KR20230133323A - circular flow device - Google Patents

Abstract

A circulating flow device consistent with the technology disclosed herein is configured to be sealably coupled to a liquid flow circuit. The circulating flow device is configured to change the flow rate of liquid through the filter media holder. In various embodiments, a circulating flow device is configured to vary the flow rate of liquid through a portion of a liquid flow circuit. The circular flow device may be configured to circularly change the flow rate of liquid in the liquid flow circuit through the filter media holder.

Description

circular flow device

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/143,174, filed January 29, 2021, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

This disclosure relates generally to flow devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to circular flow devices.

In the development of filtration media, fluid flow test benches are often employed to help test the efficacy of the filtration media. The test bench typically defines a closed liquid flow circuit that pumps fluid. The filtration medium is typically mounted within the liquid flow circuit of the test bench such that the pumped fluid passes through the filtration medium. Fluids are often charged with one or more contaminants upstream of the filtration media, and the effectiveness of the filtration media in separating contaminants can be quantified based on a variety of parameters including efficiency, pressure drop, collection capacity, etc.

Typically, the fluid in the test bench is pumped through a liquid flow circuit at a constant flow rate. However, in many practical implementations of filtration media, the flow rate varies during use. These flow rate changes affect the performance of the filter media. As such, there is a general interest in having the ability to test filter media under variable flow conditions. Test benches have been developed to circulate the flow of fluid within the test bench, but these test benches can be relatively large, complex, and expensive.

The circulating flow device described herein is configured to be installed along a liquid flow circuit to achieve a variable flow rate through at least a portion of the liquid flow circuit. The circulating flow device may be a component of a liquid flow circuit, or it may be a retrofit device configured to be installed within an existing liquid flow circuit. In the latter case, an existing liquid flow circuit can be designed to have a constant flow rate, and the circular flow device can be an improved device that modifies the liquid flow circuit to have a variable flow rate rather than a constant flow rate.

In some embodiments, current technology relates to circular flow devices. The housing has a first variable volume and a first flow opening. The first flow opening extends into the first variable volume. The housing has a movable side wall defining a first variable volume. A first conduit coupling structure is around the first flow opening. A linear actuator is fixed to the movable side wall.

In some such embodiments, the movable sidewall is a piston. Additionally or alternatively, the linear actuator and the movable sidewall are configured to change the flow rate of liquid within the liquid flow circuit. Additionally or alternatively, the first conduit coupling structure is configured to be sealably coupled to the liquid flow circuit. Additionally or alternatively, the piston has a media opening defining a flow path in fluid communication with the first variable volume. Additionally or alternatively, the piston includes a media engagement structure around the media opening. Additionally or alternatively, the piston forms a fluid seal with the housing over the first variable volume. Additionally or alternatively, the first flow opening is a flow inlet and a flow outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the housing has a complementary variable volume and the movable side wall defines the complementary variable volume. Additionally or alternatively, the housing has a second flow opening extending into a complementary variable volume. Additionally or alternatively, the circular flow device is an improved device.

Some examples of current technology relate to circular flow devices with a housing and piston. The housing has a flow inlet, a flow outlet, and a cavity extending axially from the flow inlet to the flow outlet. The piston is disposed across the cavity and forms a seal with the housing. The piston is capable of linear translation axially along the cavity. The piston defines an axially extending media opening in fluid communication with the cavity.

In some such embodiments, the device includes an actuator translationally coupled to the piston. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator is configured to cyclically translate the piston between the first and second positions within the cavity. Additionally or alternatively, the first location faces the first end of the cavity and the second location faces the second end of the cavity. Additionally or alternatively, the piston defines a media engagement structure around the media opening.

Another example of current technology concerns circular flow devices. The housing has a first variable volume defining the first flow opening, and a conduit coupling structure around the first flow opening. The conduit coupling structure is configured to be removably coupled to the liquid flow circuit. The actuator is in operational communication with the housing. The actuator is configured to cause the housing to cyclically accumulate liquid in the liquid flow circuit in the first variable volume and discharge liquid from the first variable volume into the liquid flow circuit.

In some such embodiments, the device includes a flow sensor positioned within the first flow opening, and a controller coupled to the actuator. The controller communicates data with the flow sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the housing is a cylinder. Additionally or alternatively, the system includes a piston translatably disposed within the cylinder, wherein the first variable volume is defined by the cylinder and the piston. Additionally or alternatively, a complementary variable volume is defined by a cylinder and a piston, the cylinder defining a second flow opening extending into the complementary variable volume. Additionally or alternatively, the first variable volume is a bladder. Additionally or alternatively, the first flow opening is a flow inlet and a flow outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the circular flow device is an improved device.

In another exemplary embodiment, the current technology relates to a circular flow device having a housing defining a first variable volume and a complementary variable volume. The housing has an outer casing with a fixed volume. A bladder is placed within the casing. The bladder defines a first variable volume. A bladder inlet extends into the first variable volume and a bladder outlet extends from the first variable volume. A complementary variable volume is defined between the bladder and the casing. The casing defines a casing inlet and a casing outlet. A flow control valve is operably coupled to the bladder outlet. An actuator is operably coupled to the flow control valve. The actuator is configured to switch the flow control valve between a restricted position and an open position.

In some such embodiments, the bladder inlet and casing inlet are at opposite axial ends of the housing. Additionally or alternatively, a flow sensor is positioned adjacent the bladder discharge and a controller is coupled to the actuator, with the controller in data communication with the flow sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the device includes a first conduit coupling structure around the bladder outlet, a second conduit coupling structure around the casing outlet, a third conduit coupling structure around the bladder inlet, and a fourth conduit coupling structure around the casing inlet. and each conduit coupling structure is configured to be coupled to the liquid flow circuit. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator is configured to cause the bladder to cyclically accumulate and release liquid. Additionally or alternatively, the circular flow device is an improved device.

Some embodiments of the current technology relate to a circular flow device having a housing defining a first variable volume and a first flow opening extending into the first variable volume. The housing has a movable side wall defining a first variable volume. An actuator is operably coupled to the movable side wall. A flow sensor is configured to sense liquid flow rate. The controller communicates data with the flow sensor and operationally communicates with the actuator. The controller is configured to actuate the actuator to determine the liquid flow rate for the flow sensor.

In some such embodiments, the movable sidewall includes a piston. Additionally or alternatively, the piston defines the opening and the media engagement structure around the opening. Additionally or alternatively, a flow sensor is disposed on the piston. Additionally or alternatively, the flow sensor is disposed adjacent the first flow opening. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator is a linear actuator. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator is configured to actuate the flow control valve. Additionally or alternatively, the housing has a first conduit coupling structure about the first flow opening, the first conduit coupling structure being configured to sealably couple to the liquid flow circuit. Additionally or alternatively, the first flow opening is a flow inlet and a flow outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the housing has a complementary variable volume and the movable side wall defines the complementary variable volume. Additionally or alternatively, the housing has a second flow opening extending into a complementary variable volume.

The above content is not intended to describe each embodiment or every implementation. Rather, a more complete understanding of the exemplary embodiments will become apparent and appreciated by reference to the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments and the claims in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

1 is a schematic flow diagram of an example test bench consistent with an example implementation of current technology.
2 is a schematic flow diagram of another example test bench consistent with another example implementation of current technology.
3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary circular flow device.
4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary circular flow device.
Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary circular flow device.
Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary circular flow device.
7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative exemplary variable volume housing.
Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary circular flow device.
Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary circular flow device.
The present technology may be more fully understood and appreciated upon consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
Drawings are presented primarily for clarity and, as a result, are not necessarily drawn to scale. Additionally, various structures/components, including, but not limited to, fasteners, electrical components (wiring, cables, etc.), and the like, the inclusion of such structures/components may be useful in understanding the various exemplary embodiments described herein. Where not necessary, or to better illustrate aspects of the depicted embodiments, they may be shown schematically or omitted from some or all of the drawings. However, the absence of illustration/description of such structures/components in a particular drawing should not be construed as limiting the scope of the various embodiments in any way.

Circulating flow devices consistent with the technology disclosed herein can have a variety of configurations. Circulating flow devices are generally configured to vary the flow rate of liquid through a filter media holder. In various embodiments, a circulating flow device is configured to vary the flow rate of liquid through a portion of a liquid flow circuit. The circular flow device may be configured to circularly change the flow rate of liquid in the liquid flow circuit through the filter media holder. This circulation of flow rate through the filter media holder can advantageously provide a media testing environment that provides a closer representation of the actual operating environment of the filter media. “Circular flow” is generally defined as a flow rate that fluctuates in a repeating pattern over time.

