Patent Description:
At least one aspect relates to a riser manifold according to claim <NUM>.

At least one aspect relates to a method of assembly of a riser manifold assembly. The method includes providing a control valve. The control valve defined by an inlet and an outlet. The control valve being operable between an open position, permitting fluid flow between the inlet and the outlet, and a closed position, inhibiting fluid flow between the inlet and the outlet. The method further includes coupling an inlet of a first spool pipe, defined by the inlet and an outlet, with the outlet of the control valve creating a fluid seal between the first spool pipe and the control valve. The first spool pipe having a flow port between the inlet and the outlet of the first spool pipe. The method further includes mounting a flow control switch, having a vane inserted in the flow port of the first spool pipe, to the first spool pipe creating a fluid seal between the flow control switch and the flow port. The method further includes coupling an inlet of a check valve, defined by the inlet and an outlet, with the outlet of the first spool pipe creating a fluid seal. The check valve having a valve seat and a clapper. The clapper being movable between an open position, allowing fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet, and a closed position, inhibiting fluid flow from the outlet to the inlet, according to a pressure differential between the inlet and the outlet. The check valve including a first pressure port located between the valve seat and the outlet of the check valve. The check valve further including a fist auxiliary port located between the valve seat and the outlet of the check valve. The method further includes coupling an inlet of a second spool pipe, defined by the inlet and an outlet, with the outlet of the check valve creating a fluid seal. The second spool pipe having a second auxiliary port located between the inlet and the outlet of the second spool pipe. The method further includes coupling a test and drain valve with the second auxiliary port of the second spool pipe creating a fluid seal.

At least one aspect relates to a method of providing a riser manifold assembly. The method includes providing a riser manifold assembly. The riser manifold assembly includes a control valve, a first spool pipe, a flow control switch, a check valve, a second spool pipe, and a test and drain valve. The control valve defined by an inlet and an outlet. The control valve being operable between an open position, permitting fluid flow between the inlet and the outlet, and a closed position, inhibiting fluid flow between the inlet and the outlet. The first spool pipe defined by an inlet and an outlet. The inlet of the first spool pipe being mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with the outlet of the control valve. The first spool pipe having a flow port between the inlet and the outlet of the first spool pipe. The flow control switch having a vane inserted in the flow port of the first spool pipe. The flow control switch being mechanically mounted to the first spool pipe and creating a fluid seal between the flow control switch and the flow port. The check valve defined by an inlet and an outlet. The inlet of the check valve being mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with the outlet of the first spool pipe. The check valve having a valve seat and a clapper. The clapper being movable between an open position, allowing fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet, and a closed position, inhibiting fluid flow from the outlet to the inlet, according to a pressure differential between the inlet and the outlet. The check valve including a first pressure port located between the valve seat and the outlet of the check valve. The check valve further including a first auxiliary port located between the valve seat and the outlet of the check valve. The second spool pipe having an inlet and an outlet. The inlet being mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with the outlet of the check valve. The second spool pipe having a second auxiliary port located between the inlet and the outlet of the second spool pipe. The test and drain valve being mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with the second auxiliary port of the second spool pipe.

For purposes of clarity, not every component can be labeled in every drawing. In the drawings:.

Following below are more detailed descriptions of various concepts related to, and implementations of a riser manifold layout also called a riser manifold assembly. Riser manifold assemblies can limit the amount of onsite construction time, and allow for pressure testing of the entire manifold prior to installation. The ability to pressure test as a manifold separate from a fire system valve can allow for a reduction in shipping damage, reduce a valve pallet size, and reduce shipping container complexity. The riser manifold assembly can allow for the rotation of the individual components along a longitudinal axis. The riser manifold assembly can be used for installation, setup, testing, retrofitting, or various other such operations, including by providing some components of the riser manifold assembly for pressure tests, and leaving or removing any of one or more of the components subsequent to the pressure test. The various concepts introduced above and discussed in greater detail below can be implemented in any of numerous ways, including in dry systems and in wet systems.

In this detailed description, reference is made to units of pressure and length in PSI and inch. The conversion of these units is done by simple multiplication:.

Referring to <FIG>, among others, an example riser manifold assembly <NUM> is shown. The riser manifold assembly <NUM> can include a control valve <NUM>, a first pipe (e.g., spool pipe) <NUM>, a flow control switch <NUM>, a check valve <NUM>, a second pipe (e.g., spool pipe) <NUM>, a test and drain valve <NUM>, a plurality of couplings <NUM>, and a pressure gauge <NUM>. The riser manifold assembly <NUM> can include one or more of various such components or combinations or subsets thereof. The control valve <NUM>, first spool pipe <NUM>, check valve <NUM>, second spool pipe <NUM>, and the plurality of couplings <NUM> can be centered along a first longitudinal axis <NUM> creating a fluid passage. The riser manifold assembly <NUM> can connect a fluid source (e.g., water, fire suppression fluid), to a fire suppression system. The riser manifold assembly <NUM> can prevent a back flow of fluid (e.g., air, nitrogen, water) from the fire suppression system to the fluid source. The riser manifold assembly can indicate a flow of fluid from the fluid source to the fire suppression system.

