AU2018220117B2 - Fluid Flow Control Device - Google Patents

Abstract

A fluid flow control device 10 comprising a body 12 having an inlet 14 and at least one outlet 16, and at least one flow isolation mechanism 18. A flow isolation mechanism 18 is operable to selectively prevent or allow fluid flow through the fluid flow control device 10 from the inlet 14 to the at least one outlet 16. The body 12 comprises at least two body parts, being a first body part 20 and a second body part 22. The second body part 22 is provided with the at least one outlet 16. The first body part 20 and the second body 22 are movable relative to each other such that the direction of orientation of the at least one outlet 16 is selectable. U')%. I, 3 tnS

Description

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Title

"Fluid Flow Control Device"

[0001] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" and variations such as "comprises", "comprising" and "comprised" are to be understood to imply the presence of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0002] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "include" and variations such as "includes", "including" and "included" are to be understood to imply the presence of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0003] The headings and subheadings in this specification are provided for convenience to assist the reader, and they are not to be interpreted so as to narrow or limit the scope of the disclosure in the description, claims, abstract or drawings.

Technical Field

[0004] The present invention relates to a Fluid Flow Control Device.

Background Art

[0005] Any discussion of background art, any reference to a document and any reference to information that is known, which is contained in this specification, is provided only for the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the background art to the present invention, and is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of that material forms part of the common general knowledge in Australia or any other country as at the priority date of the application in relation to which this specification has been filed.

[0006] The water supply to properties is typically controlled by a stop cock which is located at the boundary line of a property or, in the case of a unit or apartment, outside of the unit or apartment. If the boundary stop cock is turned off, the whole property is isolated from the water supply, including the hot water for the property. However, isolating the whole property from the water supply is usually not actually necessary because usually it is only one water outlet device (such as a tap) that needs to be isolated for maintenance or repair work to be carried out on that water outlet device. In such circumstances, isolating the whole property from the water supply can be very inconvenient. To address this, point-of-use isolation valves have been used in plumbing systems for many years to isolate the water supply to a water outlet device, such as an individual tap or appliance. However, this can present problems for the plumber carrying out the installation of the point-of-use isolation valve. These problems arise because some point-of use isolation valves are installed in tight spots where working space for the plumber is very limited, such as, for example, in cupboards and vanity units. The plumber is further confronted with the problem of suitably controlling the orientation of the outlet connection of the point-of-use isolation valve so that it can be connected to the inlet of the individual tap or appliance. In that regard, when the inlet of the point-of-use isolation valve is screwed to a plumbing fitting on the copper tube that delivers water to the individual tap or appliance, the outlet of the point-of-use isolation valve may not be facing in the required direction for connection to the inlet of the individual tap or appliance. The plumber must then unscrew the inlet of point-of-use isolation valve from the plumbing fitting, apply more, or less, thread seal tape and then screw the inlet of the point-of-use isolation valve back to a plumbing fitting. The plumber may need to undertake this procedure more than once to ensure that the outlet of the point of-use isolation valve is facing in the required direction for connection to the inlet of the individual tap or appliance. This is inconvenient and time consuming for the plumber.

Summary of Invention

[0007] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a fluid flow control device comprising

[0008] a body having an inlet and at least one outlet,

[0009] at least one flow isolation mechanism, a said flow isolation mechanism is operable to selectively prevent or allow fluid flow through the fluid flow control device from the inlet to the at least one outlet,

[0010] wherein the body comprises at least two body parts, being a first body part and a second

body part, and the second body part is provided with the at least one outlet, and wherein the first

body part and the second body part together define an annular space which allows the first and

second body parts to move relative to each other such that the first body part and the second body are movable relative to each other such that the direction of orientation of the at least one outlet is

selectable, wherein the at least one flow isolation mechanism is provided in the first body part and a

pressure limiting valve is provided in the second body part.

[0011] The at least one flow isolation mechanism may comprise a movable member that is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein fluid cannot flow through the fluid flow

control device in the first position of the movable member and fluid can flow through the fluid flow

control device in the second position of the movable member.

[0012] The at least one flow isolation mechanism may be provided as an isolation valve that is selectively openable and closable to thereby respectively allow or prevent fluid flow through the

fluid flow control device.

[0013] The isolation valve may comprise at least one valve seat, wherein fluid cannot flow past the

valve seat in the first position of the movable member and fluid can flow past the valve seat in the

second position of the movable member. Thus, the isolation valve may comprise at least one valve

seat and a movable member that is movable between respective first and second positions in which

the isolation valve is respectively closed and open, such that fluid cannot flow past the valve seat in

the first position of the movable member and fluid can flow past the valve seat in the second

position of the movable member.

[0014] The movable member may be of any suitable type. For example, the movable member may

be a ball, such as in a ball valve; as an alternative, the movable member may be a provided as multi

way flow unit.

[0015] Preferably, the movable member comprises a valve member that is movable between the

first position, in which the fluid flow control device is in a closed condition to prevent fluid passing

through the fluid flow control device from the inlet to the outlet, and a second position, in which the

fluid flow control device is in an open condition to allow fluid to pass through the fluid flow control

device from the inlet to the outlet.

[0016] The first body part is provided with the inlet.

[0017] Preferably, the second body part is swivelable, or rotatable, relative to the first body part.

[0018] The second body part comprises at least a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is provided around the first body part and the second portion extends from the first portion.

[0019] The at least one outlet of the fluid flow control device is provided at the distal end of the second portion of the second body part.

[0020] The fluid flow control device may further comprise at least one auxiliary valve, or other desired plumbing component, including a flow stop device.

[0021] The at least one auxiliary valve is provided in the second body part.

[0022] Preferably, the at least one auxiliary valve is provided in the second portion of the second body part.

[0023] The at least one auxiliary valve may be one or more of: a pressure limiting valve and a check valve.

[0024] The second body part may comprise one or more additional portions that extend from the first portion of the second body part.

[0025] Each of the additional portions of the second body part is provided with an outlet of the fluid flow control device.

[0026] The respective outlets of the additional portions of the second body part are provided at the respective distal ends of the additional portions.

