Reversing valve

Abstract

The invention discloses a reversing valve with active sealing and intelligent monitoring functions. The reversing valve comprises a valve body, a reverser arranged in the valve body and an intercommunication channel in the valve body. The valve is characterized in that an active sealing element is arranged between the commutator and the inner wall of the intercommunication channel, the sealing element is composed of a tubular expansion sealing ring and an expansion control device, and the sealing ring is driven to expand or contract by introducing or discharging media, so that active control over the sealing state is achieved. The structure effectively solves the problems that a traditional reversing valve is unreliable in sealing under the low-pressure working condition, serious in mechanical abrasion, prone to leakage during high-frequency reversing and the like. A sealing monitoring system is further integrated, the sealing state is monitored in real time through multiple sensors such as pressure sensors and displacement sensors, closed-loop regulation and abrasion early warning can be achieved based on data feedback, the sealing reliability of the valve is remarkably improved, the service life of the valve is remarkably prolonged, and the intelligent level of the valve is remarkably improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of fluid control equipment technology, and more particularly to a reversing valve. Background Technology

[0002] Directional control valves, as core components of fluid control systems, are widely used in hydraulics, pneumatics, and industrial process control. Their core function is to switch fluid media between different pathways by changing the connectivity of the internal channels. Traditional directional control valves typically rely on mechanical spool valves or rotary valve structures, opening or closing the corresponding flow channels through the relative movement between the valve core and the valve body. Sealing performance is a key indicator of the reliability of directional control valves; its sealing effect directly affects whether internal or external leakage occurs in the system, thus impacting system efficiency and control accuracy.

[0003] Currently, most common directional control valves employ passive sealing structures, such as O-rings, stuffing boxes, or metal-to-metal mating seals. These structures rely on preload or medium pressure to achieve sealing surface contact, which has several significant drawbacks: First, under low pressure or vacuum conditions, insufficient preload can easily lead to seal failure; second, mechanical friction exists between the valve core and valve body, which can cause wear and aging of the seals over long-term operation, requiring regular maintenance or replacement; third, under high-frequency directional control or high-pressure differential conditions, the sealing structure's response is delayed, potentially leading to momentary leakage during switching.

[0004] To address the aforementioned issues, some improved sealing solutions have emerged in existing technologies. For example, pressure-compensated or self-tightening seals utilize medium pressure to enhance the sealing specific pressure. However, these solutions do not fundamentally overcome the problems of excessive dependence on medium pressure and significant fluctuations in sealing performance under unstable operating conditions. Furthermore, these structures typically lack the ability to monitor the sealing status in real time; leaks are often difficult to detect promptly, requiring reliance on periodic maintenance or external testing equipment for assessment, thus increasing system maintenance costs and the risk of failure. Summary of the Invention The purpose of this invention is to provide a reversing valve and its sealing monitoring system, which has the advantages of active sealing control, reduced mechanical wear, extended service life, and real-time monitoring of sealing status.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a reversing valve, comprising a valve body and a reversing device disposed within the valve body, wherein an interconnecting channel is provided within the valve body, and an active sealing element for forming a seal or non-seal is provided between the reversing device and the inner wall of the interconnecting channel, the active sealing element comprising an expansion sealing ring and an expansion control device for controlling the expansion state or non-expansion state of the expansion sealing ring, wherein the expansion sealing ring is tubular for introducing a medium to cause it to expand; When the expansion control device introduces the medium into the expansion seal ring, it drives the expansion seal ring to expand and come into contact with the interconnection channel, so that the commutator forms a seal with the inner wall of the interconnection channel through the expansion seal ring. When the expansion control device discharges the medium from the expansion seal ring, it drives the expansion seal ring into a non-expanded state and separates it from the interconnection channel, thus separating the expansion seal ring from the inner wall of the interconnection channel.

[0006] By adopting the above technical solution, the tubular expansion sealing ring driven by the expansion control device serves as an active sealing element, primarily solving three major technical problems of traditional directional valves: insufficient preload leading to sealing failure under low pressure or vacuum conditions; mechanical friction between the valve core and valve body causing seal wear and aging; and delayed sealing response causing instantaneous leakage under high-frequency switching and high-pressure differential conditions. Its effectiveness lies in achieving active control of the sealing state. During non-switching periods, expansion sealing achieves tight sealing against ultra-low pressure leakage, while under ideal conditions, the sealing ring contracts during switching periods to achieve zero-friction movement, fundamentally eliminating seal wear, significantly extending service life, and reducing maintenance requirements.

[0007] The invention is further configured such that: the commutator has an installation groove for receiving the expansion sealing ring, the installation groove has a fixing groove, and the expansion sealing ring has a fixing ring that cooperates with the fixing groove.

[0008] By adopting the above technical solution, by setting mounting grooves and fixing grooves on the commutator and cooperating with the fixing ring on the expansion sealing ring, the sealing ring is firmly fixed in the circumference and axial direction on the commutator, preventing it from twisting, shifting or falling off under medium pressure. At the same time, the mounting groove provides a regular expansion space for the sealing ring, which can effectively guide uniform expansion in the radial direction, avoid local sealing failure caused by irregular deformation, and optimize the reliability of the sealing effect.

