Flow control device and liquid conveying device

CN119451595APending Publication Date: 2025-02-14SZ ZUVI TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202280097467.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2022-10-25
Publication Date
2025-02-14

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the prior art, during the hair dye preparation process, the volume of residual liquid on the inner wall of the pipeline cannot be controlled, making it difficult to accurately control the volume of dye raw materials transported and the color of the dye.

Method used

A flow control device including an outer shell and a sub-pipe is used. By switching the conduction and blocking states of the channel, the liquid conveying process is divided into a fast discharging stage and a slow discharging stage. The second output end is flush with the first output end. Or extend the design to avoid residual liquid from forming at the output end, thereby achieving high-precision flow control.

Benefits of technology

It achieves both large discharging speed and high flow control accuracy, and is especially suitable for transporting liquids with high viscosity to ensure precise control of hair dye color.

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Abstract

The invention discloses a flow control device (10) and a liquid conveying device (100). The flow control device (10) comprises an outer shell (11) and a sub-pipeline (12) located in the outer shell (11), and a gap space (113) allowing liquid to flow through is formed between the inner wall of the outer shell (11) and the outer wall of the sub-pipeline (12); wherein the outer shell (11) is provided with a first input end (111) and a first output end (112), the first input end (111), the clearance space (113) and the first output end (112) form a first channel through which liquid can flow, and a sealing structure (13) used for opening or closing the first channel is arranged in the outer shell (11); the sub-pipeline (12) is provided with a second input end (121) and a second output end (122), the second output end (122) is located inside the first output end (112) and is flush with the first output end (112) or extends out of the first output end (112), and the sub-pipeline (12) forms a second channel through which liquid can flow.
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Description

Flow control device and liquid delivery device Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of liquid delivery, and in particular to a liquid delivery device capable of accurately controlling flow rate. Background Art

[0002] After applying the hair dye to the user's hair, the hair can be dyed to a preset color through the hair dyeing operation. The hair dye is formed by mixing and blending multiple dye raw materials. By changing the types and proportions of the various dye raw materials, the color of the hair dye can be changed.

[0003] During the hair dye mixing process, a conveying device, typically consisting of a liquid pump and associated piping, delivers the various dye ingredients to the top of a mixing container. The dye ingredients flow out of the pipes and fall into the mixing container. Once the mixing container receives a predetermined volume of dye, the conveying device stops and switches to delivering a different dye ingredient, or the dye ingredients are mixed within the mixing container.

[0004] In the above-mentioned mixing process, after the liquid pump is turned off to stop delivering the dye raw materials, residual liquid will form on the inner wall of the pipeline due to the high viscosity of the dye raw materials. The residual liquid may fall into the mixing container, causing the actual volume of the dye raw materials to exceed the preset volume, resulting in color deviation of the mixed hair dye.

[0005] In other words, during the hair dye preparation process in the prior art, it is difficult to accurately control the volume of the dye raw material being transported because the volume of the residual liquid formed on the inner wall of the pipe cannot be controlled. In other words, it is impossible to accurately control the color of the prepared hair dye.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present application provides a flow control device and a liquid delivery device, which aim to solve the problem in the prior art that it is difficult to accurately control the volume of liquid when delivering liquid.

[0008] A flow control device in the present application includes an outer shell and a sub-pipe located inside the outer shell, and a gap space through which liquid can flow is formed between the inner wall of the outer shell and the outer wall of the sub-pipe; wherein, the outer shell has a first input end and a first output end, and the first input end, the gap space, and the first output end form a first channel through which liquid can flow, and a sealing structure for opening or blocking the first channel is provided in the outer shell; the sub-pipe has a second input end and a second output end, the second output end is located inside the first output end, and is flush with the first output end or extends outside the first output end, and the sub-pipe forms a second channel through which liquid can flow.

[0009] The liquid conveying device in the present application includes a flow control device, one or more storage devices and a material taking device, wherein each of the storage devices is used to accommodate the liquid raw material, the flow control device is located above the container, and the material taking device can cause the liquid raw material to be transported from the storage device to the first input end of the flow control device.

[0010] The flow control device and liquid delivery device of the present application can switch the conduction and blocking states of the first channel, dividing the liquid delivery process into a fast discharge phase and a slow discharge phase. In the fast discharge phase, the liquid flow rate is relatively high, and any residual liquid formed is discharged during the slow discharge phase. In the slow discharge phase, the liquid flow rate is relatively low, and the volume of residual liquid formed is also relatively small. Moreover, because the second output end is flush with or extends beyond the first output end, the liquid output during the slow discharge phase does not form residual liquid at the first output end, thereby ensuring high flow control accuracy. In other words, the flow control device and liquid delivery device can achieve both a high discharge speed and high flow control accuracy, and are particularly suitable for accurately delivering liquids with high viscosities.

[0011] Additional aspects and advantages of the embodiments of the present application will be given in part in the description below, and in part will become apparent from the description below, or will be learned through practice of the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present application will become apparent and easily understood from the description of the embodiments in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0013] Figures 1a and 1b are schematic diagrams of two states of the first channel of a flow control device in certain embodiments of the present application;

[0014] 2a and 2b are schematic diagrams of two states of the first channel of a flow control device in certain embodiments of the present application;

[0015] 3a and 3b are schematic diagrams of two states of the first channel of a flow control device in certain embodiments of the present application;

[0016] 4a and 4b are schematic diagrams of two states of the first channel of a flow control device in certain embodiments of the present application;

[0017] 5a and 5b are schematic diagrams of two states of the first channel of a flow control device in certain embodiments of the present application;

[0018] 6a and 6b are schematic diagrams of two states of the first channel of a flow control device in certain embodiments of the present application;

[0019] 7a and 7b are schematic diagrams of two states of the first channel of a flow control device in certain embodiments of the present application;

[0020] 8a and 8b are schematic diagrams of two states of the first channel of a flow control device in certain embodiments of the present application;

[0021] FIG9 is a schematic structural diagram of a tapered portion of a flow control device in certain embodiments of the present application;

[0022] 10a and 10b are schematic diagrams of two states of the first channel of a flow control device in certain embodiments of the present application;

[0023] FIG11 is a schematic structural diagram of a liquid delivery device in certain embodiments of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The embodiments of the present application are described in detail below, and examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions from beginning to end. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the embodiments of the present application, and should not be understood as limiting the embodiments of the present application.

[0025] As shown in Figures 1a and 1b, in certain embodiments of the present application, a flow control device 10 is provided, comprising an outer shell 11 and a sub-pipe 12 located inside the outer shell 11, and a gap space 113 for liquid to flow through is formed between the inner wall of the outer shell 11 and the outer wall of the sub-pipe 12.

[0026] The outer shell 11 has a first input end 111 and a first output end 112. The first input end 111, the gap space 113, and the first output end 112 form a first channel for liquid to flow through. A sealing structure 13 is provided in the outer shell 11 for opening or blocking the first channel.

[0027] The sub-pipeline 12 has a second input end 121 and a second output end 122. The second output end 122 is located inside the first output end 112 and is flush with the first output end 112 or extends outside the first output end 112. The sub-pipeline 12 forms a second channel for liquid to flow through.

[0028] When liquid is input into the first input port 111 of the flow control device 10, the liquid can flow along the first and second channels within the flow control device 10. The liquid flow paths are shown by the dashed arrows in Figures 1a and 1b. The liquid flow paths in the corresponding states are shown by dashed arrows in the relevant figures below, and no further description is given.

[0029] Specifically, the liquid path of the first channel is: the first input end 111 , the gap space 113 , and the first output end 112 in sequence.

[0030] The liquid path of the second channel is sequentially: second input end 121, second output end 122. It should be noted that, since the sub-pipeline 12 is located inside the outer shell 11, the liquid in the sub-pipeline 12 actually comes from the liquid entering the outer shell 11 from the first input end 111.

[0031] In the following text, when the liquid flows along the first channel and the second channel, it flows according to the above-mentioned path, and the description will not be repeated.

