PARK, Sang Hyoun (#C-434, Megapolis 2164-2,Chongwang-dong, Shihung-si, Gyeonggi-do 429-450, KR)
PARK, Joong Gwun (# Baekhyeon Maeul Dongil, Hivill 874,Jung-dong, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 446-753, 2102-1302, KR)
LEE, Jin Woo (#106-401, Sinho Apt.Chongwang 3-dong, Shihung-si, Gyeonggi-do 429-450, KR)
PARK, Sang Hyoun (#C-434, Megapolis 2164-2,Chongwang-dong, Shihung-si, Gyeonggi-do 429-450, KR)
PARK, Joong Gwun (# Baekhyeon Maeul Dongil, Hivill 874,Jung-dong, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 446-753, 2102-1302, KR)
| Claims [1] A heat reactivity valve, which can open and close the valve seat(VS) using external thermal energy, comprising; a hollow-cylindrical case(lθ); a driver device(20) which provides driving force using external thermal energy; a rod(R) which is formed inside of said case(lθ) and pressed by the driving force of said driver device(20); a blocking member(30) which prevents said rod(R) from moving by being pressed by said driver device(20); a slider(40) which slides along on said rod(R) by the reaction force which is generated by said rod(R) being stopped by said blocking member(30); a disc(50) which opens and closes valve seat(VS) by being moved by said slider(40); and a elastic member which elastically supports said disc(50). [2] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 1, wherein said driver device(20) includes; a housing(22) connected with said rod(R); and expansible material which is filled in said housing(22) and presses said rod(R) by being expanded by external thermal energy. [3] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 2, wherein said expansible material is characterized by being a wax(2) material which is contained in said housing(22) and expands by phase transition from solid state to liquid state when heated by external heat. [4] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 2, wherein said driver device(20) further comprises; a diaphragm(26) which isolates said expansible material and said rod(R) in said housing(22), and be deformed by the expansion of said expansible material to press said rod(R); and pressure oil(28) which is filled I between said diaphragm(26) and rod(R), and presses said rod(R) by being compressed by said diaphragm(26). [5] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 1, wherein said blocking member(30) includes; a support protrusion(32) which is formed as an integrated body with said rod(R), protruding out from said rod(R), and a part of which is latched by said case(lθ) to stop the movement of said rod(R).; and a contact prevention means which prevents said support protrusion(32) from contacting with said disc(50) which is moved by said slider(40). [6] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 5, wherein said contact prevention means is characterized by being formed with a receiving groove(34) which fits with the position and size of said support protrusion(32) on said disc(50), so that said disc(50) can move with said support protrusion(32) fitted into said receiving groove(34). [7] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 1, wherein said slider(40) comprises; a cylinder(42) in which said rod(R) is inserted and slides, and both ends are connected with said driver device(20) and disc(50), respectively; a end connector(44) which connects an end of said cylinder(42) to said driver device(20); and another end connector(46) which connects the other end of said cylinder(42) to said disc(50). [8] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 7, wherein said end connector (44) comprises; a flange(44a) which is formed on the end of said cylinder(42); and a caulking blade(44b) which is formed on said driver device(20) and fixes said flange(44a) to the driver device(20) by being caulked into the flange(44a). [9] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 1, wherein said other end connector(46) comprises; a projection pin(46a) of which one end is joined with said cylinder(42) and the other end protrudes out from said cylinder (42); and a through-hole type hole-shaped penetrating means(46b) which allows the projection of said projection pin(46a) to be fitted into a part of said disc(50). [10] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 9, wherein the opening and closing time of said disc(50) can be controlled by the size of the diameter of said hole- shaped penetrating means(46b) in which said projection pin(46a) is fitted. [11] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 1, wherein said disc(50) comprises; a blocking sleeve(52) of which an end is joined with said slider(40) and moves together with the slider(40) along on the outer surface of the rod(R) which is in said case(lθ), and the other end is closed and faces to said valve seat; and a valve member(54) which is joined with the other end of said blocking sleeve(52) and opens and closes said valve seat by the movement of said blocking sleeve(52). [12] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 11, wherein said valve member(54) comprises; a protruding fixing member(54a) which is elastic and joined with the other end of said blocking sleeve(52) as a projection; and an elastic sealing membrane(54b) which is formed on the outer surface of said protruding fixing member(54a) in a flange-like-shape, and whose circumference is fixed on said case(lθ) to cover and seal the outer surface of said protruding fixing member(54a). [13] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 1, wherein said disc(50) comprises; a through-sleeve(55) of which an end is joined with said slider(40) and moves along on the surface of said rod(R) which is in said case(lθ) together with the slider(40), and elastically supported by said elastic member, and the both ends are open; a stopper(56) which is formed inside said through-sleeve(55) as a projection; a block(57) which is formed inside said through-sleeve(55) on the opposite side of said stopper(56), and moves with said through-sleeve(55); an auxiliary elastic member(SP2) which supports said block(57) elastically; a fixing member(58) which joins the said block(57) which is supported by said auxiliary elastic member(SP2) on the inner surface of said through- sleeve (55) by a separable method; and a valve member(54) which is joined with said block(57) which is fixed on the inner surface of said through-sleeve(55) by said fixing member(58), and opens and closes said valve seat by the movement of said block(57). [14] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 13, wherein the opening and closing time of said disc(50) can be controlled by the gap distance between said stopper(56) and block(57). [15] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 13, wherein said fixing member (58) comprises; an inner spring(58a) which is placed inside said block(57) with both ends oriented to both ends of the inner surface of said through-sleeve(55); the spheres (58b) which are elastically supported by the ends of said inner spring(58a) and protrude out from both sides of said block(57); and the concaves(58c) which are formed on the inner opposite side of said through- sleeve(55) to