Integrated Fluid Control Valve Actuator Assembly for Fire Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid control valves for fire protection systems require multiple ports and complex configurations, leading to increased size and complexity, compromising compactness and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A compact integrated fluid control valve and valve actuator assembly with a minimum number of ports, utilizing a common supply port and discharge port to reduce the number of required valves and ports, allowing for standardized use in various actuation systems such as wet pilot, dry pilot, electric, and pneumatic/electric actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fluid control valves use multiple ports and complex configurations, then the valve can perform various functions, but the size and complexity of the valve increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions (flow control, isolation, and regulation) into a single integrated valve body with a unified actuation mechanism. The valve assembly uses a common actuator that can perform multiple operations including full opening, full closing, and partial throttling functions through a single coordinated mechanism, eliminating the need for separate valves for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly is designed with universal applicability across different fire protection system configurations. The single valve body can operate in various modes (full open, full closed, and intermediate positions) and can be adapted to different piping arrangements and actuation requirements, making it a multi-functional component that replaces multiple specialized valves.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fluid control valves use multiple ports and complex configurations, then the valve can perform various functions, but the compactness of the valve is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple valve functions and control mechanisms into a single compact valve body. The actuator assembly is positioned integrally with the valve body, and the internal flow paths are designed to accommodate multiple functions (isolation, throttling, and flow control) within a reduced overall volume compared to separate valve assemblies.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fluid control valves use multiple ports, then the valve can interface with various control devices, but the number of required connections and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly incorporates a universal actuator interface that can accommodate different actuation methods (manual, automatic, electric, pneumatic) through a standardized mounting configuration. The valve body includes integrated connection points that work with various control devices, simplifying installation while maintaining compatibility with multiple control system types.
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 solution results in a more compact and efficient valve actuator configuration with reduced complexity, enabling reliable actuation while maintaining versatility across different system configurations, thereby enhancing the reliability and ease of installation in fire protection systems.
Implementation Method 1
A sealing member defines a sealed position, in which the sealing member is engaged with the first and second actuator seats
Implementation Method 2
The preferred valve actuator further includes at least one biasing member to bias the sealing member in the open position
Implementation Method 3
providing fluid pressure from a common supply port to a chamber on a first side of the sealing member
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of an integrated fluid control valve and valve actuator assembly are provided. The assembly includes a pressure operated fluid control valve for controlling the flow of liquid from a liquid supply piping system into a sprinkler piping system of a fire protection system when transitioning the fire protection system from a stand-by state to an actuated state. The control valve defines a valve chamber for holding a pressurized fluid to prevent the flow of fluid through the control valve. A valve actuator is coupled to the fluid control valve housing for setting of the fluid control valve in an unactuated ready state and for operating the fluid control valve automatically and/or manually. The assembly has a common supply port to supply fluid to the control valve and the actuator and a common discharge port connected to multiple devices that can place the system in an actuated state.