Impeller-Latched Fluid Metering for Volume-Based Flow Shutoff
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid-metering devices do not account for the intensity of water flow, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs in water usage, as they rely solely on timing mechanisms rather than actual flow volume, which is not environmentally or monetarily responsible.
Innovation Solution
A fluid-metering device with a slidable barrel, impeller-driven latching mechanism, and epicyclic gearing that adjusts flow based on fluid volume, allowing for bidirectional operation and efficient fluid flow optimization, with a non-slip clutch for precise control and cost linkage to usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional timing devices are used to meter fluid flow, then the device structure is simple, but the device does not account for actual flow volume leading to inaccurate metering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic timing mechanisms with a purely mechanical flow-metering system using an impeller, gear train, and latch mechanism. The impeller rotates in response to fluid flow, driving the gear train which eventually actuates the latch to close the valve after a predetermined volume has passed, eliminating the need for electronic components while achieving accurate volume-based metering
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the metering parameter from time-based measurement to volume-based measurement by using an impeller whose rotation is directly proportional to the volume of fluid passing through. The gear train translates these rotations into a predetermined number of cycles, providing accurate volume measurement that adapts to varying flow rates
2Ease of operation
If the device uses a slidable barrel mechanism for flow control, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a conventional valve handle or knob that requires rotational movement, the patent uses a slidable barrel mechanism that moves linearly. The barrel can be pushed in to open flow and pulled out to close flow, inverting the typical rotational operation into a linear pushing motion that is more intuitive and easier to operate
Solution Approach 2:
The slidable barrel is designed to be operated by simple manual insertion and removal, allowing users to quickly open or close flow without requiring complex manipulation. The barrel's linear motion directly actuates the flow control elements, providing self-service operation that is both simple and effective
3Productivity
If the impeller blades extend over a large radius, then the flow metering efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the principle of partial action by extending the impeller blades only to the extent necessary to achieve effective flow metering. The blades extend inwardly from the outer periphery over a distance of 23-43% of the impeller radius, which is sufficient to capture the kinetic energy of the flowing fluid and drive the impeller effectively, while avoiding the excessive material usage and manufacturing cost that would result from full-radius blades
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 device accurately meters water usage by linking flow volume to operational costs, reducing wastage and enhancing efficiency through optimized fluid flow paths and high-speed impeller operation, ensuring accurate and responsible water usage tracking.
Implementation Method 1
an impeller drivable by a flow of fluid through the device
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for metering the flow of a fluid. A fluid-metering device for a hose or pipe, comprises: a body (10) having an inlet (12) and an outlet (11); an impeller (20) drivable by a flow of fluid through the device; a barrel (40), having an inlet (42) and an outlet (43), slidably mounted in the body (10) such that the barrel (40) is slidable between an open position wherein the barrel inlet (42) and outlet (43) are aligned with the body inlet (12) and outlet (11) such that a fluid can flow through the device and drive the impeller (20), and a closed position wherein the barrel inlet (42) and outlet (43) are offset from the body inlet (12) and outlet (11) such that a fluid cannot flow through the device, the barrel (40) being biased towards the closed position; and latching means (50) arranged to hold the barrel (40) in the open position, wherein a predetermined number of rotations of the impeller (20) will release the barrel (40).