Three-Valves Manifold for Differential Pressure Flow Meter
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-valves manifolds in differential pressure type flow meters face issues with correct operation, particularly during initial use or after long periods of inactivity, where excessive pressure can be applied to one side of the pressure sensitive member, risking damage and leakage of sealing liquid.
Innovation Solution
A three-valves manifold design featuring a shaft portion with first and second valve portions, each with specific rotational positions to manage pressures safely, preventing excessive pressure on one side of the pressure sensitive member and isolating it for zero-point adjustment, while using sealing members to maintain a tight seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the three valves are operated manually during initial use or after long intermission, then the flow rate measurement can be initiated, but excessive pressure may be applied to one side of the pressure sensitive member causing damage or leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The valve unit is designed to automatically perform the sequence of opening valves 6a and 6b followed by closing valve 6c through its own rotational movement, eliminating the need for manual operation and ensuring the pressure sensitive member is never exposed to excessive pressure from incorrect valve configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The valve unit pre-establishes the correct valve configuration sequence through its rotational positions, where positions A and B automatically open valves 6a and 6b before position C closes valve 6c, preventing excessive pressure exposure before measurement begins
2Reliability
If the valves are erroneously operated, then the differential pressure signal generator may be broken or sealing liquid may leak into the main conduit, but correct operation requires careful manual control
Solution Approach 1:
The valve unit autonomously manages the complex sequence of valve operations through its rotational mechanism, eliminating human error while maintaining generator protection without requiring careful manual control
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple valve control functions are merged into a single rotational valve unit that simultaneously manages valves 6a, 6b, and 6c through its positional configuration, simplifying operation while ensuring generator protection
3Ease of manufacture
If the three-valves manifold is designed as a single unit with pressure guide pipes and valves, then manufacturing is simplified, but the risk of excessive pressure and leakage remains
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated valve unit automatically ensures safe pressure control through its rotational positions that inherently prevent excessive pressure exposure, maintaining both manufacturing simplicity and reliability without requiring additional safety components
Data Source
AI summary
A three-valves manifold for a differential pressure type flow meter includes a valve unit and a housing. The valve unit includes a shaft portion, a first valve portion having a first through hole and first to third grooves and a second valve portion having a second through hole and fourth and fifth grooves. The housing includes a space in which the shaft portion and valve portions are rotatably arranged. The first and second through holes and first to fifth grooves are formed at positions such that the first and second through holes communicate differently with first and second inlet and outlet openings of the housing in each of first, second, and third rotational positions.