Integrated Isolation Check Valve With Embedded Flow Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydronic HVAC systems face challenges with space inefficiency and potential leakage due to the need for separate flow measurement devices, which also increase system head loss and are labor-intensive and less accurate when non-permanent.
Innovation Solution
A combination valve integrating an isolation shutoff valve, check valve, pressure sensor, temperature sensor, and flow measurement sensor, with wireless data transmission capabilities, to provide real-time data for optimal pump performance and eliminate the need for separate components, reducing space and leakage risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate flow measurement devices are permanently installed in the system, then flow rate verification is achieved, but the system takes up extra space and increases head loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (isolation valve, check valve, flow measurement, pressure sensing, temperature sensing) into a single integrated valve assembly. This merging eliminates the need for separate flow measurement devices, reducing system space occupation while maintaining measurement capabilities through embedded sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as an isolation valve, check valve, and incorporates flow measurement, pressure sensing, and temperature sensing capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the system.
2Measurement precision
If separate flow measurement devices are permanently installed, then flow rate verification is achieved, but system head loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating flow measurement sensors within the valve body rather than using separate external devices, the patent reduces the number of additional flow path restrictions. This merging approach minimizes extra head loss while maintaining accurate flow rate verification capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If non-permanent flow measurement means are used, then installation flexibility is improved, but labor intensity increases and accuracy varies
Solution Approach 1:
The sensors are pre-assembled and integrated into the valve body during manufacturing, creating a ready-to-install unit. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex on-site installation procedures, reducing labor intensity while maintaining installation flexibility.
4Measurement precision
If separate sensors are installed in the system, then measurement capabilities are achieved, but leakage risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
By embedding all sensors within the sealed valve body, the patent eliminates the need for probe insertions and external sensor connections that create potential leakage paths. This merging of measurement functions within the valve structure maintains measurement capabilities while eliminating leakage risks.
Data Source
AI summary
A combination valve includes an isolation shutoff valve to prevent a fluid flow; a check valve to prevent backflow and gravity circulation of fluid flow; a pressure sensor to sense a pressure measurement of fluid flow and determine pressure sensor signaling containing information about a sensed pressure measurement; a temperature sensor to sense a temperature measurement of fluid flow and determine temperature sensor signaling containing information about a sensed temperature measurement; and a flow measurement sensor to sense a flow measurement of fluid flow and determine flow measurement signaling containing information about a sensed flow measurement. The pressure sensor, temperature sensor and flow measurement sensor are all embedded and preassembled in the combination valve with the isolation shutoff valve and the check valve as part of one integral composite unit or component, so as to form a combination isolation valve and check valve with integral flow rate, pressure and/or temperature measurement.