Piston Valve Annular Passages Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve arrangements for controlling liquid flow to multiple flow paths are complex, especially when different flow sequences and paths are required for various process steps, and they often necessitate separate valves and piping for functions like water treatment and regeneration of resin materials.
Innovation Solution
A control valve with a movable piston and annular flow cavities that allows selective direction of liquid flow through multiple ports, integrating functions like water shutoff and bypass, and enabling regeneration of resin materials within a water treatment system without the need for separate valves and piping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate valves and piping are used to control liquid flow to multiple flow paths, then each function (water shutoff, bypass, regeneration) can be independently controlled, but the device complexity and number of components increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions (water shutoff valve, bypass valve, regeneration control) into a single integrated valve assembly. The piston element simultaneously controls multiple annular passages that direct liquid flow through different paths, eliminating the need for separate valves and reducing system complexity while maintaining full functional capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single valve assembly performs multiple functions: it controls water flow into the tank, provides bypass capability, and enables regeneration of resin materials. The piston mechanism universally manages all these flow control requirements through its movement between different positions, allowing one component to replace several specialized valves
Data Source
AI summary
A control valve (10) includes a valve body with a plurality of ports (A, B, C, D, E, F) and a plurality of annular flow passages (53, 55, 57). A piston (34) which includes a plurality of annular flow passages and a longitudinal flow passage is selectively movable within a bore (32) within the valve body through operation of a valve controller (70). The valve controller is selectively operative to control the position of the piston so as to enable liquid flow through a plurality of flow paths. The valve controller further includes a installable and removable valve controller housing (74) which is releasably engageable with a valve base (72). The valve may include a changeable piston and changeable injector and plug components to adapt the valve to different flow and fluid mixing requirements.