[0027] One or more auxiliary valves may be provided in the respective additional portions of the second body part.

[0028] The at least one flow isolation mechanism is provided in the first body part, in some embodiments.

[0029] In at least one other embodiment, a first flow isolation mechanism and a second flow isolation mechanism are provided in the second body part.

[0030] The second part may further comprise a third portion, as an additional portion, and the first flow isolation mechanism may be provided in the second portion of the second body part, and the second flow isolation mechanism may be provided in the third portion of the second body part, such that the first flow isolation mechanism is operable to selectively prevent or allow fluid flow through the fluid flow control device from the inlet to the outlet of the second portion of the second body part, and the second flow isolation mechanism is operable to selectively prevent or allow fluid flow through the fluid flow control device from the inlet to the outlet of the third portion of the second body part.

[0031] In embodiments in which first and second flow isolation mechanisms are provided in the second body part, another flow isolation mechanism may be provided in the first body part.

[0032] The inlet of the first body part is adapted to be connected, in use, to a water supply line of a plumbing installation.

[0033] The at least one outlet of the second body part is adapted to be connected, in use, to the inlet of a respective appliance (e.g. a tap or faucet, a water filter, a dishwasher, a washing machine, etc.).

[0034] Seals may be provided between the first body part and the second body part such that water entering the fluid flow control device via the inlet is able to flow only through the first body part and the second body part and exit the fluid flow control device from the at least one outlet.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0035] The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of an fluid flow control device in accordance with the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the fluid flow control device shown in Figure 1;

[0038] Figure 3 is a first cross sectional view of the fluid flow control device shown in Figure 1, in a closed condition;

[0039] Figure 4 is a second cross sectional view of the fluid flow control device shown in Figure 1, in an open condition;

[0040] Figure 5 is a third cross sectional view of the fluid flow control device shown in Figure 1, in an open condition;

[0041] Figure 6 is detail cross sectional view of the pressure limiting valve of the fluid flow control device shown in Figures 3 and 4;

[0042] Figure 7 is a detail cross sectional view of the pressure limiting valve of the fluid flow control device shown in Figure 5;

[0043] Figure 8 is a cross sectional view of a second embodiment of an isolation valve in accordance with the present invention;

[0044] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of a third embodiment of a fluid flow control device in accordance with the present invention;

[0045] Figure 10 is a cross sectional view of the fluid flow control device shown in Figure 9, in an open condition;

[0046] Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a fluid flow control device in accordance with the present invention;

[0047] Figure 12 is a cross sectional view of the fluid flow control device shown in Figure 11, in an open condition; and,

[0048] Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a fluid flow control device in accordance with the present invention;

[0049] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a fluid flow control device in accordance with the present invention; and

[0050] Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view of the fluid flow control device shown in Figure 14.

Description of Embodiments

[0051] The same reference numerals are used to denote the same or equivalent parts in the embodiments described herein. Such parts that are described with reference to one or more embodiments are not again described with reference to the other embodiments described herein. It is to be understood that the description of such parts and their use and operation with reference to such one or more embodiment/s also applies to the other embodiment/s.

[0052] In the description that follows and the accompanying drawings, various embodiments of a fluid flow control device in accordance with the present invention are described and shown. Included in the embodiments are fluid flow control devices that also incorporate one or more auxiliary, or supplementary, valves, such as a pressure limiting valve and/or a check valve (i.e. a non-return valve), as well as fluid flow control devices that do not incorporate any such supplementary valves. The various embodiments of the fluid flow control device allow the present invention to have application in a wide range of plumbing installations in both domestic and commercial environments, as will be further described later herein.

[0053] FIGURES 1 - 7

[0054] In Figures 1 to 5 of the drawings, there is shown a fluid flow control device 10. The fluid flow control device 10 may be used, for example, to prevent fluid flow to an appliance to thereby isolate the appliance from the fluid (e.g. during maintenance or replacement of the appliance), as will be further described later herein. In addition, providing the fluid flow control device with a pressure limiting valve enables the maximum pressure of fluid that is able to flow through the fluid flow control device 10 to be limited to a preset level. This protects the appliance from damage due to excessive fluid pressure.

[0055] The fluid flow control device 10 comprises a body 12, having an inlet 14 and an outlet 16, and a flow isolation mechanism 18. The flow isolation mechanism is to selectively open and close the fluid flow control device 10 to thereby, respectively, allow or prevent fluid flow through the fluid flow control device 10 from the inlet 14 to the outlet 16.

[0056] The body 12 comprises two body parts, being a first body part 20 and a second body part 22. The second body part 22 is provided with the outlet 16. The first body part 20 and the second body 22 are movable relative to each other. This permits selective orientation of the outlet 16, i.e. the direction of orientation of the outlet 16 is selectable, as will be further described later herein.

[0057] In particular, the second body part 22 may be swivelable, or rotatable, relative to the first body part 20.

[0058] The first body part 20 and the second body part 22 are substantially tubular (and hollow).

[0059] The flow isolation mechanism 18 is provided in the first body part 20 of the fluid flow control device 10. The flow isolation mechanism 18 of the fluid flow control device 10 comprises a ball 24 and a pair of seals 26 and 28 that contact the ball 24. A stem 30 engages with the ball 24 and a handle 32 is detachably connected to the stem 30 by a screw 34, such that the ball 24 may be selectively moved (by being rotated) between first and second positions by an operator. The stem 30 has a lug 36 that engages in a recess 38 in the ball 24. The lug 36 extends outwardly at a first end of the stem 30.

[0060] The ball 24 has an internal space 40. The ball 24 is provided with at least two openings 42 and 44. The openings 42 and 44 communicate with the internal space 40 of the ball 24. The openings 42 and 44 are in fluid communication with one another via the internal space 40. The openings 42 and 44 of the ball 24 are arranged at substantially a right angle to one another. This is best seen in Figures 2, 4 and 5.

