure differential, enabling reverse flow when outlet pressure exceeds inlet pressure while maintaining controlled forward flow, thus preventing damage without compromising adaptability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If reverse flow is allowed when outlet pressure exceeds regulated pressure, then damage to components is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple valve functions (reverse flow prevention, forward flow control, pressure regulation) are merged into a single integrated valve assembly. The first check valve, second check valve, and pressure regulating valve are combined in one unit, allowing the system to handle both high axial loads and high pressures while maintaining relatively simple installation and operation compared to multiple separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both a pressure regulator and a reverse flow prevention device simultaneously. The check valves and pressure regulating valve work together to provide both flow direction control and pressure management in a single component, reducing overall system complexity despite the multiple internal valve elements.
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 system effectively reduces outlet pressure by allowing reverse flow, preventing damage to components like fuel tanks and booms by managing high pressures during refueling operations.
Implementation Method 1
allow reverse flow from an outlet to an inlet when a pressure at the outlet exceeds a pressure at the inlet by a threshold amount
Implementation Method 2
a piston and spring mechanism to control fluid flow
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid pressure regulator includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet, a valve assembly disposed in the housing, and one or more check valves disposed within the housing. The one or more check valves may be closed when a regulator inlet pressure is greater than a regulator output pressure. When the regulator output pressure is greater than the regulator input pressure, the one or more check valves may open and flow may occur from the outlet of the fluid regulator to the inlet of the fluid regulator, even if the valve assembly is in a closed position.