Meter Test Bench Check Valve for Accurate Volume Cutoff
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water meter test benches face inaccuracies due to residual fluid deposition in the discharge pipe after the outlet valve is closed, which skews the final volume measurement results.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a check valve assembly, such as a spring-loaded poppet valve, in the discharge pipe to automatically close and prevent further fluid flow into the tank once the outlet valve is shut off, ensuring precise volume measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the outlet valve is closed to stop fluid flow, then the fluid flow into the tank is stopped, but residual fluid in the discharge pipe continues to deposit into the tank causing measurement inaccuracy
Solution Approach 1:
A check valve assembly is introduced as an intermediary component between the outlet valve and the tank. This check valve automatically closes when the outlet valve closes, preventing residual fluid in the discharge pipe from depositing into the tank. The check valve acts as a mediator that blocks the harmful flow path while allowing the outlet valve to perform its primary function of controlling main fluid flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The check valve assembly is positioned to close automatically immediately when the outlet valve closes, before residual fluid can deposit into the tank. This preliminary action of closing the check valve prevents the subsequent harmful effect of residual fluid deposition, ensuring accurate volume measurement by stopping the flow path at the first opportunity.
2Quantity of substance
If the outlet valve remains open to allow complete fluid drainage, then all fluid reaches the tank for measurement, but additional fluid continues to deposit after the predetermined volume is reached skewing results
Solution Approach 1:
The check valve assembly serves as an intermediary that automatically interrupts the flow path when the outlet valve closes. It allows fluid to reach the tank when needed (when outlet valve is open) but prevents additional fluid from entering after the predetermined volume is reached (when outlet valve closes), thus maintaining measurement accuracy while enabling complete drainage during the test.
Solution Approach 2:
The check valve assembly is designed to automatically close in response to the outlet valve closing, without requiring additional control mechanisms. The spring-loaded poppet valve self-actuates based on pressure differential when the outlet valve closes, preventing residual fluid deposition autonomously and ensuring measurement accuracy without manual intervention.
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
Prevents additional fluid from entering the tank after the predetermined volume is reached, maintaining accurate meter testing by eliminating post-closure fluid deposition.
Implementation Method 1
Incorporation of a check valve assembly, such as a spring-loaded poppet valve, in the discharge pipe to automatically close and prevent further fluid flow into the tank
Implementation Method 2
The check valve assembly is open when the fluid pressure from the fluid source moves the fluid through the at least one meter and through the outlet valve and acts on the check valve assembly. When the fluid pressure is reduced sufficient to close the check valve assembly, the fluid is stopped from passing through the check valve assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A water meter test bench assembly that includes a fluid source, a discharge pipe, and check valve assembly, is provided. The fluid source also provides fluid pressure to move fluid through the at least one meter. The discharge pipe is fluidly coupled to a valve and configured to receive the fluid that passes through the at least one meter. The check valve assembly is attached to the discharge pipe and is in fluid communication with the opening of the discharge pipe. The check valve assembly is open when the fluid pressure from the fluid source moves the fluid through the at least one meter, the valve, and acts on the check valve assembly. When the fluid pressure is reduced sufficient to close the check valve assembly, the fluid is stopped from passing through the check valve assembly.