The circulating flow device may be an existing liquid flow circuit or a retrofitted device configured to sealably couple to an integral component of the liquid flow circuit. If the circulating flow device is a retrofit device, the circulating flow device is configured to be installed within an existing liquid flow circuit. An existing liquid flow circuit may be configured to have a constant flow rate, and a circular flow device may be an improved device that modifies the liquid flow circuit to have a variable flow rate rather than a constant flow rate. As defined herein, a “retrofit device” is an accessory component that is configured to be added to a system to modify an existing system. In various embodiments, a circular flow device is an improved device configured to modify a constant flow rate liquid flow circuit to exhibit circular flow conditions through a portion of the liquid flow circuit.

1 is a schematic flow diagram of a first exemplary liquid flow circuit 10 consistent with various implementations of the state of the art. In various embodiments, liquid flow circuit 10 is consistent with a multi-pass filter media test bench. Liquid flow circuit 10 generally has an inlet line 12 extending from fluid reservoir 20 to filter media holder 30. The fluid reservoir 20 is generally configured to contain liquid passing through the liquid flow circuit 10. Liquids may be, for example, water, hydraulic fluid, fuel, and oil. Contaminant injector 22 is generally in fluid communication with fluid reservoir 20. The contaminant injector 22 is configured to inject contaminants into the fluid storage unit 20 . In various embodiments, contaminant injector 22 is configured to inject contaminant into fluid reservoir 20 at a continuous rate. The contaminant may be, for example, test dust.

Various components may be disposed along the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. For example, pump 40 may be fluidly coupled to inlet line 12. Pump 40 may be configured to induce liquid flow around liquid flow circuit 10 . In various embodiments, pump 40 is configured to direct liquid flow around liquid flow circuit 10 at a specific liquid flow rate. In various embodiments, a specific liquid flow rate is selectable by the user, for example, via a user interface in operational communication with pump 40.

Filter media holder 30 is generally disposed across inlet line 12. The filter media holder (30) defines an opening that is a filtration passage for liquid in the liquid flow circuit (10). Filter media holder 30 is generally configured to secure a filter media about an opening such that liquid within liquid flow circuit 10 passes through the filter media. A discharge line 14 extends from the filter media holder 30 to the fluid reservoir 20, and the discharge line 14 extends from the filter media holder 30 as the liquid is repeatedly circulated through the liquid flow circuit until the test is stopped. It is configured to receive liquid flow from (30) to the fluid reservoir (20). Various additional and alternative components may be disposed along discharge line 14.

Pressure sensor 50 is configured to sense differential pressure across media holder 30. In particular, the pressure sensor 50 may have a first sensor 52 configured to measure the liquid pressure on the upstream side of the medium holder 30, and the pressure sensor 50 on the downstream side of the medium holder 30. It may be provided with a second sensor 54 configured to measure the liquid pressure. According to some test procedures, testing of the filter media is terminated when the pressure sensor 50 detects a critical differential pressure across the media holder 30 (and thus across the filter media mounted in the media holder 30).

Liquid flow circuit 10 includes an upstream particle counter 60 and a downstream particle counter 62. An upstream particle counter (60) is located along the liquid flow circuit (10) upstream of the media holder (30). A downstream particle counter (62) is located along the liquid flow circuit (10) downstream of the media holder (30). Particle counters 60, 62 may correspond to particle counters known in the art.

A flow sensor 70 configured to monitor the flow rate of liquid through the liquid flow circuit 10 is generally located along the liquid flow circuit 10 . In some embodiments, flow sensor 70 communicates with a user interface to report flow rate to the user. In some embodiments, flow sensor 70 is in data communication with a controller that is in operational communication with pump 40 to ensure that a constant flow rate is achieved. In some such embodiments, flow sensor 70 may also communicate data with a user interface to report flow rate to the user.

2 is a schematic flow diagram of another example test bench consistent with another example implementation of current technology. In various embodiments, liquid flow circuit 11 corresponds to a single-pass filter media test bench. Liquid flow circuit 11 generally defines a single-pass flow path 15 extending between fluid reservoir 21 and filter media holder 31. More specifically, a single-pass flow path (15) extends from a recirculating flow path (13) with a fluid reservoir (21) through a filter media holder (31) to the drain tank (23). The single-pass flow path 15 has an inlet line 12 extending from the recirculation flow path 13 to the filter media holder 31, and an outlet line extending from the filter media holder 31 to the drain tank 23 ( 14) is provided.

Fluid reservoir 21 is generally configured to contain liquid passing through a single-pass flow path 15. Liquids may be, for example, water, hydraulic fluid, fuel, and oil. In the present example, the liquid contains contaminants such as test dust, and the liquid-contaminant mixture passes through a recirculating flow path 13 with a recirculating pump 42 to prevent settling of the contaminants within the reservoir 21. is recycled through

Various components may be disposed along the single-pass flow path 15. A sample pump 41 may be fluidly coupled to the single-pass flow path 15. Sample pump 41 may be configured to direct liquid flow through a single-pass flow path 15 . In various embodiments, sample pump 41 is configured to direct liquid flow through a single-pass flow path at a specific liquid flow rate. In various embodiments, the specific liquid flow rate is selectable by the user, for example, via a user interface in operational communication with sample pump 41.

The filter media holder (31) is generally disposed across the single-pass flow path (15). The filter media holder (31) defines an opening that is a filtration passage for liquid in the single-pass flow path (15). The filter media holder 31 is generally configured to secure the filter media around an opening, allowing liquid within the single-pass flow path 15 to pass through the filter media. A single-pass flow path 15 extends from the filter media holder 31 to the drain tank 23, in which the liquid filtered by the filter media (on the filter media holder 31) is retained.

The pressure sensor 51 is generally configured to sense the differential pressure across the media holder 31 . The pressure sensor 51 may have a configuration similar to that shown in FIG. 1 , except that there is a liquid pressure sensor on the upstream side of the medium holder 31 and another liquid pressure sensor on the downstream side of the medium holder 31 . The single-pass flow path 15 may also be equipped with an upstream particle counter 61 and a downstream particle counter 63, which are consistent with particle counters known in the art.

A flow sensor 71 configured to monitor the flow rate of liquid through the single-pass flow path 15 is generally positioned along the single-pass flow path 15 . In some embodiments, flow sensor 71 communicates with a user interface to report flow rate to the user. In some embodiments, flow sensor 71 is in data communication with a controller that is in operational communication with sample pump 41 to ensure that a constant flow rate is achieved. Flow sensor 71 may also communicate data with a user interface to report flow rate to the user.

The circular flow device described herein may be installed on a liquid flow circuit such as that shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 to enable liquid flow through the liquid flow circuit with a variable flow rate rather than a generally constant flow rate.

3 shows one example schematic cross-sectional view of an example circular flow device 100 consistent with various embodiments. Circulating flow device 100 has a housing 110 defining a first variable volume 116 . Housing 110 has a movable side wall 124 defining a first variable volume 116 . Housing 110 has a first flow opening 112 extending into a first variable volume 116 .

Circulating flow device 100 is generally configured to vary the liquid flow rate through media holder 130. Circulating flow device 100 may be configured to generate circulating liquid flow conditions through media holder 130 . In various embodiments, the circulating flow device 100 is configured to circulate the flow rate of liquid through the media holder 130.

Housing 110 generally has a first flow opening 112, a second flow opening 114, and a cavity 111 extending from the first flow opening 112 to the second flow opening 114. The first flow opening 112 and the second flow opening 114 are defined on both axial ends of the housing 110 . In various embodiments, first flow opening 112 may be a flow inlet. In various embodiments, second flow opening 114 may be a flow outlet. In various embodiments, first flow opening 112 is only a flow inlet and not a flow outlet.

The movable side wall 124 is a piston 124 disposed across the cavity 111 . Piston 124 forms a fluid seal with the inner surface of housing 110. Piston 124 is generally axially linearly translatable along cavity 111 . Thereby, the position of the piston 124 within the cavity 111 defines the volume of the first variable volume 116 and the volume of the complementary variable volume 118 opposite the piston 124. First flow opening 112 extends into first variable volume 116 . The second flow opening 114 extends into a complementary variable volume 118 .

Piston 124 is generally equipped with a media holder 130 configured to hold filtration media for testing. The media holder 130 generally has a media coupling structure 131 configured to secure the filter media to the piston 124 . Media coupling structure 131 is configured to form a seal around the edges of the filter media to guide fluid flow through the filter media. The media coupling structure 131 may be a clamp, for example. Media holder 130 defines media opening 132, an opening extending axially through piston 124. Media opening 132 is in fluid communication with cavity 111 . Media openings 132 define a flow path between first variable volume 116 and complementary variable volume 118 . Media coupling structure 131 generally surrounds media opening 132 such that the filter media coupled to media coupling structure 131 extends across media opening 132. Media openings 132 extend from first variable volume 116 to complementary variable volume 118 .

In some embodiments, media openings 132 are a plurality of discrete openings penetrating movable sidewalls 124 that cumulatively define media openings 132 . This configuration advantageously provides structural support to the media across media openings 132. In some other embodiments, a support screen, such as a wire mesh screen, configured to provide support to the filter media is coupled to the movable sidewall 124 over the media openings 132. Other configurations may also be used.

