Thermostatic control valve with fluid mixing
US7140394B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 28, 2003 |
| Grant date | Nov 28, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 11, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05D23/1346
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A thermostatic control valve assembly for use in continuously mixing a hot first fluid with a cold second fluid to continuously produce a mixed fluid at a constant temperature. The valve assembly includes an improved mixing dome defining a mixing chamber that facilitates thorough mixing of the hot and cold fluids over a wide range of flow rates, including rates as low as two gallons per minute. The improved mixing performance is accomplished by a plurality of baffles sequentially disposed along the flow path within the mixing chamber and extending at an angle in opposition to the flow path. Each baffle exhibits a paisley shape and is angularly displaced from the adjacent baffles to turn the fluid flow, thereby optimally mixing the hot and cold fluids over a wide range of flow rates while minimizing the pressure drop between the valve inlet and outlet.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.