[0009] The present invention is further configured such that: at least one sealing lip is protruding on the expansion sealing ring, and when the expansion control device drives the expansion sealing ring to expand, the sealing lip is fitted against the inner wall of the interconnection channel.

[0010] By adopting the above technical solution, a sealing lip structure is protruding on the expansion sealing ring, realizing line contact sealing. Compared with surface contact, this significantly improves the sealing response speed and reduces the need for sealing clamping force. Extremely high sealing performance can be achieved with a small expansion force. At the same time, the scraping action of the sealing lip can effectively remove contaminants from the inner wall of the channel, enhancing the seal's anti-pollution ability and long-term effectiveness.

[0011] The present invention is further configured such that: the interconnection channel adopts a V-shaped channel structure, including a first channel, a second channel and a third channel; the commutator is used to switch the connection between the first channel and the second channel or to switch the connection between the first channel and the third channel; when the first channel and the second channel are connected, the expansion sealing ring forms a sealing setting for the third channel; when the first channel and the third channel are connected, the expansion sealing ring forms a sealing setting for the second channel.

[0012] By adopting the above technical solution, using a V-shaped three-channel structure and clarifying the correspondence between the reversing logic and the sealing object, the flow channel design is optimized to reduce media flow resistance and impact. At the same time, the intelligent selection of which idle channel needs to be sealed by switching the position of the reversing device ensures that non-working paths are absolutely isolated when the system is working, effectively preventing media cross-contamination or internal leakage, and improving the system control accuracy and efficiency.

[0013] The present invention is further configured to include a sealing monitoring system for monitoring the sealing status between the expansion sealing ring and the inner wall of the interconnection channel, the sealing monitoring system comprising: The drive module is used to drive the commutator to perform commutation; The channel linkage monitoring module is electrically connected to the drive module. Pressure detectors are installed in both the second and third channels. After the commutator completes the channel switching, the channel linkage monitoring module identifies the currently connected channel and the channel to be sealed, and starts monitoring the channel to be sealed. Pressure detectors are installed in both the second and third channels. The pressure change rate of the channel to be sealed is monitored by the pressure sensor installed in the channel to be sealed. If the pressure change rate exceeds the preset sealing threshold range, it is determined that the expansion sealing ring has failed to seal the channel to be sealed.

[0014] By adopting the above technical solution, and by setting up a sealing monitoring system that includes a pressure monitor and electrically connecting it with the drive module to achieve linkage with the reversing action, the system can automatically start monitoring the pressure change rate of the channel to be sealed after the reversing is completed. Utilizing the principle that "the pressure of the channel to be sealed should remain stable under ideal sealing conditions," the system can determine in real time whether the seal has failed, thus achieving predictive maintenance and greatly improving the system's operational reliability and safety.

[0015] The present invention is further configured such that: the sealing monitoring system further includes a sealing ring expansion monitoring module, which is based on the tubular structure of the expansion sealing ring and the mounting groove of the commutator. A displacement sensor corresponding to the position of the fixing groove is provided in the mounting groove. The displacement sensor faces the fixing ring of the expansion sealing ring and is used to monitor the radial displacement of the fixing ring relative to the fixing groove. When the radial displacement is less than a preset sealing displacement threshold, it is determined that the expansion of the expansion sealing ring is insufficient, resulting in sealing failure of the expansion sealing ring.

[0016] By adopting the above technical solution, a direct monitoring mechanism for the condition of the seal itself is provided by setting a displacement sensor in the mounting groove to monitor the radial displacement of the fixing ring. This can effectively diagnose insufficient expansion faults caused by insufficient pressure or aging of the sealing ring. It forms multiple redundant monitoring with the pressure monitoring method, which greatly improves the comprehensiveness and reliability of the sealing condition monitoring system.

[0017] The present invention is further configured such that: the sealing monitoring system further includes a sealing lip contact feedback unit, which is equipped with a contact feedback element. The sealing lip is provided with at least two liplets, and the contact feedback element is disposed between the two sealing lips. It is used to monitor the contact pressure between the sealing lip and the inner wall of the interconnection channel. When the contact pressure is lower than a preset pressure threshold, the sealing lip is determined to be in failure.

[0018] By adopting the above technical solution, the contact pressure between the sealing lip and the channel wall is directly measured by setting a sealing lip contact feedback unit. The sealing effectiveness is confirmed from the most microscopic contact level, providing a high-precision quantitative sealing index and a sensitive and reliable input benchmark for evaluating sealing quality and realizing closed-loop control.

[0019] The present invention is further configured such that: the sealing monitoring system also includes a medium and sealing correlation module, which is connected to the expansion control device, for collecting the medium flow rate and pressure entering and exiting the expansion sealing ring, and collecting the commutator channel switching time, establishing a correlation model between medium parameters and sealing status, and determining that the expansion sealing ring has failed when the actual medium parameters deviate from the normal range of the correlation model.