Actuator 120 is generally operably coupled to movable sidewall 124. In the current example, actuator 120 is translationally coupled to piston 124 via shaft 122. In various embodiments, actuator 120 is a linear actuator secured to piston 124. Actuator 120 is configured to drive linear translation of piston 124 through cavity 111 . More specifically, actuator 120 is configured to cyclically translate piston 124 between a first and second positions within cavity 111 . The direction and velocity of the piston 124 through the cavity 111 determines the direction, speed, and direction of fluid flow through the media opening 132 and, more specifically, through the filter media secured to the piston's media holder 130. and speed can be determined.

In various implementations, circulating flow device 100 is configured to be coupled to a liquid reservoir (not currently shown). In various implementations, the circulating flow device 100 is configured to be coupled to a liquid flow circuit 10, which may include a liquid reservoir, although only a portion of the liquid flow circuit 10 is currently shown. Although reference numbers for elements associated with the multi-pass liquid flow circuit 10 discussed above with reference to FIG. 1 are used herein for the circular flow device, the liquid flow circuit refers to the single-pass liquid flow circuit 10 discussed above with reference to FIG. 2 . It will be appreciated that this may be consistent with the flow circuit 11. In some embodiments, circulating flow device 100 is integral with liquid flow circuit 10. However, in some other examples, circulating flow device 100 is configured to be coupled to liquid flow circuit 10. Circulating flow device 100 has a first conduit coupling structure 113 around a first flow opening 112 . The first conduit coupling structure 113 is sealable to a flow line, such as the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10, such that the first flow opening 112 is in direct fluid communication with the liquid flow circuit 10. It is configured to be combined. In various embodiments, the first conduit coupling structure 113 is configured to be removably coupled to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The first conduit coupling structure 113 may generally utilize a variety of fastening mechanisms and combinations of fastening mechanisms as are generally known in the art.

Circulating flow device 100 generally includes a second conduit coupling structure 115 about a second flow opening 114 . The second conduit coupling structure 115 is connected to the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10 such that the second flow opening 114 is in direct fluid communication with the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. It is configured to be sealably coupled to the flow line. The second conduit coupling structure 115 is configured to be detachably coupled to the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The second conduit coupling structure 115 may use a variety of fastening mechanisms and combinations of fastening mechanisms as are generally known in the art.

In the present example, the circulating flow device 100 is generally configured to be installed within a liquid flow circuit 10 . In some implementations, the circulating flow device 100 is configured to replace the media holder 30 of the liquid flow circuit 10. Thereby, the medium holder 30 of the liquid flow circuit 10 can be removed, the first conduit coupling structure 113 is coupled to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10, and the second conduit coupling structure (115) is coupled to the discharge line (14) of the liquid flow circuit (10). In some other embodiments, the circulating flow device 100 is configured integrally with the liquid flow circuit. In some, but not all, of these embodiments, the circulating flow device 100 may omit one or both of the first and second conduit coupling structures 113, 115, but may omit the inlet line 12 and/or discharge line 12. Line 14 is integrated with housing 110.

As discussed above, liquid flow circuit 10 coupled to circulating flow device 100 is configured to circulate liquid through the flow circuit at a constant volumetric flow rate. When the movable side wall 124 is secured within the cavity 111, the velocity of the liquid passing through the media opening 132 (or filter media coupled to the piston 124 around the media opening) is constant, and the volume flow rate is constant through the media opening 132. It corresponds to the value divided by the flow area of the opening 132. When the movable side wall 124 is linearly translated through the cavity 111 toward the second flow opening 114, the velocity of liquid passing through the media opening 132 is reduced by the linear velocity of the movable side wall 124. When the movable side wall 124 is linearly translated through the cavity 111 toward the first flow opening 112, the velocity of liquid passing through the media opening 132 increases by the linear velocity of the movable side wall 124. This allows the fluid velocity through the media holder 130 to vary.

In some embodiments, device 100 includes a liquid flow sensor configured to sense either or both fluid flow rate or fluid flow rate through media holder 130 . In various other embodiments, device 100 may not include a liquid flow sensor, and processing system 142 may be configured to calculate the liquid flow rate and/or flow rate through media holder 130. These calculations are generally based on the linear velocity of the piston 124 and the flow rate through the liquid flow circuit 10 as described above. Processing system 142 may process liquid from data obtained from flow sensors 70, 71 of liquid flow circuit 10, discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, or from data entered by a user through a user interface. The flow rate of the flow circuit 10 can be obtained. In some such examples, flow sensors 70, 71 of flow circuits 10, 11 (FIGS. 1 and 2) are in data communication with processing system 142 configured to receive flow rate data from flow sensors 70, 71. do. Processing system 142 is shown separately from controller 140 in FIG. 3 , but in some embodiments, processing system 142 is a component of controller 140 . In some embodiments consistent with Figure 3, processing system 142 may be, for example, a computer in communication with controller 140.

In some embodiments, controller 140 is configured such that controller 140 operates an actuator (and thereby translates movable sidewall 124) to define liquid flow rate conditions through media holder 130. To do so, operational communication may be established with the actuator 120. Liquid flow rate conditions may be specified in the system by the user through a user interface such as a computer, dial, keypad, touch screen, etc. Liquid flow rate conditions may match circular flow conditions. Processing system 142 may be configured to determine the circulation rate of the piston to achieve specified liquid flow rate conditions and transmit operating commands to controller 140, wherein controller 140 transmits control signals to actuator 120. It is configured to do so. In various embodiments, actuator 120 is configured to drive circular flow conditions in response to receipt of a control signal from controller 140.

In some embodiments, removal of the media holders 30, 31 within the liquid flow circuit 10 also results in removal of the pressure sensors 50, 51 (FIGS. 1 and 2). As such, the circulating flow device 100 can include a first pressure sensor 136 disposed upstream of the movable side wall 124 of the device 100, wherein the differential pressure can be calculated across the filter media holder 130. A second pressure sensor 138 is disposed on the second side of the movable side wall 124. In some embodiments, the system may be configured to calculate liquid flow rate through media holder 130 based on differential pressure data.

There may be various modifications to the design shown in FIG. 3 that are consistent with the technology disclosed herein. The current design has a single flow inlet 112 and a single flow outlet 114, but in some embodiments, the housing 110 may have multiple inlets 112 and multiple outlets 114. Multiple inlets 112 and multiple outlets 114 may extend into the housing 110 from multiple directions. Multiple inlets extending into/from the housing can advantageously increase the speed at which the fluid flow rate can be varied, for example. Additionally, in some embodiments, the inlet and outlet may extend axially rather than transversely as shown from the housing.

4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary circular flow device 200 consistent with the technology disclosed herein. Circulating flow device 200 has a housing 210 defining a first variable volume 216 . Housing 210 has a movable side wall 224 defining a first variable volume 216 . Housing 210 has a first flow opening 212 extending into a first variable volume 216 . A conduit coupling structure (213) is disposed around the first flow opening (212). The conduit coupling structure 213 is configured to be sealably coupled to the liquid flow circuit 10 and may have a similar configuration to the conduit coupling structure discussed above. In the present example, the conduit coupling structure 213 is configured to couple to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. However, in some implementations, the conduit coupling structure 213 is configured to couple to the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10 and will operate consistent with this description. In some other embodiments, the circulating flow device 200 is configured integrally with the liquid flow circuit 10. In some, but not all, of these embodiments, the circulating flow device 200 may omit the conduit coupling structure 213, but the liquid flow circuit 10 is integral with the housing 110.

Circulating flow device 200 is configured to change the liquid flow rate through media holder 30. Circulating flow device 200 generally flows fluid through the inlet line 12 (or discharge line) of the liquid flow circuit 10 to adjust the liquid flow rate through the media holder 30 of the liquid flow circuit 10. It is configured to modify . Circulating flow device 200 may be configured to generate circular flow conditions through media holder 30 . In various embodiments, the circulating flow device 200 is configured to circulate the liquid flow rate through the media holder 30. In the present example, the media holder 30 is not defined by the circular flow device 200. Rather, the media holder 30 here is a component of the liquid flow circuit 10 (only a portion of which is currently shown) to which the circulating flow device 200 is configured to be coupled.

In the present example, circular flow device 200 may serve as an accumulator. Circulating flow device 200 is configured to be fluidly coupled to liquid flow circuit 10 upstream of media holder 30. In various embodiments, the circulating flow device 200 circulates and accumulates liquid from the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 within the housing 210 (specifically, the first variable volume 216) and ; Specifically, it is configured to discharge liquid from the first variable volume 216 into the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The liquid passes through the medium holder 30 and then through the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10.

In the present example the circulating flow device 200 is not coupled to the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10, but in some other embodiments the circulating flow device 200 is coupled to the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. ) is configured to be coupled to. In this embodiment, the circulating flow device 200 circulates and accumulates liquid from the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10 within the housing 210 and discharges the liquid from the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10 from the housing 210. (14) is configured to discharge the liquid. In this embodiment, the flow rate through media holder 30 generally decreases as liquid is expelled from housing 210 and the flow rate through media holder 30 increases as liquid accumulates within housing 210. .