[0032] As shown in Figure 1a, the sealing structure 13 blocks the first channel, and the liquid entering the outer shell 11 from the first input end 111 all enters the sub-pipeline 12 and flows along the second channel. This state is hereinafter referred to as the "first channel blocked state." The liquid input into the flow control device 10 can only flow out through the second channel. The liquid has a smaller flow cross-section (a cross-section perpendicular to the direction of liquid flow), and the size of the flow cross-section is positively correlated with the liquid flow rate. Therefore, when the first channel is blocked, the flow control device 10 has a smaller liquid flow rate (liquid volume / unit time).

[0033] As shown in Figure 1b, sealing structure 13 connects to the first channel. Liquid entering outer housing 11 from first input end 111 partially enters interstitial space 113 and flows along the first channel; the remaining portion enters sub-pipeline 12 and flows along the second channel. This state is hereinafter referred to as the "first channel connected state." Liquid entering flow control device 10 can flow out of both the first and second channels simultaneously, resulting in a larger flow cross-section. Therefore, when the first channel is connected, flow control device 10 achieves a higher liquid flow rate.

[0034] The flow control device 10 is capable of achieving both a high discharge rate and high flow control accuracy. Flow control accuracy refers to the degree of closeness between the actual volume of liquid delivered and the preset volume. For example, if the preset volume of liquid delivered to a container is S1 and the actual volume of liquid delivered to the container is S2, the smaller the difference between S1 and S2, the higher the flow control accuracy. Conversely, the larger the difference between S1 and S2, the lower the flow control accuracy.

[0035] In the prior art, when liquid is transported to a container through a pipeline, the liquid flowing through will form residual liquid on the pipeline wall. The volume of the residual liquid is proportional to the flow cross-section and the viscosity of the liquid. The larger the flow cross-section and the higher the viscosity of the liquid, the larger the volume of the residual liquid formed in the pipeline. Since the residual liquid may all flow out and enter the container, or all remain in the pipeline, or part may flow out and enter the container while the other part remains in the pipeline, the actual volume of the liquid in the container is difficult to accurately control. The larger the volume of the residual liquid formed in the pipeline, the greater the impact on the actual volume of the liquid obtained by the container, and the lower the flow control accuracy. In particular, in the process of preparing hair dye, the viscosity of the dye raw material is high, and the flow control accuracy is low, making it difficult to accurately and quickly obtain the preset volume of dye raw material, and thus the color of the hair dye cannot be accurately controlled.

[0036] In the above-mentioned application method of the present application, by switching the blocking state and the conducting state of the first channel of the sealing structure 13, the flow control device 10 can change the liquid flow rate, and the liquid delivery process is divided into the following two stages:

[0037] Fast discharge stage: The first channel is in the on-state, and the liquid input into the flow control device 10 from the first input end 111 can flow out from the first channel and the second channel simultaneously. In this stage, the liquid flow cross-section is large, so the liquid flow rate is large and the flow control accuracy is low.

[0038] Slow discharge stage: The first channel is blocked, and the liquid input into the flow control device 10 from the first input end 111 can only flow out from the second channel. In this stage, the liquid flow cross-section is small, so the liquid flow rate is small and the flow control accuracy is high.

[0039] In some embodiments, the flow control device 10 first performs a fast discharge phase, delivering a large portion of the total liquid volume at a large liquid flow rate, and then switches to a slow discharge phase, delivering a small portion of the total liquid volume at a small liquid flow rate, thereby completing the delivery process.

[0040] During the rapid discharge phase, liquid flows simultaneously through the first and second channels, resulting in a larger flow cross-section but also a larger volume of residual liquid. After entering the slow discharge phase, the residual liquid in the first channel continues to flow out until it is completely emptied, without affecting the final flow control accuracy. Furthermore, during the slow discharge phase, the second channel has a smaller flow cross-section, resulting in a smaller volume of residual liquid, thus achieving higher flow control accuracy.

[0041] Furthermore, the reference value S of the residual liquid volume at the second output end 122 can be measured through multiple experiments. aWhen a liquid with a volume of S is delivered to the container through the flow control device 10, the actual volume of the liquid in the container is detected to be (SS a ), stop feeding liquid into the flow control device 10. Wait for a while until the residual liquid at the second output end 122 flows out, and a volume of liquid S can be obtained in the container. Since the flow cross-section of the second output end 122 is smaller (relative to the first output end 112), the pre-measured reference value S a The difference between the actual residual liquid volume and the residual liquid volume is small, which can achieve higher flow control accuracy.

[0042] Furthermore, the second output end 122 is flush with the first output end 112 (see FIG. 1 a ), or extends beyond the first output end 112 (see FIG. 1 b ). Liquid discharged from the second output end 122 does not come into contact with the first output end 112, thereby preventing residual liquid from forming on the first output end 112 during the slow discharge phase. This ensures that any residual liquid on the first output end 112 originates entirely from the rapid discharge phase and is drained during the slow discharge phase, thereby ensuring high flow control accuracy.

[0043] As can be seen, the flow control device 10 in the above embodiment is able to achieve both a high discharge rate and high flow control accuracy, especially when conveying highly viscous liquids. When applied to the hair dye preparation process, the flow control device 10 can accurately deliver a preset volume of dye raw material to the container, thereby precisely controlling the color of the hair dye.

[0044] When liquid passes through the flow control device 10, residual liquid may increase if the following conditions occur: a large angle change in the liquid flow direction, unsteady liquid flow, uneven radial distribution of the liquid, or a significant difference in the fluid resistance between the first and second channels. The following lists various embodiments of the flow control device 10 that can avoid these conditions, minimize the volume of residual liquid, and thereby improve the flow control accuracy of the flow control device 10.

[0045] As shown in FIG1b , in certain embodiments of the flow control device 10, on a plane perpendicular to the axis thereof, the projection formed by the second input end 121 lies within the projection formed by the first input end 111. When liquid is introduced into the first input end 111 of the flow control device 10, the liquid enters the outer housing 11 along the first input end 111. A portion of the liquid enters the second input end 121 without changing direction and flows along the second channel. The remaining portion enters the interstitial space 133 with a smaller change in flow angle, resulting in a smaller difference in fluid resistance between the second channel and the first channel.

[0046] As shown in FIG1b , in certain embodiments of the flow control device 10, on a plane perpendicular to the axis of the flow control device 10, the center of the projection graphic of the second input end 121 coincides with the center of the projection graphic of the first input end 111, that is, the centers of the second input end 121 and the first input end 111 coincide with each other in the direction of liquid flow. In this way, the liquid can flow evenly into the sub-pipeline 12 and the gap space 113, and the liquid in the first channel and the second channel can continue to flow smoothly along the original direction. In certain embodiments, the center of the projection graphic of the second output end 122 also coincides with the center of the projection graphic formed by the first output end 112, and the liquid in the first channel and the second channel can also flow smoothly along the original direction in the second output end 122 and the first output end 112 when flowing out of the flow control device 10.

[0047] As shown in FIG1b , in some embodiments of the flow control device 10 , the axis of the sub-pipe 12 coincides with the axis of the outer shell 11 , and the liquid flowing through the sub-pipe 12 and the liquid flowing through the gap space 113 have roughly parallel flow paths, so that the difference in liquid resistance between the first channel and the second channel is small.

[0048] As shown in FIG1b , in certain embodiments, the flow control device 10 has a rotationally symmetrical structure, wherein the axis of the outer shell 11, the axis of the first input end 111, the axis of the first output end 112, and the axis of the sub-pipeline 12 all coincide with the rotational symmetry axis of the flow control device 10. This creates a rotationally symmetrical gap 113 within the outer shell 11, allowing the liquid to be radially evenly distributed and flow smoothly within both the first and second channels.

[0049] As shown in FIG1 b , in some embodiments of the flow control device 10 , the flow cross section of the gap space 113 is annular. That is, the gap space 113 is an annular space, and the liquid can be evenly distributed radially and flow smoothly in the gap space 113 .

[0050] As shown in Figures 1a to 9, in certain embodiments, the sub-pipeline 12 of the flow control device 10 is movably disposed within the outer housing 11. Furthermore, as the position of the sub-pipeline 12 changes, the sealing structure 13 switches between opening and blocking the first channel. Thus, by changing the position of the sub-pipeline 12, the opening and blocking of the first channel can be switched.