be fitted with said spheres(58b). [16] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 13, wherein said valve member(54) comprises; an elastic protruding fixing member(54a) which is formed on said block(57) as a projection; and an elastic sealing membrane(54b) which is formed on the outer surface of said protruding fixing member(54a) in a flange-like-shape, and whose circumference is fixed on said case(lθ) to cover and seal the outer surface of said protruding fixing member(54a). [17] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 1, which further includes a heat collection panel(60) which is joined with said driver device(20) as an integrated body to collectexternal heat and transfer the collected heat to said driver device(20). [18] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 17, wherein said heat collection panel(60) includes a means for extending the effective heat collecting area of the heat collection panel(60). [19] The heat reactivity valve according to claim 18, wherein said means for extending the effective heat collecting area of the heat collection panel(60) is characterized by being corrugation(62). [20] A mechanical-controlled-type automatic cooling water spray system for building roof cooling use comprising; a cooling water pump(l 10); the branch pipe(120) which feed the cooling water pumped from said pump(l 10) and installed with the nozzles which spray cooling water onto roof; the shutdown valves(130) which are installed in said ldriver device(20), and controls the cooling water flow in the branch pipe(120) by being opened and closed by the pressure of the cooling water; the shutdown valve(130) are formed with valve seats(VS) each of which is formed with a bypass path(BP) to bypass a portion of the cooling water which flows through the shutdown valve(130); and and the heat reactivity valves (140) in any one of the above claims, which control the operation of said shutdown valve(130) by opening or closing said valve seat(VS) to control the pressure of the cooling water which flows in said shutdown valve(130). [21] The mechanical-controlled-type automatic cooling water spray system in claim 20, wherein said shutdown valve(130) comprises; a connecting pipe(132) which is connected with said branch pipe(120) to receive cooling water, having a blocking wall(132a) which cuts off the flow of the cooling water, and the blocking wall(132a) is formed with a bypass hole(132b), at the end of the bypass hole(132b), through which the cooling water is bypassed; a diaphragm(134) which opens or closes said bypass hole(132b) in said connecting pipe(132) by the pressure of the cooling water, and is formed with a f low hole(134a) through which the cooling water can flow; a 135 which presses said diaphragm(134) with elastic force; and a case(138) which incorporates said pressurizing member(136) inside, a chamber(138a) which is connected with said bypass path(BP) and filled with cooling water, and said valve seat(VS). [22] The mechanical-controlled-type automatic cooling water spray system in claim 21, where in said pressurizing member(136) comprises; a coil spring(136a) placed on said diaphragm(134); and a support plate(136b) which is fixed to said diaphragm(134) to support an end of said coil spring(136a). [23] The mechanical-controlled-type automatic cooling water spray system in claim 20, wherein said heat reactivity valve(140) further includes a valve cooling member(150) which feeds cooling water from said branch pipe(120) to said heat reactivity valve(140) to cool down the heat reactivity valve(140). [24] The mechanical-controlled-type automatic cooling water spray system in claim 23, wherein said valve cooling member(150) comprises; a bypass tube(152) which bypasses the cooling water from said branch pipe(120) to said heat reactivity valve(140); and the nozzles(154) which sprays cooling water from the end of said bypass tube(152) to said heat reactivity valve(140). [25] The mechanical-controlled-type automatic cooling water spray system in claim 24, which further includes a gap maintaining means which maintains the gap between said bypass tube(152) and heat reactivity valve(140) at preset distance. [26] The mechanical-controlled-type automatic cooling water spray system in claim 25, wherein said gap maintaining means is characterized by being formed with a winding spring(156) of which an end is wound on the end of said bypass tube( 152) where said nozzles (154) are installed, and the other end is wound on said heat reactivity valve(140). |
HEAT REACTIVITY VALVE AND AUTOMATIC FLUID SPRAY SYSTEM OF MECHANICAL CONTROL TYPE THEREBY
Technical Field
[1] This invention relates to a non-electrical valve for automatic fluid spray control and a mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system using the valve. The said valve operates mechanically with the thermal energy transferred from outside. Background Art
[2] In general, a buildingis heated by the heat transferred through the roof and outer wall which are subject to direct sunshine. In such buildings, the roofs which are not usually shaded receives the heat from the Sun by more than other surfaces. Therefore, roofs are the largest source of heat for buildings.
[3] Roofs can raise the temperature inside the buildings very high in hot seasons. In factory buildings, cooling loads can be increased even exceeding the capacity of the cooling systems in summer, which results in large energy consumption.
[4] Recently, automatic cooling water (service water, underground water, etc.) spray systems have been developed and used. Such automatic fluid spray systems are mainly used in machining equipments or on lawns. And the automatic fluid spray systems are also used on building roofs to cool the roofs (hereinafter, "roof cooling system"). That is, automatic fluid spray systems can be used in roof cooling systems.
[5] As shown in Fig. 1, in a conventional roof cooling system using automatic fluid spray system, the cooling water pumped from pump(P) is sprayed on roof through the branch pipes(S) connected to pumping pipe(PA) and spray nozzles(N). The branch pipes(S) are opened and closed by solenoid valves(SV) controlled by controller(CT) to spray cooling water on roof.
[6] Here, said controller(CT) controls the solenoid valves(SV) according to the temperature measured with a temperature sensor(HS). In particular, when the temperature sensor(HS) detects high temperature, the controller(CT) opens the solenoid valves(SV), and if the temperature sensor(HS) detects low temperature, the controller(CT) closes the solenoid valves(SV).
[7] The said temperature sensor(HS) is installed among the nozzles(N), as illustrated, and detects the heat of the roof received from sunshine to send the temperature signal to the controller(CT). In addition, the temperature sensor(HS) sends low temperature signal to the controller(CT) when it is cooled down by the cooling water sprayed from the nozzles(N). The temperature sensor(HS) is located in a virtual triangle drawn by three (3) nozzles, as shown in the drawing, so as to be able to be cooled down by the cooling water sprayed from at least one nozzle.