Housing 210 has a first flow opening 212 and a cavity 211 extending from first flow opening 212 . Cavity 211 extends axially from first flow opening 212 toward opposite axial end 202 of housing 210 . In the current example, first flow opening 212 is a flow inlet, meaning that liquid enters the housing through first flow opening 212. In the present example, first flow opening 212 is also a flow outlet, meaning that liquid exits housing 210 through first flow opening 212. First flow opening 212 extends into first variable volume 216 .

The movable side wall 224 is a piston 224 disposed across the cavity 211 . Piston 224 forms a fluid seal with the inner surface of housing 210. Piston 224 is generally linearly translatable axially along cavity 211. Thereby, the position of the piston 224 within the cavity 211 defines the volume of the first variable volume 216 . A complementary variable volume 218 is defined on the opposite side of the piston 224 , but unlike the previous embodiment, here the complementary variable volume 218 is not supplied with liquid from the liquid flow circuit 10 . Additionally, unlike previous embodiments, piston 224 does not define a media holder. Rather, media holder 30 is a component of liquid flow circuit 10.

Actuator 220 is generally operably coupled to movable sidewall 224. In the current example, actuator 220 is translationally coupled to piston 224 via shaft 222. In various embodiments, actuator 220 is a linear actuator secured to piston 224. Actuator 220 is configured to drive linear translation of piston 224 through cavity 211 . More specifically, actuator 220 is configured to cyclically translate piston 224 between a first and second positions within cavity 211 . The direction and speed of piston 224 through cavity 211 is related to the speed of fluid flow through media holder 30 in liquid flow circuit 10. Actuator 220 and movable side wall 224 are configured to change the flow rate of liquid within liquid flow circuit 10.

More specifically, the circulating flow device 200 is configured to be fluidly coupled to the liquid flow circuit 10 to circulate liquid at a constant volumetric flow rate. When the movable side wall 224 is secured within the cavity 211, the velocity of liquid passing through the media holder 30 (or filter media coupled to the media holder about the media opening in the media holder) is constant, resulting in a volumetric flow rate. It corresponds to the value divided by the flow area of the opening of the media holder 30. When the movable side wall 224 is linearly translated through the cavity 211 away from the first flow opening 212, liquid is diverted from the liquid flow circuit 10 into the first variable volume 216. Thereby, the volumetric flow rate towards the media holder 30 is reduced by the volumetric flow rate of the liquid moving into the first variable volume 216 of the housing 210, which reduces the velocity of the liquid passing through the media holder 30. . When the movable side wall 224 is linearly translated through the cavity 211 towards the first flow opening 212, liquid is discharged from the first variable volume 216 into the liquid flow circuit 10. As a result, the volumetric flow rate through the media holder 30 increases by the volumetric flow rate of liquid exiting the housing 210. This allows the fluid velocity through the sample filter media held across the media holder 30 to be varied.

In some embodiments, circulating flow device 200 includes a flow sensor 234 configured to sense liquid flow rate. For example, flow sensor 234 may be coupled to housing 210 adjacent first flow opening 212 to sense the liquid flow rate through first flow opening 212. In some other embodiments, flow sensor 234 of device 200 may be coupled to media holder 30 within liquid flow circuit 10. In embodiments that include a flow sensor 234, the flow sensor 234 may communicate with a user interface, for example, to record and report liquid flow rate to the user. In various examples, flow sensor 234 is in data communication with controller 240. The controller 240 causes the controller 240 to actuate the actuator (and thereby translate the movable side wall 224) to determine the liquid flow rate relative to the flow sensor, and more specifically, through the media holder 30. ) may be in operational communication with the actuator 220 to be configured. In various embodiments, circular flow device 200 does not have a flow sensor 234. In some embodiments, as discussed above, the flow sensor may be a component of liquid flow circuit 10. In some embodiments, the system is configured to provide a liquid flow rate to/from device 200 based on expansion or contraction of first variable volume 216 in response to displacement of piston 224 (entered by the user or using and configured to calculate the flow rate through the media holder 30 based on the liquid flow rate through the liquid flow circuit (as measured by the sensor).

In the present exemplary configuration, the circulating flow device 200 does not replace any component of the liquid flow circuit 10 (such as the example of FIG. 3 which is configured to replace the media holder and possibly other components). Rather, in the present example, circulating flow device 200 is configured to be added to liquid flow circuit 10.

5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary circular flow device 300. Circulating flow device 300 is configured such that, in the present example, first variable volume 316 of housing 310 is in fluid communication with liquid flow circuit 10 upstream of media holder 30, Similar to that described above with reference to FIG. 4 , except that the complementary variable volume 318 of is configured to be in fluid communication with the liquid flow circuit 10 downstream of the media holder 30 . The first variable volume 316 of the housing 310 is configured to be in fluid communication with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10, and the complementary variable volume 318 of the housing 310 is configured to be in fluid communication with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. ) is configured to be in fluid communication with the discharge line 14. Circulating flow device 300 can be described as parallel to media holder 30 . This configuration advantageously facilitates circulation or modification of the velocity of fluid through the media holder 30 without significantly changing the volumetric flow through the liquid circuit upstream and downstream of the circulating flow device 300 . For example, as first variable volume 316 increases to reduce the volume of flow through media holder 30, complementary variable volume 318 decreases to release a corresponding volume of liquid.

Housing 310 generally has a first flow opening 312, a second flow opening 314, and a cavity 311 extending from the first flow opening 312 to the second flow opening 314. Circulating flow device 300 has a housing 310 defining a first variable volume 316 . Housing 310 has a movable side wall 324 defining a first variable volume 316 and a complementary variable volume 318 . Housing 310 has a first flow opening 312 extending into a first variable volume 316 and a second flow opening 314 extending into a complementary variable volume 318 . A first flow opening 312 and a second flow opening 314 are defined on both axial ends of the housing 310 . In the current example, first flow opening 312 and second flow opening 314 each serve as a flow inlet and flow outlet of housing 310.

Circulating flow device 300 is generally configured to vary the liquid flow rate through media holder 30. Circulating flow device 300 may be configured to generate circulating liquid flow conditions through media holder 30 . In various embodiments, the circulating flow device 300 is configured to circulate the liquid flow rate through the media coupling structure 30. As with the example discussed in connection with FIG. 4 , in the present example, media holder 30 is not a component of circular flow device 300. Rather, the media holder 30 is a component of the liquid flow circuit 10 to which the circulating flow device 300 is configured.

The movable side wall 324 is a piston 324 disposed across the cavity 311. Piston 324 forms a fluid seal with the inner surface of housing 310. Piston 324 is generally linearly translatable axially along cavity 311. As such, the position of the piston 324 within the cavity 311 defines the volume of the first variable volume 316 and the volume of the complementary variable volume 318 opposite the piston 324.

Actuator 320 is translationally coupled to movable side wall 324. In the current example, actuator 320 is secured to piston 324 via shaft 322. In various embodiments, actuator 320 is a linear actuator secured to piston 324. Actuator 320 is configured to drive linear translation of piston 324 through cavity 311 . More specifically, actuator 320 is configured to cyclically translate piston 324 between a first position and a second position within cavity 311 . The direction and speed of piston 324 through cavity 311 may define the rate of fluid flow through media holder 30, and more specifically through the filter media secured to media holder 30. The actuator 320 causes the housing to circulate and accumulate liquid from the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 in the first variable volume 316 and to transfer the liquid from the first variable volume 316 to the liquid flow circuit 10. It may be configured to discharge liquid into the inlet line 12.

The circulating flow device 300 is generally configured to be sealably coupled to the liquid flow circuit 10 such that the first flow opening 312 is in direct fluid communication with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. A first conduit coupling structure (313) is provided around the first flow opening (312). In various embodiments, the first conduit coupling structure 313 is configured to be removably coupled to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The circulating flow device 300 is also configured to be sealably coupled to the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit such that the second flow opening 314 is in direct fluid communication with the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. A second conduit coupling structure 315 is provided around the second flow opening 314. The second conduit coupling structure 315 is configured to be detachably coupled to the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. In some other embodiments, the circulating flow device 300 is configured integrally with the liquid flow circuit 10. In some, but not all, of these embodiments, the circular flow device 300 may omit one or both of the first and second conduit coupling structures 313, 315, but may omit the inlet line 12 and/or discharge line 12. Line 14 is integrated with housing 110.

