Liquid Flow Regulator with Deformable Membrane for Variable Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid treatment devices for appliances and systems, such as heating and room conditioning systems, are not versatile, accurate, or reliable, particularly in handling water flows with varying pressures, leading to inefficiencies in filtration and flow regulation.
Innovation Solution
A device with a modular design featuring a thermoplastic body, a filter for particle retention, a magnetic element for ferrous particle removal, and a flow regulator with a deformable membrane for dynamic flow adjustment, allowing for multiple operational configurations and easy maintenance, integrated with a flow measuring system for precise water management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional filter and flow regulator design is used, then the device structure is simple, but the device lacks versatility and accuracy in handling varying water pressures
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular components: a filter assembly with a removable cap, a flow regulator with adjustable needle valve, and a magnetic element. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall versatility and simplifying maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The device integrates multiple functions into a single unit: filtration of particles, magnetic separation of ferrous particles, flow regulation, and pressure adaptation. The flow regulator can operate in multiple modes (adjusted or unadjusted flow) and the device adapts to varying pressure conditions, providing universal applicability across different water supply scenarios.
2Reliability
If a fixed flow regulator is used, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot adapt to varying pressure conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The flow regulator employs a dynamic needle valve that can be adjusted to different positions to modify the flow cross-section. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the device to adapt to varying pressure conditions and maintain reliable operation across different water supply scenarios, rather than relying on a fixed flow restriction.
3Ease of repair
If a removable cap design is used, then maintenance is easier, but the device may leak if not properly sealed
Solution Approach 1:
A sealing gasket acts as an intermediary element between the removable cap and the device body. This gasket ensures reliable sealing when the cap is installed, preventing leaks while allowing the cap to be removed for maintenance. The gasket mediates between the need for easy access and the need for secure sealing.
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 provides accurate and reliable water treatment with adjustable flow rates, ensuring efficient operation across varying pressure conditions, enhancing the performance of appliances and systems by maintaining consistent water flow and quality.
Implementation Method 1
Accommodated in the chamber are treatment means, in an intermediate position between the inlet and the outlet, which typically comprise a filter, for retaining the particles in suspension in the water
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic element for ferrous particle removal
Implementation Method 3
a flow regulator with a deformable membrane for dynamic flow adjustment
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for treating a liquid flow for appliances and systems supplied with said liquid has a receiving body (2) with a chamber (7) accommodating a filter (40) and a flow regulator (20). The chamber (7) has a mouth provided with a removable cap (30). According to the invention, the device is provided with a system for adjusting the liquid flow-rate (20, 60, 70, BP), such system being prearranged for acquiring in a selective manner two or more alternative operative configurations. The device further comprises a manual selection system (31a), operable by a user for the purpose of selecting a desired operative configuration of the flow-rate adjustment (20, 60, 70, BP) from among the abovementioned alternative operative configurations.