Sensor-Actuated Backflow Valve With Low Pressure Drop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backflow preventers are heavy, cause a high pressure drop, and require significant installation space, making them inefficient and difficult to install in fluid control systems.
Innovation Solution
The actuated backflow prevention system combines sensor-based reverse flow detection with an actuated valve to minimize or eliminate reverse flow, using upstream and downstream sensors to control the valve's transition to a closed position, and optionally includes a qualifying check valve and run-out length to enhance backflow prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional spring loaded check valves or swing type check valves are used, then backflow prevention function is achieved, but the device becomes heavy and requires significant installation space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical check valves (spring loaded, swing type) with an actuated valve system controlled by sensors and a controller. This substitution eliminates the need for heavy mechanical components while maintaining backflow prevention functionality through automated control based on flow direction detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuated valve assembly integrates multiple functions into a single compact unit: backflow prevention, air bleeding, draining, and testing capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system weight and installation space compared to separate traditional check valve assemblies with multiple attached components.
2Reliability
If traditional spring loaded check valves or poppet valves are used, then backflow prevention function is achieved, but pressure drop increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces restrictive mechanical check valves with an actuated valve that can be precisely controlled to minimize pressure drop. The valve remains open during normal forward flow conditions, allowing unrestricted flow, and only closes when backflow is detected by the sensor-controller system, thereby eliminating unnecessary pressure losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve system transitions from a static mechanical check valve to a dynamic actuated valve that adjusts its state based on real-time flow conditions detected by sensors. This dynamic control allows the valve to remain open during normal operation (minimizing pressure drop) and close only when necessary for backflow prevention.
3Reliability
If traditional swing type check valves are used, then backflow prevention function is achieved, but installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The actuated valve assembly integrates multiple functions (backflow prevention, air bleeding, draining, testing) into a single compact unit, significantly reducing the installation space required compared to traditional separate check valve assemblies with multiple attached components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces bulky mechanical check valve mechanisms with a compact actuated valve system controlled by electronic sensors and a controller, reducing the overall footprint and installation space requirements while maintaining backflow prevention functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods useful for backflow prevention system that includes an actuated valve, a valve controller, one or more upstream sensors, and one or more downstream sensors. Upon detecting conditions conducive to backflow through the system using either or both the one or more upstream sensors, and the one or more downstream sensors, the valve controller causes the actuated valve to close. The system may be enhanced through the use of a qualifying check valve disposed between the actuated valve and the one or more downstream sensors to slow or impede backflow through the system. The system may be enhanced by inclusion of a run-out length between the actuated valve and the one or more downstream sensors to account for the latency in the actuator causing the valve to transition to the CLOSED position.