Swing-Out Modular Valve Assembly for Compact Plumbing Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plumbing fixtures consume significant space and require intervening piping, making them difficult to install in confined spaces and increasing costs and length in plumbing assemblies.
Innovation Solution
Modular valve assemblies with rotatable modular blocks that can be arranged in series without intervening piping, allowing for compact design and easy installation, with each block having independent or collective movement between use and maintenance positions for access to internal components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are connected in series with intervening piping, then fluid flow control functionality is achieved, but the overall assembly length and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve bodies into a single integrated assembly where valves are fluidly coupled without intervening piping. The valve bodies share common inlet and outlet ports, merging what would traditionally be separate components with connecting pipes into one compact unit, thereby reducing overall assembly length while maintaining multi-valve functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the integrated valve assembly into modular valve bodies that can be independently manufactured and then assembled together. Each valve body functions as a separate module but when combined, they create a compact series configuration without requiring external piping, thus achieving both functionality and space efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are connected in series with intervening piping, then fluid flow control functionality is achieved, but the cost and complexity of installation increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple valves into a single integrated assembly with shared ports and no intervening piping, the patent reduces the number of connection points and sealing requirements. This integration simplifies the installation process and reduces complexity compared to installing multiple separate valves with connecting pipes.
3Reliability
If traditional plumbing fixtures are used, then reliable fluid flow control is achieved, but significant space is consumed making installation difficult in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple valve functions into a single compact assembly that eliminates the need for intervening piping between valves. This integration significantly reduces the space required for installation while maintaining the reliability of fluid flow control through proven valve designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges valve bodies in a compact configuration where they share common ports and are positioned to minimize the overall footprint. By optimizing the spatial arrangement and eliminating linear piping extensions, the assembly achieves reliable multi-valve functionality in a reduced dimensional envelope suitable for confined spaces.
Data Source
AI summary
Modular valve assemblies are disclosed. In embodiments the modular valve assemblies include a first frame and a second frame. The first frame includes a fluid inlet and first mount, and the second frame includes a fluid outlet and a second mount. A connection element extends between the first mount and the second mount. At least a first modular block and a second modular block are disposed on the connection element and position between the first and second frame. The first and second modular blocks may each be rotatable about the connection element between a use position and a maintenance position. In the use position, a composite flow path extends from the fluid inlet, through a first fluid flow path in the first modular block, through a second fluid flow path in the second modular block, and to the fluid outlet. Rotation of the first or second modular block to its maintenance position moves the first or second fluid flow path, respectively, out of the composite flow path.