[0061] Whilst the ball 24 has been described as having an internal space 40 and at least two openings 42 and 44, from a manufacturing standpoint it is convenient that a bore is drilled substantially diametrically through the ball 24, such that the bore forms the internal space 40. The opening 44 forms one of the openings of the bore through the ball 24 and an opening 46 (best seen in Figures 4 and 5) forms the other opening of the bore through the ball 24. The opening 42 is drilled into the ball 24 such that the opening 42 communicates with the internal space 40 inside the ball 24, but the opening does not extend through the ball 24.

[0062] The recess 38 of the ball 24 is provided substantially diametrically opposed to the opening 42. The recess 38 does not extend into and does not communicate with the internal space 40 inside the ball 24.

[0063] The seal 26 is accommodated in a recess 48 formed in the internal wall 50 of the first body part 20 of the fluid flow control device 10. The seal 28 is accommodated in a recess 52 formed in a cap 54. The cap 54 is detachably connected with the first body part 20 at an opening 56 in the first body part 20, e.g. by a screw threaded connection, as shown in the drawings. The seal 26 and the ball 24 are inserted through the opening 56 into first body part 20 during assembly of the fluid flow control device 10. The seals 26 and 28 are in contact with the outside surface 58 of the ball 24 to seal against the outside surface 58. The cap 54 is provided with an opening 60. The first and second body parts 20 and 22 of the fluid flow control device 10 are in fluid communication via the opening 60. Thus, whilst the cap 54 engages with the first body part 20 at the opening 56 to fill the opening 56, fluid can pass from the first body part 20 to the second body part 22 through the opening 60 in the cap 54. An annular seal 62 is provided between the cap 54 and the first body part 20. The cap 54 may be provided with the annular seal 62 on its outer surface to thereby seal between the cap 54 and the first body part 20. The seals 26 and 28 are substantially annular in shape with a respective opening 64 and 66 therethrough.

[0064] As will be further described later herein, the ball 24 is rotatable in the first body part 20 such that the opening 44 of the ball 24 may be aligned with the opening 66 of the seal 28 (which is the position in the open condition of the fluid flow control device 10). In addition, the ball 24 is rotatable such that a portion of the outside surface 58 of the ball 24 may be aligned with the opening 66 of the seal 28 (which is the position in the closed condition of the fluid flow control device 10).

[0065] The stem 30 is in close contact with the internal wall 50 of the first body part 20. The stem 30 is substantially cylindrical. The stem 30 is provided with a pair of grooves that accommodate respective annular seals 68. The annular seals 68 seal against the internal wall 50 of the first body part 20. The annular seals 68, for example, may be O-rings. The stem 30 is provided with a flange 70. The flange 70 is circular. The flange 70 is provided at the first end of the stem 30, adjacent the lug 36. The lug 36 extends outwardly away from the flange 70, in the axial direction of the stem 30. The flange 70 abuts a shoulder 72 in the internal wall 50 of the first body part 20. The stem 30 has a bore 74 that extends in the axial direction of the stem 30 from the second end of the stem, which is opposed to the first end of the stem 30. The bore 74 extends for a portion of the length of the stem 30. The wall of the bore 74 is provided with a screw thread 76. The screw 34 has a screw thread 78 that engages with the screw thread 76 to detachably connect the handle 32 with the stem 30. A plug 80 closes the opening in the handle 32 through which the screw 34 is inserted to engage with the stem 30.

[0066] The first body part 20 is provided with a first end 82 and a second end 84. The inlet 14 is provided at the first end 82 and an opening 86 is provided at the second end 84. The first body part 20 is provided with a flange 88 proximate to, but spaced from, the second end 84. The portion 90 of the first body part 20 between the first end 82 and the flange 88 is narrower, i.e. of lesser diameter, than the remainder of the first body part 20. A circular groove is formed between the flange 88 and an adjacent part 92 of the first body part 20. A circlip 94 is provided between the first body part 20 and the handle 32. A portion 96 of the circlip 94 engages in the circular groove between the flange 88 and the adjacent part 92 of the first body part 20. The circlip 94 retains the second body part 22 in place on the first body part 20.

[0067] A lug 100 extends from the outer side of the portion 90 of the first body part 20. The lug 100 extends in the longitudinal direction of the first body part 20, i.e. parallel to the axial direction of the first body part 20. The lug 100 acts as a stop to limit rotation of the handle 32 between first and second positions that correspond to the closed and open conditions of the fluid flow control device 10. Preferably, the handle 32 is able to rotate through 900 between the closed and open conditions of the fluid flow control device 10.

[0068] The exterior of the first body part 20 is provided with a pair of spaced apart grooves that accommodate respective annular seals 102. The annular seals 102, for example, may be O-rings. A portion 104 of the first body part 20 is provided between respective portions 106 of the first body part 20. The portions 106 are provided with the grooves that accommodate the respective annular seals 102.

[0069] The portion 104 of the first body part 20 has a central section 108 and respective sections 110 adjacent to the central section 108 that taper from the central section 108 at either side of the central section 108. The central section 108 is of slightly lesser size (i.e. diameter) than the respective portions 106. The sections 110 are of lesser size (i.e. diameter) than the respective portions 106 and the central section 108.

[0070] Since the first body part 20 is substantially tubular (and hollow), an internal space 112 is provided inside the first body part 20. The internal space 112 is surrounded by the internal wall 50. The internal space 112 extends between the inlet 14 and an opening 114 spaced from the inlet 14.

[0071] During assembly of the fluid flow control device 10, the stem 30 is inserted into the inlet 14 with the end opposed to the first end, i.e. the second end, of the stem 30 inserted first (i.e. as the leading end). The stem 30 extends into the internal space 112 in the first body part 20 until the flange 70 abuts the shoulder 72.

[0072] The first body part 20 is provided with a connection 116 adjacent the inlet 14. In use, the connection 116 is used to connect the inlet 14 to a suitable component of a plumbing installation, as will be further described later herein. The connection 116 may be a screw thread connection such as, for example, a female screw thread connection as shown in the drawings.