[0051] In some embodiments, the moving position of the sub-pipeline 12 includes at least a first position and a second position. When the sub-pipeline 12 is in the first position, the sealing structure 13 is in contact with the outer shell 11 and the sub-pipeline 12 at the same time, and forms a seal between the outer shell 11 and the sub-pipeline 12 to block the first channel, corresponding to the first channel blocking state. When the sub-pipeline 12 is in the second position, the sealing structure 13 is not in contact with the outer shell 11 and the sub-pipeline 12 at the same time, for example, the sealing structure 13 is in contact with only one of the outer shell 11 and the sub-pipeline 12, or the sealing structure 13 is not in contact with either the outer shell 11 or the sub-pipeline 12, and the liquid can pass through the gap space 113 between the outer shell 11 and the sub-pipeline 12, corresponding to the first channel conducting state.

[0052] In some specific embodiments, when the sub-pipe 12 is in the first position, the first output end 112 and the second output end 122 are flush. When the sub-pipe 12 is in the second position, the second output end 122 extends beyond the first output end 112. In other words, the two extreme positions of the sub-pipe 12 correspond to the first position and the second position, respectively, that is, to the on state and the blocked state of the first channel. In other embodiments, the first position and the second position of the sub-pipe 12 are not its extreme positions. For example, a specific position in the movable stroke of the sub-pipe 12 is the first position, and another specific position is the second position. In other embodiments, one extreme position of the sub-pipe 12 is the first position, and a specific position in its movable stroke is the second position.

[0053] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1a and 1b, the sealing structure 13 of the flow control device 10 is fixed to the outer shell 11, and a seal is formed between the sealing structure 13 and the outer shell 11. The position of the sealing structure 13 is set so that when the sub-pipeline 12 is in the first position (as shown in Figure 1a), a seal is formed between the sub-pipeline 12 and the sealing structure 13, corresponding to the first channel blocking state. When the sub-pipeline 12 is not in the first position (as shown in Figure 1b), no seal is formed between the sub-pipeline 12 and the sealing structure 13, corresponding to the first channel conducting state. It can also be understood that in this embodiment, except for the first position, any position of the sub-pipeline 12 is the second position.

[0054] In some embodiments, the sealing structure 13 is at least partially flexible. The size and / or shape of the sealing structure 13 can be designed so that when the sub-pipe 12 is in the first position, it squeezes against the sealing structure 13, causing the sealing structure 13 to elastically deform and improve the sealing effect.

[0055] In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG1a and FIG1b , the inner wall of the outer shell 11 is provided with a first abutting portion 114, and the sealing structure 13 is installed on the first abutting portion 114 and forms a seal with the outer shell 11, specifically by gluing, integral molding, embedding, hot melting, welding, etc. The first abutting portion 114 can be used for installing the sealing structure 13 and axially limiting it, so that the sealing structure 13 will not be pushed and displaced by the sub-pipe 12, ensuring that a seal is formed between the sub-pipe 12 and the sealing structure 13 when in the first position. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG2a and FIG2b , the inner wall of the outer shell 11 does not have a first abutting portion, and the sealing structure 13 is directly installed on the inner wall of the outer shell 11 by gluing, integral molding, embedding, hot melting, welding, etc.

[0056] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1a and 1b, the outer shell 11 includes a first input end 111, a main body, and a first output end 112 connected in sequence. Among them, the inner diameter of the main body is larger than the inner diameter of the first input end 111, and inside the outer shell 11, the connection position of the main body and the first input end 111 forms a stepped first wall 114, and the first wall 114 constitutes a first abutting portion. In some other embodiments, the inner diameter of the main body is also larger than the inner diameter of the first output end 112, and inside the outer shell 11, the connection position of the main body and the first output end 112 forms a stepped second wall 115, and the second wall 115 can also constitute a first abutting portion. The second wall 115 can also limit the sub-pipeline 12 and define at least one extreme position thereof. In some embodiments below, there is also a first abutting portion 114, which can be composed of the above-mentioned first wall 114 or second wall 15, and no further description will be given. For ease of understanding and description, the following text and related drawings are all described as an example in which the first abutting portion is composed of the first wall 114.

[0057] In certain more specific embodiments, first wall 114 is annular, with its inner edge connected to first input end 111 and its outer edge connected to the main body. First wall 114 forms a portion of interstitial space 113. The annular arrangement of first wall 114 can form an annular interstitial space 113. After liquid flows out of first output end 112, it flows radially and uniformly along first wall 114 into interstitial space 113, resulting in a radially uniform distribution of liquid within interstitial space 113.

[0058] In certain more specific embodiments, the second wall 115 is annular, with an inner edge connected to the first output end 112 and an outer edge connected to the main body. The second wall 115 also constitutes a portion of the gap space 113. The technical effect of its annular shape is the same as that of the first wall 114, and will not be repeated here.

[0059] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first wall 114 and the second wall 115 have identical shapes and are both annular. This creates a rotationally symmetrical annular gap space 113. When the first channel is in an open state, liquid entering through the first input end 111 flows along the first wall 114 until it fills the gap space 113, then flows along the second wall 115 and exits through the first output end 112. As the liquid flows through the entire gap space 113, its radial distribution is uniform and the overall flow is smooth, which helps reduce the formation of residual liquid.

[0060] In a more specific embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1 a and FIG. 1 b , the sealing structure is specifically an annular sealing ring 13 , the outer edge of the sealing ring 13 is fixed and sealed to the inner wall of the outer shell 11 , and the interior of the sealing ring 13 has a hollow portion for liquid to flow through.

[0061] In the state shown in Figure 1a, when sub-pipeline 12 is in the first position, it is inserted into the hollow portion of sealing ring 13 and forms a seal with the inner edge of sealing ring 13. Liquid entering outer shell 11 from first input end 111 passes through the hollow portion of sealing ring 13 and is unable to enter gap space 113. Instead, it enters sub-pipeline 12 and flows along the second channel. This corresponds to the first channel blocked state.

[0062] In the state shown in Figure 1b, when sub-pipeline 12 is in the second position (any position other than the first position), sub-pipeline 12 is separated from sealing ring 13, and a seal is not formed between them. Liquid entering outer housing 11 from first input end 111 passes through the hollow portion of sealing ring 13. A portion of the liquid flows along the outer wall of sub-pipeline 12 into gap space 113 and along the first channel; the remaining portion enters sub-pipeline 12 and flows along the second channel. This corresponds to the first channel being open.

[0063] In some more specific embodiments as shown in FIG. 7 a and FIG. 7 b , a second abutting portion 124 is protruded along the circumference of the outer wall of the sub-pipe 12 .

[0064] In the state shown in Figure 7a, the sub-pipeline 12 is in the first position, with the second abutting portion 124 abutting against the sealing structure 13 and, together with the first abutting portion 114, pressing the sealing structure 13 against the sealing structure to achieve a seal. More specifically, the first abutting portion 114 and the second abutting portion 124 are located at opposite ends of the sealing ring 13. As the sub-pipeline 12 enters the first position, the distance between the first abutting portion 114 and the second abutting portion 124 gradually decreases until they press against the opposite end surfaces of the sealing ring 13, forming a seal. This corresponds to the first channel blocking state.

[0065] In the state shown in FIG7 b , the sub-pipe 12 is located at the second position (any position other than the first position), the second abutting portion 124 is away from the sealing structure 13 , and the two are not sealed, which corresponds to the first channel conduction state.

[0066] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 7a and 7b, the outer diameter of the second abutment 124 gradually decreases in the direction pointing to the first position. In the process of the sub-pipeline 12 entering the first position (moving upward in the direction shown in the figure), the outer diameter of the part of the second abutment 124 in contact with the sealing ring 13 gradually increases, and the force of the axial movement of the sub-pipeline 12 is converted into a force that radially squeezes the sealing ring 13, and the second abutment 124 squeezes the sealing ring 13 to achieve sealing. Specifically in the embodiment shown in the figure, the second abutment 124 is spherical. In the process of the state shown in Figure 7b changing to the state shown in Figure 7a, the spherical surface of the second abutment 124 squeezes the inner edge of the sealing ring 13, and the squeezing force applied to the sealing ring 13 gradually increases, causing deformation and mutual sealing with the second abutment 124. In other embodiments not shown, the second abutment 124 can be conical, and it can also be achieved that when the sub-pipeline 12 is inserted into the sealing ring 13, the second abutment 124 gradually squeezes the sealing ring 13 radially to form a seal.