[8] However, these conventional mechanical-controlled automatic fluid spray systems requirepumping pipe(Pa) and branch pipes(S) from the pumping pipe(Pa), wiring pipe(WP) for the power cable to supply power to solenoid valves(SV), temperature sensor(HS) and the wiring pipe(CP) for the temperature sensors(HS), and controller(CT). Therefore, it takes significant timeand cost to fabricate and install the system.
[9] In addition, the solenoid valve(SV) and temperature sensor(HS) fail to operate if wiring is disconnected.
[10] In addition, if the cooling water sprayed from the nozzles(N) fails to reach the temperature sensor(HS), for example by wind, the controller(CT) could not receive correct information on the roof temperature and, thus, would keep the system in cooling water spray mode. Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem
[11] The present invention is designed to provide a solution for above described problems in the conventional roof cooling systems. For this, this invention provides a heat reactivity valve of a new concept which involves a heat reactivity valve operated with external heat according to the temperature, without external power supply.
[12] In addition, this invention provides a heat reactivity valve of which operating time can be controlled by a structural feature designed for operating time control.
[13] In addition, this invention provides a heat reactivity valve which employs a solar heat collector member which enables prompt response to external thermal energy.
[14] In addition, this invention provides a mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system which can be operated automatically according to ambient temperature using said heat reactivity valve.
[15] In addition, This invention provides a mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system which incorporates a member for automatic cooling water spray, as necessary, in said heat reactivity valve. Technical Solution
[16] In order to accomplish the purposes set forth and described hereinabove, the heat reactivity valve in accordance with this invention opens and closes valve seat with external thermal energy, by being comprised of; a hollow case; a driver device which provides driving force utilizing the thermal energy transferred from outside; a rod which is placed inside said hollow case and pressed by said driver device; a blocking member which prevents the rod from moving by being pressed by said driver device; a slider which slides along on the rod by the reaction force generated by the blocking of said rod by said blocking member; a disc member which closes and opens said valve seat by being moved with said slider; and an elastic member which supports the disc with elastic force.
[17] In addition, the mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system which can cool down building roofs by spraying cooling water comprises; cooling water pump; piping which feeds water onto roof and installed with nozzles to spray cooling water; shutdown valves which are installed in the piping, through which cooling water flows, and opened by the pressure of the cooling water; vale seats of the shutdown valves which bypass a certain portion of the cooling water through bypass flow path; and a heat reactivity valve, in accordance with any one of the said claims, which controls the operation of said shutdown valve by controlling the pressure of the cooling water by controlling the position of said shutdown valve. Brief Description of Drawings
[18] Fig. 1 is a schematic drawing of the structure of a conventional roof cooling system;
[19] Fig. 2 is a schematic drawing of the structure of an exemplary embodiment of the heat reactivity valve and mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system;
[20] Fig. 3 is an enlarged longitudinal section of the valve assembly of the mechanical- control-type automatic fluid spray system shown in the Fig. 2;
[21] Fig. 4 is alongitudinal section of the valve assembly, shown in the Fig. 2, in its operating status;
[22] Fig. 5 is a longitudinal section of another embodiment of the heat reactivity valve of the valve assembly shown in the Fig. 2;
[23] Fig. 6 is a longitudinal section of the heat reactivity valve, shown in the Fig. 5, in its opening operation status; and
[24] Fig. 7 is a longitudinal section of the heat reactivity valve, shown in the Fig. 5, in its closing operation status Best Mode for Carrying out the Invention
[25] The heat reactivity valve and the mechanical automatic fluid spray system using the heat reactivity valve in accordance with this invention are described hereinbelow, referring to the annexed drawings. Fig. 2 is a schematic drawing of the structure of an exemplary embodiment of the heat reactivity valve and mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system in accordance with this invention; Fig. 3 is an enlarged longitudinal section of the valve assembly of the mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system shown in the Fig. 2; and Fig. 4 is a longitudinal section of the valve assembly, shown in the Fig. 2, in its operating status.
[26] As shown in the Fig. 2, an exemplary embodiment of the mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system in accordance with this invention comprises; a pump(l lθ) and pumping pipe(112); branch pipes(120) installed with nozzles(122); and the valve assembly (VA) comprised of shutdown valve(130) and heat reactivity valve(140).
[27] As illustrated in the drawings, the mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system in accordance with this invention can be installed and used on a building roof. Hereinafter, said mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system will be described under the precondition that it is installed on a building roof, pumping and spraying service water or underground water as the cooling water.
[28] In the mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system, the cooling water pumped by the pump(l 10) flows through the pumping pipe(l 12), branch pipes(120), and sprayed from the nozzles (122) onto the roof. In the operation, the branch pipes (120) are opened or closed by the valve assembly (VA). In particular, cooling water flows in a branch pipe(120) when the valve assembly(VA) is open, and the cooling water flow stops when the valve assembly(VA) is closed.
[29] The said valve assembly(VA) controls the flow of cooling water in the branch pipe(120) with the heat reactivity valve(140) which closes or opens the shutdown valve(130).
[30] The heat reactivity valve(140) is operated automatically by the heat of the roof to control the shutdown valve(130). That is, theheat reactivity valve(140) is the element that controls the operation of the shutdown valve(130).
[31] In addition, the shutdown valve(130) may be provided with a valve seat(VS) which is formed with a bypass flow path(BP) which will be described later.
[32] As set forth and described above, the mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system (roof cooling system) in accordance with this invention can cool down hot roof surface by spraying cooling water on the roof with said heat reactivity valve(140) in accordance with the ambient temperature, especially, the temperature of the roof. Therefore, the mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system in accordance with this invention can maintain roof temperature at constant (preset) level.