[0020] By adopting the above technical solution, and by collecting the flow and pressure parameters of the introduced medium and the switching time, a correlation model between the medium parameters and the sealing state is established, realizing forward-looking fault diagnosis. The model deviation can be used to judge the performance degradation trend of the sealing ring before the actual leakage occurs, providing an earlier intelligent warning.

[0021] The present invention is further configured such that: the sealing monitoring system further includes a closed-loop control module, including a control unit, the control unit being connected to the expansion control device and each monitoring module of the sealing monitoring system respectively; when a sealing failure is detected, the control unit controls the expansion control device to adjust the medium flow rate until the sealing monitoring system determines that the sealing has been effectively restored.

[0022] By adopting the above technical solution and adding a closed-loop control module, the system can automatically control the expansion control device to adjust the medium parameters to compensate for the wear of the sealing ring when it detects a seal failure, and actively restore the effective seal, thus realizing the adaptive sealing function and significantly reducing the frequency of downtime maintenance caused by normal wear.

[0023] The present invention is further configured such that the closed-loop control module also includes: The control and recording unit records the adjustment time, medium parameters, channel switching status, and product temperature, forming a historical database. The dynamic benchmark update unit automatically corrects the pressure of the medium subsequently introduced into the expansion control device based on the historical database. The wear trend early warning unit establishes a wear trend model by analyzing the relationship between media adjustment range and usage time in historical data from the historical database. When the expansion seal reaches the preset wear condition, it issues an early warning for the replacement of the expansion seal.

[0024] By adopting the above technical solutions and adding functions such as control recording, dynamic benchmark updating and wear trend early warning, the system can learn and optimize control parameters based on historical data, and accurately predict the remaining life of the seals, realizing the transformation from post-failure maintenance to planned maintenance, and minimizing unexpected downtime.

[0025] This invention, employing the above technical solutions, achieves significant technical effects: by deeply integrating an active and controllable expansion sealing mechanism with a multi-dimensional intelligent monitoring system, it constructs an intelligent sealing ecosystem with full capabilities in perception, decision-making, execution, and learning. This system not only achieves zero-friction directional control and tight sealing under ultra-low pressure conditions, but can also be likened to a continuously working sealing doctor, capable of real-time multi-parameter monitoring and examination of the valve, including pressure, displacement, and contact pressure; achieving intelligent diagnosis based on correlation models; compensating for wear through closed-loop control to achieve precise prescriptions; recording historical data to establish health records; and predicting future conditions based on wear trends. Ultimately, this results in a self-adaptive, self-optimizing, and self-early warning intelligent directional valve, achieving a generational leap in reliability, service life, and maintenance costs compared to traditional products, providing an unprecedented solution for the high-end fluid control field. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is an overall structural diagram of the reversing valve in Embodiment 1; Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the reversing valve in Embodiment 1 and a schematic diagram showing the connection between the first and second channels; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the first channel and the third channel in Embodiment 1; Figure 4 yes Figure 2 Enlarged schematic diagram of point A and schematic diagram of the expansion seal ring in its unexpanded state; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the expansion state of the expansion sealing ring in Example 1.

[0027] The parts referred to by the numbers in the above attached figures are as follows: 1. Valve body; 101. Interchange channel; 102. First channel; 103. Second channel; 104. Third channel; 2. Reversing device; 201. Mounting groove; 202. Fixing groove; 3. Active seal; 301. Expansion sealing ring; 302. Fixing ring; 303. Sealing lip. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0029] Example 1: A reversing valve includes a valve body 1 and a reversing device 2 disposed within the valve body 1. The valve body 1 has an interconnecting channel 101 with a V-channel structure, including a first channel 102, a second channel 103, and a third channel 104. The reversing device 2 is configured in a disc shape and has a connecting channel within it. Rotation of the reversing device 2 drives the two ends of the connecting channel to connect with the first channel 102 and the second channel 103, or drives the two ends of the connecting channel to connect with the first channel 102 and the third channel 104, respectively. When the first channel 102 is connected to the second channel 103, the expansion sealing ring 301 forms a seal against the third channel 104. When the first channel 102 is connected to the third channel 104, the expansion sealing ring 301 forms a seal against the second channel 103.

[0030] The inner wall of the commutator 2 and the interconnection channel 101 is provided with an active seal 3 for forming a complete seal or no seal. The active seal 3 includes an expansion seal ring 301 and an expansion control device for controlling the expansion seal ring 301 to be in an expanded or non-expanded state. The expansion seal ring 301 is tubular and is used to introduce a medium to make it expand. The medium is generally gas or liquid. The expansion seal ring 301 is made of elastically deformable rubber. Depending on the medium, the expansion control device adopts a pneumatic or hydraulic structure. In this embodiment, the expansion control device adopts a pneumatic structure, and the medium introduced is gas. It is configured with conventional pneumatic components such as an air pump, delivery pipe, solenoid valve, and vacuum generator.

