Thermostatic Mixing Fitting Plug for Non-Return Valve Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing sanitary fittings with non-return valves are difficult to remove and replace due to the complexity of disengaging locking lugs from the chamber, often resulting in damaged detent parts that can obstruct the installation of new valves.
Innovation Solution
A sanitary fitting design featuring a holding frame that axially fixes the backflow preventer, allowing for non-destructive removal and replacement, utilizing a shut-off element with an external thread for defined movement and a sealed guidance system to prevent water flow, and a secure fixation mechanism to prevent unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking lugs are used to anchor the backflow preventer in the chamber wall, then the backflow preventer is securely fixed, but the removal process becomes complex and destructive
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is segmented into two independent parts: the retaining frame on the plug and the locking lugs on the backflow preventer. This segmentation allows the retaining frame to provide secure fixation while enabling easy removal by simply detaching the locking lugs from the locking groove, avoiding the need to force the entire assembly apart
Solution Approach 2:
The locking groove acts as an intermediary mechanism between the retaining frame and the locking lugs. It provides a dedicated engagement path that allows secure fixation during operation while enabling clean disengagement during maintenance, mediating between the conflicting requirements of secure fixation and easy removal
2Ease of operation
If locking tabs are forced out of the locking groove during removal, then the backflow preventer can be removed, but the locking tabs become damaged and leave broken pieces
Solution Approach 1:
The design converts the potential harm of forced removal into a benefit by providing a dedicated locking groove that guides the locking lugs out smoothly. The groove's geometry is designed to facilitate clean extraction, turning what would be a destructive forcing action into a controlled, damage-free removal process
3Reliability
If the backflow preventer is securely anchored in the chamber, then water flow back is prevented, but the inlet channel cannot be easily shut off for valve replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into the backflow preventer assembly and the plug assembly, allowing independent operation. The plug with retaining frame can be removed and reinstalled to shut off the inlet channel without affecting the backflow preventer's anchoring mechanism, enabling maintenance while preserving backflow prevention functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The plug is designed to be dynamically removable and reinstallable, allowing the inlet channel to be shut off when needed for valve replacement. This dynamic capability provides adaptability for maintenance while the backflow preventer remains securely anchored during normal operation
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
Enables simple and non-destructive removal and replacement of non-return valves, preventing damage to seals and ensuring smooth operation of the fitting by allowing easy shut-off of inlet channels and secure anchoring of new valves.
Implementation Method 1
The backflow preventer inserted into a chamber has at least one seal by which it is sealed against the chamber
Implementation Method 2
This element moves the piston into its closed position, i.e., the position in which it seals against the sealing seat of the backflow preventer, thus preventing the water inflow. This allows for the simple closure of an inlet channel
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5b
AI summary
The invention relates to a sanitary fitting, in particular a thermostatic mixing fitting, with a housing (1) that has a valve seat (16) for receiving a valve and into which at least one inlet channel (12, 13) and one outlet channel (14) open, wherein the at least one inlet channel (12, 13) is guided through a chamber (15) into which a non-return valve (2) is inserted and which is closed by a plug (3). A retaining frame is arranged on the plug (3), which projects into the chamber (15) and by which the non-return valve (2) is axially fixed.