[33] Referring to the Fig.3, said shutdown valve(130) and heat reactivity valve(140) are integrated to constitute said valve assembly(VA). Here, the shutdown valve(130) virtually is a part of the branch pipe(120) by being incorporated into the branch pip e(120).
[34] The structures of the shutdown valve(130) and heat reactivity valve(140) set forth above are described in further detail, referring to the Fig. 3 and other annexed drawings, hereinbelow.
[35] In Fig.3, the shutdown valve(130) is formed in a tube-shape and installed on the branch pipe(120). This shutdown valve(130) can control the flow of cooling water in the branch pipe(120), as the connecting tube(132), which will be described later, is formed on the pipe. As will be described later, the shutdown valve(130) opens and closes the branch pipe(120) by the pressure of the cooling water in the branch pipe(120). That is, the shutdown valve(130) allows or blocks the flow of cooling water in the branch pipe(120).
[36] Here, an exemplary embodiment of said shutdown valve(130) can comprise connecting tube(132), a diaphragm(134), a pressurizing member(136), and case(138), as shown in the drawing.
[37] The connecting tube(132), as illustrated, is connected to the branch pipe(120) and receives cooling water from the branch pipe(120). The connecting tube(132), as illustrated, is formed with a vertical blocking wall(132a) along on the inner circumference. In addition, the connecting tube(132) if formed with a cooling water bypass hole(132b) at the end edge of the blocking wall(132a) which is blocked by the diaphragm(134) which will be described later.
[38] The diaphragm(134), as illustrated, blocks the bypass hole(132b). The diaphragm(134) is formed with a flow hole(134a) through which cooling water can flow, as illustrated. The diaphragm(134) closes and opens the bypass hole(132b) by moving downward or upward by the pressure of the cooling water which is fed through the flow hole(134a) which will be described later and fills the chamber(138a) of the case(138) which will be described later.
[39] The pressurizing member(136) pressurizes the diaphragm(134) with elastic force suppressing the ascendance of the diaphragm(134). The pressurizing member(136), for an example as illustrated in Fig.3, can be constructed with a coil spring(136a) on the diaphragm(134) and the support plate(136b) which is fixed to the diaphragm(134) and supports the end of the coil spring(136a). That is, the pressurizing member(136) can be comprised with a coil spring(136a) and a support plate(136b). Here, the support plate(136b) not only supports the end of the coil spring(136a) firmly but also prevents it from contacting the diaphragm(134) directly to protect the diaphragm(134) from being damaged by the coil spring(136a).
[40] The case(138), as illustrated, is provided with the pressurizing member(136) and a chamber(138a) which is filled with cooling water, the case, as illustrated, can be provided with a valve seat which has a bypass path(BP) which is connected to the chamber(138a). In addition, the valve seat having a bypass path, different from the drawing, can alternatively be formed separately from the case(138). The said case(138) closes and opens the bypass hole(132b) and protects the diaphragm(134).
[41] The heat reactivity valve(140) opens and closes the valve seat(VS), as described earlier, by external thermal energy. The heat reactivity valve(140) opens and closes the valve seat(VS) to control the pressure of the cooling water flowing through the shutdown valve(130). In other words, the heat reactivity valve(140) controls the operation of the shutdown valve(130) according to the pressure of the cooling water
[42] Here, a heat reactivity valve(140) in accordance with this invention can be comprised of a case(lθ), driver device(20), rod(R), blocking member(30), slider(40), disc(50), and elastic member(SP), as shown in Fig. 3 which is an exemplary embodiment in accordance with this invention. The functions and their effects of the said members of the heat reactivity valve(140) set forth in this clause are described hereinbelow.
[43] As illustrated, the case(lθ) is shaped in a hollow tube. The case(lθ), for an example as shown in the enlarged drawing "A," can be comprised of; a main case(12) which incorporates a rod(R) and the cylinder(42) and elastic member(SP) of a slider(40) which will be described later; and a base case(14) which is connected with the 12 and encloses disk(50) and blocking sleeve(52) which will be described later. That is, the case(lθ) can be constructed with multiple members. However, the case(lθ) can also be formed in a single cylinder shape according to the features of the enclosed parts.
[44] As shown in the enlarged drawing "A," an end of the case(lθ) is open where a case through-hole(lθa), through which the diver member(20) is inserted, is formed. That is, the case(lθ) is not fixed with the driver device(20).
[45] The driver device(20) provides the driving force using the thermal energy from the environment. That is, the driver device (20) generates driving force of the valve assembly according to the temperature of the roof. The driver device(20), for an example as illustrated in the drawing, can be comprised of a housing(22) connected with the rod(R) and expansible material which is contained in the housing(22) and presses the rod(R) with the expansion force by external heat. That is, the driver device(20) can be constructed with a housing(22) and expansible material.
[46] The said expansible material, for an example, can be wax(24) which is filled in the housing(22) and expands from solid to liquid state by the heat transferred from outside. The phase transition temperature of the wax(24) is preferred to be between about 30°Cto 95 0 C, which is the typical temperature of a roof heated up by sunshine in a hot day, for the heat reactivity valve(140) in accordance with this invention is applied to a roof cooling system.
[47] The driver device(20), as illustrated in Fig. 3, may further include; a diaphragm(26) which isolates the wax(24) and rod(R) and presses the rod(R) when the wax(24) expands; and pressure oil(28) which is filled in between the diaphragm(26) and rod(R) and presses the rod(R). In this case, the diaphragm(26) separates the wax(24) and pressure oil(28) and transfers the expansion force of the wax(24) to pressure oil(28). Here, the function of the additional pressure oil(28) is, because oil has superior fluidity to that of wax(24) and thus, can transmit the expansion force to rod(R) faster than wax(24).
