Riser Manifold Layout With Check Valve and Flow Indication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing riser manifold assemblies in fire suppression systems do not effectively prevent backflow of fire suppression fluid and lack an efficient mechanism for fluid flow indication, leading to potential leaks and inefficiencies in installation and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A riser manifold assembly comprising a control valve, spool pipes, a flow control switch, a check valve, and a test and drain valve, which are interconnected to form a fluid passage that allows for fluid flow control, backflow prevention, and pressure testing, with components capable of rotational adjustment for flexibility in installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional riser manifold assemblies are used, then installation is straightforward, but they fail to effectively prevent backflow of fire suppression fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold assembly is divided into multiple functional segments: a control valve assembly with integrated check valve for backflow prevention, a flow control switch assembly for flow indication, and a test and drain valve assembly. Each segment performs a specific function, allowing the system to achieve reliable backflow prevention while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediate chamber is introduced between the control valve and the check valve, providing a sealed environment for the check valve clapper to operate. This intermediate structure mediates between the incoming fluid flow and the backflow prevention mechanism, ensuring reliable sealing while allowing the check valve to function independently of the main valve body geometry.
2Reliability
If traditional riser manifold assemblies are used, then installation proceeds without preliminary testing, but fluid flow indication is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control switch assembly utilizes the kinetic energy of the flowing fire suppression fluid itself to actuate the vane and trigger the flow indication. The flowing fluid directly moves the vane, which then activates the switch, eliminating the need for external power sources or complex sensing mechanisms. The system serves itself using the energy already present in the fluid flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical flow indication system replaces electronic or optical sensing systems. A simple vane mounted on a pivot point mechanically converts fluid flow into switch actuation. This mechanical approach is more reliable in fire suppression environments where electronic systems might fail, and it reduces overall system complexity while maintaining effective flow indication.
3Productivity
If components are assembled onsite, then installation flexibility is maintained, but construction time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The riser manifold assembly is manufactured as segmented modules that can be pre-assembled and tested separately, then shipped to the installation site. The control valve assembly, flow control switch assembly, and test and drain valve assembly can be prepared independently, allowing for quality control and pressure testing before final installation. This segmentation enables both preassembly efficiency and onsite installation flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Critical assembly steps including mechanical coupling and fluid sealing between components are performed during manufacturing rather than onsite installation. The control valve is pre-coupled to the check valve assembly with fluid seals, and the flow control switch is pre-mounted on the first spool pipe. This preliminary action ensures proper sealing and alignment while reducing the skill level and time required for onsite assembly.
4Reliability
If pressure testing is done after installation, then system integrity is verified, but construction time and potential damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
Pressure testing is performed as a preliminary action during the manufacturing process, before the riser manifold assembly is installed in the building. The test and drain valve assembly includes ports that allow pressure testing of the entire manifold assembly while it is still accessible in the manufacturing environment. This ensures system integrity is verified before installation, preventing the need for time-consuming post-installation testing and potential damage to installed components.
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 assembly reduces shipping damage, minimizes onsite construction time, and enables pressure testing before installation, ensuring reliable fluid flow management and efficient installation processes.
Implementation Method 1
The clapper being movable between an open position, allowing fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet, and a closed position, inhibiting fluid flow from the outlet to the inlet, according to a pressure differential between the inlet and the outlet
Implementation Method 2
The flow control switch, having a vane inserted in the flow port of the first spool pipe
Implementation Method 3
The control valve being operable between an open position, permitting fluid flow between the inlet and the outlet, and a closed position, inhibiting fluid flow between the inlet and the outlet
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A riser manifold assembly includes a control valve, a first spool pipe, a flow control switch, a check valve, a second spool pipe, and a test and drain valve. An inlet of the first spool pipe being mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with an outlet of the control valve. The flow control switch being mechanically mounted to the first spool pipe. An inlet of the check valve being mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with an outlet of the first spool pipe. An inlet of the second spool pipe being mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with an outlet of the check valve. The test and drain valve being mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with an auxiliary port of the second spool pipe.