[0073] The second body part 22 comprises a first portion 118 and a second portion 120. The second portion 120 extends from the first portion 118 in an offset manner, substantially radially or at a right angle. The second portion 120 extend from the first portion 118 at the proximal end of the second portion 120 and the outlet 16 is provided at the distal end of the second portion 120. The first and second portions 118 and 120 are in fluid communication via the opening 60 in the cap 54. The first and second portions 118 and 120 are substantially tubular (and hollow). The first portion 118 is provided around the first body part 20 such that the portions 104 and 106 are surrounded by the first portion 118. The first portion 118 forms a collar or sleeve around the portions 104 and 106. The annular seals 102 seal against the internal wall 122 of the first portion 118.

[0074] A first end 124 of the first portion 118 abuts against a shoulder 126 on the exterior of the first body part 20. A second end 128 of the first portion 118 abuts against a portion 130 of the circlip 94. The second body part 22 is thereby retained in place on the first body part 20. The circlip 94 thereby retains the second body part 22 in place with the first body part 20 and prevents the first portion 118 from sliding off the first body part 20 even if the handle 32 is removed.

[0075] The first body part 20 and the second body 22 are movable relative to each other. In particular, the second body part 22 is able to rotate relative to the first body part 20, in either direction. The first portion 118, being sleeve-like or collar-like, is able to rotate around the portions 104 and 106 of the first body part 20 in close contact with the first body portion 20 at the regions of the portions 106. Consequently, the second portion 120 is able to rotate around the first body portion (with the first portion 118). This permits the outlet 16 to be orientated in a selected direction, i.e. the direction of orientation of the outlet 16 may be selectable, since the second body part 22 may be rotated, or swivelled, relative to the first body part 20 to select the desired direction of orientation of the outlet 16.

[0076] Since the central section 108 is of slightly lesser size (i.e. diameter) than the respective portions 106 and the sections 110 are of lesser size (i.e. diameter) than the respective portions 106, an annular space 132 is formed around the portion 104 of the first body part 20, between the first body part 20 and the second body part 22.

[0077] The second body part 22 is provided with a connection 134 adjacent to the outlet 16. The second portion 120 of the second body part 22 is provided with the connection 134. In use, the connection 134 typically is used to connect the outlet 16 to an appliance (e.g. a tap or faucet, a water filter, a dishwasher, a washing machine) in a plumbing installation, as will be further described later herein. The connection 134 may be a screw thread connection such as, for example, a male screw thread connection as shown in the drawings.

[0078] The first body part 20 is provided with a seal 136, which may be a sealing washer. The seal 136 abuts an internal shoulder 138 in the internal wall 50 of the first body part 20. In use, the seal 136 forms a fluid-tight seal with the component of the plumbing installation with which the connection 116 is connected.

[0079] The fluid flow control device 10 may be provided with a pressure limiting valve. However, in an alternative embodiment(s), no pressure limiting valve is provided, as will be further described later herein.

[0080] Pressure limiting valves are known in the art and function to limit the pressure of a fluid that is able to flow through the pressure limiting valve to a maximum set pressure.

[0081] In recent years, more and more tap and appliance manufacturers are recommending and requiring that, when their products are installed in plumbing installations, the water supply pressure to their taps and appliances be reduced to protect these products from damage that may be caused by surges in the pressure of the water delivered to them. This may require installing a separate pressure limiting valve downstream of the point-of-use isolation valve.

[0082] In contrast, the fluid flow control device 10 may incorporate the point-of use isolation and pressure limiting functions in a single unit.

[0083] When the fluid flow control device 10 is provided with a pressure limiting valve, the pressure limiting valve is provided in the second body part 22. The pressure limiting valve may be of any suitable type and construction for the installation in which the fluid flow control device 10 is to be used. The embodiment of the pressure limiting valve that is herein described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings is for the purpose of illustrative example only.

[0084] The fluid flow control device 10 shown in Figures 1 to 5 includes a pressure limiting valve 150. The pressure limiting valve 150 is shown in detail in Figures 6 and 7.

[0085] The pressure limiting valve 150 comprises a housing 152, a piston member 154 and a spring 156. The housing 150 is in two parts, namely a first housing part 158 and a second housing part 160. The housing parts 158 and 160 are detachably connected together, for example, by a screw threaded connection 162. An annular seal 164 is provided between the first and second housing parts 158 and 160. The annular seal 164, for example, may be an 0-ring.

[0086] The piston member 154 comprises a piston head (or valve head) 166, a base 168 and a neck 170 extending between the piston head 166 and the base 168. A cavity 172 is provided in the base 168 of the piston member 154. The cavity 172 accommodates a portion of the spring 156.

[0087] The piston head 166 has a seal 174 which is retained in position by a seal screw 176. The seal screw 176 engages with a screw thread 178 in the neck 170 of the piston member 154, adjacent the end of the piston member 154 at which the piston head 166 is located. The seal 174 is substantially annular. An annular flange 180 is provided at the piston head 166, adjacent the end of the neck 170 that is adjacent the piston head 166. The seal 174 abuts with a flange 180 of the piston head 166 and is sandwiched between a seal screw 176 and the flange 180.

[0088] The piston member 154 is provided with a shoulder 182. The shoulder 182 is provided on the base 168 of the piston member 154.

[0089] The base 168 of the piston member 154 is provided with circumferential grooves on its outer surface that accommodate respective annular seals 184. The annular seals 184, for example, may be O-rings.

[0090] The first and second housing parts 158 and 160 and the base 168 of the piston member 154 form a spring chamber 186. The first housing part 158 and the base 168 have respective internal spaces, which form part of the spring chamber 186. The spring 156 is provided in the spring chamber 186. One end of the spring 156 abuts an internal end wall of the first housing part 158 and the other end of the spring 156 abuts an internal end wall of the base 168.

[0091] The base 168 of the piston member 154 is retained by the housing 152. In that regard, the second housing part 160 is provided with an inwardly turned flange 188. The shoulder 182 of the piston member 154 is able to abut against the flange 188 to prevent further movement of the piston member 154 in the direction D (as can be seen in Figure 6), as will be further described later herein. Thus, the flange 188 acts as a stop to limit the travel of the piston member 154 in the direction D.