[0067] In some embodiments as shown in FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b , the outer edge of the sealing structure 13 is fixed to the inner wall of the outer shell 11 to form a seal, and the interior of the sealing structure 13 has a hollow portion through which liquid can flow.

[0068] In the state shown in Figure 3a, sub-pipeline 12 is in the first position, with its end abutting against sealing structure 13 to form a seal. Sub-pipeline 12 is not inserted into the hollow portion of sealing structure 13. Liquid entering outer housing 11 from first input end 111 flows through the hollow portion of sealing structure 13 and then enters sub-pipeline 12 and flows along the second channel. This corresponds to the first channel blocked state.

[0069] In the state shown in Figure 3b, sub-pipeline 12 is in the second position (any position other than the first position), and the end of sub-pipeline 12 is separated from sealing structure 13. Liquid entering outer shell 11 from first input end 111 flows through the hollow portion of sealing structure 13. A portion of the liquid enters sub-pipeline 12 and flows along the second channel; the remaining portion enters gap space 113 and flows along the first channel. This corresponds to the first channel being in the open state.

[0070] In some embodiments shown in Figures 4a and 4b, the sealing structure includes a sealing baffle 13, the edge of which is fixed inside the outer shell 11, and the sealing baffle 13 is provided with a plurality of through holes 131 for liquid to flow through, and the through holes 131 constitute part of the first channel.

[0071] In the state shown in FIG4a , the sub-pipeline 12 is in the first position, the end of the sub-pipeline 12 abuts against the sealing partition 13 and forms a seal, and the through holes 131 on the sealing partition 13 are distributed in the area covered by the end of the sub-pipeline 12. The liquid entering the outer shell 11 from the first input end 111 flows through the sealing partition 13 and then all enters the sub-pipeline 12 and flows along the second channel. This corresponds to the first channel blocking state. In some embodiments, the sub-pipeline 12 has a certain wall thickness, and some of the through holes 131 are blocked by the wall of the sub-pipeline 12, and some of the through holes 131 correspond to the interior of the sub-pipeline 12 and are not closed. Therefore, the liquid can only flow through the sealing partition 13 and enter the sub-pipeline 12 from the through holes 131 that are not closed.

[0072] In the state shown in Figure 4b, sub-pipeline 12 is in the second position (any position other than the first position), with its end separated from sealing diaphragm 13. Liquid entering outer shell 11 from first input end 111 passes through through-holes 131 in sealing diaphragm 13. A portion of the liquid enters sub-pipeline 12 and flows along the second channel, while the remaining portion enters gap space 113 and flows along the first channel. This corresponds to the first channel being in a conductive state.

[0073] 8a and 8b, a first abutting portion 114 is provided on the inner wall of the outer shell 11, and the sealing structure 13 is fixed to the sub-pipeline 12 and forms a seal with the sub-pipeline 12. The sealing structure 13 moves with the movement of the sub-pipeline 12.

[0074] In the state shown in Figure 8a, sub-channel 12 is in the first position, and sealing structure 13 abuts first abutment portion 114, forming a seal. Liquid entering outer housing 11 from first input end 111 is blocked by sealing structure 13 and prevented from entering gap space 113. Instead, it enters sub-channel 12 and flows along the second channel. This corresponds to the first channel blocked state.

[0075] In the state shown in Figure 8b, sub-channel 12 is in the second position (any position other than the first position), and sealing structure 13 is away from first abutment portion 114, forming a path for liquid to flow into interstitial space 113. Liquid entering outer housing 11 from first input end 111 partially enters sub-channel 12 and flows along the second channel, while the remaining portion enters interstitial space 113 and flows along the first channel. This corresponds to the first channel being in a conductive state.

[0076] In certain embodiments, a second abutting portion 124 is circumferentially protruded from the outer wall of the sub-pipe 12, and the second abutting portion 124 forms the sealing structure 13. In the state 8a, the second abutting portion 124 (sealing structure 13) and the first abutting portion 114 abut against each other and form a seal. In certain more specific embodiments, the second abutting portion 124 (sealing structure 13) is integrally formed with the sub-pipe 12, that is, the sub-pipe 12 having the second abutting portion 124 (sealing structure 13) is formed by casting, thermoplastic molding, injection molding, etc., thereby having a lower manufacturing cost.

[0077] In some more specific embodiments, a flexible structure is provided on the end surface of the second abutting portion 124 facing the first abutting portion 114. When the sub-pipe 12 enters the first position, the second abutting portion 124 contacts and abuts the first abutting portion 114. The flexible structure is squeezed and elastically deforms, sealing the two. Specifically, a flexible material layer can be provided on the end surface of the second abutting portion 124 facing the first abutting portion 114 by gluing, or the entire second abutting portion 124 can be made of a flexible material.

[0078] In other embodiments, the sealing structure 13 and the sub-pipeline 12 are two separate components. The sealing structure 13 is sleeved and fixed to the outer wall of the sub-pipeline 12, specifically by gluing, bolting, riveting, or the like. Alternatively, a retaining structure protruding from the sub-pipeline 12 can axially limit the sealing structure 13, thereby securing the two components to each other. In this manner, the two components can be made of different materials and have different structural characteristics.

[0079] In some more specific embodiments, the sealing structure 13 is at least partially a flexible structure, so that it can be squeezed and deformed when in contact with the first abutment portion 114 to increase the sealing performance. In some embodiments, the flexible structure can be provided on the end face of the sealing structure 13 facing the first abutment portion 114. In other embodiments, the sealing structure 13 can also be made of a flexible material as a whole, that is, the entire sealing structure 13 is a flexible structure. Since the sealing structure 13 and the sub-pipeline 12 are two independent parts, the sealing structure 13 made of a flexible material can be used in conjunction with the sub-pipeline 12 made of a rigid material, so that the sealing structure 13 can provide better sealing performance and the sub-pipeline 12 has better structural rigidity.

[0080] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 a and FIG. 8 b , the sealing structure 13 is located at the end of the sub-pipeline 12 , and the end surface of the sealing structure 13 is flush with the second input end 121 .

[0081] In the state shown in Figure 8a, the end face of the sealing structure 13 is flush with the second input end 121. Therefore, when the liquid entering the outer shell 11 from the first input end 111 flows to the sealing structure 13, a part of it directly enters the second input end 121, and the other part can flow along the end face of the sealing structure 13 and then enter the second input end 121.

[0082] In other embodiments, the sealing structure 13 may also be arranged in the middle of the sub-pipe 12. In this way, when the sub-pipe 12 is in the first position, the second input end 121 passes through the sealing structure 13 and is inserted into the first input end 111, and the liquid cannot flow along the end face of the sealing structure 13 and enter the second input end 121.

[0083] In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the sealing structure 13 is the same as the inner diameter of the outer shell 11. During the movement of the sub-pipe 12, since the outer diameter of the sealing structure 13 is the same as the inner diameter of the outer shell 11, the sealing structure 13 can play a certain axial guiding role for the sub-pipe 12, thereby preventing the sub-pipe 12 from swinging or deflecting during movement.

[0084] In certain more specific embodiments, the outer diameter of the sealing structure 13 is the same as the inner diameter of the outer shell 11, and the axis of the sealing structure 13 coincides with the axis of the sub-pipe 12. This ensures that the sub-pipe 12 remains aligned with the axis of the outer shell 11 during movement. In particular, when the first channel is open, the liquid in the interstitial space 113 is evenly distributed in the radial direction.

[0085] In some of the above embodiments, the first abutting portion is constituted by the first wall 114 or the second wall 115 as shown in FIG. 1 a and FIG. 1 b , as referred to above.

[0086] FIG9 shows the first abutment in some other embodiments. Specifically, the outer shell 11 includes a tapered portion 114, the inner diameter of the tapered portion 114 gradually decreases along the direction pointing to the first input end 111, and the tapered portion 114 constitutes the first abutment. When the sub-pipeline 12 moves toward the first input end 111 and enters the first position (the sub-pipeline 12 moves upward in the direction shown in FIG9), the sealing structure 13 enters the tapered portion 114, and the gap between the sealing structure 13 and the tapered portion 114 gradually decreases until the two contact and form a seal after being pressed against each other. It is easy to understand that in some other embodiments, the inner diameter of the tapered portion 114 gradually decreases along the direction pointing to the first output end 112. Accordingly, when the sub-pipeline 12 moves toward the first output end 112 and enters the first position.