[48] As shown in the enlarged drawing "A," the driver device(20) is inserted into the through-hole(lθa) in the case providing gap between housing(22) and case(lθ). Therefore, the driver device(20) can move in the through-hole (10a) as required.
[49] The rod(R), as shown in the drawing, is inserted into a cylinder(42), which will be described later, and placed inside of the case(lθ). The rod(R) is pressed by the driving force of the driver device(20) which is provided by the expansion force of the wax(24).
[50] The blocking member(30) prevents the rod(R) to be moved by the driver device(20).
In other words, the rod(R) cannot move when pressed by the driver device(20) because it is blocked by the blocking member(30).
[51] As shown in the enlarged drawing "A," the blocking member(30), for an example, can be constructed by as a single member with the rod(R), comprising; a support protrusion(32) which protrudes outside of the rod(R) and blocked by the case(lθ) to retain the movement of the rod(R); and a contact-prevention means which prevents the support protrusion(32) from contacting with the disc(50) which is moved by the slider(40).
[52] In this case, as shown in theenlarged drawing "B," the support protrusion(32) is preferredly formed with a metallic material in a rod- shape which is installed at the end of the rod(R) horizontally, in vertical angle, as supported on the step(14a) formed on the case(lθ), as illustrated in the enlarged drawing "A." In other words, the support protrusion(32) is installed at the end of the rod(R) and placed on the step(14a) formed on the case(lθ).
[53] In addition, a preferable embodiment of said contact-prevention means, for example as shown in the enlarged drawing "B," includes a receiving groove(34) which can accept the support protrusion(32) and formed on a portion of the disc(50) along the moving path of the disc(50), so that the disc(50) can move with the support protrusion(32) being inserted into the receiving groove(34). In addition, the receiving groove(34) is preferably formed on the isolating sleeve(52) of the disc(50), which will be described later.
[54] The slider(40) is a member which slides along on the rod(R) by the reaction force generated by the blocking of the rod(R) by the blocking member(30). The slide(40), for an example, as shown in the Fig. 3 can be constituted with; a cylinder(42) which is inserted into and slidable in the rod(R) and the two ends are connected with the driverdevice(20) and disc(50), respectively; an end connector(44) which connects an end of the cylinder(42) to the driver device(20); and the other end connector(46) which connects the other end of the cylinder(42) to the disc(50). That is. the slider(40) can be comprised with a cylinder(42), an end connector (44), and other end connector(46). The functions and their effects of the said members of the slider(40) set forth above are described in more detail hereinbelow.
[55] The cylinder(42), as illustrated in the drawings, has one end connected to the housing(22) of the driver device(20), and another end connected to the blocking sleeve(52) of the disc(50) which will be described later. The cylinder(42) as described above slides along on the rod(R) as the rod(R) which transfers the force from the driver device(20) cannot move by being blocked by the blocking member(30).In other words, the cylinder(42) moves up and down by the reaction force of the rod(R).
[56] The end connector (44), for an example, as shown in the enlargeddrawing "A," can be implemented with; a flange(44a) which is formed at the end of the cylinder(42); and the caulking blade(44b) which formed on the said driver device(20), caulked into the flange(44a) to fix the flange(44a) to the driver device(20). That is, an end of the end connector(44) is connected with the housing(22) of the driver device(20) as the flange(44a) on the end is caulked with the caulking blade(44b). In this embodiment, the end side of the cylinder(42) where the flange(44a) is formed is preferably formed with a concave to contain the press oil(28) described earlier.
[57] The other end connector(46), for an example, as shown in the enlarged drawing "B," can be can be implemented with; projection pin(46a) whose one end is joined with the cylinder(42) and the other end protrudes out from the cylinder(42); and a hole-shaped penetrating means(46b) through which the protruding end of the projection pin(46a) is inserted. The projection pin(46a), as shown in the enlarged drawing "B," penetrates throughthe hole-shaped penetrating means(46b) formed on the blocking sleeve(52) of the disc(50) and joined with the joining hole(42a) formed on the cylinder(42). That is, one end of the projection pin(46a) is joined with the cylinder(42) and the other, protruding end is in the hole-shaped penetrating means(46b) of the blocking sleeve(52).
[58] The projection pin(46a), as shown in Fig. 3, pulls the blocking sleeve(52), being inserted into the hole-shaped penetrating means(46b), when the cylinder(42) ascends or descends. Consequently, the blocking sleeve(52) moves with the cylinder(42).
[59] The said disc(50) opens and closes the valve seat as being moved by the slider(40).
The disc(50) can be, for an example, as shown in the drawing, can be comprised with; a blocking sleeve(52) which has an end connected with the slider(40) and moves together with the slider(40) along on the outer circumference of the rod(R) which is installed inside the case(lθ), and another blocked end which is faces the valve seat; and a valve member(54)which is joined with the other end of the blocking sleeve(52) and opens and closes the valve seat by the movement of the blocking sleeve(52). Therefore, the disc(50) can be implemented with a cylinder(42) of which an end is joined with the valve member(54) and moves with the cylinder(42) by the projection pin(46a) of the slider(40).
[60] Here, the said blocking sleeve(52), as shown in the enlarged drawing "B," also is formed with a receiving groove(34) which receives the support protrusion(32) of said blocking member(30).The blocking sleeve(52) has its bottom side on one end as the other end is blocked. Therefore, the blocking sleeve(52) has one end open and another end blocked.
[61] The said valve member(54), as illustrated, can be implemented with; an elastic, protruding fixing member(54a) which is fixed on the other end of the blocking sleeve(52); and an elastic sealing membrane(54b) which is formed on the outer circumference surface of the protruding fixing member(54a) as a flange and whose circumference edge is fixed to the case(lθ) to seal the outer circumference surface of the protruding fixing member(54a). The valve member(54) is preferably made of rubber or polyurethane which has excellent elasticity and resistance against water.