[0092] The pressure limiting valve 150 also comprises a valve seat 190. The valve seat 190 is provided in the second housing part 160. The second housing part 160 has a portion 192 at the downstream end of the pressure limiting valve 150 (spaced from the first housing part 158, which is at the upstream end of the pressure limiting valve 150). The portion 192 is of slightly greater diameter than the remainder of the second housing part 160 and is provided with a circumferential groove on its outer surface that accommodates an annular seal 194. The annular seal 194, for example, may be an 0-ring.

[0093] During assembly of the fluid flow control device 10, the pressure limiting valve 150 is inserted through the outlet 16 into the second body part 22 with the second housing part 160 inserted first (i.e. as the leading end). The pressure limiting valve 150 extends into the internal space 196 in the second portion 120 of the second body part 22 until an annular shoulder 198 of the portion 192 of the second housing part 160 abuts an annular shoulder 200 formed in the internal wall of the second body part 22. The annular seal 194 seals against the internal wall of the second body part 22.

[0094] A cap, or insert, 202 is detachably connected with the second body part 22 at the outlet 16, e.g. by a screw threaded connection 204, as shown in the drawings. The cap 202 abuts with the portion 192 of the second housing part 160 at the downstream end of the pressure limiting valve 150. The cap 202 is provided with an opening 206. When the pressure limiting valve 150 is in the open condition, it is in fluid communication with the outlet 16 via the opening 206. Thus, whilst the cap 202 engages with the second body part 22, fluid can pass from the pressure limiting valve 150 (in its open condition) through the opening 206 and out via the outlet 16. An annular seal 208 is provided between the cap 202 and the internal wall of the second body part 22. The cap 202 may be provided with the annular seal 208 in a groove on its outer surface to thereby seal between the cap 202 and the second body part 22. The end of the cap 202 adjacent to the outlet 16 is provided with a bevel 210. The screw thread 134 is provided on the outer surface of the second portion 120 of the second body part 22 adjacent the outlet 16. During installation of the fluid flow control device 10, an end of a piece of copper tubing can be connected to the outlet 16 using an olive and a nut by way of a compression connection in conventional manner.

[0095] The use and operation of the fluid flow control device 10 will now be described.

[0096] The fluid flow control device 10 may be installed, for example, in a domestic kitchen plumbing installation between a water supply line and the inlet of an appliance, such as, for example, a tap or faucet, a water filter, a dishwasher, or a washing machine. To do this, the water flow in the water supply line is shut off, which may be done, for example, using the boundary stop cock of the property. At this point, the handle 32 may be turned to close the fluid flow control device 10. The fluid flow control device 10 is shown in the closed condition in Figure 3. The inlet 14 of the fluid flow control device 10 is then connected to the water supply line via the connection 116.

[0097] In the closed condition of the fluid flow control device 10, the ball 24 is orientated such that opening 44 is not aligned with the opening 66 (of the seal 28) and the opening 60 in the cap 54. In the closed condition of the fluid flow control device 10, the ball 24 is orientated such that a portion of the surface 58 of the ball 24 is aligned with the opening 66 and the opening 60 in the cap 54. This is can be seen in Figure 3. The handle 32 may be provided with markings (not shown) that show the respective directions in which handle 32 should be turned to close and open the fluid flow control device 10.

[0098] Once the inlet 14 has been connected to the water supply line via the connection 116, the first body part 20 is fixed in position. However, the second body part 22 is able to move relative to the first body part 20. This ability to move permits the second body part 22 to rotate, in either direction, relative to the first body part 20 which results in the first portion 118 of the second body part 20 being able to be rotated, in either direction, about the first body part 20, in particular, about the portion 104 and the two portions 106 of the first body part 20. Since the second portion 120 extends from the first portion 118 and the second portion 120 has the outlet 16, rotation of the second body part 22 about the first body part 20 enables the direction of orientation of the outlet to be selected. Rotation of the second body part 22 causes the outlet 16 to traverse the path of a circle such that the direction of orientation of the outlet 16 can be selected to be any point on the circumference of the circle.

[0099] The second body part 22 may be freely rotated until the outlet 16 is pointing in the desired direction that is most convenient for the plumber carrying out the installation of the fluid flow control device 10. The outlet 16 is then connected to be in fluid communication with the inlet of the appliance, such as by way of a compression connection using an olive and nut as herein before described. Since the second body part 22 may be freely rotated relative to the first body part 20, this readily permits the plumber to make adjustments to the direction in which the outlet is pointing as the plumber makes the connection with the outlet 16 of the fluid flow control device 10. Once the connection to the outlet 16 has been made, the boundary stop cock of the property may then be reopened to restore the water supply. The handle 32 is then turned to open the fluid flow control device 10. The fluid flow control device 10 is shown in the open condition in Figure 4.

[00100]In the open condition of the fluid flow control device 10, the ball 24 is orientated such that opening 44 is aligned with the opening 66 (of the seal 28) and the opening 60 in the cap 54. In the open condition of the fluid flow control device 10, a fluid flow passage is created from the inlet 14, through the internal space 112 in the first body part 20, through the ball 24, through the opening 60 in the cap 54, and into the internal space 196 inside the second body part 22 in which the pressure limiting valve 150 is located.

[00101] When the appliance, to which the fluid flow control device 10 has been connected, is opened to draw water from the water supply, the water will flow from the water supply line through the inlet 14 into the internal space 112 in the first body part 20 of the fluid flow control device 10. The water flows through the opening 42 in the ball 24 into the internal space 40 in the ball 24 and exits the ball 24 via the opening 44. The seals 26 and 28 seal with the outside surface 58 of the ball 24 to ensure that water that enters the internal space 112 can flow only through the ball 24.

[00102] As herein before described, the pressure limiting valve 150 operates to limit the pressure of the water that is able to flow through the pressure limiting valve 150 to a maximum set pressure.

