Pressure fill device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressure fill devices for closed-loop fluid circulation systems lack effective monitoring and fault detection mechanisms, leading to inefficiencies and potential contamination, especially when dealing with fluid supply systems like mains water.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating fluid flow sensors on inlet, outlet, and drain pipes to detect flow anomalies and wastage, with solenoid valves and back-flow prevention valves to control fluid flow and prevent contamination, enabling real-time fault detection and alert systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pressure fill devices are used to supply additional fluid into closed-loop fluid circulation systems, then the pressure in the system can be increased and losses compensated, but the devices lack effective monitoring and fault detection mechanisms leading to inefficiencies and potential contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through flow sensors that continuously monitor fluid flow through the inlet and outlet pipes. The controller receives signals from these sensors and automatically adjusts the solenoid valve operation, enabling real-time fault detection and system self-regulation without requiring complex manual monitoring systems
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure fill device performs self-diagnosis and self-protection functions through the integrated sensor and controller system. When faults are detected (such as abnormal flow conditions or contamination risks), the system automatically alerts operators and can shut down operations, eliminating the need for external monitoring equipment
2Productivity
If flow sensors are added to detect flow anomalies and wastage, then operational efficiency is enhanced and fluid wastage is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Flow sensors are integrated into the inlet and outlet pipes to provide continuous feedback on fluid flow conditions. The controller processes this data to detect anomalies, monitor wastage, and automatically adjust operations, thereby enhancing productivity through real-time optimization rather than through mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual monitoring and mechanical flow control mechanisms with electronic sensors and automated control systems. This substitution enables more precise and efficient operation while the electronic components occupy minimal space, offsetting the added complexity with superior functional capabilities
3Object-affected harmful factors
If solenoid valves and back-flow prevention valves are used to control fluid flow and prevent contamination, then contamination protection is ensured, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Back-flow prevention valves are strategically positioned in the fluid path to preemptively block contamination before it can enter the closed-loop system. The solenoid valve is configured to close automatically upon detecting abnormal conditions, providing preliminary protection against contamination without requiring complex filtration or isolation systems
Solution Approach 2:
The controller receives feedback from flow sensors and pressure monitoring to automatically actuate the solenoid valve, opening or closing it based on real-time system conditions. This automated response ensures contamination protection through intelligent control rather than through overly complex mechanical valve arrangements
Data Source
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AI summary
A pressure fill device (1) comprising an inlet pipe (2), arranged to be connected, in use, to a fluid supply (3), a system outlet pipe (4) and a flow control arrangement (6), arranged to selectively enable supply of fluid from the fluid supply (3) to the system outlet pipe (4). The device (1) further comprising at least one of an inlet fluid flow sensor (8), arranged to detect flow through the inlet pipe (2) and an outlet fluid flow sensor (10), arranged to detect flow through the system outlet pipe (4).