Solenoid Actuated Flow Sensor Test Arrangement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fire suppression system testing methods require a significant flow of water, leading to high water consumption and increased construction and maintenance costs, which is not environmentally friendly or economically efficient.
Innovation Solution
A remotely controlled testing arrangement using an electrically or pneumatically actuated solenoid switch to simulate the flow of fire suppression fluid, allowing the fire suppression system fluid flow sensor to be tested without actual fluid flow, utilizing a paddle in the main conduit to detect fluid flow and trigger an alarm signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual testing with water flow is used, then the flow sensor can be tested for functionality, but water consumption increases and environmental impact worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simulated water flow mechanism that copies the effect of actual water flow without requiring real water. The simulation device creates a false flow condition that triggers the sensor in the same way real water would, allowing testing without water consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical water flow system with an electrical or pneumatic simulation system. Instead of using actual water flow to trigger the sensor, the invention uses simulated signals (electrical or pneumatic) that replicate the flow condition, eliminating the need for water-based mechanical testing.
2Reliability
If testing valves are installed in each conduit, then the flow sensor can be tested, but construction and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal testing mechanism that can test flow sensors in multiple conduits without requiring separate testing valves for each one. The simulation device serves multiple functions: it can test different sensors, simulate various flow conditions, and work with different conduit configurations, thereby reducing the overall number of testing components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a central testing device that acts as an intermediary between the tester and the flow sensors. Instead of having testing valves directly installed in each conduit, the intermediary device connects to the system and performs the testing function, simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Measurement precision
If actual water flow is used for testing, then the sensor detects flow correctly, but the quantity of water released into waste water system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation device creates a copy of the water flow condition without using actual water. It replicates the flow characteristics (volume, duration, pattern) that would normally trigger the sensor, allowing accurate flow detection testing while using zero water.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the testing medium from water to an alternative substance or energy form (electrical signal or pneumatic pressure). By changing the state and properties of the testing medium, the system maintains flow detection accuracy while eliminating water consumption and waste water discharge.
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
Enables frequent and cost-effective testing of fire suppression systems without water discharge, aligning with green building principles by reducing water usage and simplifying the testing process.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator is configured as an electrically controlled solenoid switch
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement for testing a fire suppression sprinkler system includes a conduit for supplying a flow of fire suppression fluid to at least one sprinkler. A sensor is configured to sense the flow of the fire suppression fluid to the at least one sprinkler. The sensor has a first condition indicative of a predetermined volume of flow of the suppression fluid to the at least one sprinkler and a second condition indicative of a volume of flow of the fire suppression fluid to the at least one sprinkler less than the predetermined volume of flow. An actuator causes the sensor to be in the first condition or the second condition. A signaler provides an indication to a user that the sensor is in at least one of the first condition and the second condition.