[0087] In the embodiment shown in Figures 6a and 6b, a first abutment portion 114 is provided on the inner wall of the outer shell 11, and a second abutment portion 124 is provided circumferentially on the outer wall of the sub-pipeline 12. The sealing structure 13 has a central hollow portion through which liquid can flow, and is movably disposed within the outer shell 11. In other words, the sealing structure 13 is not connected to either the sub-pipeline 12 or the outer shell 11.

[0088] In the state shown in Figure 6a, sub-channel 12 is in the first position. At this point, first abutting portion 114 and second abutting portion 124 squeeze sealing structure 13, forming a seal therebetween. Liquid entering outer housing 11 from first input end 111 enters sub-channel 12 and flows along the second channel. This corresponds to the first channel blocked state.

[0089] In the state shown in Figure 6b, sub-pipeline 12 is in the second position (any position other than the first position), and first abutting portion 114 is separated from second abutting portion 124. The two do not press against sealing structure 13, and no seal is formed between first abutting portion 114, second abutting portion 124, and sealing structure 13. Liquid entering outer shell 11 from first input end 111 partially enters sub-pipeline 12 and flows along the second channel, while the remaining portion enters gap space 113 and flows along the first channel. This corresponds to the first channel being in a conductive state.

[0090] In some more specific embodiments, the sealing structure 13 is annular and movably sleeved on the outside of the sub-pipe 12, and the inner diameter of the sealing structure 13 is smaller than the outer diameter of the second abutting portion 124. During the movement of the sub-pipe 12, the second abutting portion 124 pushes the sealing structure 13 to move synchronously. In particular, during the process of the sub-pipe 12 entering the first position, the second abutting portion 124 pushes the sealing structure 13 toward the first abutting portion 114, and the sealing structure 13 can be radially positioned by the sub-pipe 12 without being offset and deviating from the preset sealing position. In other embodiments, the outer diameter of the sealing structure 13 can also be set to be slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the outer shell 11, so that it is radially positioned by the outer shell 11, thereby avoiding being offset and deviating from the preset sealing position when pushed by the sub-pipe 12.

[0091] In some embodiments shown in Figures 5a and 5b , a sealing structure 13 is secured to both the sub-pipeline 12 and the outer shell 11. Specifically, the sealing structure 13 is made of a flexible material, has a hollow interior, and is provided with a plurality of through-holes 131 through which liquid can pass. The outer edge of the sealing structure 13 is secured to the inner wall of the outer shell 11, while the inner edge of the sealing structure 13 is secured to the sub-pipeline 12, allowing liquid to enter the sub-pipeline 12 through the hollow interior.

[0092] In the state shown in Figure 5a, sub-pipeline 12 is in the first position. The multiple through-holes 131 of sealing structure 13 are closed. Liquid entering outer shell 11 from first input end 111 passes through the hollow portion, seal structure 13, and enters sub-pipeline 12, flowing along the second channel. This corresponds to the first channel blocked state.

[0093] In the state shown in Figure 5b, sub-pipeline 12 is in the second position. As sub-pipeline 12 moves from the first position to the second position, sealing structure 13 is pulled by sub-pipeline 12 and outer shell 11, deforming. Its surface area increases, causing multiple through-holes 131 to be stretched and open. Liquid entering outer shell 11 from first input end 111 partially passes through the hollow portion and into sub-pipeline 12, flowing along the second channel. Another portion passes through multiple through-holes 131 and enters interstitial space 113, flowing along the first channel. This corresponds to the first channel being conductive.

[0094] In the embodiments shown in Figures 7a, 7b, 8a, and 8b, the flow control device 10 further includes an elastic structure 14 disposed within the outer housing 11. The elastic structure 14 applies a preset thrust to the sub-pipeline 12. When liquid flows through the flow control device 10, the sub-pipeline 12 within the liquid is subjected to a liquid thrust. The preset thrust applied by the elastic structure 14 is in the opposite direction of the liquid thrust.

[0095] In the embodiment shown in Figure 7a, liquid entering the outer shell 11 from the first input end 111 generates a viscous force between the sub-pipeline 12 and the inner wall (or outer wall) when flowing through the sub-pipeline 12. The viscous force is positively correlated with the liquid flow rate. The liquid also exerts a thrust on the end of the sub-pipeline 12, which together constitutes the liquid thrust exerted on the sub-pipeline 12. In a more practical embodiment, the sub-pipeline 12 has a second abutment portion 124, and the liquid thrust also includes the force directly exerted by the liquid on the second abutment portion 124.

[0096] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 a , the liquid thrust is directly applied to the sealing structure 13 and is transmitted to the sub-pipeline 12 through the sealing structure 13 .

[0097] In any of the aforementioned embodiments, the liquid thrust experienced by the sub-pipeline 12 is positively correlated with the hydraulic pressure of the liquid input to the flow control device 10 (hereinafter referred to as the input hydraulic pressure). When the input hydraulic pressure is high, the liquid thrust experienced by the sub-pipeline 12 during the flow of the liquid through the flow control device 10 is high; conversely, when the input hydraulic pressure is low, the liquid thrust experienced by the sub-pipeline 12 is low. In other words, the liquid thrust experienced by the sub-pipeline 12 can be varied by varying the input hydraulic pressure of the flow control device 10.

[0098] When the liquid thrust is less than the preset thrust, the resultant force acting on sub-pipeline 12 is directed in the preset thrust direction, toward the first position, and sub-pipeline 12 moves toward or remains in the first position. This can be understood as the flow control device 10 transitioning from the state shown in FIG. 7b to the state shown in FIG. 7a , or from the state shown in FIG. 8b to the state shown in FIG. 8a . After sub-pipeline 12 stops moving, it is in the first position, corresponding to the first channel blocking state, i.e., maintaining the state shown in FIG. 7a or FIG. 8a .

[0099] When the liquid thrust is greater than the preset thrust, the resultant force acting on sub-pipeline 12 is directed in the direction of the liquid thrust, toward the second position, and sub-pipeline 12 moves toward or remains in the second position. This can be understood as the flow control device 10 transitioning from the state shown in FIG7a to the state shown in FIG7b , or from the state shown in FIG8a to the state shown in FIG8b . After sub-pipeline 12 stops moving, it is in the second position, corresponding to the first channel conductive state, i.e., maintaining the state shown in FIG7b or FIG8b .

[0100] How the sub-pipe 12 blocks the first channel at the first position and how it opens the first channel at the second position can be described in the description of the sealing structure 13 in the above related embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0101] From the above content, it can be seen that by changing the size of the hydraulic pressure input to the flow control device 10, the position of the sub-pipeline 12 can be changed, and then the conduction or blocking state of the first channel can be changed to achieve the switching of the liquid flow, that is, the switching between the fast discharging stage and the slow discharging stage.

[0102] In particular, during the rapid discharging phase, a larger liquid flow rate is required. Increasing the input hydraulic pressure of the flow control device 10 will increase the liquid flow rate and enable the first channel to be in a conductive state, resulting in a higher liquid flow rate and a larger flow cross-section during the rapid discharging phase, thereby achieving rapid discharging. Similarly, during the slow discharging phase, a smaller liquid flow rate is required. Reducing the input hydraulic pressure of the flow control device 10 will reduce the liquid flow rate and enable the first channel to be in a blocked state, resulting in a lower liquid flow rate and a smaller flow cross-section during the rapid discharging phase, thereby achieving slow discharging and improving flow control accuracy.

[0103] In other embodiments, the elastic structure 14 may be configured such that when the liquid thrust is less than a preset thrust, the resultant force acting on the sub-pipeline 12 is directed toward the second position; and when the liquid thrust is greater than the preset thrust, the resultant force acting on the sub-pipeline 12 is directed toward the first position. The corresponding state changes are: when the hydraulic pressure of the liquid input to the flow control device 10 is high, the sub-pipeline 12 moves toward the second position or remains in the second position, and after the sub-pipeline 12 stops moving, the first channel is in a conducting state; when the hydraulic pressure of the liquid input to the flow control device 10 is low, the sub-pipeline 12 moves toward the first position or remains in the first position, and after the sub-pipeline 12 stops moving, the first channel is in a blocked state.