The riser manifold assembly <NUM> can be connected with a fluid source by an inlet <NUM> of the control valve <NUM>. For example, the inlet <NUM> of the control valve <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed (e.g., preventing leaks between the adjoining components) to a fluid source (e.g., pipe carrying fire suppression fluid). The control valve <NUM> can be mechanically coupled with the fluid source utilizing a coupling <NUM>, welded connection, threaded connection, etc. The use of the coupling <NUM> in mechanically coupling the inlet <NUM> of the control valve <NUM> to the fluid source can be beneficial as it allows the control valve <NUM> to be rotated about the first longitudinal axis <NUM> relative to the fluid source depending on user needs (e.g., confined space). The control valve <NUM> can operate between an open position and a closed position based on a user input (e.g., mechanically opening or closing, actuation based on an electronic signal). When the control valve <NUM> is in the open position fluid can be able to flow through the control valve (e.g., from inlet <NUM> to outlet <NUM>). When the control valve is in the closed position, fluid flow through the control valve can be inhibited (e.g., no fluid flow). The outlet <NUM> of the control valve <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed to an inlet <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM> creating a fluid passage between the control valve <NUM> and the first spool pipe <NUM>. The outlet <NUM> of the control valve <NUM> can be mechanically coupled with the inlet <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM> utilizing a coupling <NUM>, welded connection, threaded connection, etc..

The flow control switch <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed to a flow port <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM>. A vane <NUM> of the flow control switch <NUM> can be inserted into the flow port <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM> such that the vane <NUM> can be positioned within the first spool pipe <NUM>. The vane <NUM> of the flow control switch <NUM> can create a seal on an internal surface of the first spool pipe <NUM> such that the vane <NUM> is propelled relative to the first spool pipe <NUM> when fluid flows between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM>. As such, the flow control switch <NUM> can indicate fluid flow through the riser manifold assembly <NUM>.

An outlet <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly connected with an inlet <NUM> of the check valve <NUM>. The outlet <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM> can be mechanically coupled with the inlet <NUM> of the check valve <NUM> utilizing a coupling <NUM>, welded connection, threaded connection, etc. The first spool pipe <NUM> can be rotated about the first longitudinal axis <NUM> relative to the control valve <NUM> and the check valve <NUM>. The check valve <NUM> can function between an open position and a closed position based on the pressure differential between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM>. For example, when there is a pressure differential between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM> great enough (e.g., pressure at inlet <NUM> is greater than the pressure at the outlet <NUM>) to force the check valve open, the check valve <NUM> can permit the flow of fluid from the inlet <NUM> to the outlet <NUM>. The check valve <NUM> can inhibit the flow of fluid between the outlet <NUM> and the inlet <NUM>, thus preventing a backflow of fluid through the riser manifold assembly <NUM> from the fire suppression system to the fluid source.

A pressure gauge <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed to a pressure port <NUM> of the check valve <NUM>. For example, the pressure gauge <NUM> can be mechanically coupled (e.g., threaded, welded) directly to the pressure port <NUM> or fluidly connected by a nipple to the pressure port <NUM>. The pressure gauge <NUM> can be an analog gauge, digital gauge, a pressure sensor, etc. The pressure gauge <NUM> can provide a sensed pressure at the outlet <NUM> of the check valve <NUM>. The pressure at the outlet <NUM> of the check valve <NUM> can be indicative of the fire suppression system pressure. The outlet <NUM> of the check valve <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly connected with an inlet <NUM> of the second spool pipe <NUM>. The outlet <NUM> can be mechanically coupled with the inlet <NUM><NUM> utilizing a coupling <NUM>, welded connection, threaded connection, etc. The check valve <NUM> can be rotated about the first longitudinal axis <NUM> relative to the first spool pipe <NUM> and the second spool pipe <NUM>.

The second spool pipe <NUM> can have an inlet <NUM>, an outlet <NUM>, and an auxiliary port <NUM>. The auxiliary port <NUM> can also be referred to as a second auxiliary port <NUM>. The second spool pipe <NUM> can connect the check valve <NUM>, through the second spool pipe <NUM> to the test and drain valve <NUM>. The second spool pipe <NUM> can connect the riser manifold assembly <NUM> to the fire suppression system. The outlet <NUM> of the second spool pipe <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed to the fire suppression system (e.g., additional spool pipes leading to sprinklers). The outlet <NUM> can be mechanically coupled with the fire suppression system by a coupling <NUM>, a welded connection, a threaded connection, etc..