[62] The elastic member(SP), asillustrated, supports the disc(50) elastically, being installed inside of the case(lθ). Therefore, the disc(50), when moved by the said slider(40), returns to its original position by the elastic force of the elastic member when the driving by the driver device(20) has been stoped.
[63] In addition, the said heat reactivity valve(140), as illustrated in the drawing, is preferably formed with a heat collection panel(60) which is joined with the driver device(20) as an integrated body and collects heat from ambient and transmit the heat to the driver device(20). The heat collection panel(60) is an element which provides driving energy from external heat to the driver device(20).
[64] The heat collection panel(60) is preferably formed in a conical shape. The heat collection panel(60) can be bolt joined to the driver device(20). Here, the heat collection panel(60), as illustrated, can be bolt joined to the bush which is press fitted or weld joined to the housing(22) of the driver device(20).
[65] As an alternative method shown in the enlarged drawing "C," the heat collection panel(60) can be can be joined with the driver device(20) by, fixing a bush(64) which has a projection(62a) by bolting or welding, and forming a groove(22a) on the housing(22) of the driver device(20), and joining the projection(62a) and groove(22a) together.
[66] As another alternative, the heat collection panel(60) can be joined with the driver device(20) as a single member by bolting or welding a bush(not shown in the drawing) which is formed with female thread inside, on its inside, and forming male thread on the outside of the housing(22) of the driver device(20), and joining them together with the treads.
[67] The heat collection panel(60) can be coated with black paint for efficient collection of sunshine. In addition, the heat collection panel(60) can be made of copper or other metal which has good heat conductivity.
[68] The said heat reactivity valve(140) can be so constructed as to be able to be cooled down by a valve cooling member(150) which bypasses aportion of the cooling water in the branch pipe(120). Here, the valve cooling member(150) is a member implemented for efficient cooling of the heat reactivity valve(140).
[69] The said valve cooling member(150), for an example as illustrated in the drawings, can be implemented with a bypass tube(152) which bypasses the cooling water in the branch pipe(120) to the heat reactivity valve(140); and a nozzle(154) which sprays the cooling water onto the heat reactivity valve(140) from the end of the bypass tube(152).As illustrated, the bypass tube(152) is connected with the connector tube(132) of the said shutdown valve(130) to receive the cooling water from the 1 driver device(20), and sprays the cooling water onto the housing(22) as the 154 is close to the housing(22) of the driver device(20).
[70] In addition, the valve cooling member(150), as illustrated, is provided with a spacing member to keep appropriate distance between the bypass tube(152) and heat reactivity valve(140). This spacing member maintains constant gap betweenthe end of the bypass tube(152) in which a nozzles(154) is installed and the housing(22) of the driver device(20).
[71] The spacing member, for an example as illustrated in the drawings, can be implemented with a coil spring(156) of which one end is wound on the end of the bypass tube(152) in which a nozzle(154) is installed and the other end is wound on the heat reactivity valve(140). In order to be able to provide elastic force, an end of the coil spring(156) is wound on the bypass tube(152) by several turns and the other end, as illustrated in the enlarged drawing "D," is wound and fixed on the housing(22) of the driver device(20). Here, the housing(22) is preferable formed along the insertion groove(22b) into which the other end of the coil spring(156) is inserted in circular shape.
[72] Referring to the Fig. 4, in the said heat reactivity valve(140), the slider(40) moves
(ascends) along the rod(R) when the wax(24) in the driver device(20) expands by the temperature rise on the roof, at this time, In theslider(40), as shown in the enlarged drawing "E," the cylinder(42) is moved upward by the reaction force generated by the expansion of the wax(24), which in turn makes the diaphragm(26) to be expanded and deformed to cause the pressure oil(28) to press the rod(R). At this time, the cylinder (42) moves upwards together with the 20m and or course, the driver device(20) ascend to the top of the case(lθ), as illustrated.
[73] As illustrated in the enlarged drawing "F," the slider(40) pulls the disc(50) upward as it ascends. Therefore, the cylinder(42) moves the blocking sleeve(52) of the disc(50) upward when it ascends. At this time, the cylinder(42) pulls the blocking sleeve(52) upward with its projection pin(46a) is latched with the hole-shaped penetrating means(46b).
[74] At this time, as illustrated in the enlarged drawing "F," the valve member(54) moves upward together with the blocking sleeve(52). And, the valve member(54) opens the valve seat(VS) by being departed from the valve seat(VS) at a gap(G2). Consequently, the valve member(54) aligns the bent bypass path(BP) allowing fluid to flow through.
[75] When the bypass path(BP) has been opened as described above, as illustrated in the enlarged drawing "G," the cooling water in the bypass path(BP) of the connecting tube(132), which is on the right side of the blocking wall(132a) of the shutdown valve(130) in the drawing, enter the bypass path(BP) through the flow hole(134a) of the diaphragm(134). In addition, the cooling water in the chamber(138a) of the case(138) is discharged through the bypass path(BP) too. At this time, the pressure in the chamber(138a) on the bypass path-side of the connecting tube(132) drops as the cooling water in the chamber(138a) is discharged through the bypass path. Therefore, the cooling water in the left side of the blocking wall(132a) of the connecting tube(132) in the drawing pushes the diaphragm(134) upward, overflows the blocking wall(132a) and flows into the branch pipe(120) through the connecting tube(132). At this time, the coil spring(136a) in the chamber(138a) is compressed.
[76] Hear, when said rod(R) is pressed by the driver device(20), the support protrusion(32) is stopped by the step on the case(lθ), as shown in the enlarged drawing "E," and the rod(R) does nor move downward. Therefore, the rod(R) is stopped by the support protrusion(32). When the disc(50) is pushed upward by the slider(40), the support protrusion(32) is in the receiving groove(34) formed on the blocking sleeve(52) of the disc(50). Therefore, the support protrusion(32) does not contact with the blocking sleeve(52) because it is in the receiving groove(34), and the support protrusion(32) does not interrupt the movement of the blocking sleeve(52).
