U-Shaped Valve Flap Insert for Compact Non-Return Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional non-return valves are bulky, reduce the pipe bore significantly, and are difficult to install, especially in tight spaces, compromising the rigidity and strength of the pipeline.
Innovation Solution
A compact valve insert system with a cylindrical or annular body and a U-shaped valve flap that can be inserted through a slot in the conduit, allowing for non-return flow control without requiring full cross-sectional access, using a hinge and spring mechanism for reliable sealing and minimal invasive flow architecture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional non-return valve is used, then the valve can prevent backflow effectively, but the valve body is bulky and significantly reduces the pipe bore
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is segmented into a separate insert body and valve flap assembly that can be inserted into the pipe without removing the entire pipe section. The insert body contains only the essential valve components, separating the valve function from the full pipe structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve insert is nested within the existing pipe structure. The insert body fits inside the pipe, and the valve flap is contained within the insert body, creating a nested configuration that minimizes the overall volume occupied in the pipe.
2Reliability
If a conventional non-return valve is used, then the valve can prevent backflow, but the valve installation is difficult and time-consuming, especially in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is divided into modular components (insert body and valve flap) that can be assembled and installed as a compact unit, making it easier to handle and install in confined spaces compared to traditional bulky valve assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve insert is designed to be inserted through the wall of the pipe from the outside, utilizing the radial dimension for installation rather than requiring longitudinal disassembly of the pipe system, thereby simplifying installation in tight spaces.
3Reliability
If a conventional non-return valve is used, then the valve can prevent backflow, but the valve requires considerable space within the pipe to be fitted
Solution Approach 1:
The valve components are nested within each other - the valve flap is contained within the insert body, which itself is inserted into the pipe. This nested arrangement minimizes the cross-sectional area occupied within the pipe while maintaining full backflow prevention functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve flap is designed as a thin, flexible element that can seal effectively against the insert body without requiring a large volume. The thin film-like structure of the flap allows it to provide reliable sealing while occupying minimal space within the insert body.
4Volume of moving object
If the valve flap is made thin to reduce pipe bore reduction, then the flow capacity increases when open, but the sealing reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The valve flap is constructed from composite materials that combine flexibility for thin-profile operation with sufficient structural integrity for reliable sealing. The composite structure allows the flap to be thin while maintaining the strength and sealing capability needed for effective backflow prevention.
Data Source
Figure 1a~2b
Figure 3~4b
Figure 4c~5b
AI summary
An insert is provided for insertion through an opening in the surface of a conduit, the insert comprising an insert body having first and second open ends defining an axis of flow therebetween. The insert further comprises a valve flap connected to the insert body. The valve flap is moveable between a closed position in which it creates a closure, thereby preventing flow along said axis, and an open position in which the valve flap allows flow along the axis. The valve flap is arranged so that, when in the open position, it is substantially U-shaped in side cross-section and is oriented with respect to the insert body so that said U-shape arches over the axis of flow.