Wireless Valve Actuation for Remote Flushing Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flushing systems require manual operation and physical presence for activation, limiting their usability and efficiency in environments where access is difficult or unsafe.
Innovation Solution
A remote-operated flushing system with a fluid routing assembly and a control device that allows wireless operation of a valve between open and closed configurations, enabling remote control of fluid flow through a fluid distribution system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used for flushing systems, then the system structure remains simple, but the operator must be physically present at the system location which limits usability and safety in challenging environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with wireless electronic control. A remote device communicates wirelessly with a control circuit that actuates the valve mechanism, eliminating the need for physical presence at the flushing system while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary between the operator and the flushing system. The remote device sends control signals through wireless communication to the control circuit, which then actuates the valve, serving as an intermediary that bridges the gap between remote operation and local mechanical action.
2Reliability
If manual activation is required, then the system remains simple to operate, but the operator faces safety risks and inconvenience when accessing difficult-to-reach locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes manual mechanical activation with wireless electronic actuation. The control circuit receives wireless signals and automatically actuates the valve, eliminating the need for operators to physically access potentially hazardous or difficult-to-reach locations while ensuring reliable operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If remote control is implemented, then operational safety and convenience improve, but the device complexity increases due to additional control components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into existing system components. The control circuit serves both as a valve actuator and a wireless communication receiver, while the power source provides both operational power and communication power. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the control and communication functions into a unified system. The control circuit combines valve actuation capability with wireless signal reception, and the power source simultaneously powers both the flushing mechanism and the communication system, reducing overall system complexity despite added functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Example aspects of a remote-operated flushing system and a method of operating a flushing system are disclosed. The remote-operated flushing system can comprise a fluid routing assembly comprising a valve, the valve configurable in an open configuration, wherein fluid is permitted to flow through the fluid routing assembly, and a closed configuration, wherein the fluid is prohibited from flowing through the fluid routing assembly; and a control device configured to actuate the valve between the open configuration and closed configuration; a remote operation device wirelessly connected to the control device and configured to remotely operate the control device to control the actuation of the valve between the open configuration and closed configuration.