Precise rotary valve device

Abstract

The invention relates to a rotary valve (1) comprising: a rotor (51) driven in rotation by a motor (10), the rotor surface of which comprises one or more communicating slots (511); a stator (52) having a stator surface (520) comprising a plurality of fluid channels (521) and in sealing contact with the rotor surface (510), the stator (52) being fixed to the current collector (60); the one or more communication slots (511) are arranged to communicate at least two fluid channels (521) of the stator in one of its angular positions. The invention also relates to a device comprising such a rotary valve and a predictive member and to a method for dispensing a fluid.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a precision rotary valve suitable for fluid distribution and mixing. The rotary valve according to the invention includes a stator having fluid passages and a rotor having a connecting system for communicating these passages according to their angular orientation. The invention also relates to a distribution or mixing device, such as a distribution pump, including such a rotary valve, and a method for distributing and / or mixing different fluids using such a rotary valve. Background Technology

[0002] Rotary valves are commonly used for fluid distribution requiring high precision. These valves are typically made of ceramic, a highly resistant material that ensures both high precision and versatility in a wide range of applications, especially in the presence of corrosive or abrasive products.

[0003] Ceramic components can generally be molded, pressed, sintered, and machined. However, the valves described here are complex to manufacture due to the large number of channels they may contain and the hardness of the ceramics, which makes machining difficult. Consequently, the costs associated with producing such valves are high. Furthermore, the numerous difficulties in machining these valves limit their applications.

[0004] Documents US2014 / 043018, US2016 / 082439, US2014102568, US2013284959, and US2021356053 describe some examples of rotary valves.

[0005] Therefore, there is still room for developing solutions that are both more cost-effective and equally reliable. Developing such rotary valves for more diverse applications is also essential, especially when dealing with different quantities or types of fluids being dispensed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One object of the present invention is to provide a rotary valve that overcomes known limitations. Specifically, it relates to the production of a rotary valve that is simpler to manufacture, has lower manufacturing costs, and maintains reliability and accuracy.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide a rotary valve that can be easily adapted to various types of manifolds.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a reliable and accurate dispensing device, such as a pump and / or a metering device, which can be adapted to a variety of applications.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a reliable and accurate method for dispensing and / or metering one or more fluids, which can be easily adapted to a variety of applications.

[0010] According to the invention, these objectives are achieved, in particular, by means of the invention itself, which is the subject of the independent claim and is described in more detail in its dependent claims. In particular:

[0011] The rotary valve according to this document includes a rotor connected to a shaft that is rotated about a rotation axis by a motor. The rotor includes a rotor surface and one or more communicating slots that can be positioned in multiple stable angular positions relative to the rotation axis.

[0012] The rotary valve includes a stator, which includes a stator surface that faces and seals against the rotor surface, and a plurality of fluid passages that pass through the stator and lead to the stator surface.

[0013] This rotary valve includes a manifold, which has a stator seat groove on its front surface adapted to receive the stator, and the manifold also includes one or more fluid channels.

[0014] The rotary valve according to this document includes a bracket to which the manifold is directly or indirectly fixed. The stator is fixed to the manifold such that the fluid passage of the stator coincides with the fluid guide of the manifold. One or more communicating slots are arranged on the rotor surface to communicate at least two fluid passages in the fluid passages of the stator at one of their angular positions relative to the axis of rotation.

[0015] The rotor and stator of the rotary valve are preferably made of non-porous materials such as ceramics, which have high mechanical, thermal and chemical resistance and a low coefficient of friction.

[0016] The manifold of this rotary valve can be made of a different material than the stator and can be sealed to the stator.

[0017] The manifold of this rotary valve may include one or more centering devices for stator centering, and one or more fastening devices adapted to secure the manifold directly or through the housing to the bracket of the rotary valve.

[0018] The collector of this rotary valve may include a seat groove in its front surface that is adapted to the profile of the stator.

[0019] The rotary valve according to this document may also include at least one control device adapted to position the rotor at one or more predetermined angular positions.

[0020] The apparatus according to this document includes at least one valve as described herein. The apparatus may also include additional elements, such as one or more valve operation sensors. Such sensors may be angle sensors, motor current consumption sensors, voltage sensors, fluid pressure sensors, infrared sensors, sound or ultrasonic sensors, or vibration sensors. The additional elements may include one or more computing units that allow the aggregation of parameters measured by the one or more valve operation sensors. The additional elements may include a communication module that allows the transmission of values ​​measured by the one or more valve operation sensors.

