Polygonal Flow Control Valve for Constant Low-Pressure Outflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation systems struggle to maintain consistent fluid flow at very low pressures, often leading to clogging and damage, and existing flow control valves are limited to functioning effectively above 8 PSI (0.5 bar), requiring secondary orifices to maintain pressure differentials.
Innovation Solution
A low pressure flow control valve with a flow control surface featuring a polygonal configuration, including pliable materials that react to pressure changes, allowing for constant fluid outflow even at pressures as low as near zero, using a body with a flow control surface and side walls that adjust to maintain consistent flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional circular flow control orifice is used, then the valve can function at higher pressures, but it cannot maintain constant flow at very low pressures below 8 PSI (0.5 bar)
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control orifice transitions from a static circular shape to a dynamic polygonal configuration that can change its effective opening area in response to pressure variations. The pliable side walls allow the orifice to expand and contract, maintaining optimal flow control across the entire pressure range from near-zero to above 8 PSI.
Solution Approach 2:
The side walls of the flow control orifice are constructed from pliable materials that can flex and deform in response to pressure changes. This flexibility allows the orifice to adapt its geometry dynamically, enabling reliable flow control at very low pressures where conventional rigid circular orifices fail.
2Reliability
If a teardrop configuration orifice is used to function at low pressure, then flow control is improved, but a secondary flow control orifice is required to maintain pressure differential
Solution Approach 1:
The polygonal flow control orifice with pliable side walls performs multiple functions within a single structure: it provides primary flow control at very low pressures through its flexible geometry, and simultaneously maintains pressure differential regulation that would otherwise require a separate secondary orifice. This single multi-functional element replaces what would traditionally require two separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines the functions of multiple flow control elements into a single integrated polygonal orifice structure. The pliable side walls integrate the pressure-sensitive response and flow regulation functions that would traditionally be distributed across separate orifices, simplifying the overall device architecture.
3Reliability
If the flow control orifice is made pliable to respond to pressure changes, then flow consistency is improved, but the structural strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The side walls of the flow control orifice utilize composite material construction that combines pliable materials for flexibility with reinforcing elements for structural strength. This composite approach allows the orifice to respond dynamically to pressure changes while maintaining sufficient structural integrity to withstand the full operating pressure range.
Solution Approach 2:
The orifice structure employs local quality variations where different portions of the side walls have different material properties. The regions requiring flexibility for flow control have more pliable characteristics, while other regions incorporate stronger materials to maintain structural integrity, creating a spatially differentiated material distribution that optimizes both flexibility and strength.
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 valve ensures a constant fluid outflow at inlet pressures below 6 bar, preferably below 1 bar, and as low as 0.005 bar, maintaining consistent flow during pressure fluctuations and preventing clogging, suitable for non-pressurized water sources and remote agricultural applications.
Implementation Method 1
at least a portion of the inlet comprising pliable materials configured to render the inlet reactive to pressure changes applied to at least a portion of the inlet; and wherein in response thereto the flow control surface regulates outflow through the flow control valve
Data Source
AI summary
A flow control valve providing a constant outflow in a variable inflow fluid pressure environment from as low as 0 bar and at least up to 6 bar. The flow valve comprises a flow control surface that features at least one flow control opening for controlling the outflow through the valve. The flow control opening configured to have a triangular-like polygonal configuration.