[00103] Water that flows from the water supply line enters the fluid flow control device 10 via the inlet 14, flows through the fluid flow control device 10, and exits via the outlet 16. The pressure of fluid, at the outlet 16, which has passed through the pressure limiting valve 150, cannot exceed the set maximum pressure of the pressure limiting valve 150. The spring 156 has an appropriate spring force, which is selected to achieve the desired maximum pressure of the pressure limiting valve 150. The set maximum pressure of the pressure limiting valve 150 indicates the maximum pressure, as measured at the outlet 16, at which fluid is able to pass through the pressure limiting valve 150.

[00104] The water enters the internal space 196 in the second portion 120 of the second body part 22 via the opening 60 in the cap 54.

[00105] The biasing action of the spring 156 on the piston member 154, in the direction D (shown in Figures 6 and 7), and the pressure of the water flowing into the internal space 196 in the second portion 120 of the second body part 22 act to unseat the piston head 166 from the valve seat 190 and maintain the piston head 166 in a condition in which the seal 174 is unseated from the valve seat 190, i.e. the pressure limiting valve 150 is maintained in an open condition, with the piston head 166 on the downstream side of the valve seat 190. Consequently, the water is able to flow from the inlet 14, through the ball 24, into the internal space 196 in the second portion 120, through the pressure limiting valve 150, through the opening 206 in the cap 202, and exit via the outlet 16. In this way, a fluid flow path is formed which extends from the inlet 14 to the outlet 16 in an open condition of the pressure limiting valve 150 (with the fluid flow control device 10 is in the open condition). The pressure limiting valve 150 is shown in the open condition in Figures 5 and 7.

[00106] The seals 102 ensure that the water cannot leak out between the first and second body portions 20 and 22, whilst still permitting the second body portion 22 to be rotated relative to the first body portion 20.

[00107] When the appliance, to which the fluid flow control device 10 has been connected, is closed so that it no longer draws water from the water supply, the back pressure of the water on the downstream side (i.e. the appliance side) of the pressure limiting valve 150 (i.e. downstream of the outlet 16) acts in the direction opposed to the direction D (i.e. in the upstream direction) against the biasing action of the spring 156. (The back pressure of the water on the downstream side of the valve seat 190 is also referred to herein as the downstream fluid pressure.) This back-pressure acts on the piston head 166 to move the piston member 154 in the direction opposed to the direction D until the piston head 154 seats on the valve seat 190 with the seal 174 of the piston head 166 seating, in sealing contact, against the valve seat 190 to close the pressure limiting valve 150. The seal 174 is compressed by the valve seat 190 which closes the pressure limiting valve 150 in a fluid-tight sealing manner. The pressure limiting valve 150 is shown in the closed condition in Figures 4 and 6.

[00108]If it is desired to isolate the appliance, to which the fluid flow control device 10 is connected, the handle 32 is turned in the direction to close the flow control mechanism 18 and thereby close the fluid flow control device 10. This is the closed condition as shown in Figure 3.

[00109] FIGURE 8

[00110] As herein before described, a fluid flow control device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention may omit the pressure limiting valve. An embodiment of such a fluid flow control device 250 is shown in Figure 8. Installation and use of the fluid flow control device 250 is similar to the installation and use of the fluid flow control device 10 of the first embodiment, except that the fluid flow control device 250 does not have a pressure limiting valve 150.

[00111]FIGURES 9 AND 10

[00112] Figures 9 and 10 show another embodiment of a fluid flow control device in accordance with the present invention that omits the pressure limiting valve. The fluid flow control device 260 shown in Figures 9 and 10 is similar to the fluid flow control device 250 as shown in Figure 8, except that the second portion 120 of the second body part 22 has a shorter length and the bevel 210 is formed integrally with the second body portion 120. Since the fluid flow control device 260 does not employ a pressure limiting valve, the second portion 120 of the second body part 22 may be of shortened length. Having a shortened second portion 120 may be useful in installations where minimum space is available to install a fluid flow control device when a pressure limiting valve is not required. Installation and use of the fluid flow control device 260 is similar to the installation and use of the fluid flow control device 250 of the second embodiment.

[00113]FIGURES 11 AND 12

[00114] A fluid flow control device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention may have more than one outlet 16. An embodiment of such a fluid flow control device 270 is shown in Figures 11 and 12, and has two outlets, identified as 16 and 16a. In addition to the first and second portions 118 and 120, the second body part 22 of the fluid flow control device 270 has a third portion 272. The third portion 272 extends from the first portion 118 in an offset manner, substantially radially or at a right angle. The third portion 272 is shown as being diametrically opposed to the second portion 120. The third portion 272 of the second body part 22 has the outlet 16a. The third portion 272 is provided with a connection 274 adjacent the outlet 16a. In use, the connection 274 typically is used to connect the outlet 16a to an appliance (e.g. a washing machine) in a plumbing installation. The connection 274 may be a screw thread connection such as, for example, a male screw thread connection as shown in the drawings.

[00115] The fluid flow control device 270 also exemplifies the use of outlet connections of different sizes. In that regard, the connection 134 at the outlet 16 of the second portion 120 has a1/2 inch size thread connection, whilst the connection 274 at the outlet 16a of the third portion 272 has a % inch size thread connection.

[00116] The sizes of the outlet connections in the embodiments of the fluid flow control device in accordance with the present invention may be selected according to the intended use of the particular fluid flow control device. For example, a ¾ inch size thread connection may be used to connect to a washing machine inlet hose.

[00117] The fluid flow control device 270 permits water to flow to two separate appliances. Installation and use of the fluid flow control device 270 is similar to the installation and use of the fluid flow control devices 250 and 260 of the second and third embodiments, except that both outlets 16 and 16a are connected to respective appliances (e.g. a tap or faucet, a water filter, a dishwasher, a washing machine).

[00118] FIGURE 13

[00119] The fluid flow control device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention may have multiple outlets 16. An embodiment of such a fluid flow control device 280 is shown in Figure 13, which has four outlets, identified as 16, 16a, 16b and 16c. In addition to the first, second and third portions 118, 120 and 272, the second body part 22 of the fluid flow control device 280 has a fourth portion 282 and a fifth portion 284. The fourth and fifth portions 282 and 284 extend from the first portion 118 in an offset manner, substantially radially or at a right angle. The fourth portion 282 of the second body part 22 has the outlet 16b and the fifth portion 284 of the second body part 22 has the outlet 16c. The fluid flow control device 280 permits water to flow to four separate appliances.

