Integral Check Valve Assembly for Low-Component Backflow Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing check valves have complex designs with many components, leading to high manufacturing costs and increased wear and failure probabilities.
Innovation Solution
An integral check valve design featuring a stem with internal bores and a spindle with flange, utilizing a compression spring to prevent backflow, and a shut-off mechanism for maintenance, constructed from corrosion-resistant materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing check valve designs with multiple components are used, then the valve can perform backflow prevention function, but the manufacturing cost increases and the probability of wear and failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (stem, bonnet, body, check valve mechanism) into an integrated assembly where the stem acts as both the bonnet and body, and the check valve mechanism is integrated within the stem structure. This merging reduces the total number of components while maintaining all necessary functions including backflow prevention, water flow control, and structural support.
Solution Approach 2:
The stem component performs multiple functions simultaneously: it serves as the structural bonnet, the structural body, the mounting element for the check valve mechanism, and the connection point for the water supply line. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
2Reliability
If existing check valve designs with multiple components are used, then the valve can perform backflow prevention function, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated stem design combining bonnet and body functions into a single component reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured, stored, and assembled. This consolidation simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces overall production costs while maintaining effective backflow prevention through the integrated check valve mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more components are used in check valve, then the valve can perform multiple functions, but the probability for wear and eventual failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the bonnet, body, and check valve mounting functions into the stem component, the patent reduces the total number of interfaces and connection points between parts. Fewer components mean fewer potential failure points and reduced wear from repeated assembly and disassembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having separate components that connect to each other (increasing interface complexity), the design inverts the approach by making the stem a single integrated piece that inherently provides all structural functions, eliminating the need for multiple connecting interfaces.
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 reduces component complexity, lowers manufacturing costs, enhances durability, and effectively prevents backflow while allowing for easy maintenance without disrupting water flow.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a compression spring to prevent backflow
Data Source
AI summary
An integral check valve has a stem with a first interior bore extending longitudinally inward from a first end thereof and a spindle having a central shaft having a first end and an opposing second end with flange circumscribing the central shaft. The interior bore is sized to receive the stem and a portion of the central shaft extending from the first end to the flange. The integral check valve may be a component of a plumbing fixture that further includes a hollow body having a water inlet, a water outlet and an integral check valve receiving conduit. The integral check valve receiving conduit has threads sized to engage the outwardly extending threads of the stem.