[0031] The expansion seal ring 301 is made of expandable and retractable rubber, but it is not limited to rubber and may also be made of other expandable or retractable materials. The expansion control device is connected to the tubular inner wall of the expansion seal ring 301 through a delivery pipe. The expansion control device introduces or discharges medium into the expansion seal ring 301. When the medium is introduced into the expansion seal ring 301, the expansion seal ring 301 is in an expanded state and is driven to abut against the inner wall of the interconnection channel 101, thereby driving the reversing valve to form a sealing state with the inner wall of the interconnection channel 101. When the medium is discharged from the expansion seal ring 301, the expansion seal ring 301 is in a non-expanded state of retraction and is separated from the inner wall of the interconnection channel 101 in a non-sealing contact state.

[0032] The expansion control device includes an air pump, a cylinder, and a solenoid valve. An air inlet / outlet port is located in the cylinder, and a delivery pipe connected to the expansion seal ring 301 is connected to the cylinder. The solenoid valve is a three-position three-way valve. When the expansion seal ring 301 needs to be in an expanded state, the solenoid valve controls the air inlet / outlet port to connect with the air pump, which inflates the cylinder and simultaneously inflates the expansion seal ring 301. When the expansion seal ring 301 needs to be in a non-expanded state, the solenoid valve controls the air inlet / outlet port to connect with the exhaust port, allowing gas to be discharged from the expansion seal ring 301 and the cylinder through the exhaust port. The elastic seal ring then returns to its non-expanded state due to its own elastic deformation.

[0033] The commutator 2 has a mounting groove 201 for receiving the expansion sealing ring 301. A fixing groove 202 is provided in the mounting groove 201. A fixing ring 302 that cooperates with the fixing groove 202 is provided on the expansion sealing ring 301. At least one sealing lip 303 is provided on the side of the expansion sealing ring 301 facing the inner wall of the interconnection channel 101. When the expansion control device drives the expansion sealing ring to expand, the sealing lip 303 is fitted against the inner wall of the interconnection channel 101. In this embodiment, two sealing lips 303 are provided parallel to each other on the side of the expansion sealing ring 301 facing the inner wall of the interconnection channel 101. The two sealing lips 303 are spaced apart.

[0034] The reversing valve is also equipped with a sealing monitoring system for monitoring the sealing status of the expansion sealing ring 301 and the inner wall of the interconnection channel 101. The sealing monitoring system includes a drive module and a channel linkage monitoring module. The drive module is used to drive the reversing device 2 to switch directions. The channel linkage monitoring module is electrically connected to the drive module and is equipped with a pressure monitor. When the reversing device 2 completes the channel switching, the channel linkage monitoring module identifies the currently connected channel and the channel to be sealed, and starts monitoring the channel to be sealed. Pressure detectors are installed in the second channel 103 and the third channel 104. The pressure change rate inside the channel to be sealed is monitored by the pressure sensor installed in the channel to be sealed. If the pressure change rate exceeds the preset sealing threshold range, it is determined that the expansion sealing ring 301 has failed to seal the channel to be sealed.

[0035] The drive module refers to the drive unit used to control the commutator 2 to perform channel switching actions. Specifically, it can be implemented using a solenoid valve or a hydraulic drive device. Its function is to ensure that the commutator 2 can accurately switch to the target channel position according to the control command. The channel linkage monitoring module refers to the monitoring unit that is linked with the drive module signal. Specifically, it can be implemented using an embedded controller and a pressure sensor combination. Its function is to synchronously acquire the channel status information after the commutation action is completed and activate the monitoring function of the corresponding channel to be sealed. The pressure change rate refers to the change in pressure in the channel to be sealed per unit time. Specifically, it can be implemented by collecting dynamic data through a pressure sensor and calculating the derivative. Its function is to quantify the critical conditions for seal failure and avoid misjudging the seal status due to pressure fluctuations.

[0036] When the commutator 2 performs a channel switching action, the drive module sends a switching command to the commutator 2, causing it to move to the target position to complete the connection between the first channel 102 and the second channel 103 or the third channel 104. After detecting that the position of the commutator 2 is fixed, the channel linkage monitoring module identifies the currently connected channels based on the displacement signal of the commutator 2 and determines the idle channels that need to be sealed. For example, if the first channel 102 is connected to the second channel 103, the third channel 104 is marked as the channel to be sealed. At this time, the pressure sensor set in the third channel 104 is activated, continuously collects the pressure data in the channel, and calculates its rate of change over time. When the rate of change of pressure exceeds the preset threshold range, it indicates that the sealing ring has failed to effectively isolate the channel, resulting in media leakage or external pressure intrusion. The system then triggers a seal failure alarm.

[0037] Traditional directional control valve sealing status monitoring relies on periodic manual inspections or offline testing, which cannot monitor sealing performance in real time. This solution, however, uses the linkage monitoring of pressure change rate and channel switching action to automatically initiate sealing verification after each switching operation. This promptly detects leaks caused by insufficient seal expansion, wear, or improper installation. Furthermore, dynamic judgment within preset threshold ranges effectively distinguishes between normal pressure fluctuations and seal failures, reducing false alarm rates. The sealing detection system achieves real-time automated monitoring of the directional control valve's sealing status, enabling immediate sealing verification of idle channels after channel switching. This prevents cross-contamination of media or pressure loss due to seal failure. Simultaneously, quantitative analysis of pressure change rate accurately identifies sealing performance degradation trends, providing data support for maintenance decisions and thus improving the reliability of the directional control valve under continuous operation.