As discussed, liquid flow circuit 10 coupled to circulating flow device 300 is generally configured to circulate liquid through the flow circuit at a constant volumetric flow rate. When the movable side wall 324 is secured within the cavity 311, the velocity of liquid passing through the opening of the media holder 30 (or filter media coupled to the media holder) is constant, and the volumetric flow rate is maintained by the media holder 30. It corresponds to the value divided by the flow area of the opening. When the movable side wall 324 is linearly translated through the cavity 311 away from the first flow opening 312, liquid from the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 flows into the first variable volume 316. accumulates within. The volumetric flow rate through the inlet line 12 is reduced by the volumetric flow rate of liquid into the first variable volume 316 of the housing 310, which reduces the velocity of liquid through the media holder 30. At the same time, the liquid in the complementary variable volume 318 is discharged into the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10.

When the movable side wall 324 is linearly translated through the cavity 311 towards the first flow opening 312, liquid from the first variable volume 316 of the housing 310 enters the liquid flow circuit 10. It is discharged into line 12. The volumetric flow rate through the inlet line 12 increases by the volumetric flow rate of liquid exiting the first variable volume 316 of the housing 310, which increases the velocity of the liquid through the media holder 30. At the same time, the complementary variable volume 318 accumulates liquid from the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The volumetric flow rate through the discharge line 14 is correspondingly reduced by the volumetric flow rate of liquid entering the complementary variable volume 318 of the housing 310 .

In the manner described above, the fluid velocity through the sample filter media held across the media holder 30 can be cyclically varied.

As discussed above, circulating flow device 300 may include a flow sensor 334 configured to sense liquid flow rate. As described above, flow sensor 334 may be configured to sense the liquid flow rate through first flow opening 312 or other portions. Flow sensor 334 may communicate with a user interface, controller 340, or both the user interface and controller 340. As described above, controller 340 may be in operational communication with actuator 320.

Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary circular flow device. Similar to the example discussed above with reference to FIG. 5 , wherein the first variable volume 416 of the housing 410 is configured to be in fluid communication with the liquid flow circuit 10 upstream of the media holder 30, the housing ( The complementary variable volume 418 of 410 is configured to be in fluid communication with the liquid flow circuit 10 downstream of the media holder 30. However, in the present example, the first variable volume 416 of the housing 410 is configured to be installed in-line with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10, and the complementary variable volume 418 of the housing 410 is in fluid communication with the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. More specifically, the complementary variable volume 418 of the housing 410 supplies the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. This configuration can advantageously facilitate circulation or modification of the velocity of fluid through the media holder 30 without significantly changing the volumetric flow through the liquid circuit upstream and downstream of the circulating flow device 400 .

Housing 410 generally has a first flow opening 412, a second flow opening 414, and a cavity 411 extending from the first flow opening 412 to the second flow opening 414. The housing 410 of the circular flow device 400 defines a first variable volume 416 and a complementary variable volume 418 . Housing 410 has a movable side wall 424 defining a first variable volume 416 and a complementary variable volume 418 . Housing 410 has a first flow opening 412 extending into a first variable volume 416 and a second flow opening 414 extending into a complementary variable volume 418 . A first flow opening 412 and a second flow opening 414 are defined on both axial ends of the housing 410 . In the current example, first flow opening 412 serves as a flow outlet of housing 410. First flow opening 412 is not a flow inlet. The second flow opening 414 serves as a flow inlet and a flow outlet of the housing 410.

A first conduit coupling structure 413 is disposed about the first flow opening 412 such that the first flow opening 412 is in direct fluid communication with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. It is configured to be sealably coupled to (10). In various embodiments, the first conduit coupling structure 413 is configured to be removably coupled to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. A second conduit coupling structure 415 is disposed around the second flow opening 414 such that the second flow opening 414 is in direct fluid communication with the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. It is configured to be sealably coupled to the discharge line 14. The second conduit coupling structure 415 is configured to be detachably coupled to the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10.

As with some previous examples, here the movable sidewall 424 is a piston 424 disposed across a cavity 411 that defines a first variable volume 416 and a complementary variable volume 418 of the housing 410. Piston 424 forms a fluid seal with the inner surface of housing 410. Piston 424 is generally linearly translatable axially along cavity 411. As such, the position of the piston 424 within the cavity 411 defines the volume of the first variable volume 416 and the volume of the complementary variable volume 418 opposite the piston 424.

Actuator 420 is translationally coupled to piston 424 via shaft 422. In various embodiments, actuator 420 is a linear actuator secured to piston 424. Actuator 420 is configured to drive linear translation of piston 424 through cavity 411 . More specifically, actuator 420 is configured to cyclically translate piston 424 between a first and second positions within cavity 411 . The direction and speed of piston 424 through cavity 411 may define the rate of fluid flow through media holder 30, and more specifically through the filter media secured to media holder 30. The actuator 420 causes the housing to circulate and accumulate liquid from the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 in the first variable volume 416 and to direct the liquid from the first variable volume 416 to the liquid flow circuit 10. It may be configured to discharge liquid into the inlet line 12.

Unlike the previous examples, in the current example, the housing 410 has a third flow opening 419 configured to be fluidly coupled to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The third flow opening 419 is configured to be located upstream of the first flow opening 412 along the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. A third conduit coupling structure 417 is configured to sealably couple to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 about the third flow opening 419 . Third conduit coupling structure 417 may be consistent with other conduit coupling structures described herein. It should be noted that, similar to the examples described above, if the circulating flow device is integral with the fluid flow circuit 10, in some embodiments, one or more of the conduit coupling structures 413, 415, 417 may be omitted.

The first variable volume 416 is configured to fluidly couple the inlet line 12 and the media holder 30. First flow opening 412 and third flow opening 419 are in direct fluid communication with first variable volume 416. In particular, in the present example, piston 424 and shaft 422 define a liquid conduit 426 fluidly coupling third flow opening 419 and first variable volume 416. In this example, liquid conduit 426 passes through complementary variable volume 418 but is fluidly isolated from complementary variable volume 118 . In operation, liquid flow circuit 10 may be configured to direct liquid flow through liquid conduit 426 at a constant volumetric flow rate.

Like the previous embodiments described above, the circulating flow device 400 is configured to vary the liquid flow rate through the media holder 30. Circulating flow device 400 may be configured to generate circulating liquid flow conditions through media holder 30 . In various embodiments, the circulating flow device 400 is configured to circulate the liquid flow rate through the media coupling structure 30.

As described above, when the movable side wall 424 is secured within the cavity 411, the velocity of liquid passing through the media holder 30 (or filter media coupled to the media holder 30) is constant; It corresponds to the volumetric flow rate of the liquid flow circuit 10 divided by the flow area of the opening of the medium holder 30. When the movable side wall 424 is linearly translated through the cavity 411 away from the first flow opening 412, the volumetric flow rate decreases by the volumetric flow rate of liquid into the first variable volume 416, which Reduces the speed of liquid passing through (130). When the movable side wall 424 is linearly translated through the cavity 411 towards the first flow opening 412, the volumetric flow rate through the first flow opening 412 is withdrawn from the first variable volume 416 by the piston. The volumetric flow rate of the liquid increases, which increases the speed of the liquid passing through the medium holder 30.

In various embodiments, a flexible hose may fluidly couple inlet line 12 with liquid conduit 426 of shaft 422 to accommodate linear translation of piston 424 (and thus shaft 422). there is.

As discussed above, circular flow device 400 may include a flow sensor 434 configured to sense liquid flow rate. As described above, flow sensor 434 may be configured to sense liquid flow rate through first flow opening 412 or elsewhere. Flow sensor 434 may communicate with the user interface, controller 440, or both the user interface and controller 440. As described above, controller 440 may be in operational communication with actuator 420.

In the current example the device 400 has a first variable volume 416 coupled to the inlet line 12 immediately upstream of the media holder 30, but in some other examples the first variable volume 416 is coupled to the media holder 30. It is coupled to the discharge line (14) downstream of (30). In this configuration, the first variable volume 416 of the housing 410 is configured to be in fluid communication with the liquid flow circuit 10 downstream of the media holder 30, and the complementary variable volume 418 of the housing 410 is configured to be in fluid communication with the liquid flow circuit 10 along the inlet line 12 upstream of the media holder 30 . In this example, the first variable volume 416 of the housing 410 may be configured to be installed in-line with the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10, and the complementary variable volume 418 of the housing 410 may be configured to supply the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10.

In the embodiments shown and described above, displacement of a first volume of liquid from a first variable volume by a piston causes an opposite displacement of a corresponding volume of liquid from a complementary variable volume, wherein the corresponding volume is Note that it is smaller than the first volume of liquid. This is because the shaft reduces the volume of the complementary variable volume compared to the first variable volume. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative exemplary variable volume housing 510 consistent with some embodiments, wherein the configuration of the housing 510 advantageously includes a first variable volume 516 and a complementary variable volume 518. Equalize the volume per unit length. Housing 510 may be replaced with other housings disclosed herein and may be configured to define openings and flow paths consistent with the previously disclosed embodiments.