[0021] The device described herein may also include one or more environmental sensors that allow the measurement of one or more environmental parameters of the rotary valve, such as ambient temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure.

[0022] The device may include or be connected to an artificial intelligence module, which is adapted to diagnose or predict wear, maintenance deadlines, malfunctions and / or end of life of one or more components and issue appropriate alarms or instructions.

[0023] The method for dispensing a certain amount of fluid, as described herein, is implemented by means of a rotary valve or device. The method includes the step of arranging one or more communicating slots of the rotor opposite two fluid channels of the stator by rotating the shaft by a first predetermined angle value, so that fluid flows from the supply channel to the dispensing channel.

[0024] The method described herein also includes the following step: by rotating the shaft by a second angle value, the one or more communicating slots are offset from the two fluid channels to cut off the fluid passage.

[0025] This method may also include: measuring one or more operating parameters and / or environmental parameters of the rotary valve using suitable sensors, and adjusting the distribution control accordingly.

[0026] The method described herein may also include the following steps: predicting in advance one or more events, such as wear of one or more components, maintenance deadlines, failures, and the end of the rotary valve's life.

[0027] Compared to existing technologies, the particular advantage of this solution is that it provides a more adaptable rotary valve, enabling more diverse fluid distribution and metering when necessary, and at a lower cost. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Embodiments of the present invention are illustrated in the following figures:

[0029] - Figure 1A cross-sectional view of the valve according to the present invention.

[0030] - Figure 2 An exploded view of the rotor and stator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] - Figure 3a A three-quarters front perspective view of a current collector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] - Figure 3b A three-quarter front perspective view of a current collector associated with the stator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] - Figure 3c An exploded view of a current collector associated with the stator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] - Figure 3d A three-quarters rear perspective view of a current collector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] - Figure 4 A longitudinal sectional view of a current collector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] - Figure 5a , 5b Examples of different configurations of the current collector according to the present invention,

[0037] - Figure 6 : A schematic diagram of the control system used for this valve. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Reference Figure 1 The rotary valve 1 includes a motor 10 that drives a drive shaft 11 to rotate about a rotation axis X. The drive shaft 11 allows a rotor 51 to rotate about the axis X. The rotor 51 can be driven directly or through a suitable transmission system. According to one embodiment, the transmission system may include a drive disc 41 in contact with the rotor 51, ball bearings 42, and one or more balls 43, thereby transmitting the rotational motion of the drive shaft 11 to the drive disc 41 and subsequently to the rotor 51. A flat surface may be provided at the end of the drive shaft to drive the drive disc 41. However, other transmission systems may be used as needed.

[0039] Motor 10 is an electric motor adapted to rotate drive shaft 11 and, consequently, rotor 51 by a predetermined angle value. This motor can be a stepper motor, a DC motor, or any other design suitable for achieving a defined angle value of rotation. Multiple angle values ​​can be set, each corresponding to the same step size, i.e., a multiple of the same rotation value. For this purpose, the 360° of a full circumference can be divided into multiple positions at equal angular intervals, such as 12 positions spaced 30° apart, or 10 positions spaced 36° apart, or 8 positions spaced 45° apart, or 6 positions spaced 60° apart, or 4 positions spaced 90° apart, or 2 positions spaced 180° apart. However, other configurations are also available within the scope of this description. The angular position of rotor 51 can be defined and controlled alternatively or additionally by sensors, such as one or more angle encoders 12, arranged to determine the actual angular position of drive shaft 11 and / or rotor 51 and / or other rotating moving elements of the device. Therefore, within the scope of this rotary valve, intermediate angular positions or positions that are not multiples of the same rotation value can be used.

[0040] The motor 10 can be designed to rotate the drive shaft 11 only one revolution. However, it can also be designed to rotate the drive shaft 11 more than 360° as needed, or even without any limit on the number of revolutions. It is understood that the drive shaft 11 is not intended to rotate indefinitely, but rather to be in a defined and stable angular position.

