Hydropneumatic Valve Pressure Control for Remote Pipe Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for regulating pressure in fluid supply pipes lack versatility and the ability to adjust pressure settings automatically, especially in remote locations without access to a power grid, and cannot modulate pressure to different set points for peak and off-peak hours to minimize network losses.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic valve system utilizing a double-acting piston cylinder with a hydropneumatic energy accumulator and transmission means to adjust pressure based on instantaneous pipe pressure, allowing for remote control of set point pressures through a control system, using a hydropneumatic tank with a gas accumulator and electric valves to manage pressure changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electric actuators are used to operate hydraulic valves, then the valve operation is reliable and controllable, but the system requires external power sources which are unavailable in remote locations
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the kinetic energy of the fluid flow itself to operate the valve through a hydraulic turbine-generator that produces electricity locally, eliminating the need for external power sources while maintaining reliable valve control in remote locations
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs hydraulic actuators powered by pressurized fluid from the pipeline to operate the valve, converting the fluid's pressure energy into mechanical work for valve actuation without requiring external electrical power
2Adaptability or versatility
If hydraulic actuators are used to eliminate power requirements, then the system works in remote locations, but the valve can only be operated in complete opening or closing positions without intermediate regulation
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the valve position by controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid to the actuator, allowing intermediate positions between fully open and fully closed states through proportional control of the hydraulic pressure
3Loss of energy
If pressure regulation to multiple set points is implemented, then network losses are reduced during off-peak hours, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the pressure set point parameter based on time of day or demand conditions, automatically switching between different pressure levels to optimize energy efficiency and reduce network losses during off-peak hours
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
Enables automatic and remote regulation of fluid pressure to predetermined set points, reducing energy consumption and network losses by using pressurized gas to adjust valve operation, ensuring compatibility with existing installations and allowing for scheduled pressure adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
an energy accumulator accumulating energy in the form of pressurized gas at a predetermined pressure P0
Implementation Method 2
transmission means for transmitting the instantaneous hydraulic pressure in at least one point of the pipe to one of the chambers of the cylinder
Implementation Method 3
a double acting piston cylinder, with first and second chambers and a rod connected to the mechanical actuation means of said valve
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for regulating pressure in a fluid supply pipe, comprising a valve operated by a double acting piston cylinder and in which the chamber of the cylinder, the pressure of which acts on the piston to move the rod in the direction for closing the valve, communicates with transmission means for transmitting the instantaneous hydraulic pressure at a point the pipe, whereas the chamber of the cylinder, the pressure of which acts on the piston to move the rod in the direction for opening the valve, is connected to an energy accumulator accumulating energy in the form of pressurized gas at a predetermined pressure P0, which can be regulated.