[0038] The sealing monitoring system also includes a sealing ring expansion monitoring module, based on the tubular structure of the expansion sealing ring 301 and the mounting groove 201 of the commutator 2. A displacement sensor, corresponding to the position of the fixing groove 202, is installed in the mounting groove 201. The displacement sensor faces the fixing ring 302 of the expansion sealing ring 301 and is used to monitor the radial displacement of the fixing ring 302 relative to the fixing groove 202. When the radial displacement is less than a preset sealing displacement threshold, it is determined that the expansion sealing ring 301 is under-expanded, resulting in sealing failure. The displacement sensor is a measuring device used to detect the relative positional change between the fixing ring 302 and the fixing groove 202; specifically, an inductive displacement sensor can be used. The expansion seal ring 301 is determined by real-time acquisition of displacement using a sensor or laser displacement sensor. The fixing ring 302 is an annular protrusion structure on the expansion seal ring 301 that mates with the fixing groove 202 in the mounting groove 201. It can be made of metal or polymer material and is used to position the expansion seal ring 301 in the mounting groove 201. The fixing groove 202 is used to limit the axial displacement of the expansion seal ring 301. The preset sealing displacement threshold is the minimum effective expansion amount set according to the material characteristics of the expansion seal ring 301 and the sealing requirements. It can be determined through experimental data and is used to determine whether the expansion seal ring 301 has achieved an effective sealing state.

[0039] When the expansion control device introduces the medium into the expansion sealing ring 301, the expansion sealing ring 301 expands radially under the pressure of the medium, and the relative position between the fixed ring 302 and the fixed groove 202 changes. The displacement sensor monitors the radial displacement of the fixed ring 302 in real time and compares the detection data with the preset sealing displacement threshold. If the detected displacement is lower than the threshold, it indicates that the expansion sealing ring 301 has not expanded sufficiently and cannot form effective contact with the inner wall of the interconnection channel 101. At this time, the sealing monitoring system determines that the seal has failed and triggers an alarm. This process does not rely on the medium pressure or manual inspection, and directly realizes the quantitative judgment of the sealing status through the mechanical displacement.

[0040] Traditional sealing structures rely solely on pressure monitoring to indirectly infer sealing status, failing to distinguish between seal failures caused by insufficient expansion or wear. This solution, however, directly measures the physical deformation of the expansion seal ring 301 using a displacement sensor. This accurately identifies expansion failures caused by insufficient medium pressure, pipeline blockage, or seal aging, preventing misjudgments. Furthermore, the displacement threshold can be dynamically adjusted according to different operating conditions, adapting to sealing requirements under high pressure, vacuum, or variable temperature environments. This enables real-time monitoring and accurate assessment of the sealing status of the expansion seal ring 301, solving the problem of missed detections caused by the inability of traditional methods to directly detect seal deformation. During directional valve channel switching, seal failures caused by insufficient expansion can be identified promptly, preventing media leakage that could lead to decreased system efficiency or loss of control accuracy. Simultaneously, this monitoring mechanism provides a reliable data foundation for subsequent closed-loop control, reducing the frequency of manual maintenance and operating costs.

[0041] The sealing monitoring system also includes a contact feedback unit for the sealing lip 303, equipped with a contact feedback element. At least two sealing lips 303 are provided, and the contact feedback element is positioned between the two sealing lips 303. This unit monitors the contact pressure between the sealing lips 303 and the inner wall of the interconnecting channel 101. When the contact pressure is lower than a preset pressure threshold, the sealing lip 303 is deemed to have failed to seal. The sealing lip 303 is a raised elastic structure integrally formed on the surface of the expansion sealing ring 301. Its material can be rubber or polyurethane. It generates contact force with the inner wall of the channel through deformation, thereby enhancing the fit of the sealing interface. The contact feedback element refers to a pressure sensing device embedded between the two sealing lips 303. Specifically, it can be implemented using a piezoelectric film or a micro-strain gauge. This element is used to detect the unit area pressure value of the contact area between the sealing lip 303 and the inner wall of the channel in real time. The preset pressure threshold is a critical pressure value calculated based on the characteristics of the sealing material, the medium pressure, and the channel size. It can be determined through experimental calibration or numerical simulation to determine whether the sealing lip 303 has reached the contact pressure required for effective sealing.

[0042] When the expansion sealing ring 301 expands under the drive of the medium, the two sealing lips 303 expand outward and form double-line contact with the inner wall of the interconnection channel 101. The contact feedback element is arranged in the recessed area between the two sealing lips 303. By detecting the local pressure change caused by the deformation of the sealing lips 303 in this area, the actual contact pressure between the sealing lips 303 and the inner wall of the channel is obtained in real time. If the detected pressure value is consistently lower than the preset threshold, it indicates that the sealing lips 303 have insufficient contact force due to material aging, insufficient medium pressure, or installation deviation. At this time, the system automatically triggers a seal failure alarm.