[77] When the driver device(20) is cooled down by the cooling water sprayed from the nozzle(122) on the branch pipe(120) described earlier, the wax(24) in the driver device(20) is solidified and contracted, and stops pressing the rod(R). Therefore, the cylinder(42) of the slider(40) returns to its original position together with the disc(50), as shown in Fig. 3, by the spring force of the elastic member which applies pressure on the disc(50).
[78] At this time, the valve member(54) closes the bypass path(BP) by closing the valve seat, as shown in Fig. 3. Therefore, the cooling water, which enters the chamber(138a) of the case(138), overflowing the blocking wall(132a) and through the flow hole(134a) of the diaphragm(134), is not discharged to the bypass path(BP) but enters the chamber(138a) and presses the diaphragm(134) downward together with the spring force of the coil spring(136a). Consequently, the diaphragm(134) closes the bypass hole(132b) on top of the blocking wall(132a), as shown in Fig. 3.
[79] The time required for opening and closing of the disc(50) is dependent upon the diameter(D) of the hole-shaped penetrating means(46b), as shown in the enlarged drawing "F," because the blocking sleeve(52) moves upward and downward by the projection pin(46a) of which one end is latched on the hole-shaped penetrating means(46b). If the diameter(D) of the hole-shaped penetrating means(46b) is large, the disc(50) is moved upward by the projection pin(46a) of the slider(40) after a certain time when the projection pin(46a) has ascended. If the diameter(D) of the hole-shaped penetrating means(46b) is small, the blocking sleeve(52) moves upward almost a the same time as the slider(40) because the projection pin(46a) is latched with the top of the hole-shaped penetrating means(46b) immediately. Therefore, the opening and closing time of the disc(50) is determined by the diameter(D) of the hole-shaped penetrating means(46b).
[80] On the other hand, the said opening and closing time is also related with the phase transition (expansion) temperature of the wax(24) filled in the driver device(20). If the diameter(D) of the hole-shaped penetrating means(46b) is large, the wax(24) is heated up to relatively higher temperature, because the disc(50) is moved upward late and the cooling water spray from the nozzles on the branch pipe(120) becomes late, giving the wax(24) more time to receive heat. On the contrary, if the diameter(D) of the hole- shaped penetrating means(46b) is small and the disc(50) is moved upward fast, the wax(24) is heated up to relatively lower temperature and then cooled down by the earlier cooling water spray from the housing(22). Therefore, the diameter(D) of the hole-shaped penetrating means(46b) can be utilized to control the heating and cooling temperature of the wax(24).
[81] When the valve cooling member(150) is provided as shown in Fig. 4, wax(24) can be easily cooled by the cooling water sprayed from the bypass tube(152) of the valve cooling member(150). If the coil spring(156) for the gap retaining purpose, as illustrated, is provided, the valve cooling member(150) can spray cooling water to the driver device(20) regardless of ambient conditions, such as wind.
[82] The said heat collecting panel(60) is preferably provided with a means for expanding its heat collecting area to improve the heat collection performance. The area expansion means can be implemented, for example as shown in Fig. 4, by corrugating the heat collecting panel(60) to enlarge its surface area. The corrugation(62) is preferably formed by embossing on the heat collecting panel(60), as shown in Fig. 4.
[83]
[84] Fig. 5 is a longitudinal section of another embodiment of the heat reactivity valve of the valve device shown in Fig. 2, Fig. 6 is a longitudinal section of the heat reactivity valve of Fig. 5 in its opening position, and Fig. 7 is a longitudinal section of the heat reactivity valve of Fig. 5 in its closing position. This exemplary embodiment differs from previous embodiment of the heat reactivity valve in accordance with this invention which was described hereinabove by the structure of the disc(50). This difference between the two embodiments is described hereinbelow, referring to the drawings.
[85] Referring to Fig. 5, the disc(50) of the heat reactivity valve in this embodiment is comprised of; a through-sleeve(55) with both ends open; a stopper(56); a block(57); an auxiliary elastic member(SP2); a fixing member(58); and a valve member(54). The functions and their effects of the said members of the disc(50) are described hereinbelow.
[86] As shown in Fig. 5, an end of the through-sleeve(55) is connected with the cylinder(42) of the slider(40) with the projection pin(46a). The through- sleeve (55) moves together with the slider(40) along on the outer surface of the rod(R) in the case(lθ) when the cylinder(42) moves upward. As shown in Fig. 5, the through- sleeve(55) is elastically supported by the elastic member(SP) in the case(lθ).
[87] The stopper(56) is formed as a cylindrical projection. As illustrated, the stopper(56) is formed on one side of the inner surface of the through-sleeve(55), protruding against the opposite side. As illustrated, the stopper(56) can be fixed on the inner surface of the through-sleeve(55) with an end being inserted into the inner circumference of the ring embedded in the through-sleeve(55).
[88] The block(57) is formed on the opposite side of the inner surface of the through- sleeve(55), as illustrated, with a gap between the stopper(56). The block(57) is mounted on the inner surface of the through-sleeve(55), but still separable, using a fixing member(59) which will be described later. Therefore, the block(57) moves together with the through-sleeve(55).
[89] The auxiliary elastic member(SP2), as illustrated, is formed inside of the through- sleeve(55) and supports the block(57) elastically. The auxiliary elastic member(SP2), as illustrated, is preferably so formed as its both ends are fixed by being inserted into the stopper(56) and block(57), respectively.
[90] The fixing member(58) joins block(57) onto the inner surface of the through- sleeve(55), at desired position separably when necessary. Therefore, the block(57) is attached to or separated from the preset position on the inner surface of the through- sleeve(55), using the fixing member(58).
