Magnetic Fluid Control Device Preventing Overflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid flow control devices often fail to prevent overflows effectively, especially in domestic and industrial applications, as they either require electricity, cycle excessively, or cause water hammer, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A magnetically operated fluid control device that uses a float and magnets to automatically shut off fluid flow when an oversupply condition is detected, without the need for electricity, by changing the magnetic attraction and repulsion forces to move valves from an open to a closed position, reducing flow by at least 70% until reset.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional float valve is used to control fluid flow, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot effectively prevent overflows when the supply rate exceeds the overflow rate
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional modules: a float chamber for detection, a magnetic actuator for signal transmission, and a valve assembly for flow control. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system reliability in preventing overflows.
Solution Approach 2:
A magnetic field is introduced as an intermediary between the float (detection element) and the valve (control element). The float carries a magnet that interacts with a reed switch or Hall effect sensor, which in turn actuates the valve. This magnetic intermediary enables reliable signal transmission without mechanical contact, improving overflow prevention reliability.
2Reliability
If an electronically controlled valve is used to shut off flow during oversupply, then the overflow prevention capability is improved, but the device requires electricity which complicates installation and reduces reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses the kinetic energy of the flowing fluid itself to power the valve actuation mechanism. A water-driven turbine or impulse wheel converts the energy of the oversupply flow into mechanical rotation, which directly drives the valve closure. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external electricity while maintaining reliable overflow prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs hydraulic principles where the oversupply flow itself creates the actuating force. A diaphragm or piston is pushed by pressurized water from the overflow, which mechanically closes the valve. This hydraulic actuation method eliminates electricity requirements while ensuring reliable shutdown during oversupply conditions.
3Reliability
If a fast-acting valve is used to quickly shut off flow during oversupply, then the overflow prevention capability is improved, but water hammer effects are generated causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The valve closure is implemented in multiple staged steps rather than a single abrupt action. The valve first closes partially to reduce flow rate, then gradually closes completely over an extended period. This periodic, staged closure prevents sudden pressure surges and water hammer effects while still effectively preventing overflows.
Solution Approach 2:
A cushioning chamber or air pocket is provided upstream of the valve to absorb pressure surges during closure. This pre-positioned cushioning element mitigates water hammer effects before they can cause damage, allowing the valve to close effectively while protecting the system from harmful pressure shocks.
4Reliability
If a valve that cycles frequently to maintain level is used, then the fluid level control is maintained, but the valve durability decreases and water is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The float mechanism provides continuous feedback on the fluid level to the valve control system. When the level reaches a predetermined threshold, the feedback signal triggers valve closure. This feedback-based control maintains accurate fluid level control while minimizing unnecessary valve cycling, thereby extending valve durability and preventing water waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve closes before the fluid level reaches the overflow point, based on predictive feedback from the float position. This preliminary action prevents the need for frequent corrective cycling, as the valve shuts off flow proactively when approaching the critical level, thereby extending valve life and preventing water waste while maintaining proper level control.
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 effectively prevents overflows without electricity, reduces water waste, and avoids water hammer, remaining in the activated state until manually reset, ensuring efficient and safe operation.
Implementation Method 1
a float and magnet assembly moveable within the chamber from a first position to a second position in response to a fluid level change
Implementation Method 2
by changing the magnetic attraction and repulsion forces to move valves from an open to a closed position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
One embodiment of the invention provides a fluid control device for a fluid supply, the device comprising: a housing (31) defining a fluid supply channel (34) with a fluid inlet (35) for coupling to a fluid supply and a fluid outlet (36) for coupling to an appliance, the housing additionally defining a chamber (44) with an inlet (40) for coupling to an overflow and an outlet (41 ) for coupling to a drain; a valve (55) located in said fluid supply channel (34) and moveable from a first open position to a second closed position where fluid flow through the channel (34) is substantially restricted; an actuator (52) provided in said chamber (44) and moveable from a first position to a second position, wherein the valve (55) and actuator (44) are magnetically coupled to one another such that movement of the actuator (44) from said first position to said second position causes the valve (55) to move from said open position to said closed position.