[0043] Traditional directional control valve sealing status assessment relies on periodic manual inspections or external pressure monitoring, which cannot provide real-time feedback on the dynamic contact pressure of the sealing lip 303. This solution, by setting a contact feedback element between the sealing lips 303, enables online monitoring of the sealing interface adhesion force, solving the problem of hidden leakage caused by local wear or uneven deformation of the sealing lip 303. Through the contact feedback element, abnormal contact pressure between the sealing lip 303 and the inner wall of the channel can be accurately identified, avoiding media leakage caused by local sealing failure. At the same time, it reduces the risk of misjudgment caused by over-reliance on overall pressure monitoring, significantly improving the accuracy and timeliness of directional control valve sealing status monitoring.

[0044] The sealing monitoring system also includes a medium-sealing correlation module, connected to the expansion control device, used to collect the flow rate and pressure of the medium entering and exiting the expansion sealing ring 301, and to collect the channel switching time of the commutator 2, establishing a correlation model between medium parameters and sealing status. When the actual medium parameters deviate from the normal range of the correlation model, the expansion sealing ring 301 is judged to have failed. The medium flow rate refers to the fluid volume passing through the expansion sealing ring 301 per unit time, which can be implemented using a flow meter or a volumetric sensor, used to quantify the medium supply to the sealing ring by the expansion control device. The medium pressure refers to the fluid pressure driving the expansion sealing ring 301 to expand, which can be implemented using a pressure transmitter or a piezoresistive sensor, used to monitor the stress state of the sealing ring during the expansion process. The channel switching time refers to the time required for the commutator 2 to complete the flow channel switching action, which can be implemented using a timer or a displacement sensor in conjunction with a logic controller, used to evaluate the timing relationship between the switching action and the sealing response. The correlation model refers to the mathematical relationship between medium parameters and sealing status established based on historical data, which can be implemented using regression analysis or machine learning algorithms, used to dynamically determine whether the current sealing status is within the expected range.

[0045] The medium and seal correlation module collects the flow rate and pressure data of the medium entering or exiting the expansion control device in real time, and records the duration of channel switching performed by the commutator 2. These parameters are input into a pre-trained correlation model, which defines the correspondence between flow rate, pressure and switching time under normal sealing conditions. For example, in the stable phase after the commutator 2 completes channel switching, if the flow rate of the medium entering is lower than the lower limit threshold set by the model, or if the pressure rise rate does not reach the expected curve, it is determined that the expansion seal ring 301 may fail to expand due to insufficient medium supply. At the same time, if the channel switching time is abnormally prolonged, it may indicate that the movement of the commutator 2 is obstructed, indirectly affecting the contact state between the seal ring and the inner wall of the channel. When the above parameter combination exceeds the normal fluctuation range preset by the model, the system automatically triggers a seal failure alarm.

[0046] Traditional directional control valve sealing monitoring relies on periodic manual inspections or single-parameter threshold judgments, which cannot dynamically correlate the changing trends of media control parameters and sealing status. This solution, however, establishes a multi-parameter correlation model to capture the gradual changes in sealing performance in real time. For example, it can detect the slow increase in media leakage due to aging of the sealing ring, or the decrease in sealing contact force caused by pressure fluctuations in the expansion control device. Compared with single pressure monitoring, this comprehensive judgment method can identify potential failure risks in advance. By establishing a multi-parameter correlation model, it can identify the decline in sealing performance caused by abnormal media supply or wear of mechanical parts in real time, avoiding fluid leakage or reversing errors caused by sealing failure. At the same time, by quantifying the dynamic relationship between media parameters and sealing status, it reduces the probability of misjudgment, provides accurate data support for maintenance decisions, and thus reduces the risk of unplanned downtime.

[0047] The sealing monitoring system also includes a closed-loop control module, which includes: The control unit is connected to the expansion control device and each monitoring module of the sealing monitoring system. When a sealing failure is detected, the control unit controls the expansion control device to adjust the medium flow rate until the sealing monitoring system determines that the seal has been restored to effectiveness. The control and recording unit records the adjustment time, medium parameters, channel switching status, and product temperature, forming a historical database. The dynamic benchmark update unit automatically corrects the pressure of the medium subsequently introduced into the expansion control device based on the historical database. The wear trend early warning unit establishes a wear trend model by analyzing the relationship between the adjustment range of the medium and the usage time in the historical data in the historical database. When the expansion seal reaches the preset wear condition, it issues an early warning for the replacement of the expansion seal. The closed-loop control module refers to a system that dynamically adjusts the sealing state by linking real-time monitoring data with the actuator. Specifically, it can be implemented using an architecture that combines an embedded controller and a sensor network. Its function is to eliminate the lag of manual intervention. The control unit is the core component that regulates the flow of the medium, and can be implemented using a proportional valve or a servo valve. Its function is to respond quickly to sealing failure signals. The control recording unit is a data unit that stores operating parameters, and can be implemented using non-volatile memory with timestamp functionality. Its function is to provide a data foundation for subsequent analysis. The dynamic benchmark update unit is an algorithm module that adaptively adjusts control parameters, and can be implemented using machine learning models or statistical regression models. Its function is to optimize the medium pressure setpoint to compensate for seal wear. The wear trend early warning unit is a predictive maintenance function module, and can be implemented using trend analysis algorithms combined with a threshold comparator. Its function is to identify the critical point of the seal's lifespan in advance. The control recording unit is a data acquisition module used to store key operating parameters during the operation of the reversing valve. Specifically, it can be implemented using an embedded storage chip and a sensor network. By recording medium pressure, flow rate, channel switching time, and ambient temperature parameters in real time, a traceable historical database is formed. This unit provides a data foundation for subsequent dynamic adjustment and wear prediction.