[00120] The fluid flow control device 280 exemplifies the use of outlet connections of different sizes as well as the use of different types of auxiliary valves. In that regard, the connection 134 at the outlet 16 of the second portion 120 has a1/2 inch size thread connection, the second portion 120 being of the same type as in the fluid flow control device 260 of the third embodiment shown in Figures 9 and 10 and without any auxiliary valve. The connection 274 at the outlet 16a of the third portion 272 has a % inch size thread connection, the third portion 272 being slightly longer than the third portion 272 of the fluid flow control device 270 of the fourth embodiment shown in Figures 11 and 12. The third portion 272 of the fluid flow control device 280 accommodates a check valve 286, which is retained in position in the third portion 272 by a circlip 288. The connection 134 at the outlet 16b of the fourth portion 282 also has a1/2 inch size thread connection, the fourth portion 282 accommodating two check valves 290. The check valves 290 are retained in position by a cap, or insert, 292. The cap 292 may be of a similar type as the cap 202 of the fluid flow control device 10 of the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 7. The connection 134 at the outlet 16c of the fifth portion 284 also has a 1/2 inch size thread connection, the fifth portion 284 accommodating a pressure limiting valve 150. The fifth portion 284 may be of the same type and structure as the second portion 120 of the fluid flow control device 10 of the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 7.

[00121]Installation and use of the fluid flow control device 280 is similar to the installation and use of the fluid flow control devices 250, 260 and 270 of the embodiments herein before described, except that all four outlets 16, 16a, 16c and 16d are connected to respective appliances.

[00122]FIGURES 14 AND 15

[00123] Figures 14 and 15 show another embodiment of a fluid flow control device in accordance with the present invention, having more than one outlet (16) and more than one flow isolation mechanism (18).

[00124] In particular, Figures 14 and 15 show a fluid flow control device 300 having outlets 16d and 16e and flow isolation mechanisms 18d and 18e. A respective first and second flow isolation mechanism 18d, 18e is provided for the outlets 16d and 16e so that fluid flow from the outlet 16d and 16e can be individually controlled, i.e. allowed or prevented.

[00125] The first and second flow isolation mechanisms 18d and 18e are provided in the second body part 22 of the fluid flow control device 300.

[00126] The second body part 22 of the fluid flow control device 300 has a first body portion 118, a second portion 302 and a third portion 304. Each of the second and third portions 302 and 304, of the second body part 22, have two sections 306 and 308. Each of the first sections 306 extends from the first portion 118 in an offset manner, substantially radially or at a right angle. Each of the second sections 308 extends from the respective first section 302 in an offset manner, substantially at a right angle. The respective second sections 308 of the second and third portions 302 and 304, of the second body part 22, extend in a substantially parallel manner. The respective first sections 306 of the second and third portions 302 and 304 are diametrically opposed to one another

The outlets 16d and 16e are in fluid communication with the first portion 118 of the second body part 22 via the respective first and second sections 306 and 308.

[00127] The flow isolation mechanisms 18d and 18e are provided in the second body part 22. This is different from the embodiments of the fluid flow control device herein before described in which the flow isolation mechanisms 18 are provided in the first body part 20.

[00128]In particular, the flow isolation mechanisms 18d and 18e are provided in the first sections 306 of the respective second and third portions 302 and 304 of the second body part 22. The components of the flow isolation mechanisms 18d and 18e are of a similar form to those of the flow isolation mechanism 18 of the embodiments of the fluid flow control device herein before described.

[00129] A respective cap 309 is detachably connected with the first sections 306 of the second body part 22, e.g. by screw threads 310 on the caps 309 and screw threads 311 on the first sections 306.

[00130] A stem 30a engages with the ball 24 of each flow isolation mechanism 18d, 18e. A handle 32a is detachably connected to a respective stem 30a by a screw 34a. Each ball 24 may be selectively moved (by being rotated) between first and second positions (i.e. closed and open conditions of the flow isolation mechanisms 18d and 18e) by an operator turning the respective handles 32a. Each stem 30a has a lug 36 that engages in the recess 38 in each ball 24, in the same manner as herein before described with reference to the other embodiments of the fluid flow control device.

[00131] The fluid flow control device 300 is also provided with a flow isolation mechanism 18a, which is provided in the first body part 20. The flow isolation mechanism 18a is of a similar structure to the flow isolation mechanisms 18 of the embodiments of the fluid flow control device herein before described. However, the flow isolation mechanism 18a is not intended to be used to control fluid flow through the fluid flow control device 300. Instead, the flow isolation mechanism 18a is in a fully open position. In that regard, there is no external handle, such as a handle 32 used in the embodiments of the fluid flow control device herein before described. Instead, a dome cover 312 is provided at the second end 128 of the first portion 118, of the second body part 22, to close off the opening of the first portion 118 at the second end 128. The dome cover 312 is secured to the stem 30 by way of a screw 314. A cap 316 covers the screw 314.

[00132] The fluid flow control device 300 permits water to flow to two separate appliances and also permits the flow of water to those separate appliances to be individually controlled using the flow isolation mechanisms 18d and 18e.

[00133] Installation of the fluid flow control device 300 is similar to the installation of the embodiments of the fluid flow control device herein before described, except that both outlets 16d and 16e are connected to respective appliances (e.g. a tap or faucet, a water filter, a dishwasher, a washing machine).

[00134] Since second body part 22 is movable (i.e. rotatable or swivelable in either direction) relative to the second body part 20, the outlets 16d and 16e may be orientated in the moist suitable direction for the installation being undertaken.