An inlet <NUM> of the test and drain valve <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed to the auxiliary port <NUM> of the second spool pipe <NUM>. For example, the inlet <NUM> of the test and drain valve <NUM> can have external threads that correspond to internal threads of the auxiliary port <NUM> of the second spool pipe <NUM> such that the test and drain valve <NUM> can be threaded into the second spool pipe <NUM>. This is an example configuration and many other configurations are possible, such as, the inlet <NUM> of the test and drain valve can be coupled with the auxiliary port <NUM> of the second spool pipe <NUM> utilizing a mechanical coupling <NUM>. The test and drain valve <NUM> can provide a valve for a user to test the riser manifold assembly <NUM> to ensure the functioning of the check valve <NUM>, the flow control switch <NUM>, or the control valve <NUM>. The test and drain valve <NUM> can provide a drain port <NUM> to allow the fire suppression system to be drained. The test and drain valve <NUM> can provide a pressure relief valve <NUM> to allow for the relief of fluid in the instance that the pressure of the fluid is above a preset pressure (e.g., <NUM> PSI, <NUM> PSI, <NUM> PSI, <NUM> PSI).

The connections of the components of the riser manifold assembly <NUM> along the first longitudinal axis <NUM> can include intermediary pieces not shown in <FIG>. For example, between the outlet <NUM> of the control valve <NUM> and the inlet <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM>, a gasket (e.g., rubber, steel) can be used to ensure a fluidly sealed connection.

Referring now to <FIG>, among others, a side view and a top view of the control valve <NUM> are shown, respectively. The control valve <NUM> is shown as a butterfly valve, but the disclosure is not so limited. The control valve <NUM> can include an inlet <NUM>, an outlet <NUM>, a valve body <NUM>, a disk <NUM>, a shaft housing <NUM>, a gear box <NUM>, a hand wheel <NUM>, a hand wheel shaft <NUM>, a valve indicator <NUM>, and control wires <NUM>. The control valve <NUM> can operate between an open position and a closed position based on a user input (e.g., mechanically opening or closing, actuation based on an electronic signal). When the control valve <NUM> is in the open position fluid can be permitted to flow through the control valve (e.g., from inlet <NUM> to outlet <NUM>). When the control valve is in the closed position, fluid flow through the control valve can be inhibited (e.g., no fluid flow). The user input can be a rotation of the hand wheel <NUM> or a signal from a device transmitted to the control valve <NUM> via the control wires <NUM>.

The inlet <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, can include an inlet groove <NUM> defining a recession located on an outer surface of the control valve <NUM> located inward (e.g., nearer a center of the control valve <NUM>) of the inlet <NUM>. The inlet groove <NUM> can surround a circumference of the inlet <NUM>. The inlet groove <NUM> can be an abrupt groove (e.g., squared edges) or can be a rounded or chamfered groove. The inlet groove <NUM> can provide a recession for the control valve <NUM> to be connected with a pipe spool or fluid source utilizing a mechanical coupling <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> can be configured for a welded connection. The inlet <NUM> can be configured for a threaded connection (e.g., internal threads, external threads). The outlet <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, can include an outlet groove <NUM> defining a recession located on an outer surface of the control valve <NUM> located inward (e.g., nearer a center of the control valve <NUM>) of the outlet <NUM>. The outlet groove <NUM> can surround a circumference of the outlet <NUM>. The outlet groove <NUM> can be an abrupt groove (e.g., squared edges) or can be a rounded or chamfered groove. The outlet groove <NUM> can provide a recession for the control valve <NUM> to be connected with the first spool pipe <NUM>, among many possible connections, utilizing a mechanical coupling <NUM>. The outlet <NUM> can be configured for a welded connection. The outlet <NUM> can be configured for a threaded connection (e.g., internal threads, external threads).

The valve body <NUM> can house a selectively rotatable control shaft, a disk <NUM>, an upstream tapping boss <NUM>, and a downstream tapping boss <NUM>. The valve body <NUM> can include a valve seat that can provide a seal with the disk <NUM> to prevent the flow of fluid through the valve body <NUM> when the control valve <NUM> is in a closed position. The valve body <NUM> can be connected with a shaft housing <NUM>. The shaft housing <NUM> can provide protection to the selectively rotatable control shaft (e.g., inhibit bending, inhibit rusting). The shaft housing <NUM> can extend from a first side of the valve body <NUM> and a second side of the valve body <NUM> such that the selectively rotatable control shaft can extend through the valve body <NUM>. The shaft housing <NUM> can include bushings or bearings. The selectively operated control shaft or selectively operated shaft can be connected with the disk <NUM> such that rotation of the selectively operated shaft can cause the disk <NUM> to rotate. The rotation of the disk <NUM> can open and close the control valve <NUM>. The upstream tapping boss <NUM> can be located between the inlet <NUM> and the rotatable control shaft (e.g., the center of the valve body <NUM>). The upstream tapping boss <NUM> can allow for a simple connection to the system upstream of the control valve <NUM>. For example, the upstream tapping boss <NUM> can be used to provide a connection for a prime line of a deluge valve. This is an example embodiment and many other configurations are possible. The downstream tapping boss <NUM> can be located between the rotatable control shaft (e.g., center of the valve body <NUM>) and the outlet <NUM>. The downstream tapping boss <NUM> can allow for a simple connection to the system upstream of the control valve <NUM>. For example, the downstream tapping boss <NUM> can be used to provide a connection for a drain valve, which can be used to drain the fluid from the system downstream of the control valve <NUM>.