[0048] The dynamic benchmark update unit refers to an algorithm module that optimizes the medium pressure control strategy based on historical operating data. Specifically, it can be implemented using machine learning models or adaptive control algorithms. By analyzing the correlation between medium pressure and sealing effect under different operating conditions in the historical database, it automatically adjusts the output pressure benchmark value of the expansion control device. This unit can adapt to dynamic factors such as equipment aging and changes in medium characteristics, maintaining sealing stability. The wear trend early warning unit refers to a monitoring module that predicts the life of the seal through data modeling. Specifically, it can be implemented using time series analysis or regression models. By statistically analyzing the correlation between the adjustment range of medium pressure and the usage time in historical data, it establishes a quantitative relationship model between wear rate and remaining life. When the model output reaches a preset threshold, an early warning signal is triggered. This unit solves the problems of over-maintenance or delayed maintenance that exist in traditional periodic replacement strategies.

[0049] When the sealing monitoring system detects an abnormal pressure change rate or insufficient displacement, the control unit immediately sends a pulse signal to the expansion control device to gradually increase the medium injection pressure. During this process, the control and recording unit simultaneously records the current time, medium pressure value, corresponding channel position, and valve body 1 temperature data. The dynamic reference update unit automatically generates an optimized pressure reference curve by analyzing the relationship between medium pressure and sealing effectiveness in historical records. The wear trend early warning unit continuously tracks the correlation between the incremental medium pressure and the number of working cycles for each adjustment. When it detects that the pressure compensation demand per unit time is increasing exponentially, an early warning signal is triggered.

[0050] In this embodiment, the control unit can be configured as a step-by-step adjustment mode, for example, adjusting the medium pressure increment by 5% of the reference value each time until the pressure sensor feedback reaches the sealing threshold. The dynamic reference update unit can adopt a sliding time window algorithm, for example, using the data from the most recent 100 operations as a training set to update the pressure prediction model. The wear trend early warning unit can set dual judgment conditions, for example, when the pressure compensation frequency exceeds 3 times per day and the single compensation amount exceeds 20% of the initial value, an early warning will be activated.

[0051] Compared to traditional directional control valves whose sealing condition adjustment relies on periodic manual inspection and experience-based judgment, making real-time closed-loop control impossible, and existing pressure compensation devices that can respond to changes in medium pressure but lack a quantitative assessment mechanism for the wear of seals, this solution, by establishing an operating parameter database and adaptive algorithms, not only achieves immediate compensation for seal failure but also accurately predicts the remaining lifespan of seals, fundamentally changing the passive maintenance mode. This allows for real-time correction of seal failures caused by the elastic decay of the sealing ring or fluctuations in medium pressure, significantly reducing the risk of unplanned downtime. By automatically optimizing control parameters through historical data analysis, the service life of seals is effectively extended. The wear trend-based early warning function can provide maintenance reminders more than two weeks in advance, better integrating spare parts replacement plans with production scheduling and preventing system paralysis caused by sudden failures.

[0052] During the operation of the reversing valve, the control and recording unit continuously collects data on the medium flow rate, channel switching status, and valve body temperature of the expansion control device, and stores these parameters in a local or cloud database according to timestamps. The dynamic benchmark update unit periodically calls historical data to analyze the optimal medium pressure range under different temperatures and switching frequencies. For example, it automatically reduces the medium pressure benchmark value under high-temperature conditions to avoid excessive expansion of the sealing ring. The wear trend warning unit determines the elasticity of the sealing ring by statistically analyzing the changes in the number and magnitude of medium pressure adjustments. For example, when the pressure compensation demand increases by more than a set ratio per unit time, it determines that the elasticity of the sealing ring has decreased and generates a maintenance reminder.

[0053] Existing directional control valves lack the ability to record and analyze operational data, relying solely on periodic manual inspections to assess the condition of seals. This leads to maintenance delays and the risk of misjudgments. This solution integrates data acquisition, adaptive control, and intelligent prediction functions to achieve closed-loop control and preventative maintenance of sealing performance. This significantly reduces the risk of unplanned downtime, optimizes sealing control parameters in real time to cope with fluctuations in operating conditions, and extends the service life of seals. It also provides early warnings of replacement needs by quantifying wear trends, preventing sudden seal failures. Furthermore, it reduces the frequency of manual inspections, lowering equipment operation and maintenance costs.

