Magnetic Float Valve for Automatic Fluid Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated systems for controlling fluid flow in tubing systems are complex, require electricity, and are not flexible enough to adjust fluid height, leading to water wastage issues, especially in settings where electric power is not available.
Innovation Solution
A non-electric, spring-based valve mechanism that automatically stops fluid flow when the flow rate exceeds a predetermined level or when a certain fluid height is reached, using a magnetic interaction between a catcher plate and a magnet to control the flow, allowing for adjustable fluid height without needing to be attached to the container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If float valve based water overfilling preventing device are used, then fluid flow can be stopped when fluid level reaches certain height, but the device becomes bulky and has limited range of adjustable fluid height
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a float component for level detection, a valve component for flow control, and a magnetic coupling mechanism for actuation. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component and enables the float to be positioned at various heights along the vessel wall, providing unlimited adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling strength between the float and valve can be adjusted by changing parameters such as magnet size, magnetic material properties, and gap distance. This allows the device to adapt to different fluid levels and flow rates, providing unlimited range of adjustable fluid height while maintaining reliable operation.
2Reliability
If float valve based water overfilling preventing device are used, then fluid flow can be stopped when fluid level reaches certain height, but the device needs to be attached with the container or vessel wall
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic field is introduced as an intermediary between the float and the valve mechanism. The float contains a magnet that magnetically couples to a ferromagnetic plate on the valve, allowing the float to actuate the valve without direct mechanical contact or attachment to the vessel wall. This enables the device to function freely within the fluid stream.
3Productivity
If automated systems for controlling fluid flow are used, then flow rate can be regulated, but complex instrumentation and electric power are required
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses the flowing fluid itself to power the regulation mechanism. The fluid pressure and flow rate automatically actuate the valve through the magnetic coupling between the float and valve components, eliminating the need for external power sources, sensors, or electronic control systems. The system self-regulates based on the fluid's own characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical float valve mechanisms are replaced with a magnetic coupling system. The magnetic interaction between the float magnet and ferromagnetic plate provides smooth, wear-free actuation of the valve, eliminating complex mechanical linkages, pivots, and contact points while maintaining reliable flow control.
4Reliability
If spring biased pressure releasable valve plate seal is used, then flow can be stopped when flow rate exceeds predetermined level, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The float level detection mechanism and the excessive flow rate protection mechanism are merged into a single integrated system. The same magnetic coupling between the float and valve that enables level control also provides automatic shutdown when flow rate becomes excessive, as the float position and magnetic force naturally respond to both conditions without requiring separate mechanisms.
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 effectively restricts fluid flow, preventing overuse and overfilling, while being simple, reliable, and easy to fabricate, making it suitable for various applications without the need for electricity or complex instrumentation.
Implementation Method 1
using a magnetic interaction between a catcher plate and a magnet to control the flow
Implementation Method 2
A non-electric, spring-based valve mechanism that automatically stops fluid flow
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a device for flow control of fluid in pipelines to various utility fluid outlets like water taps and the like by blocking fluid flow from pipeline to said utility fluid outlet when the flow exceeds a predetermined flow rate. In other word, the present invention discloses an automatic fluid flow controlling device for restricting and/or stopping flow of the fluid medium running through the guiding means or the tubing system when fluid flow exceed a certain flow rate as well as stopping flow of the running fluid flow when fluid level in the vessel wherein the running fluid is being delivered reaches a certain height.