[0104] In some embodiments, a second abutment portion 124 is circumferentially protruded from the outer wall of the sub-pipe 12. The elastic structure 14 is installed in the outer shell 11 in a compressed state, and one end thereof abuts against the outer shell 11, and the other end abuts against the second abutment portion 124. The elastic structure 14 is compressed and has elastic potential energy. The force it applies to the second abutment portion 124, i.e., the preset thrust, can push the second abutment portion 124 and the outer shell 11 relatively away from each other, thereby causing the sub-pipe 12 to have a tendency to move relative to the outer shell 11. More specifically, when the hydraulic thrust is greater than the preset thrust, the second abutment portion 124 overcomes the thrust of the elastic structure 14 and moves in the direction of continuing to compress the elastic structure 14; when the hydraulic thrust is less than the preset thrust, the second abutment portion 124 is pushed by the elastic structure 14 and moves in the direction of stretching of the elastic structure 14.

[0105] In some embodiments, the elastic structure 14 is sleeved outside the sub-pipe 12. Thus, the elastic structure 14 and the sub-pipe 12 are coaxial, and the predetermined thrust exerted by the elastic structure 14 is coaxial or parallel to the direction of movement of the sub-pipe 12, thereby smoothly pushing the sub-pipe 12 to move. Specifically, the elastic structure 14 can be a spring, a silicone sleeve, a gas spring, or other structures.

[0106] In some other embodiments not shown, the flow control device 10 further includes a driving structure, and the execution end of the driving structure is connected to the sub-pipeline 12. The driving structure drives the execution end to move in response to the input electrical signal, so as to drive the sub-pipeline 12 to move, so that the sub-pipeline 12 switches between the first position and the second position, thereby switching the conduction state and the blocking state of the first channel. In this embodiment, there is no need to change the input hydraulic pressure of the flow control device 10, and the conduction and blocking of the first channel can be controlled by directly controlling the driving structure with an electrical signal. The driving structure can specifically be a structure such as an electric push rod, a linear motor, or a structure such as a hydraulic cylinder or a pneumatic cylinder controlled by a circuit.

[0107] In some embodiments as shown in Figures 8a and 8b, the flow control device 10 also includes a limit assembly 125 located in the outer shell 11. The limit assembly 125 can limit the movement of the sub-pipe 12 along the axial direction of the outer shell 11, thereby preventing the sub-pipe 12 from being offset or tilted during movement.

[0108] In some specific embodiments, one or more limiting holes (not marked) are provided on the limiting assembly 125, and the sub-pipe 12 is movably inserted into the limiting holes. Each limiting hole extends along the axial direction of the outer shell 11, thereby limiting the sub-pipe 12 from being offset, tilted, etc. during movement. In some embodiments, the number of limiting holes can be one, and it is a cylindrical hole extending along the axial direction of the outer shell 11. The sub-pipe 12 is inserted into the limiting hole and its movement direction is restricted. In some embodiments, there can also be multiple limiting holes, and they are arranged according to the axial direction of the outer shell 11. The sub-pipe 12 is inserted into multiple limiting holes at the same time and its movement direction is restricted.

[0109] It should be noted that the above-mentioned limiting hole can be a complete hole, such as a through hole drilled on the corresponding part. The above-mentioned limiting hole can also be composed of multiple parts, such as multiple arc-shaped parts surrounding and enclosing a cylindrical space to form the limiting hole.

[0110] In some of the aforementioned embodiments, the sub-pipe 12 is movably mounted within the outer shell 11, and the switching of the sealing structure 13 between opening and blocking the first channel is related to the change in position of the sub-pipe 12. In other embodiments, the opening or blocking of the first channel by the sealing structure 13 is independent of whether the sub-pipe 12 moves. It will be readily understood that in these embodiments, the sub-pipe 12 may be movable relative to the outer shell 11 or may be fixedly mounted to the outer shell 11.

[0111] In some embodiments shown in FIG. 10 a and FIG. 10 b , the sealing structure 13 includes one or more movable sealing sheets 131 , which can be switched between two states:

[0112] In the first state, as shown in FIG10 a , the sealing sheet 131 forms a seal between the inner wall of the outer shell 11 and the outer wall of the sub-pipeline 12 , corresponding to a first channel blocking state.

[0113] In the second state, as shown in FIG. 10 b , the sealing sheet 131 does not form a seal between the inner wall of the outer shell 11 and the outer wall of the sub-pipe 12 , corresponding to the first channel conducting state.

[0114] In this way, by switching the state of the sealing sheet 131 , the blocking and conducting states of the first channel can be switched.

[0115] In a specific embodiment, as shown in Figures 10a and 10b, the sealing structure 13 includes a mounting frame 132 and a plurality of sealing sheets 131. The mounting frame 132 is installed between the sub-pipe 12 and the outer shell 11. A plurality of through holes 133 are formed in the mounting frame 132. Each sealing sheet 131 is swingably mounted near a corresponding through hole 133 of the mounting frame 132, and the through hole 133 is switched between sealing and conducting by swinging.

[0116] In the state shown in Figure 10a, each sealing sheet 131 in the first state blocks the through-hole 133, preventing liquid from passing through the through-hole 133, thereby forming a seal between the inner wall of the outer shell 11 and the outer wall of the sub-pipe 12. Liquid entering the outer shell 11 from the first input end 111 enters the sub-pipe 12 and flows along the second channel. This corresponds to the first channel blocking state.

[0117] In the state shown in Figure 10b, sealing sheet 131, in the second state, swings away from through-hole 133, placing through-hole 133 in a conductive state. Liquid entering outer housing 11 from first input end 111 partially enters sub-pipeline 12 and flows along the second channel, while the remaining portion passes through through-hole 133, enters gap space 113, and flows along the first channel. This corresponds to the first channel being conductive.

[0118] In some other embodiments, the sealing sheet 131 may also be configured to open or close the through hole 133 by means of telescoping, horizontal swinging, axial displacement, or the like.

[0119] In some more specific embodiments, the sealing structure 13 also includes one or more return structures (not shown). The return structure is used to apply a preset return force to the sealing plate 131, prompting the sealing plate 131 to return to the preset position. When the liquid flows through the flow control device 10, a liquid thrust is applied to the sealing plate 131, and the preset return force is opposite to the direction of the liquid thrust. It can be understood that the liquid thrust acts on the sealing plate 131 to move it in the direction away from the preset position, and the preset return force acts on the sealing plate 131 to move it in the direction back to the preset position. The sealing plate 131 corresponds to its first state when it is in the preset position and corresponds to its second state after leaving the preset position. The return structure can be specifically an elastic structure such as a tension spring or a coil spring, and the preset return force is provided by the elastic force; it can also be provided by setting a related magnetic suction component to provide a preset return force by magnetic force.

[0120] As shown in Figure 10a, when the preset return force is greater than the liquid thrust, each sealing piece 131 switches to the first state or maintains the first state. After the sealing piece 131 stops moving, it corresponds to the first channel blocking state.

[0121] As shown in Figure 10b, when the preset return force is less than the liquid thrust, each sealing piece 131 switches to the second state or maintains the second state. After the sealing piece 131 stops moving, the first channel is in the conducting state.

[0122] As can be seen from the above process, the state of the sealing plate 131 can be changed by changing the magnitude of the liquid thrust, and the liquid thrust is positively correlated with the input hydraulic pressure of the flow control device 10. In other words, by changing the input hydraulic pressure of the flow control device 10, the state of the sealing plate 131 can be changed, thereby switching the conductive or blocked state of the first channel.

[0123] More specifically, increasing the input hydraulic pressure of the flow control device 10 increases the liquid flow rate, and the liquid thrust on the sealing plate 131 increases, causing it to switch to the second state, corresponding to the first channel conductive state, resulting in a higher liquid flow rate and a larger flow cross-section, achieving rapid discharge. Similarly, decreasing the input hydraulic pressure of the flow control device 10 decreases the liquid flow rate, and the liquid thrust on the sealing plate 131 decreases, causing it to switch to the third state, corresponding to the first channel blocked state, resulting in a lower liquid flow rate and a smaller flow cross-section, achieving slow discharge and improving discharge flow rate control accuracy.

