Flush Valve Axial Relief Element Motor Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flush valves face challenges in precisely controlling the opening of the relief valve due to unpredictability in pressure and actuation, leading to control and precision issues in fluid flow and flush timing, and solenoids used in automated systems are prone to corrosion and inconsistent performance.
Innovation Solution
A flush valve design featuring a diaphragm assembly with a primary and bypass opening, and a relief valve with an axially-translatable valve element, controlled by a motor and drive train, which allows for precise regulation of fluid flow and increased durability by removing components from the fluid outlet flow path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a solenoid is used to actuate the relief valve in automated flush valves, then automation is achieved, but the solenoid is prone to corrosion and inconsistent performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the solenoid (electromagnetic actuator) with a motor and drive train mechanism that actuates the relief valve through mechanical means. This substitution eliminates the corrosion and performance inconsistency issues associated with solenoids while maintaining automated operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the solenoid component from the automated flush valve system and replaces it with alternative actuation mechanisms (motor and drive train), thereby extracting the problematic element while preserving the desired automation function.
2Ease of operation
If a lateral displacement mechanism is used to open the relief valve, then the valve can be actuated, but control precision and flush timing consistency are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static lateral displacement mechanism to a dynamic axial translation mechanism for relief valve actuation. The axial movement allows for more precise control of the valve opening degree and duration, improving manufacturing precision and flush timing consistency while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the valve stem movement into controlled axial translation phases, allowing independent control of opening degree and duration. This segmentation enables precise control of the relief valve opening process, improving manufacturing precision compared to the integrated lateral displacement approach.
3Ease of manufacture
If the valve stem extends into the fluid outlet flow path, then the relief valve can function, but components are exposed to corrosion and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the valve stem and relief valve components from the fluid outlet flow path, relocating them to positions where they are not exposed to corrosive fluid. This extraction maintains the relief valve functionality while improving component durability by eliminating direct fluid contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a sealed actuation mechanism that mediates between the control system and the relief valve, allowing the valve to be actuated without direct exposure to corrosive fluid in the outlet path. The intermediary sealing mechanism protects components while maintaining functional connectivity.
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 design provides precise control over the relief valve opening, enhances durability, and improves the reliability of flush valve operations by ensuring consistent fluid flow and timing, reducing maintenance issues associated with solenoids.
Implementation Method 1
Fluid in the top chamber above the diaphragm applies pressure to seat the diaphragm onto the valve seat of the fluid outlet
Implementation Method 2
the axially-translatable valve element has an axial end positionable to selectively seal an upper opening in the relief passageway of the relief valve housing to regulate fluid flow therethrough
Data Source
AI summary
A flush valve has a relief valve including a stationary relief valve housing and an axially-translatable valve element. The axially-translatable valve element has an axial end that can be selectively translated to unseal an upper opening in a relief passageway through the stationary relief valve housing in order to permit fluid flow therethrough in order to initiate a flush cycle by the lifting of a diaphragm assembly. The axially-translatable valve element may include lead screw-like features which can be used to axially drive the axially-translatable valve element relative to the stationary relief valve housing to open or close the relief valve.