Housing 510 has a first end 502, a second end 504, and a fluid flow passage 511 extending axially from first end 502 to second end 504. A movable side wall 524 is disposed within the fluid flow passage 511. A first variable volume 516 and a complementary variable volume 518 are defined on either side of the movable side wall 524 within the housing 510 . The movable side wall 524 is a piston 524 . A first shaft 522 is configured to couple the piston 524 to an actuator (not currently shown). First shaft 522 extends axially through second end 504 of housing 510 and complementary variable volume 518 . A second shaft 526 is coupled to the piston 524 on the opposite side of the first shaft 522. Second shaft 526 extends through first end 502 of housing 510 and first variable volume 516 . In various embodiments, the cross-sectional areas of first shaft 522 and second shaft 526 are the same, but the cross-sectional areas are orthogonal to the axial extension of housing 510.

8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example circular flow device 600 consistent with various embodiments. Circulating flow device 600 is configured to be coupled to liquid flow circuit 10. Circulating flow device 600 has a housing 610 defining a first flow opening 612 and a first conduit coupling structure 613 around the first flow opening 612 . The first conduit coupling structure 613 is configured to be removably coupled to the liquid flow circuit 10 . Actuator 620 is in operative communication with housing 610 . The actuator 620 circulates and accumulates liquid in the liquid flow circuit 10 in the housing 610 (in particular the first variable volume 616) and moves the liquid flow circuit 10 from the housing 610 (in particular the first variable volume 616). ) may be configured to release the liquid. In some embodiments, flow sensor 634 is located adjacent first flow opening 612. In particular, here the flow sensor 634 is located adjacent to the bladder outlet 612 (the bladder is described in more detail below). As described above, flow sensor 634 may be configured to sense liquid flow rate through first flow opening 612 or elsewhere. Flow sensor 634 may communicate with the user interface, controller 640, or both the user interface and controller 640. Controller 640 may be in operational communication with actuator 620 and in data communication with flow sensor 634 to change the flow rate of liquid through first flow opening 612 .

In the current example, housing 610 defines a cavity 611 having a first variable volume 616 and a complementary variable volume 618 . The first variable volume 616 is configured to be coupled in-line with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The first variable volume 616 is in series between the inlet line 12 and the media holder 30. Thereby, the first variable volume 616 has a first conduit coupling structure 613 configured to be coupled to the liquid flow circuit 10 upstream of the media holder 30, A second conduit coupling structure 617 is provided around the second flow opening 619, configured to couple to the liquid flow circuit 10 upstream.

Complementary variable volume 618 is configured to be coupled in-line with discharge line 14 of liquid flow circuit 10. Complementary variable volume 618 is in series between media holder 30 and discharge line 14. As such, the housing 610 has a third conduit coupling structure 615 around the third flow opening 614 in communication with the complementary variable volume 618 . The third conduit coupling structure 615 is configured to couple to the liquid flow circuit 10 downstream of the media holder 30. Housing 610 has a fourth conduit coupling structure 621 around a fourth flow opening 623 that communicates with a complementary variable volume 618 . The fourth conduit coupling structure 621 is configured to be coupled to the liquid flow circuit 10 upstream of the third conduit coupling structure 615. Similar to the examples described above, if the circulating flow device is integral with the fluid flow circuit 10, in some embodiments, one or more of the conduit coupling structures 613, 615, 617, 621 may be omitted.

Like other embodiments described herein, housing 610 has a movable side wall 624 that defines a first variable volume 616. However, unlike previous examples, in the current example, the movable sidewall 624 is a bladder 624. Bladder 624 is generally comprised of a hollow, flexible material, such as an elastomeric material (e.g., rubber). In some other embodiments, the movable sidewall may be a bellows with collapsible and expandable sidewalls. The first flow opening 612 of the bladder 624 may be referred to as a bladder discharge opening 612. The second flow opening 619 of the bladder 624 may be referred to as the bladder inlet 619. Bladder outlet 612 extends from first variable volume 616 and bladder inlet 619 extends into first variable volume 616.

In the current example, housing 610 has an outer casing 644 containing a bladder 624. The outer casing 644 is generally rigid to define a fixed volume. Complementary variable volume 618 is defined by the volume between the bladder 624 and the inner surface of the outer casing 644. This configuration may advantageously enable the liquid accumulated by the first variable volume 616 to displace the liquid accumulated by the complementary variable volume 618 . The third flow opening 614 and fourth flow opening 623 are defined by the outer casing 644. The third flow opening 614 may be referred to as a casing outlet 614, and the fourth flow opening 623 may be referred to as a casing inlet 623. In the current configuration, casing inlet 623 and bladder inlet 619 are on both axial ends of housing 610. Likewise, the casing outlet 614 and bladder outlet 612 are on both axial ends of the housing 610.

In the current example, actuator 620 is operably coupled to movable sidewall 624. In particular, flow control valve 636 is coupled to bladder 624 over bladder outlet 612 and actuator 620 is operably coupled to flow control valve 636. The actuator 620 operates a valve between the restricted and open positions to reduce and increase the flow rate of liquid through the first flow opening 612 and thereby reduce and increase the flow rate of liquid through the media holder 30. 636) is configured to selectively switch. Reducing the flow rate of liquid through the first flow opening 612 causes the bladder 624 to retain liquid from the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10, and the bladder 624 It expands to accommodate an increased volume of liquid within it. Increasing the flow rate of liquid through first flow opening 612 causes bladder 624 to release liquid into liquid flow circuit 10 and to contract around the reduced volume of liquid in bladder 624. do.

Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary circular flow device. Similar to the example discussed above with reference to FIG. 8 , here the first variable volume 716 of the housing 710 is configured inline with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 and is complementary to the housing 710. The variable volume 718 is configured to be in fluid communication with the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. Configuring both the first variable volume 716 and the complementary variable volume 718 inline with the flow lines in the liquid flow circuit advantageously enables constant fluid flow through the volume, thereby preventing accumulation or settling of particles within the volume. can be reduced. In the present example, the first variable volume 716 of the housing 710 is configured to be installed inline with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10, and the complementary variable volume 718 of the housing 710 is configured to be installed inline with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. It is in fluid communication with the discharge line 14 of the flow circuit 10. This configuration advantageously facilitates circulation or modification of the velocity of fluid through the medium holder 30 without changing the volumetric flow through the liquid flow circuit 10 upstream and downstream of the circulating flow device 700. .

Housing 710 generally has a first flow opening 712, a second flow opening 714, and a cavity 711 extending from the first flow opening 712 to the second flow opening 714. Housing 710 of circular flow device 700 defines a first variable volume 716 and a complementary variable volume 718. Housing 710 has a movable side wall 724 defining a first variable volume 716 and a complementary variable volume 718 . Housing 710 has a first flow opening 712 extending into a first variable volume 716 and a second flow opening 714 extending into a complementary variable volume 718 . A first flow opening 712 and a second flow opening 714 are defined on both axial ends of the housing 710 . In the current example, first flow opening 712 serves as a flow outlet for first variable volume 716 of housing 710. First flow opening 712 is not a flow inlet. The second flow opening 714 serves as a flow outlet for the complementary variable volume 718 of the housing 710.

A first conduit coupling structure 713 is disposed about the first flow opening 712 such that the first flow opening 712 is in direct fluid communication with the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. It is configured to be sealably coupled to (10). In various embodiments, the first conduit coupling structure 713 is configured to be removably coupled to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. A second conduit coupling structure 715 is disposed around the second flow opening 714 such that the second flow opening 714 is in direct fluid communication with the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. It is configured to be sealably coupled to the discharge line 14. The second conduit coupling structure 715 is configured to be detachably coupled to the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10.

Housing 710 has a third flow opening 719 configured to be fluidly coupled to the inlet line 12 of liquid flow circuit 10. First flow opening 712 and third flow opening 719 are in direct fluid communication with first variable volume 716. The third flow opening 719 is configured upstream of the first flow opening 712 along the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The third flow opening 719 serves as an inlet for the first variable volume 716. A third conduit coupling structure 717 is configured to sealably couple to the inlet line 12 of the liquid flow circuit 10 about the third flow opening 719 . Third conduit coupling structure 717 may be consistent with other conduit coupling structures described herein.

The housing 710 has a fourth flow opening 723 configured to be fluidly coupled to the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. The fourth flow opening 723 is configured upstream of the second flow opening 714 along the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10. Second flow opening 714 and fourth opening 723 are in direct fluid communication with complementary variable volume 718. The fourth flow opening 723 serves as an inlet for the complementary variable volume 718. The fourth conduit coupling structure 721 is configured to be sealably coupled to the discharge line 14 of the liquid flow circuit 10 about the fourth flow opening 723 . The fourth conduit coupling structure 721 may be consistent with other conduit coupling structures described herein. Similar to the examples described above, if the circulating flow device is integral with the fluid flow circuit 10, in some embodiments, one or more of the conduit coupling structures 713, 715, 717, 721 may be omitted.