[0124] In some other embodiments, the flow control device 10 may also be provided with a drive structure such as a motor, a cylinder, or a hydraulic cylinder to directly drive the movement of the sealing plate 131. After inputting a relevant control signal, the drive structure drives the sealing plate 131 to move and switch between the first state and the second state, correspondingly switching the conduction and blocking states of the first channel.

[0125] As shown in Figures 8a, 8b, and 11, certain embodiments of the present application further provide a liquid delivery device 100 for delivering liquid raw materials to a container 30, comprising one or more storage devices 20, a material extraction device, and the aforementioned flow control device 10. Each storage device 20 is used to hold the liquid raw material, and the flow control device 10 is located above the container 30.

[0126] When the liquid delivery device 100 is in operation, the material extraction device can cause the liquid raw material to flow out of the storage device 20 and be delivered to the first input end 111 of the flow control device 10. The flow control device 10 can provide two liquid flow rates, taking into account a large discharge speed and delivery flow control accuracy. For details, please refer to the relevant description of the flow control device 10 above and will not be repeated here.

[0127] In the liquid delivery device 100, the flow control device 10 is positioned above the container 30. Any residual liquid material at the first and second output ends 112, 122 of the flow control device 10 can fall into the container 30 under the action of gravity, thereby reducing the amount of residual liquid material. Furthermore, because the second output end 122 is flush with the first output end 112, or extends beyond the first output end 112, the liquid material in the second channel will not remain within the first output end 112. Consequently, less liquid material remains within the second output end 122, thereby ensuring high flow control accuracy.

[0128] In some embodiments, each storage device 20 is provided with a discharge port 21 , the flow control device 10 is installed at the discharge port 21 , and the discharge port 21 is communicated with the first input end 111 .

[0129] The material taking device is not the focus of this application and is not directly shown in the relevant drawings. In some embodiments, the material taking device can be a structure such as a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, an electric push rod, etc. installed on the storage device 20, which directly applies pressure to the liquid raw material in the storage device 20 to cause the liquid raw material to be output from the discharge port 21 and enter the first input end 111 of the flow control device 10. In other embodiments, the material taking device is a structure such as a liquid pump, a peristaltic pump, a vacuum pump, etc. arranged at the discharge port 21, which extracts the liquid raw material from the discharge container 30 and then inputs the liquid raw material from the discharge port 21 into the first input end 111 of the flow control device 10. The above-mentioned material taking device can force the liquid raw material to be output from the discharge port 21 to the first input end 111 of the flow control device 10 at a certain pressure, and can adapt to liquid raw materials of various viscosities, especially liquid raw materials with higher viscosity. Furthermore, the material taking device can change the input hydraulic pressure of the flow control device 10. In certain aforementioned embodiments, changing the input hydraulic pressure of the flow control device 10 is related to the opening or blocking state of the first channel. Please refer to the relevant description above.

[0130] In some embodiments, the liquid raw material has a low viscosity and can flow smoothly under the action of gravity. The corresponding material removal structure can be a valve structure provided at the discharge port 21, which only controls the opening and closing of the discharge port 21. When the discharge port 21 is open, the liquid raw material flows out of the discharge port 21 under the action of gravity and enters the first input end 111 of the flow control device 10.

[0131] In the above-described embodiment, the flow control device 10 is directly mounted at the discharge port 21 of the storage device 20 and directly supplies the liquid raw material to the container 30 without requiring connection via associated pipelines. This prevents liquid raw material from remaining in the pipeline and causing blockage, resulting in high flow control accuracy and low long-term maintenance costs. It will be readily understood that, to reduce piping, a flow control device 10 is mounted at the discharge port 21 of each storage device 20. If there are multiple storage devices 20, there will be a corresponding number of flow control devices 10.

[0132] In a more specific embodiment, in the liquid delivery device 100, the axis of the discharge port 21 of each storage device 20, the axis of the first output end 112 of each flow control device 10, and the axis of the second output end 122 are all vertical, so that the residual liquid formed in these parts can fall into the container 30 under the action of gravity. The specific process is as follows: when the liquid delivery device 100 delivers liquid raw materials, after the flow control device 10 switches from the fast discharge stage to the slow discharge stage, its first channel is blocked, and the residual liquid formed by the liquid raw material at the first output end 112 continues to move downward under the action of gravity until it all enters the container 30. At the end of the slow discharging stage, after the material taking device is closed and left to stand for a period of time, the residual liquid at the discharge port 21 and the residual liquid at the second output end 122 continue to move downward under the action of gravity until all enter the container 30. This can reduce the residual liquid formed at the discharge port 21, the first output end 112, and the second output end 122, which not only improves the accuracy of liquid flow control, but also avoids the liquid raw material from drying up and blocking related positions, or falling to the outside of the container 30 and polluting the environment.

[0133] In the description of this specification, the description with reference to the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "illustrative embodiments", "example", "specific example" or "some examples" means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present application. In this specification, the schematic representation of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described may be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner. In addition, those skilled in the art may combine and combine the different embodiments or examples described in this specification and the features of the different embodiments or examples, unless they are mutually inconsistent.

[0134] Any process or method description in a flowchart or otherwise described herein may be understood to represent a module, segment or portion of code comprising one or more executable instructions for implementing the steps of a specific logical function or process, and the scope of the preferred embodiments of the present application includes alternative implementations in which functions may be performed out of the order shown or discussed, including performing functions in a substantially simultaneous manner or in the reverse order depending on the functions involved, which should be understood by those skilled in the art to which the embodiments of the present application belong.

[0135] Although the embodiments of the present application have been shown and described above, it can be understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and cannot be understood as limitations on the present application. Ordinary technicians in this field can change, modify, replace and modify the above embodiments within the scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A flow control device, characterized in that: It comprises an outer shell and a sub-pipe located inside the outer shell, wherein a gap space for liquid to flow is formed between the inner wall of the outer shell and the outer wall of the sub-pipe; wherein, The outer shell has a first input end and a first output end, and the first input end, the gap space, and the first output end form a first channel for liquid to flow through. The outer shell is provided with a sealing structure for opening or blocking the first channel; The sub-pipeline has a second input end and a second output end. The second output end is located inside the first output end and is flush with the first output end or extends outside the first output end. The sub-pipeline forms a second channel for liquid to flow through.

2. The flow control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: On a plane perpendicular to the axis of the flow control device, the projection pattern formed by the second input end is located within the projection pattern formed by the first input end.

3. The flow control device according to claim 1, characterized in that On a plane perpendicular to the axis of the flow control device, the center of the projection pattern of the second input end coincides with the center of the projection pattern of the first input end, and / or the center of the projection pattern of the second output end coincides with the center of the projection pattern formed by the first output end.

4. The flow control device according to claim 1, characterized in that The axis of the sub-pipe coincides with the axis of the outer shell.

5. The flow control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flow control device is a rotationally symmetrical structure, and the axis of the outer shell, the axis of the first input end, the axis of the first output end, and the axis of the sub-pipeline all coincide with the rotational symmetry axis of the flow control device.

6. The flow control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cross section of the gap space is annular.

7. The flow control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The sub-pipeline is movably arranged in the outer shell; As the position of the sub-pipeline changes, the sealing structure switches between opening and blocking the first channel.

8. The flow control device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The moving position of the sub-pipeline includes at least: First position: the sealing structure forms a seal between the outer shell and the sub-pipe to block the first channel; Second position: the sealing structure is in contact with only one of the outer shell and the sub-pipe, or is not in contact with both, so as to open the first channel.

9. The flow control device according to claim 8, characterized in that: When the sub-pipe is in the first position, the first output end and the second output end are flush; when the sub-pipe is in the second position, the second output end extends out of the first output end.

10. The flow control device according to claim 8, characterized in that The sealing structure is fixed to the outer shell, and when the sub-pipe is located at the first position, a seal is formed between the sub-pipe and the sealing structure.

11. The flow control device according to claim 10, characterized in that: The inner wall of the outer shell is provided with a first abutting portion, and the sealing structure is installed on the first abutting portion.

