Dual-Diaphragm Flushometer Flow Control for Low-Volume Flushing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flushometers are not designed for low flush volume environments and variable plumbing pressures, leading to poor performance and issues like water hammer, and lack flexibility in controlling flush profiles.
Innovation Solution
A flushometer system with a pressure vessel, valve assembly, and diaphragm assemblies that include primary and secondary diaphragms, along with a variable flow regulator and activation mechanisms, allowing for adjustable flow control and improved performance in low flush volume and variable pressure scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-flow control system is used, then the flushometer is simple to manufacture and operate, but it cannot adapt to variable flush volumes and plumbing pressures, resulting in poor performance in low flush volume environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a variable flow control system with adjustable flow regulators that can dynamically adapt to different flush volumes and plumbing pressures. The flow control mechanism includes adjustable components that allow the system to modify its flow characteristics based on operating conditions, transitioning from a fixed-flow design to a dynamic, adaptable flow control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters such as flow rate, pressure compensation, and flush volume through adjustable flow regulators and control mechanisms. These parameter adjustments enable the flushometer to perform optimally across a wide range of flush volumes (from low to high) and plumbing pressure conditions without requiring multiple different device types.
2Ease of operation
If a fixed-flow control system designed for higher volume flush is used, then the device is simpler, but it generates water hammer in low flush volume scenarios and cannot provide flexible control over the flush profile
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow real-time modification of flow characteristics during operation. The variable flow regulators can adapt the flush profile based on the desired performance, enabling flexible control over parameters such as flush duration, flow rate, and pressure distribution, thereby eliminating water hammer while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor operating conditions such as pressure and flow rate, and automatically adjust the flow control parameters to prevent water hammer and optimize flush performance. This feedback-based control allows the system to respond to changing conditions and maintain stable operation across different flush volume scenarios.
3Reliability
If typical flushometers are used in low flush volume environments, then the device structure remains simple, but performance deteriorates due to inability to control flow profile effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates dynamic flow control mechanisms that maintain reliable performance across varying flush volumes. The variable flow regulators and control systems enable the flushometer to adapt its characteristics for optimal performance in low flush volume environments, ensuring consistent and reliable operation without requiring complete redesign of the device structure.
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 provides enhanced flow control and reduces water hammer, ensuring consistent flush performance across varying fluid pressures and volumes, enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a secondary diaphragm assembly disposed within the pressure vessel and including a secondary diaphragm and a secondary disc, the secondary diaphragm assembly configured to actuate the primary diaphragm assembly by venting fluid pressure on one side of the primary diaphragm
Implementation Method 2
An activation assembly is configured to actuate the secondary diaphragm assembly by venting fluid pressure on one side of the secondary diaphragm
Data Source
AI summary
A flushometer system includes a pressure vessel with a flow path defined between a valve inlet chamber and an outlet and a valve assembly disposed within the pressure vessel to selectively open and close the flow path. A primary diaphragm assembly is disposed within the pressure vessel and includes a primary disc configured to be moveable to actuate the valve assembly to selectively open and close the flow path between the valve inlet chamber and the outlet, and a primary diaphragm connected to the primary disc. A secondary diaphragm assembly is disposed within the pressure vessel and includes a secondary diaphragm and a secondary disc, the secondary diaphragm assembly configured to actuate the primary diaphragm assembly by venting fluid pressure on one side of the primary diaphragm. An activation assembly is configured to actuate the secondary diaphragm assembly by venting fluid pressure on one side of the secondary diaphragm.