The hand wheel <NUM> can be rotated clockwise and counterclockwise providing a rotation of the hand wheel shaft <NUM>, which can be transmitted through the gear box <NUM> to the selectively operated control shaft. The rotation of the selectively operated shaft rotate the disk <NUM>, thus opening and closing the control valve <NUM>. The gear box <NUM> can provide a gear ratio between the hand wheel shaft <NUM> and the selectively operated shaft. For example, the gear box <NUM> can have a gear ratio of <NUM>:<NUM> which would require five full rotations of the hand wheel to rotate the disk by <NUM> degrees thus closing or opening the valve. This is an example configuration and the gear box <NUM> can have any suitable gear ratio (e.g., <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>). The gear box can further include an electric motor (e.g., stepper motor) which can act to rotate the selectively operated shaft based on an input signal received through the control wires <NUM>. The gear box <NUM> can include a valve indicator <NUM> which can indicate the position of the disk <NUM> (e.g., open, closed, partially open). The control wires <NUM> can connect a number of different computing devices (e.g., controller, computing system) to motors or sensors in the gear box <NUM> which can rotate the selectively operated shaft or sense the position of the selectively operated shaft, respectively.

Referring now to <FIG>, among others, an illustration of a first spool pipe <NUM> is shown. The first spool pipe <NUM> can include an inlet <NUM>, an outlet <NUM>, a spool body <NUM>, and a flow port <NUM>. The inlet <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, can include an inlet groove <NUM> defining a recession located on an outer surface of the spool body <NUM> located inward (e.g., nearer a center of the first spool pipe <NUM>) of the inlet <NUM>. The inlet groove <NUM> can surround a circumference of the inlet <NUM>. The inlet groove <NUM> can be an abrupt groove (e.g., squared edges) or can be a rounded or chamfered groove. The inlet groove <NUM> can provide a recession for the first spool pipe <NUM> to be connected with the control valve <NUM>, among other components, utilizing a mechanical coupling <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> can be configured for a welded connection. The inlet <NUM> can be configured for a threaded connection (e.g., internal threads, external threads). The outlet <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, can include an outlet groove <NUM> defining a recession located on an outer surface of the first spool pipe <NUM> located inward (e.g., nearer a center of the first spool pipe <NUM>) of the outlet <NUM>. The outlet groove <NUM> can surround a circumference of the outlet <NUM>. The outlet groove <NUM> can be an abrupt groove (e.g., squared edges) or can be a rounded or chamfered groove. The outlet groove <NUM> can provide a recession for the first spool pipe <NUM> to be connected with the check valve <NUM>, among many possible connections, utilizing a mechanical coupling <NUM>. The outlet <NUM> can be configured for a welded connection. The outlet <NUM> can be configured for a threaded connection (e.g., internal threads, external threads).

The first spool pipe <NUM> can be made of any suitable material (e.g., steel, PVC, CPVC). The flow port <NUM> can be located between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM>. The flow port <NUM> can be of a suitable diameter (e.g., <NUM>") such that the vane <NUM> of the flow control switch <NUM> can be inserted through the flow port <NUM>. The flow port <NUM> can be perpendicular to the spool body <NUM> and horizontally centered.

Referring now to <FIG>, among others, a top view of an assembled flow control switch <NUM> is shown. A particular flow control switch <NUM> is shown in <FIG>, but the disclosure is not so limited. The flow control switch <NUM> can include a vane <NUM>, a fastener <NUM>, a pipe saddle <NUM>, and a switch body <NUM>. The flow control switch <NUM> can indicate the flow of a fluid through the first spool pipe <NUM> and provide an alert responsive to determining the flow of the fluid. This is beneficial as the flow of fluid through the riser manifold assembly <NUM> can indicate that the fire suppression system has responded to a fire. The vane <NUM> can include a rigid central portion <NUM> and a paddle <NUM>. The paddle <NUM> can be a flexible material that can be rolled inward to be inserted in the flow port <NUM>. Upon entering the flow port <NUM>, the paddle <NUM> can be unspooled such that expands to create a seal with an inner wall of the first spool pipe <NUM>. The paddle <NUM> can be coupled with the rigid inner portion <NUM>. The rigid inner portion <NUM> can be mechanically coupled with a switch held within the switch body <NUM> such that the switch, within the switch body <NUM>, can be triggered when the vane <NUM> is propelled by a flow of fluid through the first spool pipe <NUM>. The switch body <NUM> can contain a switch mechanically coupled with the vane <NUM>. The switch can further be connected with an alarm. The alarm can be connected with an alarm system (e.g., auditory alarms, visual alarms). The alarm can be connected with a computing system (e.g., via a network connection, Bluetooth) such that when the alarm is indicated a computing system can be alerted to respond (e.g., alert local authorities).