As with some previous examples, here the movable side wall 724 is a piston 724 disposed across a fluid passageway 711 that defines a first variable volume 716 and a complementary variable volume 718 of the housing 710. . Piston 724 forms a fluid seal with the inner surface of housing 710. Piston 724 is generally linearly translatable axially along cavity 711. As such, the position of the piston 724 within the cavity 711 defines the volume of the first variable volume 716 and the volume of the complementary variable volume 718 opposite the piston 724.

Actuator 720 is translationally coupled to piston 724 via shaft 722. In various embodiments, actuator 720 is a linear actuator secured to piston 724. Actuator 720 is configured to drive linear translation of piston 724 through cavity 711. More specifically, actuator 720 is configured to cyclically translate piston 724 between a first and second positions within cavity 711 . The direction and speed of piston 724 through cavity 711 may define the rate of fluid flow through media holder 30, and more specifically through the filter media secured to media holder 30.

Like the previous embodiments described above, the circulating flow device 700 is configured to vary the liquid flow rate through the media holder 30. Circulating flow device 700 may be configured to generate circulating liquid flow conditions through media holder 30. In various embodiments, the circulating flow device 700 is configured to circulate the liquid flow rate through the media coupling structure of the media holder 30.

In various embodiments, liquid flow circuit 10 coupled to circulating flow device 700 is configured to circulate liquid through the flow circuit at a constant volumetric flow rate. Thereby, when the movable side wall 724 is secured within the cavity 711, the velocity of liquid passing through the media holder 30 (or filter media coupled to the media holder 30) is constant, and the volumetric flow rate is maintained in the media holder 711. It corresponds to the value divided by the flow area of the opening in (30). When the movable sidewall 724 is linearly translated through the cavity 711 away from the first flow opening 712, the volumetric flow rate through the first flow opening 712 is the volumetric flow rate of liquid into the first variable volume 716. The volumetric flow rate decreases, which reduces the speed of liquid passing through the media holder 30. When the movable side wall 724 is linearly translated through the cavity 711 towards the first flow opening 712, the volumetric flow rate through the first flow opening 712 is withdrawn from the first variable volume 716 by the piston. The volumetric flow rate of the liquid increases, which increases the speed of the liquid passing through the medium holder 30.

As discussed above, circular flow device 700 may include a flow sensor 734 configured to sense liquid flow rate. As described above, flow sensor 734 may be configured to sense liquid flow rate through first flow opening 712 or other portions. Flow sensor 734 may communicate with the user interface, controller 740, or both the user interface and controller 740. As described above, controller 740 may be in operational communication with actuator 720.

In various implementations of the presently disclosed technology, the system is configured to convert the first variable volume between a minimum possible volume of the first variable volume and another volume. This system configuration reduces the likelihood that contaminants suspended in the liquid will remain within the first variable volume, thereby ensuring that contaminants pass through the liquid flow circuit downstream of the first variable volume. Likewise, in embodiments where there is a complementary variable volume in liquid communication with the liquid flow circuit (as shown in FIGS. 3, 5, 6, 8, and 9), various implementations of the systems disclosed herein is configured to convert the complementary variable volume between the minimum possible volume of the complementary variable volume and another volume for the same reason. Since the minimum possible volume of the complementary variable volume gives rise to the maximum possible volume of the first variable volume, and the minimum possible volume of the first variable volume gives rise to the maximum possible volume of the complementary variable volume, such a system has a minimum and maximum possible volume. and configured to switch the first variable volume (and the complementary variable volume) between volumes.

For example, a first variable volume and a complementary variable volume (as shown in FIGS. 3, 5, 6, 7, and 9) are defined by a cylinder and a piston translatably disposed within the cylinder. In an embodiment, the system is configured to switch the piston between the axial ends of the cylinder such that the minimum volume of the first variable volume approaches zero, and when the complementary variable volume approaches zero, The maximum volume of the first variable volume approaches the volume of the cylinder minus the volume of the piston. As another example, in an embodiment where the first variable volume is defined by a bladder and the complementary variable volume is defined by a casing (as shown in Figure 8), the minimum possible volume of first variable volume 616 is zero. (0), which means that when the internal volume of the bladder (624) approaches zero (0), the maximum possible volume of the complementary variable volume (618) is equal to the volume of the bladder (624) in the volume of the casing. It is correlated with being the value subtracted from . The minimum possible volume of the complementary variable volume 618 may approach zero, corresponding to the bladder 624 being expanded to its maximum possible volume, with the bladder 624 remaining in the outer casing 644. is expanded to substantially fill the

In some implementations of current technology, it may be desirable to use different circulation devices with alternative configurations with a particular liquid flow circuit. For example, some test conditions may benefit from a circulating flow device having a relatively large first variable volume, while other test conditions may benefit from a circulating flow device having a relatively small first variable volume. As such, some systems consistent with the technology disclosed herein include multiple circulation devices each coupled in parallel to a liquid flow circuit. Each circulatory device may define a first variable volume (and, if appropriate, a complementary variable volume) of a different size. Each circulatory device may be consistent with those discussed herein. In such implementations, the system may include a switch, such as an electronic or mechanical switch, through which each circulation device may be selected into operative engagement with the liquid flow circuit. In some such embodiments, the liquid communication between each circulation device and the liquid flow circuit is mutually exclusive.

Statement of Examples

Example 1.

A housing having a first variable volume and a first flow opening extending into the first variable volume, the housing comprising a movable side wall defining the first variable volume, the housing comprising a first conduit coupling structure around the first variable volume. ; and

A circular flow device comprising a linear actuator fixed to a movable side wall.

Example 2. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1 and 3-12, wherein the movable side wall is a piston.

Example 3. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 2 and 4 to 12, wherein the linear actuator and the movable side wall are configured to change the flow rate of the liquid in the liquid flow circuit.

Example 4. The circulating flow device of any one of claims 1-3 and 5-12, wherein the first conduit coupling structure is configured to be sealably coupled to the liquid flow circuit.

Example 5. Circulating flow device according to any of claims 1-4 and 6-12, wherein the piston has a media opening defining a flow path in fluid communication with the first variable volume. .

Example 6. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and 7 to 12, wherein the piston comprises a media engaging structure around the media opening.

Example 7. The circular flow device of any one of claims 1-6 and 8-12, wherein the piston forms a fluid seal with the housing over the first variable volume.

Example 8. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 and 9 to 12, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and a flow outlet.

Example 9. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1-8 and 10-12, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet.

Example 10. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1-9 and 11-12, wherein the housing has a complementary variable volume and the movable side walls define the complementary variable volume.

Example 11. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1-10 and 12, wherein the housing has a second flow opening extending into a complementary variable volume.

Example 12. The circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the circulating flow device is an improved device.

Example 13.

a housing having a flow inlet, a flow outlet, and a cavity extending axially from the flow inlet to the flow outlet; and

A circular flow device comprising a piston disposed across a cavity and forming a seal with the housing, the piston being axially linearly translatable along the cavity and defining an axially extending media opening in fluid communication with the cavity.

Example 14. The circular flow device of any one of clauses 13 and 15-18, further comprising an actuator coupled to the piston.

Embodiment 15. Circulating flow device according to any one of clauses 13-14 and 16-18, wherein the actuator is configured to cyclically translate the piston between the first and second positions in the cavity. .

Embodiment 16. The method of any one of clauses 13-15 and 17-18, wherein the first position is towards the first end of the cavity and the second position is towards the second end of the cavity. Circulating flow device.

Example 17. Circulating flow device according to any one of clauses 13-16 and 18, wherein the piston defines a medium engagement structure around the medium opening.

Example 18. The circulating flow device of any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the circulating flow device is an improved device.

Example 19.

a housing having a first variable volume defining the first flow opening and a conduit coupling structure about the first flow opening, the conduit coupling structure being configured to be detachably coupled to the liquid flow circuit; and

A circular flow device comprising an actuator in operative communication with a housing, the housing configured to cause circular accumulation of liquid in the liquid flow circuit in the first variable volume and discharge liquid from the first variable volume to the liquid flow circuit.

Example 20. The method of any one of clauses 19 and 21-27, further comprising a flow sensor positioned within the first flow opening, and a controller coupled to the actuator, wherein the controller is configured to: A communicating, circular flow device.

Example 21. Circulating flow device according to any one of clauses 19-20 and 22-27, wherein the housing is a cylinder.

Embodiment 22. The method of any one of clauses 19-21 and 23-27, further comprising a piston translatably disposed within the cylinder, wherein the first variable volume is divided by the cylinder and piston. Circular flow device, defined.

Example 23. The method of any one of claims 19-22 and 24-27, further comprising a complementary variable volume defined by a cylinder and a piston, wherein the cylinder is a complementary variable volume. A circular flow device defining an extending second flow opening.

Example 24. The circular flow device of any one of clauses 19-23 and 25-27, wherein the first variable volume is a bladder.

Example 25. The circular flow device of any one of claims 19-24 and 26-27, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and a flow outlet.

Example 26. The circular flow device of any one of clauses 19-25 and 27, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet.

Example 27. The circulating flow device of any one of claims 19-26, wherein the circulating flow device is an improved device.

