Irrigation Pressure Regulator With Integrated Shut-Off Venting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation systems face challenges in regulating pressure and flow simultaneously, leading to variations in pressure and flow rates, especially in low-pressure systems, where small pressure changes result in significant variations, and there is a need for a device that can combine pressure and flow regulation with valve functionality.
Innovation Solution
A pressure regulator that integrates pressure regulation and shut-off capabilities in a single device, featuring an incoming port for command input, a flow stem with biasing means, and venting to prevent unintended force buildup, allowing for constant outlet pressure across varying inlet pressures and controlling downstream flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If pressure regulation is implemented in low-pressure irrigation systems, then pressure stability is improved, but small pressure changes result in relative large variations in outlet pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure regulation function is divided into two independent valves: a first valve for pressure regulation and a second valve for flow regulation. This segmentation allows each valve to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall pressure stability and control precision in low-pressure systems without the interference of coupled regulation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The device combines multiple functions (pressure regulation, flow regulation, and shut-off) into a single integrated assembly where two valves are mounted on a common body with shared biasing means. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain pressure stability while providing precise control through the second valve, resolving the contradiction between stability and precision.
2Device complexity
If a single device combines pressure regulation and valve functionality, then device complexity is reduced, but the mechanism becomes more complex to design and integrate
Solution Approach 1:
Two separate valves (pressure regulation valve and flow regulation/shut-off valve) are merged into a single integrated assembly mounted on a common body. They share common biasing means and mounting structures, reducing the overall number of components while maintaining the ability to perform both pressure regulation and flow control functions independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The second valve is designed to provide multiple functions (flow regulation and complete shut-off) in addition to working in conjunction with the first valve for pressure regulation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated shut-off valves, simplifying the overall system while managing integration complexity through standardized mounting 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 solution provides a dual-purpose device that effectively regulates pressure and flow, ensuring constant outlet pressure and flow rate stability across a range of inlet pressures, while also enabling shut-off of downstream flow, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of irrigation systems.
Implementation Method 1
biasing means arranged to bear in a downstream direction against the flow stem to press it towards a stop
Implementation Method 2
downstream pressure is adapted to urge the flow stem in an upstream direction
Implementation Method 3
venting adapted to release built-up forces within the regulator housing to ambient pressure
Data Source
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AI summary
A pressure regulator for regulating pressures within a portion of an irrigation system, can also be used to shut off downstream flow into the portion of the irrigation system in response to an incoming command arriving via an incoming port into the regulator.