Spring-Actuated Throttle Valve for Stable RO Pressure
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid flow throttling mechanisms in reverse osmosis systems fail to maintain constant system pressure due to variations in feed flow and membrane output, particularly when powered by solar energy with fluctuating power supply, leading to hunting phenomena and inefficient operation.
Innovation Solution
A spring-actuated throttle valve with a cone mechanism that adjusts the flow opening based on flow volume, utilizing a motion restrictor and support plate to counteract spring force, ensuring consistent system pressure by balancing flow-induced forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If constant throttling (flow restrictor hole) is used on the reject side, then the structure is simple, but the pressure in the system changes as the salinity and temperature of water change, and membrane output decreases as membranes age
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the static flow restrictor hole with a dynamic throttle valve mechanism. The valve includes a movable closure element (needle or ball) that can adjust the flow opening area in response to changing operating conditions such as salinity, temperature, and membrane aging. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to maintain constant pressure despite varying feed flow and membrane performance over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control through a pressure sensor that continuously monitors the system pressure and provides signals to a control unit. The control unit processes this feedback information and automatically adjusts the throttle valve opening to maintain the desired pressure setpoint. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures stable system pressure regardless of changes in feed flow, salinity, or membrane output.
2Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of reject valve is used in solar-powered systems, then the valve can be adjusted to desired throttle level, but constant manual adjustment is required due to fluctuating solar power and pump speed variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle by implementing an automated control system that performs valve adjustment without human intervention. The control unit receives feedback from the pressure sensor and automatically actuates the throttle valve to maintain optimal pressure. In solar-powered systems, the system self-adjusts to compensate for fluctuating power supply and pump speed variations, eliminating the need for manual operation and saving operator time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment system with an automated electromechanical control system. The throttle valve is actuated by an electric motor or solenoid controlled by a microprocessor-based control unit that receives input from pressure sensors. This substitution of manual mechanical operation with automated electronic control eliminates the time loss associated with frequent manual adjustments while maintaining precise pressure control.
3Reliability
If spring-actuated valve with cone mechanism is used, then system pressure is maintained constant despite feed flow variations, but the device complexity increases compared to simple flow restrictor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the counterweight principle by using a spring mechanism that exerts a counteracting force on the movable cone closure element. The spring force balances the hydraulic forces acting on the cone, creating a stable equilibrium that maintains constant pressure. When feed flow variations cause pressure deviations, the spring force automatically adjusts to counterbalance the changing hydraulic loads, providing inherent pressure stabilization without complex electronic controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes hydraulic principles through the cone-shaped closure element that modulates flow area based on pressure differential across the valve. The hydraulic forces acting on the cone surface automatically adjust the opening area in response to pressure changes, creating a self-regulating mechanism. This hydraulic feedback through the cone geometry provides pressure stabilization while maintaining relatively simple mechanical construction.
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 maintains consistent system pressure despite variations in feed flow and membrane output, preventing hunting phenomena and enabling reliable operation with solar-powered pumps.
Implementation Method 1
A spring is provided between the support plate and the body, the spring acting on the cone in a direction opposite to the direction of flow
Implementation Method 2
the flow causes a force to be exerted on the cone in the direction of flow, the magnitude of which force increases as the volume of the flow increases
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid flow throttle valve that keeps the pressure of a fluid flow pumped into a system by a high-pressure pump constant and that is particularly suitable as a reject valve for maintaining the system pressure of a reverse osmosis device at a pressure level of <20 bar. The flow pressure is regulated by a spring-actuated cone that is partially within the outflow channel of the throttle valve at any given time. A motion restrictor is supported to the wider end of the cone such that in its lowest position, the cone permits a bypass flow of a predetermined volume up to the target pressure of the system. As the flow volume increases further and the cone rises as a result, the force exerted on the restrictor member by the flow pressure contributes to preventing the valve from closing.