The switch body <NUM> can be mechanically coupled with the pipe saddle <NUM>. The pipe saddle <NUM> can be formed to match a curvature of a standard pipe size (e.g., <NUM> inch, <NUM> inch, <NUM> inch). The pipe saddle <NUM> can have fastener holes located outward of a portion of the pipe saddle <NUM> formed to match a curvature of the first spool pipe <NUM>. The fastener holes can provide a mount for any of a number of fasteners <NUM>. The fasteners <NUM> can be any of a number of universal connectors (e.g., U-bolt). The fasteners <NUM> can be fastened to the pipe saddle <NUM> in any of a number of suitable methods (e.g., fastener washer and fastener nut). A gasket can be located between the pipe saddle <NUM> and the first spool pipe <NUM> to provide a fluidly sealed connection. The gasket can be a gasket, an o-ring, a washer, etc. The gasket can be made of any suitable material (e.g., rubber, nylon, steel).

Referring now to <FIG>, among others, a section view of the check valve <NUM> is shown. A particular check valve <NUM> is shown in <FIG>, but the disclosure is not so limited. The check valve can include an inlet <NUM>, an outlet <NUM>, a valve body <NUM>, a valve seat <NUM>, a clapper <NUM>, a spring <NUM>, an upstream pressure port <NUM>, a downstream pressure port <NUM>, an auxiliary port <NUM>, and a valve cover <NUM>. The inlet <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, can include an inlet groove <NUM> defining a recession located on an outer surface of the valve body <NUM> located inward (e.g., nearer a center of the check valve <NUM>) of the inlet <NUM>. The inlet groove <NUM> can surround a circumference of the inlet <NUM>. The inlet groove <NUM> can be an abrupt groove (e.g., squared edges) or can be a rounded or chamfered groove. The inlet groove <NUM> can provide a recession for the check valve <NUM> to be connected with the first spool pipe <NUM>, among other components, utilizing a mechanical coupling <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> can be configured for a welded connection. The inlet <NUM> can be configured for a threaded connection (e.g., internal threads, external threads). The outlet <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, can include an outlet groove <NUM> defining a recession located on an outer surface of the valve body <NUM> located inward (e.g., nearer a center of the check valve <NUM>) of the outlet <NUM>. The outlet groove <NUM> can surround a circumference of the outlet <NUM>. The outlet groove <NUM> can be an abrupt groove (e.g., squared edges) or can be a rounded or chamfered groove. The outlet groove <NUM> can provide a recession for the check valve <NUM> to be connected with the second spool pipe <NUM>, among many possible connections, utilizing a mechanical coupling <NUM>. The outlet <NUM> can be configured for a welded connection. The outlet <NUM> can be configured for a threaded connection (e.g., internal threads, external threads).

The valve body <NUM> can include a valve seat <NUM> on which the clapper <NUM> can be seated to prevent a back flow of fluid through the check valve <NUM> (e.g., flow from outlet <NUM> to inlet <NUM>). The clapper <NUM> can rotate from a fixed pivot point attached to the valve body <NUM>. The clapper <NUM> can move between a closed position (as shown in <FIG>) and an open position, wherein the clapper <NUM> pivots upwards towards the valve cover <NUM>. The clapper <NUM> can be moved based on a pressure differentia between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM>. For example, the pressure differential between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM> must be great enough to overcome the force imposed by the spring <NUM> on an upper surface of the clapper <NUM>. The clapper <NUM> can include a gasket on lower surface of the clapper <NUM>. The gasket can promote a fluidly sealed connection between the clapper <NUM> and the valve seat <NUM>.

The upstream pressure port <NUM> can be located between the inlet <NUM> and the valve seat <NUM>. The upstream pressure port <NUM> can be a port through the valve body <NUM>. The upstream pressure port <NUM> can provide a pressure of the riser manifold assembly <NUM> before the valve seat <NUM>. The upstream pressure port <NUM> can be internally threaded such that a pressure gauge or a nipple with corresponding threads can be threaded into the upstream pressure port <NUM>. The upstream pressure port can be configured to provide a port for a welded connection. The downstream pressure port <NUM> can be located between the valve seat <NUM> and the outlet <NUM>. The downstream pressure port <NUM> can be a port through the valve body <NUM>. The downstream pressure port <NUM> can provide a pressure reading of the riser manifold assembly <NUM> downstream of the valve seat <NUM> which can be the pressure of the fire suppression system. The downstream pressure port <NUM> can be internally threaded such that a pressure gauge <NUM>, for example, or a nipple with corresponding threads can be threaded into the downstream pressure port <NUM>. The downstream pressure port <NUM> can be configured to provide a port for a welded connection.

The auxiliary port <NUM> can be located between the valve seat <NUM> and the outlet <NUM>. The auxiliary port <NUM> can have a diameter greater than one inch. The auxiliary port <NUM> can be internally threaded, as shown in <FIG>. The auxiliary port <NUM> can be configured to provide a port for a welded connection. The auxiliary port <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly connected with a drain valve. The drain valve can drain the fire suppression system and the riser manifold assembly downstream of the auxiliary port <NUM>.