Example 28.

A housing defining a first variable volume and a complementary variable volume, the housing comprising an outer casing having a fixed volume and a bladder disposed within the casing, the bladder defining the first variable volume, the bladder inlet comprising: a housing extending into a first variable volume, the bladder outlet extending from the first variable volume, the complementary variable volume being defined between the bladder and the casing, the casing defining the casing inlet and the casing outlet;

a flow control valve operably coupled to the bladder outlet; and

A circulating flow device operably coupled to a flow control valve and comprising an actuator configured to switch the flow control valve between a restricted position and an open position.

Example 29. The circular flow device of any one of clauses 28 and 30-33, wherein the bladder inlet and the casing inlet are at opposite axial ends of the housing.

Example 30. The method of any one of clauses 28-29 and 31-33, further comprising a flow sensor positioned adjacent the bladder discharge, and a controller coupled to the actuator, the controller comprising: is a circular flow device that communicates data with a flow sensor.

Example 31. The method of any one of items 28-30 and 32-33, comprising: a first conduit coupling structure around the bladder outlet, a second conduit coupling structure around the casing outlet, and a bladder inlet. A circular flow device further comprising a third conduit coupling structure around the casing inlet, and a fourth conduit coupling structure around the casing inlet, each conduit coupling structure being configured to couple to a liquid flow circuit.

Example 32. The circulatory flow device of any one of clauses 28-31 and 33, wherein the actuator is configured to cause the bladder to cyclically accumulate and release liquid.

Example 33. The circulating flow device of any one of clauses 28-32, wherein the circulating flow device is an improved device.

Example 34.

a housing defining a first variable volume and a first flow opening extending into the first variable volume, the housing comprising a movable side wall defining the first variable volume;

an actuator operably coupled to the movable side wall;

a flow sensor configured to sense liquid flow rate; and

A circular flow device, comprising a controller in data communication with the flow sensor and in operational communication with the actuator, the controller configured to operate the actuator to define a liquid flow rate for the flow sensor.

Example 35. The circular flow device of any one of clauses 34 and 36-46, wherein the movable sidewall comprises a piston.

Example 36. Circulating flow device according to any one of clauses 34-35 and 37-46, wherein the piston defines the opening and a medium engagement structure around the opening.

Example 37. Circulating flow device according to any one of clauses 34-36 and 38-46, wherein the flow sensor is disposed on the piston.

Example 38. The circular flow device of any of clauses 34-37 and 39-46, wherein the flow sensor is disposed adjacent the first flow opening.

Example 39. The circular flow device of any one of clauses 34-38 and 40-46, wherein the actuator is a linear actuator.

Embodiment 40. The circular flow device of any one of clauses 34-39 and 41-46, wherein the actuator is configured to actuate the flow control valve.

Example 41. The method of any one of clauses 34-40 and 42-46, wherein the housing comprises a first conduit coupling structure around the first flow opening, the first conduit coupling structure comprising a liquid A circulating flow device configured to be sealably coupled to a flow circuit.

Example 42. The circular flow device of any one of clauses 34-41 and 43-46, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and a flow outlet.

Example 43. The circular flow device of any of clauses 34-42 and 44-46, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet.

Example 44. The circular flow device of any of clauses 34-43 and 45-46, wherein the housing has a complementary variable volume and the movable side walls define the complementary variable volume.

Example 45. The circular flow device of any one of clauses 34-44 and 46, wherein the housing has a second flow opening extending into a complementary variable volume.

Example 46. The circular flow device of any one of clauses 34-45, wherein the circular flow device is an improved device.

One or more of the components described herein, such as a controller, sensor, detector, or system, may include a processor, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), capable of managing data input to or output from the component; It may include a computer, logic array, or other device. A processor may include one or more computing devices with memory, processing, and communication hardware. The processor may include circuitry used to couple the various components of the controller to each other or to other components operably coupled to the controller. The functions of the processor may be performed by hardware and/or as computer instructions on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

The processor may include any one or more of a microprocessor, microcontroller, digital signal processor (DSP), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and/or equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuit. there is. In some examples, a processor may include multiple components, such as any combination of one or more microprocessors, one or more microcontrollers, one or more DSPs, one or more ASICs, and/or one or more FPGAs, as well as other equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuits. may include. The functions belonging to the processor herein may be implemented by software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof.

In one or more embodiments, the functionality of the processor may be implemented using one or more computer programs using a computing device that may include one or more processors and/or memory. Program code and/or logic described herein can be applied to input data/information and generate desired output data/information to perform the functions described herein. The output data/information may be applied to one or more other devices and/or methods as described herein or in a known manner. In view of the above, it will be readily apparent that the controller functionality described herein may be implemented in any manner known to those skilled in the art.

It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the expression "configured" describes a system, device, or other structure that is configured to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration. The word “configured” may be used interchangeably with similar words such as “disposed,” “constructed,” “manufactured,” and the like.

All publications and patent applications within this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which these techniques pertain. All publications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. If any inconsistency exists between the disclosure of this application and the disclosure(s) of any document incorporated herein by reference, the disclosure of this application shall control.

This application is intended to cover modifications or variations of the subject matter. It is to be understood that the foregoing description is illustrative and not restrictive, and that the claims are not limited to the example embodiments detailed herein. For the purposes of this description and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numerical values are to be understood in all instances as being modified by the term “about.” Additionally, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and any intermediate ranges therein that may or may not be specifically recited herein. Accordingly, in this context, the values cited herein encompass a deviation of ±3%. In this context, quoted values can be considered to include values that are within the normal standard error for the measurement of the characteristic the number describes.

Claims (20)

A housing having a first variable volume and a first flow opening extending into the first variable volume, the housing comprising a movable side wall defining the first variable volume, and a first conduit coupling structure around the first flow opening. a housing comprising; and
A circular flow device comprising a linear actuator secured to the movable sidewall. 13. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1 and 3 to 12, wherein the movable side wall is a piston. 13. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 2 and 4 to 12, wherein the linear actuator and the movable side wall are configured to change the flow rate of liquid in the liquid flow circuit. 13. A circular flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 or 5 to 12, wherein the first conduit coupling structure is configured to be sealably coupled to a liquid flow circuit. 13. A circular flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 or 6 to 12, wherein the piston has a media opening defining a flow path in fluid communication with the first variable volume. 13. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 or 7 to 12, wherein the piston comprises a media coupling structure around the media opening. 13. A circular flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 or 8 to 12, wherein the piston forms a fluid seal with the housing over the first variable volume. 13. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 and 9 to 12, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and a flow outlet. 13. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and 10 to 12, wherein the first flow opening is a flow inlet and the first flow opening is not a flow outlet. 13. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 9 or 11 to 12, wherein the housing has a complementary variable volume, and the movable side wall defines the complementary variable volume. 13. Circulating flow device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing has a second flow opening extending into the complementary variable volume. 12. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the circulating flow device is an improved device. a housing having a flow inlet, a flow outlet, and a cavity extending axially from the flow inlet to the flow outlet; and
a piston disposed across the cavity and forming a seal with the housing, the piston being axially linearly translatable along the cavity, the piston defining an axially extending media opening in fluid communication with the cavity; Flow device. 18. The circulatory flow device of any one of claims 13 and 15-17, further comprising an actuator coupled to the piston. 18. A circular flow device according to any one of claims 13 to 14 and 16 to 17, wherein the actuator is configured to cyclically translate the piston between a first and a second position within the cavity. 18. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 13 to 15 and 17, wherein the first position is towards the first end of the cavity and the second position is towards the second end of the cavity. 17. Circulating flow device according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the piston defines a media engagement structure around the media opening. a housing having a first variable volume defining a first flow opening and a conduit coupling structure around the first flow opening, the conduit coupling structure being configured to be detachably coupled to a liquid flow circuit; and
an actuator in operative communication with the housing, comprising an actuator configured to cause the housing to cyclically accumulate liquid in the liquid flow circuit in the first variable volume and to discharge liquid from the first variable volume to the liquid flow circuit. Circulating flow device. A housing defining a first variable volume and a complementary variable volume, the housing comprising an outer casing having a fixed volume and a bladder disposed within the casing, the bladder defining the first variable volume, A bladder inlet extends into the first variable volume, a bladder outlet extends from the first variable volume, the complementary variable volume is defined between the bladder and the casing, the casing comprising a casing inlet and a casing. A housing that defines the discharge port;
a flow control valve operably coupled to the bladder discharge port; and
An actuator operably coupled to the flow control valve and configured to switch the flow control valve between a restricted position and an open position. a housing defining a first variable volume and a first flow opening extending into the first variable volume, the housing comprising a movable side wall defining the first variable volume;
an actuator operably coupled to the movable side wall;
a flow sensor configured to sense liquid flow rate; and
a controller in data communication with the flow sensor and in operational communication with the actuator, the controller being configured to operate the actuator to determine a liquid flow rate for the flow sensor.