12. The flow control device according to claim 11, characterized in that The outer shell includes the first input end, the main body, and the first output end connected in sequence; The inner diameter of the main body is larger than the inner diameter of the first input end, and inside the outer shell, a step-shaped first wall is formed at a connection position between the main body and the first input end, and the first wall constitutes the first abutting portion; or The inner diameter of the main body is larger than the inner diameter of the first output end. Inside the outer shell, a step-shaped second wall is formed at a connection position between the main body and the first output end. The second wall constitutes the first abutting portion.

13. The flow control device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The first wall is annular, with an inner edge connected to the first input end and an outer edge connected to the main body; and / or, The second wall is annular, with an inner edge connected to the first output end and an outer edge connected to the main body.

14. The flow control device according to claim 10, characterized in that The sealing structure includes an annular sealing ring, the outer edge of which is fixed to the inner wall of the housing to form a seal, and the interior of the sealing ring has a hollow portion for liquid to flow through; When the sub-pipe is located at the first position, the sub-pipe is inserted into the hollow portion and the outer wall forms a seal with the inner edge of the sealing ring.

15. The flow control device according to claim 14, characterized in that: A second abutting portion is protruded along the circumferential direction of the outer wall of the sub-pipe, and the second abutting portion is configured such that when the sub-pipe is located at the first position, the second abutting portion abuts against the sealing structure and forms a seal.

16. The flow control device according to claim 15, characterized in that The outer diameter of the second abutting portion gradually decreases in a direction pointing to the first position. When the sub-pipe enters the first position, the second abutting portion is inserted into the sealing ring and radially presses the sealing ring to achieve sealing.

17. The flow control device according to claim 15, characterized in that The second abutting portion is spherical or conical.

18. The flow control device according to claim 10, wherein: The outer edge of the sealing structure is fixed to the inner wall of the outer shell to form a seal, and the interior of the sealing structure has a hollow part for liquid to flow through; When the sub-pipe is located at the first position, the end of the sub-pipe abuts against the sealing structure to form a seal, and the hollow portion is connected to the sub-pipe.

19. The flow control device according to claim 10, wherein: The sealing structure includes a sealing baffle, the edge of which is fixed inside the outer shell, and the sealing baffle is provided with a plurality of through holes for liquid to flow through, and the through holes constitute a part of the first channel; When the sub-pipe is located at the first position, the end of the sub-pipe abuts against the sealing partition to form a seal, and the through holes are distributed in the area covered by the end of the sub-pipe.

20. The flow control device according to any one of claims 10 to 19, characterized in that: The sealing structure is at least partially a flexible structure.

21. The flow control device according to claim 8, characterized in that The sealing structure is fixed to the sub-pipeline, and a first abutting portion is provided on the inner wall of the outer shell; When the sub-pipe is located at the first position, the sealing structure abuts against the first abutting portion and forms a seal.

22. The flow control device according to claim 11, wherein: The outer shell includes a tapered portion, the inner diameter of which gradually decreases along a direction pointing to the first input end or the first output end, and the tapered portion constitutes the first abutting portion.

23. The flow control device according to claim 21, wherein: A second abutting portion is circumferentially protruded from the outer wall of the sub-pipe, and the second abutting portion forms the sealing structure.

24. The flow control device according to claim 23, characterized in that The second abutting portion is integrally formed with the sub-pipe.

25. The flow control device according to claim 23, wherein: An end surface of the second abutting portion facing the first abutting portion is provided with a flexible structure.

26. The flow control device according to claim 21, characterized in that The sealing structure is sleeved and fixed on the outer wall of the sub-pipeline.

27. The flow control device according to claim 26, characterized in that The sealing structure is at least partially a flexible structure.

28. The flow control device according to any one of claims 21 to 27, characterized in that The sealing structure is located at the end of the sub-pipeline, and the end surface of the sealing structure is flush with the second input end.

29. The flow control device according to any one of claims 21 to 27, characterized in that The outer diameter of the sealing structure is the same as the inner diameter of the outer shell.

30. The flow control device according to claim 29, wherein: The axis of the sealing structure coincides with the axis of the sub-pipe.

31. The flow control device according to claim 8, characterized in that The sealing structure is movably disposed in the outer shell, and the middle of the sealing structure has a hollow portion through which liquid can flow; the inner wall of the outer shell is provided with a first abutment portion, and the outer wall of the sub-pipe is circumferentially provided with a second abutment portion; When the sub-pipe is located at the first position, liquid can enter the sub-pipe through the hollow portion, and the first abutting portion and the second abutting portion squeeze the sealing structure to form a seal therebetween.

32. The flow control device according to claim 31, characterized in that The sealing structure is annular and movably sleeved on the outside of the sub-pipeline, and the inner diameter of the sealing structure is smaller than the outer diameter of the second abutting portion.

33. The flow control device according to claim 8, characterized in that The sealing structure is made of a flexible material, has a hollow portion inside, and is provided with a plurality of through holes for liquid to pass through; The outer edge of the sealing structure is fixed to the inner wall of the outer shell, and the inner edge is fixed to the sub-pipeline, and the liquid can pass through the hollow part into the sub-pipeline; When the sub-pipe is in the first position, the multiple through holes of the sealing structure are in a closed state; when the sub-pipe is in the second position, the sealing structure is pulled and deformed by the sub-pipe so that the multiple through holes are in an open state.

34. The flow control device according to claim 8, characterized in that The device further comprises an elastic structure disposed within the outer shell, wherein the elastic structure applies a preset thrust to the sub-pipeline; when the liquid flows through the flow control device, the liquid thrust is applied to the sub-pipeline, wherein the preset thrust is in the opposite direction to the direction of the liquid thrust; When the liquid thrust is less than the preset thrust, the resultant force on the sub-pipeline points to the first position direction; when the liquid thrust is greater than the preset thrust, the resultant force on the sub-pipeline points to the second position direction; or, When the liquid thrust is smaller than the preset thrust, the resultant force acting on the sub-pipeline points toward the second position; when the liquid thrust is larger than the preset thrust, the resultant force acting on the sub-pipeline points toward the first position.

35. The flow control device according to claim 34, characterized in that A second abutment portion is convexly provided on the outer wall of the sub-pipeline in the circumferential direction; The elastic structure is installed in a compressed state, with one end thereof abutting against the outer shell and the other end abutting against the second abutting portion.

36. The flow control device according to claim 35, characterized in that The elastic structure is sleeved outside the sub-pipeline.

37. The flow control device according to claim 7, characterized in that It also includes a driving structure, wherein the execution end of the driving structure is connected to the sub-pipeline, and the driving structure is constructed to drive the execution end to move in response to an input electrical signal, so as to drive the sub-pipeline to move.

38. The flow control device according to claim 7, wherein: It also includes a limiting component located in the outer shell, and the limiting component is used to limit the movement of the sub-pipeline along the axial direction of the outer shell.

39. The flow control device according to claim 38, characterized in that The limiting assembly is provided with one or more limiting holes extending along the axial direction of the outer shell; The sub-pipeline is movably arranged in the limiting hole.

40. The flow control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that The sealing structure includes one or more movable sealing plates, which can be switched between two states: In a first state, the sealing sheet seals the inner wall of the outer shell and the outer wall of the sub-pipe, blocking the first channel; In the second state, the first channel is turned on.

41. The flow control device according to claim 40, characterized in that The sealing structure further comprises one or more return structures, wherein the return structures apply a preset return force to the sealing sheet; When the liquid flows through the flow control device, a liquid thrust is applied to the sealing plate, and the preset return force is in the opposite direction to the liquid thrust; When the preset return force is less than the liquid thrust, each of the sealing pieces switches to the second state or maintains the second state; When the preset return force is greater than the liquid thrust, each of the sealing pieces switches to the first state or maintains the first state.

42. A liquid delivery device for delivering liquid raw materials to a container, characterized in that: include: The flow control device according to any one of claims 1 to 41, wherein the flow control device is located above the container; One or more storage devices, each of the storage devices being used to contain the liquid raw material; A material taking device, wherein the material taking device can cause the liquid raw material to be transported from the material storage device to the first input end of the flow control device.

43. The liquid delivery device according to claim 42, characterized in that Each of the storage devices includes a discharge port, the flow control device is installed at the discharge port, and the discharge port is communicated with the first input end.

44. The liquid delivery device according to claim 43, characterized in that The axis of the discharge port, the axis of the first output end, and the axis of the second output end are all vertical.