The valve cover <NUM> can be mechanically coupled with the valve body <NUM> (e.g., utilizing fasteners). The valve cover <NUM> can provide support for a back end of the spring <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The valve cover <NUM> can be removed to allow an access for a user to replace parts of the check valve <NUM>. For example the valve cover <NUM> can be used to access the clapper <NUM> to replace the gasket. A gasket can be situated between the valve body <NUM> and the valve cover <NUM> to provide a fluidly sealed connection between the valve cover <NUM> and the valve body <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, among others, a side view of the second spool pipe <NUM> is shown. The second spool pipe <NUM> can be of any suitable material (e.g., steel, PVC, CPVC). The second spool pipe <NUM> can include an inlet <NUM>, an outlet <NUM>, and an auxiliary port <NUM>. A distance between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM> can be less than or equal to <NUM> inches. The distance between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM> can be greater than <NUM> inches. The inlet <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, can include an inlet groove <NUM> defining a recession located on an outer surface of the second spool pipe <NUM> located inward (e.g., nearer a center of the second spool pipe <NUM>) of the inlet <NUM>. The inlet groove <NUM> can surround a circumference of the inlet <NUM>. The inlet groove <NUM> can be an abrupt groove (e.g., squared edges) or can be a rounded or chamfered groove. The inlet groove <NUM> can provide a recession for the second spool pipe <NUM> to be connected with the check valve <NUM>, among other components, utilizing a mechanical coupling <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> can be configured for a welded connection. The inlet <NUM> can be configured for a threaded connection (e.g., internal threads, external threads). The outlet <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, can include an outlet groove <NUM> defining a recession located on an outer surface of the second spool pipe <NUM> located inward (e.g., nearer a center of the second spool pipe <NUM>) of the outlet <NUM>. The outlet groove <NUM> can surround a circumference of the outlet <NUM>. The outlet groove <NUM> can be an abrupt groove (e.g., squared edges) or can be a rounded or chamfered groove. The outlet groove <NUM> can provide a recession for the second spool pipe <NUM> to be connected with the fire suppression system, among many possible connections, utilizing a mechanical coupling <NUM>. The outlet <NUM> can be configured for a welded connection. The outlet <NUM> can be configured for a threaded connection (e.g., internal threads, external threads).

The auxiliary port <NUM> can be a section of pipe that extends outward from the center of the second spool pipe <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The auxiliary port <NUM> can be fastened (e.g., threaded) or welded to the second spool pipe <NUM>. The auxiliary port can have an outlet located at a second end of the auxiliary port <NUM> extended outward from the second spool pipe <NUM>. The outlet can be threaded (e.g., internally threaded, externally threaded). The outlet can be configured to provide a welded connection. The outlet of the auxiliary port <NUM> can be connected with the test and drain valve <NUM>. The connection of the test and drain valve <NUM> to the outlet of the auxiliary port <NUM> can be beneficial as the position of the test and drain valve <NUM> can be adjusted relative to the check valve <NUM> due to the rotational adjustment capabilities of the second spool pipe <NUM>. The auxiliary port <NUM> can be of a diameter ranging from <NUM> inch to <NUM> inches.

Referring now to <FIG>, among others, a front view and a side view of the test and drain valve <NUM>, respectively, are shown. A particular test and drain valve <NUM> is shown in <FIG>, but the disclosure is not so limited. The test and drain valve <NUM> can include an inlet <NUM>, a test valve <NUM>, a pressure relief valve <NUM>, a drain valve <NUM>, and a sight glass <NUM>.

The test valve <NUM> can be operable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the riser manifold assembly <NUM> can be tested to ensure the check valve <NUM> opens based on the pressure differential caused by releasing fluid through the test valve <NUM> to the environment, and the flow control switch <NUM> detects the flow of fluid. In the closed position, the test valve <NUM> can inhibit the flow through the test valve into the environment. The test valve <NUM> can be any suitable valve type (e.g., ball valve, gate valve, butterfly valve). The test valve <NUM> can include a test valve body <NUM> and a control arm <NUM>. The control arm <NUM> can be used to manually open and close the test valve <NUM>. The control arm <NUM> can have a rotation ability of <NUM>°. The control arm <NUM> can have a rotation ability of <NUM>°. The test valve body <NUM> can include an inlet that is connected with a body of the test and drain valve <NUM>. The test valve body <NUM> can be threaded into the body of the test and drain valve <NUM>. The test valve body <NUM> can be welded to the body of the test and drain valve <NUM>. The test valve body <NUM> can be formed as a unitary piece with the body of the test and drain valve <NUM>.