[91] The fixing member(58), for an example as illustrated, can be implemented by being comprised of; an inner spring(58a) which is embedded in the block(57) having its both ends oriented to the both sides of the through-sleeve(55); spherical members(58b) which are elastically supported by both ends of the inner spring(58a) and protruded out from both sides of the block(57); and the concaves(58c) which are formed on the other side of the inner surface of the through-sleeve(55) to receive the spherical members(58b). In summary, the fixing member(58) can be comprised of an inner spring(58a), spherical members(58b), and concaves(58c). [92] The said spherical members (58b) can be perfect sphere balls as shown in the drawings, or hemispherical with the spherical side facing outward. The concaves(58c) are formed along on the inner surface of the through-sleeve(55). The concaves(58c) are preferably formed with slopes (58c') on their bottom sides, as illustrated in the enlarged drawing, so that the spherical members(58b) can come out of the concaves(58c) easily.
[93] The said valve member(54), as illustrated, is constructed with the protruding fixing member(54a) and sealing membrane(54b) as the same as the valve member(54) illustrated in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, and is joined with the bottom of the block(57) and opens and closes the valve seat(VS) by the movement of the block(57).
[94] In this another exemplary embodiment of the heat reactivity valve in accordance with this invention, the opening and closing time of the disc(50) is dependent upon the gap between the stopper(56) and block(57), as described later.
[95]
[96] In this another exemplary embodiment of the heat reactivity valve in accordance with this invention, when the wax(24) in the driver device(20) is not heated up to preset temperature level, the disc(50) remains on the bottom position and closes the valve seat(VS) with the valve member(54).
[97] Referring to Fig. 6, in this another exemplary embodiment of the heat reactivity valve in accordance with this invention, when the wax(24) in the driver device(20) is heated up and the driver device(20) presses the rod(R), the cylinder(42) moves upward by the reaction force of the rod(R). At this time, the cylinder(42) is separated from the end of the rod(R) by a gap(ΔH).
[98] When moving upward, the cylinder(42) pulls the through-sleeve(55) which is fixed on the projection pin(46a) upward. At this time, the stopper(56) remains at the original position as the rod(R) does mot go up. But the block(57) moves upward together with the through-sleeve(55), as the spherical members(58b) of the fixing member(58) are latched with the concaves(58c) of the through-sleeve(55).
[99] The block(57) moves upward together with the valve member(54), and the valve member(54) opens the valve seat, as illustrated, enabling the shutdown valve(130) to feed cooling water into the branch pipe(120) (refer to Fig. 3, too).
[100] The block(57) stops upward movement when its top contacts the stopper(56), while the through-sleeve(55) keeps going upward by the cylinder(42).
[101] Referring to Fig. 7, as the through-sleeve(55) keeps moving up, the spherical members(58b) of the fixing member(58) is inserted into the horizontal hole of the block(57), while compressing the auxiliary elastic member(SP2). Therefore, the block(57) is released from the inner surface of the through-sleeve(55). At this time, the block(57) returns to its original position by the elastic force of the auxiliary elastic member(SP2). That is, the block(57) returns to its original position while the through- sleeve(55) is moving upward. At this time, the valve member(54) closes the valve seat(VS).
[102] When the gap(G3) between the block(57) and stopper(56) is larger, block(57) contact with the stopper(56) later, and if closer, they contact faster. Therefore, when the gap(G3) is larger, block(57) returns later, and vice versa. Consequently, when the gap(G3) is large, the valve seat is closed later, and when the gap(G3) is smaller, the valve seat is closed faster. This means that the opening and closing time of the valve seat(VS) can be controlled with the gap(G3).
[103]
[104] In the mechanical-control-type automatic fluid spray system in accordance with this invention, the heat reactivity valve(140) is driven by the expansion force of the wax(24) filled in the driver device(20), automatically according to the ambient temperature, without external power supply. Because the system does not require external power supply, the time and cost required for wiring and cabling work can be reduced, and even valve controller is not necessary. Since the heat reactivity valve in accordance with this invention is driven and operated mechanically, it requires no electric power.
[105] In addition, the system can spray cooling water on a roof utilizing solar energy and saving electricity.
[106] In addition, when the valve cooling member(150) in accordance with this invention, which can cool down the heat reactivity valve(140) efficiently and effectively, is applied, the problem in the conventional systems including partial overheating of roof due to failure to cool down the heat reactivity valve(140) can be prevented.
[107]
[108] While it is apparent that the illustrative embodiments of the invention herein disclose fulfills the objective stated above, it will be appreciated that numerous modifications and other embodiments may be devised by those skilled in the art. Therefore, it will be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and embodiments which come within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Industrial Applicability
[109] The heat reactivity valve in accordance with this invention is driven by the expansion force of the wax filled in the driver device, automatically at the preset temperature, without external power supply. Because the heat reactivity valve in accordance with this invention is driven and operated mechanically, it requires no electric power. Because the valve does not require external power supply, the time and cost required for wiring and cabling work can be reduced, and even valve controller is not necessary.
[110] In addition, the valve operation speed can be precisely controlled with the diameter of the through-hole-type penetrating means which is formed on the blocking sleeve of the disc, to which the projection pin of the slider is latched, or with the gap between the stopper and block.
[I l l] In addition, prompt response to ambient temperature can be implemented by applying a heat collection panel which also provides the reliability of operation in relation with ambient temperature.
[112] The mechanically-controlled automatic fluid spray system employing the heat reactivity valve in accordance with the invention can spray cooling water on roof automatically in accordance with ambient temperature, thus, saving energy cost by utilizing solar energy.
[113] In addition, the temperature of the heat reactivity valve can be precisely controlled by applying a valve cooling device, therefore, failure of the valve to operate due to improper cooling, which is a problem in conventional systems, can be prevented.