Fluid Distribution Node Units for Automatic Pressure Balancing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid distribution systems face challenges in maintaining balanced line pressure loss and achieving high efficiency energy transfer, as they often rely on manual adjustments and specific, fixed pressure settings, which can lead to inefficiencies and increased energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A fluid distribution system with a network of node units connected by an electronic communications network, which automatically adjusts pump speed and valve positions to maintain balanced flow and line pressure loss without pinpoint pressure settings, using operation locus and locus range to optimize energy transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If manual adjustments and fixed pressure settings are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but energy efficiency deteriorates and line pressure loss balancing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic self-balancing of line pressure loss through electronic communications between node units, eliminating the need for manual adjustments. Each node unit autonomously communicates flow information and receives control signals to adjust valve positions, achieving energy efficiency without requiring human intervention or complex centralized control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where node units transmit flow information through electronic communications networks, receive control signals based on system balance requirements, and automatically adjust valve positions. This closed-loop feedback enables dynamic optimization of energy efficiency while maintaining system simplicity through decentralized autonomous operation.
2Productivity
If automated control systems are implemented, then energy efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the fluid distribution network into discrete node units, each capable of autonomous operation and communication. This segmentation allows distributed automated control where each node independently processes flow information and adjusts its own valves, improving overall system efficiency without requiring a complex centralized control system.
Solution Approach 2:
Each node unit is designed as a multi-functional component that combines flow measurement, electronic communication, valve control, and local processing capabilities. This universality allows the same standardized node unit to perform multiple functions throughout the system, improving productivity through automated control while reducing overall complexity by eliminating the need for specialized control components at each location.
3Adaptability or versatility
If specific fixed pressure values are set, then valve positioning becomes straightforward, but adaptability to varying flow conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static fixed pressure settings to dynamic adaptive control where node units continuously receive flow information through electronic communications and automatically adjust valve positions in real-time. This dynamic operation allows the system to adapt to varying flow conditions while maintaining ease of operation through automated valve positioning without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automatic changes in valve position parameters based on received flow information and system balance requirements. Node units dynamically adjust valve opening degrees in response to varying flow conditions, achieving adaptability while simplifying operation through automated parameter optimization without requiring manual recalibration or expert knowledge.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a fluid distribution system comprising connected conduits (e.g., lines) wherein fluid flows, such as pipes within a building. The lines may be configured to: (i) include multiple lines that connect at intersections (some of the intersections will be identified as nodes); and (ii) incorporate node units associated with line pressure loss simulation assemblies (“LLSAs”). Activities of a node unit incorporating a LLSA can result in alterations in fluid pressure, such as by a loop control process to reposition balancing valves or other valves of one or more LLSAs, and/or by alteration of the speed of the system pump. These activities adjust fluid pressure to cause the system to produce a balanced and high efficiency energy transfer (e.g., heating or cooling), and do not involve or require any identification or use of any specific, fixed or absolute pressure value. They function based on an operation locus (for a node unit) and/or an operation locus range (for node unit groupings) to adjust the fluid pressure.