The pressure relief valve <NUM> can provide a relief for the riser manifold assembly <NUM> and the fire suppression system in the case that the pressure is above a predetermined level (e.g., <NUM> PSI, <NUM> PSI, <NUM> PSI). When the pressure at the test and drain valve <NUM> is above the predetermined level, the pressure relief valve <NUM> can release fluid into the environment. The pressure relief valve <NUM> can include a pressure relief body <NUM> and a pressure relief cap <NUM>. The pressure relief body <NUM> can be threaded into the body of the test and drain valve <NUM>. The pressure relief body <NUM> can be welded to the body of the test and drain valve <NUM>. The pressure relief body <NUM> can be formed as a unitary piece with the body of the test and drain valve <NUM>. The pressure relief cap <NUM> can be threaded into the pressure relief body <NUM>. The pressure relief cap <NUM> can include markings on the side of the pressure relief cap <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The predetermined level of pressure before release into the environment can be set by threading the pressure relief cap <NUM> into the pressure relief body <NUM> until the predetermined level of pressure as marked on the side of the pressure relief cap <NUM> is in line with an upper surface of the pressure relief body <NUM>.

The drain valve <NUM> can provide a user the ability to drain fluid from the fire suppression system. The drain valve <NUM> can have a diameter greater than or equal to <NUM> inches. The drain valve <NUM> can have a diameter less than <NUM> inches. The drain valve <NUM> can be any suitable valve type (e.g., gate valve, ball valve, butterfly valve). The drain valve <NUM> can include a valve knob <NUM> and a drain port <NUM>. The valve knob <NUM> can be any suitable handle for a manual opening or closing of the drain valve <NUM> (e.g., knob, arm, hand wheel). The valve knob <NUM> can be used to manually open and close the drain valve <NUM>. The drain port <NUM> can be a port that allows the drained fluid to be released into the environment. The drain port <NUM> can include internal threads such that a hose or pipe can be threaded into the drain port <NUM>. The drain valve <NUM> can be formed as a unitary piece of the test and drain valve <NUM>.

The test and drain valve <NUM> can include an inlet <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> can be externally threaded, as shown in <FIG>. The inlet <NUM> can be internally threaded. The inlet <NUM> can have threads compatible with the auxiliary port <NUM>, such that the inlet <NUM> can be threaded with the auxiliary port <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> can be configured such that the inlet <NUM> can be welded to the auxiliary port <NUM>. The test and drain valve <NUM> can include a sight glass <NUM> on either side of the test and drain valve <NUM>. The sight glass <NUM> can be used to confirm fluid flow through the test valve <NUM>, among other possible uses.

Referring now to <FIG>, among others, a perspective view of a coupling <NUM> is shown. The coupling <NUM> can be used to couple components of the riser manifold assembly <NUM>. The coupling <NUM> can have a first half <NUM> and a second half <NUM>. Each of the first half <NUM> and the second half <NUM> can have a lower groove <NUM>, an upper groove <NUM>, and a fastener bracket located on both a first end and a second end. An outlet of a first component, having an outlet groove, can abut an inlet of a second component, having an inlet groove. The first half <NUM> and the second half <NUM> can be applied to the abutment of the inlet and the outlet such that the lower groove <NUM> can be surround a section of material between the inlet groove and the inlet and the upper groove <NUM> can surround a section of material between the outlet and the outlet groove. Upon adjoining the first half <NUM> and the second half <NUM>, fasteners <NUM> (e.g., bolts) can be inserted through the fastener brackets <NUM> and tightened. This is an example configuration of a coupling <NUM>, and many other configurations and components are possible to mechanically couple a first component of the riser manifold assembly <NUM> to a second component of the riser manifold assembly <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, among others, a method for assembling the riser manifold assembly <NUM> is shown. The method can start at act <NUM> by providing a control valve <NUM>. At act <NUM>, the inlet <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM> can be coupled with the outlet <NUM> of the control valve <NUM>. The first spool pipe <NUM> can be coupled with the control valve <NUM> utilizing a coupling <NUM> as described herein. This can be beneficial as it can permit the first spool pipe <NUM> to be rotated about the first longitudinal axis <NUM> relative to the control valve <NUM>. The first spool pipe <NUM> can be coupled with the control valve utilizing a threaded connection or a welded connection.

At act <NUM>, the flow control switch <NUM> can be mounted with the first spool pipe <NUM>. The vane <NUM> can be inserted into the flow port <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM>. The pipe saddle <NUM> can create a seal against an outer surface of the first spool pipe <NUM>. The vane <NUM> can expand such that the paddle <NUM> can create a seal against an internal surface of the first spool pipe <NUM>. Fasteners <NUM> (e.g., u-bolts) can be utilized to fasten the flow control switch <NUM> to the first spool pipe <NUM>.

At act <NUM>, the check valve <NUM> can be coupled with the first spool pipe <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> of the check valve <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed to the outlet <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM> utilizing a coupling <NUM> as described herein. This can be beneficial as it can permit the check valve <NUM> to be rotated about the first longitudinal axis <NUM> relative to the first spool pipe <NUM>. The check valve <NUM> can be coupled with the first spool pipe <NUM> utilizing a threaded connection or a welded connection.

At act <NUM>, the second spool pipe <NUM> can be coupled with the check valve <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> of the second spool pipe <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed to the outlet <NUM> of the check valve <NUM> utilizing a coupling <NUM> as described herein. This can be beneficial as it can permit the second spool pipe <NUM> to be rotated about the first longitudinal axis <NUM> relative to the check valve <NUM>. The second spool pipe <NUM> can be coupled with the check valve <NUM> utilizing a threaded connection or a welded connection.