Claims

1. A reversing valve, comprising a valve body and a reversing device disposed within the valve body, wherein the valve body has an interconnecting passage, characterized in that, An active seal is provided between the commutator and the inner wall of the interconnection channel to form a seal or not seal. The active seal includes an expansion seal ring and an expansion control device for controlling the expansion state or non-expansion state of the expansion seal ring. The expansion seal ring is tubular and is used to allow the medium to be introduced to expand it. When the expansion control device introduces the medium into the expansion seal ring, it drives the expansion seal ring to expand and come into contact with the interconnection channel, so that the commutator forms a seal with the inner wall of the interconnection channel through the expansion seal ring. When the expansion control device discharges the medium from the expansion seal ring, it drives the expansion seal ring into a non-expanded state and separates it from the interconnection channel, thus separating the expansion seal ring from the inner wall of the interconnection channel.

2. A reversing valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The commutator has a mounting groove for housing the expansion seal ring, and a fixing groove is provided in the mounting groove. The expansion seal ring has a fixing ring that mates with the fixing groove.

3. A reversing valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The expansion sealing ring has at least one protruding sealing lip. When the expansion control device drives the expansion sealing ring to expand, the sealing lip is fitted against the inner wall of the interconnection channel.

4. A reversing valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The interconnection channel adopts a V-shaped channel structure, including a first channel, a second channel, and a third channel. The commutator is used to switch the connection between the first channel and the second channel or the connection between the first channel and the third channel. When the first channel is connected to the second channel, the expansion sealing ring forms a sealing setting for the third channel. When the first channel is connected to the third channel, the expansion sealing ring forms a sealing setting for the second channel.

5. A reversing valve according to claims 1-4, characterized in that, It also includes a sealing monitoring system for monitoring the sealing status between the expansion seal ring and the inner wall of the interconnection channel, the sealing monitoring system comprising: The drive module is used to drive the commutator to perform commutation; The channel linkage monitoring module is electrically connected to the drive module. Pressure detectors are installed in both the second and third channels. After the commutator completes the channel switching, the channel linkage monitoring module identifies the currently connected channel and the channel to be sealed, and starts monitoring the channel to be sealed. Pressure detectors are installed in both the second and third channels. The pressure change rate of the channel to be sealed is monitored by the pressure sensor installed in the channel to be sealed. If the pressure change rate exceeds the preset sealing threshold range, it is determined that the expansion sealing ring has failed to seal the channel to be sealed.

6. A reversing valve according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sealing monitoring system also includes a sealing ring expansion monitoring module, which is based on the tubular structure of the expansion sealing ring and the mounting groove of the commutator. A displacement sensor corresponding to the position of the fixing groove is set in the mounting groove. The displacement sensor faces the fixing ring of the expansion sealing ring and is used to monitor the radial displacement of the fixing ring relative to the fixing groove. When the radial displacement is less than a preset sealing displacement threshold, it is determined that the expansion of the expansion sealing ring is insufficient, resulting in sealing failure of the expansion sealing ring.

7. A reversing valve according to claim 6, characterized in that, The sealing monitoring system also includes a sealing lip contact feedback unit, which is equipped with a contact feedback element. The sealing lip is provided with at least two lips, and the contact feedback element is disposed between the two sealing lips. It is used to monitor the contact pressure between the sealing lip and the inner wall of the interconnection channel. When the contact pressure is lower than a preset pressure threshold, the sealing lip is determined to be in failure.

8. A reversing valve according to claim 6, characterized in that, The sealing monitoring system also includes a medium-sealing correlation module, which is connected to the expansion control device. It is used to collect the flow rate and pressure of the medium entering and exiting the expansion sealing ring, and to collect the switching time of the commutator channel. It establishes a correlation model between the medium parameters and the sealing status. When the actual medium parameters deviate from the normal range of the correlation model, it is determined that the expansion sealing ring has failed to seal.

9. A reversing valve according to claim 6, characterized in that, The sealing monitoring system also includes a closed-loop control module, which includes a control unit. The control unit is connected to the expansion control device and each monitoring module of the sealing monitoring system. When a sealing failure is detected, the control unit controls the expansion control device to adjust the medium flow rate until the sealing monitoring system determines that the sealing has been restored effectively.

10. A reversing valve according to claim 9, characterized in that, The closed-loop control module also includes: The control and recording unit records the adjustment time, medium parameters, channel switching status, and product temperature, forming a historical database. The dynamic benchmark update unit automatically corrects the pressure of the medium subsequently introduced into the expansion control device based on the historical database. The wear trend early warning unit establishes a wear trend model by analyzing the relationship between media adjustment range and usage time in historical data from the historical database. When the expansion seal reaches the preset wear condition, it issues an early warning for the replacement of the expansion seal.

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