Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water heaters require multiple components and high-energy circulation pumps due to separate systems for internal heating and external heat sources, leading to inefficiencies and increased risk of scalding.
Innovation Solution
A compact valve system with integrated connectors for supply and return pipes, a low-energy circulation pump, and a single water system that utilizes pressure to circulate water between the tank and external heat sources, eliminating the need for separate relief valves and expansion vessels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate relief valve and expansion vessel are used for internal heating, then safety and pressure control are improved, but device complexity and installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the relief valve and expansion vessel functions into the valve assembly itself. The valve housing integrates multiple components including the relief valve mechanism and expansion compensation features, eliminating the need for separate relief valve and expansion vessel installations while maintaining safety and pressure control functions.
2Speed
If a circulation pump with high energy consumption is used to lift water to roof-level solar panels, then water circulation capability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the water system's existing pressure (approx. 3 bar) to enable circulation without requiring high-energy pumps for lifting water to elevated positions. The system is designed to work with the natural pressure differential, allowing circulation between the tank and external heat sources without active pumping for elevation gain.
3Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for heating functions, then functional reliability is improved, but ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is designed as a universal multi-functional component that integrates heating control, relief valve function, expansion compensation, and circulation control. This single valve unit performs multiple functions that would traditionally require separate components, simplifying installation while maintaining functional reliability through integrated design.
4Loss of energy
If separate pressure-less water systems are used for internal heat exchanger, then thermal efficiency is improved, but device complexity and pump requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the pressure-less water circulation system into the integrated valve assembly, where the circulation pump and heat exchanger connections are built into the valve housing. This consolidation maintains the thermal efficiency benefits of separate pressure-less circulation while reducing overall device complexity through integration.
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
This solution reduces energy consumption, simplifies installation, and ensures immediate hot water delivery while minimizing the risk of scalding and water waste, adhering to EN 1489 and US regulations.
Implementation Method 1
consumption water with a pressure of approx. 3 bar, can be used for circulation between the tank and the external heat source
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a valve (16) for installation on a water heater comprising a tank (19) with one single welded socket (17), and where cold-water by discharge is led into a connection for a supply pipe (1), through a check valve (4) and down through a cold-water pipe (5a) to the bottom of the tank (19). The hot water in the top of the tank (19) is forced out through a cavity (7) and out of the valve through a connection for a hot water delivery pipe (9). The valve (16) has a connection for a suction pipe (10) for connection to a circulation pump (24) sucking cold water from the bottom of the tank (19) to external heating, wherein the circulation pump (24) leads the consumption water of the tank (19) back to the valve (16) through a connection for a return pipe (11) and to the middle of the tank (19). The return pipe (11) is arranged to be used for return from the circulation pipe between the tank (19) and a hot water cabinet (28).