Water Control Valve Layout for Multi-Path Flow Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve arrangements for controlling liquid flow in water treatment systems are complex and inefficient, particularly when multiple flow paths and sequences are required, and when liquids need to be mixed with other fluids under varying conditions.
Innovation Solution
A piston valve with annular passages that includes a movable piston with longitudinally spaced recessed annular flow cavities, allowing for selective positioning to control fluid flow through multiple ports, enabling efficient treatment, regeneration, and bypass operations within a water treatment tank.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional valve arrangements are used to control liquid flow through multiple flow paths, then the system can handle complex flow sequences, but the device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The valve body is divided into multiple ports (first inlet, second inlet, first outlet, second outlet) with a movable valve member that segments the flow paths. By moving the valve member between different positions, distinct flow paths are created without requiring complex interconnected valve mechanisms. This segmentation allows multiple flow sequences while maintaining a relatively simple structural design.
Solution Approach 2:
The single movable valve member performs multiple functions by controlling different flow paths in different positions. It can direct flow from the first inlet to the first outlet, from the second inlet to the second outlet, or mix flows from both inlets to a common outlet, depending on its position. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate valves for each function.
2Ease of operation
If multiple valves are used to control different flow paths, then precise flow control is achieved, but the number of components and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple valve functions are merged into a single movable valve member within one valve body. The valve member can be positioned at different locations to simultaneously or sequentially control multiple flow paths, eliminating the need for separate valves. This consolidation maintains precise flow control while reducing the total number of components.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using multiple valves arranged in series or parallel, the invention uses a single valve member that moves along a linear dimension within the valve body. This linear movement creates different flow configurations by exposing different ports to the flow path, effectively using spatial positioning in one dimension to achieve what would otherwise require multiple components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex valve arrangements are used to handle varying water use conditions, then the system can adapt to different process steps, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system uses a dynamically movable valve member that can be easily repositioned between different locations to adapt to varying water use conditions. This dynamic positioning allows the system to switch between different flow paths and configurations in response to different process requirements, maintaining ease of operation through simple linear movement rather than complex mechanical adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
A water delivery control system operates to selectively deliver water from a water source to water use devices. The system includes at least one controller that wirelessly communicates messages with a portable user device. The system includes a water control valve and a motor that is operative to selectively move at least one valve element of the valve. A water meter is operative to measure water flow that corresponds to flow through the valve. The controller is operable to cause the valve to enable or prevent flow through the valve responsive at least in part to water flow data. The controller is operative to determine a water use condition responsive to a water usage pattern, and to cause at least one message to be sent to the portable user device responsive to the determined water use condition.