[00135] Furthermore, the flow isolation mechanisms 18d and 18e are separately operable to isolate only one, or both, of the connected appliances to which the fluid flow control device 300 is connected. This is done by turning the handle 32a of the required flow isolation mechanism 18d, 18e to close the flow isolation mechanism 18d, 18e and thereby close the fluid flow control device 300 for that particular appliance. In this way, if only one of the appliances needs to be isolated this can be achieved by closing only the required flow isolation mechanism 18d, 18e.

[00136] Retaining the flow isolation mechanism 18a enables both of the connected appliances to be isolated simultaneously if the flow isolation mechanism 18a is closed. However, this would necessitate the water supply to the fluid flow control device 300 being isolated, such as using the boundary stop clock at the boundary of the property. Normally this would be done only by a plumber performing maintenance work. The cover 316 and screw 314 can be removed which will allow the dome cover 312 to be removed. The plumber would then engage the stem 30 with a suitable tool to move the ball 24 of the flow isolation mechanism 18a to the closed condition. After the plumber has completed the maintenance work, the flow isolation mechanism 18a is returned to the open condition and the dome cover 312 is put back in place.

[00137] However, in a further embodiment (not shown), the flow isolation mechanism 18a may be omitted.

[00138]In other respects, the installation and use of the fluid flow control device 300 is similar, or analogous, to the installation and use of the embodiments of the fluid flow control device herein before described.

[00139] A check valve is used in plumbing installations to ensure that fluid is able to flow in only one direction through the check valve. In the embodiments of the fluid flow control device of the present invention, one or more check valves may be used to ensure that water is able to flow through the check valve and out of the fluid flow control device, but water cannot flow in the reverse direction through the check valve back into the fluid flow control device. For example, the use of dual check valves meets the requirements of Australian Standard AS2845 back flow protection valves and is a requirement for some appliances to be connected to the water supply to ensure there is no back flow.

[00140] The embodiments herein before described may alternatively be provided with one or more check valves as the auxiliary valve/s, or any suitable combination of pressure limiting valve, check valve or any other type of auxiliary valve.

[00141] The second body part 22 of embodiments of the fluid flow control device of the present invention may be provided with any number of additional portions, other than the one, two and four exemplified in the embodiments described herein, e.g. three, five, or more, space permitting. In all embodiments, the rotatability of the second body part 22 relative to the first body part means that the outlet/s 16, 16a, 16b and 16c, etc. can be orientated in the required selected direction/s.

[00142] The fluid flow control device of the embodiments of the present invention provides a further advantage for the installing plumber in that use of a seal 136 and female screw thread for the connection 116 avoids the use thread sealant or thread seal tape. This is because after the threaded water supply connection has been securely connected to the inlet 14 of the fluid flow control device, the orientation of the outlet 16 can be adjusted by rotating the second body part 22 to the desired orientation - there is no need for repeated attempts to make the connection (i.e. undoing and re-doing the connection), using more or less thread sealant or thread seal tape, to get the outlet 16 to be facing in the desired direction.

[00143] Whilst the fluid flow control device of the embodiments of the present invention use screw thread connections at the outlet/s 16, alternative types of connections may be used, for example, push-fit connections may be used.

[00144]In addition, adaptor fittings may be provided to connect with the connections at the outlet/s 16 and the appliance/s to which the fluid flow control device is to be connected. The adaptor fittings cater for different size connections on appliances.

[00145] Whilst one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention have been herein before described, the scope of the present invention is not limited to those specific embodiment(s), and may be embodied in other ways, as will be apparent to a person skilled in the art.

[00146] Modifications and variations such as would be apparent to a skilled addressee are deemed to be within the scope of the present invention.

Claims (16)

The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. A fluid flow control device comprising

a body having an inlet and at least one outlet,

at least one flow isolation mechanism, a said flow isolation mechanism is operable to selectively prevent or allow fluid flow through the fluid flow control device from the inlet to the at least one outlet,

wherein the body comprises at least two body parts, being a first body part and a second body part, and the second body part is provided with the at least one outlet, and wherein the first body part and the second body together define an annular space which allows the first and second body part to move relative to each other such that the direction of orientation of the at least one outlet is selectable, wherein the at least one flow isolation mechanism is provided in the first body part and a pressure limiting valve is provided in the second body part.

2. A fluid flow control device according to claim 1, wherein the first body part is provided with the inlet.

3. A fluid flow control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second body part is swivelable, or rotatable, relative to the first body part.

4. A fluid flow control device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second body part comprises at least a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the first portion is provided around the first body part and the second portion extends from the first portion.

5. A fluid flow control device according to claim 4, wherein the at least one outlet of the fluid flow control device is provided at the distal end of the second portion of the second body part.

6. A fluid flow control device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the second body part comprises one or more additional portions that extend from the first portion of the second body part.

7. A fluid flow control device according to claim 6, wherein each of the additional portions of the second body part is provided with an outlet of the fluid flow control device.

8. A fluid flow control device according to claim 7, wherein the respective outlets of the additional portions of the second body part are provided at the respective distal ends of the additional portions.

9. A fluid flow control device according to any one of claims 6 to 8, further comprising one or more auxiliary valves, or other plumbing component, including a flow stop device, provided in the respective additional portions of the second body part.

10. A fluid flow control device according to claim 1, wherein another flow isolation mechanism is provided in the second body part.

11. A fluid flow control device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein inlet of the first body part is adapted to be connected, in use, to a water supply line of a plumbing installation.

12. A fluid flow control device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one outlet of the second body part is adapted to be connected, in use, to the inlet of a respective appliance.

13. A fluid flow control device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein seals are provided between the first body part and the second body part such that water entering the fluid flow control device via the inlet is able to flow only through the first body part and the second body part and exit the fluid flow control device from the at least one outlet.

14. A fluid flow control device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one auxiliary check valve provided in the second body part.

15. A fluid flow control device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one flow isolation mechanism comprises a movable member that is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein fluid cannot flow through the fluid flow control device in the first position of the movable member and fluid can flow through the fluid flow control device in the second position of the movable member.

16. A fluid flow control device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one flow isolation mechanism is provided as an isolation valve that is selectively openable and closable to thereby respectively allow or prevent fluid flow through the fluid flow control device.