Magnetic Flow Sensing Check Valve With Low Pressure Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow rate sensors and check valves are limited in sensitivity, especially at low flow rates, and often require complex mechanisms that cause pressure loss and mechanical wear, making them unsuitable for precise flow detection and system integration, particularly in fire suppression systems.
Innovation Solution
A flow rate sensor design featuring a rotatable shaft with an obturation body and sensing arm, coupled with a non-contact magnetic sensor system, allows for precise flow rate detection without mechanical interference, and a check valve with a floating disk mechanism for improved sealing and sensitivity, eliminating the need for separate flow switches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional paddle flow switches are used, then flow detection is possible, but they cause increased resistance to flow and measurable pressure head loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical paddle flow switch with a magnetic field-based sensing system. A magnet is mounted on the valve stem, and a magnetic sensor (such as a Hall effect sensor or reed switch) detects the magnet's position to determine valve status and flow conditions. This eliminates the need for physical paddles in the flow stream, thereby removing the source of pressure head loss while maintaining flow detection capability.
2Reliability
If paddle flow switches are mechanically connected to external control boxes, then flow signaling is achieved, but the entire system must be drained for adjustment, repair or replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the flow sensing function directly into the check valve assembly. The magnetic sensor is integrated into the valve housing, eliminating the need for separate external control boxes and mechanical connections. This integration allows the sensing system to be serviced as part of the valve itself, simplifying maintenance and eliminating the need to drain the entire system for repairs.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic sensing system is designed to be self-contained within the valve assembly, with the sensor detecting the magnet's position on the valve stem directly. This self-integrated design eliminates complex external wiring and control connections, making the system easier to service and maintain without requiring system shutdown or draining.
3Reliability
If swing clapper-type check valves use limited range of motion for the valve element, then sealing is improved, but the valve element cannot serve as a reliable flow indicator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a magnet mounted on the valve stem as an intermediary element. The magnet moves with the valve stem but its position is detected by a magnetic sensor that converts this mechanical movement into an electrical signal. This allows the valve element to maintain its limited motion range for proper sealing while simultaneously providing accurate flow indication through the magnetic field changes detected by the sensor.
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 design provides enhanced sensitivity and accuracy in flow rate measurement, reduces pressure loss, and simplifies system maintenance by integrating flow detection directly into the valve, enabling reliable fire suppression system operation.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic sensor system adapted to sense rotation of the shaft relatively to the housing
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid flow rate sensor, which may also be the basis of a valve for a fire suppression system, uses a sensing arm to convey motion of an obturation body or a valve closing member to a sensor system which evaluates the motion and generates a calibrated measure of the flow rate and/or an alarm signal in response if warranted. The obturation body and the valve closing member are capable of both rotation and translational motion, both of which are sensed using the sensing arm. The sensor system is isolated from the fluid within the valve.