At act <NUM>, the test and drain valve <NUM> can be coupled with the second spool pipe <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> of the test and drain valve <NUM> can be coupled with the auxiliary port <NUM> of the second spool pipe <NUM> utilizing corresponding threads between an internal surface of the auxiliary port <NUM> and an external surface of the inlet <NUM>. The test and drain valve <NUM> can be welded to the auxiliary port <NUM> of the second spool pipe <NUM>. Intermediate pieces such as nipples or couplings can be used to connect the test and drain valve <NUM> to the second spool pipe <NUM>. For example, the auxiliary port <NUM> can have external threads. In this instance a threaded coupling can be used to couple the external threads of the auxiliary port <NUM> to the external threads of the inlet <NUM>.

Methodology <NUM> is an example method and many other methods are possible for assembling the riser manifold assembly <NUM>. For example the method can utilize alternate components or can be completed in a different order.

Referring now to <FIG>, among others, a method for providing a riser manifold assembly <NUM> is shown. The method can start at act <NUM> by providing a riser manifold assembly <NUM>. The riser manifold assembly <NUM> can include a control valve <NUM> defined by an inlet <NUM> and an outlet <NUM>. The control valve <NUM> can be operable between an open position, permitting fluid flow between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM>, and a closed position, inhibiting fluid flow between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM>. The riser manifold assembly <NUM> can further include a first spool pipe <NUM> defined by an inlet <NUM> and an outlet <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with the outlet <NUM> of the control valve <NUM>. The first spool pipe <NUM> can have a flow port <NUM> between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM>.

The riser manifold assembly <NUM> can further include a flow control switch <NUM> having a vane <NUM> inserted in the flow port <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM>. The flow control switch <NUM> can be mechanically mounted to the first spool pipe <NUM> creating a fluid seal between the flow control switch <NUM> and the flow port <NUM>. The riser manifold assembly can further include a check valve <NUM> defined by an inlet <NUM> and an outlet <NUM>. The inlet <NUM> can be mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with the outlet <NUM> of the first spool pipe <NUM>. The check valve <NUM> can have a valve seat <NUM> and a clapper <NUM>. The clapper <NUM> can be movable between an open position, allowing fluid flow from the inlet <NUM> to the outlet <NUM>, and a closed position, inhibiting fluid flow from the outlet <NUM> to the inlet <NUM>, according to a pressure differential between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM>. The check valve <NUM> can further have a first pressure port <NUM> (or downstream pressure port <NUM>) located between the valve seat <NUM> and the outlet <NUM>. The check valve <NUM> can further have an auxiliary port <NUM> located between the valve seat <NUM> and the outlet <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A riser manifold assembly (<NUM>) comprising:
- a control valve (<NUM>) defined by an inlet and an outlet, being operable between an open position, permitting fluid flow between the inlet and the outlet, and a closed position, inhibiting fluid flow between the inlet and the outlet;
- a first spool pipe (<NUM>) defined by an inlet (<NUM>) and an outlet (<NUM>), the inlet (<NUM>) of the first spool pipe (<NUM>) being mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with the outlet of the control valve (<NUM>), the first spool pipe (<NUM>) having a flow port (<NUM>) between the inlet (<NUM>) and the outlet (<NUM>) of the first spool pipe (<NUM>);
- a flow control switch (<NUM>) having a vane (<NUM>) inserted in the flow port (<NUM>) of the first spool pipe (<NUM>) and the flow control switch (<NUM>) mechanically mounted to the first spool pipe (<NUM>) creating a fluid seal between the flow control switch (<NUM>) and the flow port (<NUM>);
- a check valve (<NUM>) defined by an inlet (<NUM>) and an outlet (<NUM>), the inlet (<NUM>) of the check valve (<NUM>) mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with the outlet (<NUM>) of the first spool pipe (<NUM>), the check valve (<NUM>) having a valve seat (<NUM>) and a clapper (<NUM>), the clapper (<NUM>) being movable between an open position, allowing fluid flow from the inlet (<NUM>) to the outlet (<NUM>), and a closed position, inhibiting fluid flow from the outlet to the inlet, according to a pressure differential between the inlet (<NUM>) and the outlet (<NUM>), the check valve (<NUM>) including:
- a first pressure port (<NUM>) located between the valve seat (<NUM>) and the outlet of the check valve (<NUM>); and
- a first auxiliary port located between the valve seat (<NUM>) and the outlet of the check valve (<NUM>);
- a second spool pipe (<NUM>) having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet of the second spool pipe (<NUM>) being mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with the outlet of the check valve (<NUM>), the second spool pipe (<NUM>) having a second auxiliary port located between the inlet and the outlet of the second spool pipe (<NUM>); and
- a test and drain valve (<NUM>) mechanically coupled and fluidly sealed with the second auxiliary port of the second spool pipe (<NUM>).