[0041] Rotor 51 in Figure 2 The rotor surface 510 is schematically shown. It has a flat surface opposite to the drive system and drive disc 41. In other words, its flat surface (referred to herein as rotor surface 510) mates with the opposing surface of stator 52, as described below, and participates in fluid distribution operation. Rotor surface 510 has the lowest possible roughness, even zero roughness, in this case less than 1 micrometer, or 0.8 micrometers, or 0.5 micrometers, or 0.3 micrometers, or close to 0 micrometers, and has zero porosity, so that it can form a seal with the opposing stator surface 520.

[0042] The rotor surface 510 is also resistant to a variety of operating conditions, such as high temperatures such as above 100°C or 500°C, low temperatures such as -10°C or -20°C or lower, acidic, alkaline and / or corrosive fluids, organic solvents, and even micron or nano-sized particles that may cause abrasion or physical wear.

[0043] The rotor 51 is preferably made wholly or partially of a hard material such as ceramic, or a suitable plastic or metal material. For example, fluorinated hard polymers, steel, or other materials may be used. According to one embodiment, only the rotor surface 510 is made of this material and is combined with a rotor body made of a less expensive material. The rotor surface may undergo suitable surface treatments, such as mechanical treatments, chemical treatments, coating treatments, or any other treatments required to enable the operation and / or application of the rotary valve.

[0044] The rotor surface 510 includes at least one communicating slot 511, the size of which is sufficient to establish fluid communication between two fluid channels 521 of the stator 52. In this case, the width and depth of the communicating slot may have the same or similar values, and its length is adapted to the distance between the fluid channels 521 separating the stator 52. The orientation of the one or more communicating slots 511 is also adapted to the position of the fluid channel 521 it is to communicate with.

[0045] According to one embodiment, a single connecting slot 511 is provided in the rotor surface 510, which is adapted to connect two fluid channels 521.

[0046] According to one embodiment, a plurality of connecting slots 511 are provided, enabling multiple fluid connections to be made simultaneously between two sets of fluid channels 521. Slots of different sizes and orientations can alternately allow different fluid channels 521 to be connected sequentially. For example, a first fluid channel 521 can be connected to a second fluid channel via a first connecting slot, and to a third fluid channel via a second connecting slot.

[0047] The connecting slot 511 is described here as a straight slot. However, this does not preclude other shapes, such as curved slots or branching slots, which may connect three or more fluid channels 521. But for simplicity and manufacturing cost reasons, the simplest shape is still preferred.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the plurality of connecting slots 511 may have different depths and / or different widths. In this way, the fluid flow rate between the two fluid channels 521 can be adjusted as needed and / or by external parameters.

[0049] Those skilled in the art will understand that the number, shape, and size of the connecting slots 511 can vary as much as possible.

[0050] The rotary valve 1 according to this document includes a stator 52 disposed opposite to a rotor 51. The stator 52 is fixed. It includes a stator surface 520 that contacts the rotor surface 510 to maintain a seal. For this purpose, the roughness of the stator surface 520 is as low as possible, or even zero, in which case its roughness is less than 1 micrometer, or 0.8 micrometer, or 0.5 micrometer, or 0.3 micrometer, or close to 0 micrometer, and it has zero porosity to maintain a seal with the opposing rotor surface 510.

[0051] The material of stator 52 may be the same as or different from the material of rotor 51 or rotor surface 510. However, it is subject to the same limitations as the rotor. The stator is preferably made entirely of ceramic, or of a material with similar mechanical properties (especially in terms of hardness, heat resistance, and chemical corrosion resistance). It can vary as much as possible. Stator 52 in... Figure 2 The stator surface of stator 52 faces and is in close contact with rotor surface 510. Due to the absence of roughness or low roughness and the selected material, the coefficient of friction between the two surfaces, rotor surface 510 and stator surface 520, is minimized.

[0052] The stator includes a plurality of fluid channels 521 extending through both sides of the stator. These fluid channels 521 are spaced apart from each other and open to the stator surface 520 so that they can communicate with each other through one or more of the communicating slots 511. The other end of the fluid channels 521 opens to another surface of the stator 52 to coincide with one or more fluid guides 64 of the collector 60.

[0053] The fluid passage 521 can pass through the stator in a straight or non-straight manner, depending on the overall configuration and requirements of the device. The fluid passage 521 can have the same diameter or different diameters.

[0054] The stator is designed to remain fixed relative to the entire device so that the rotor 51 can be adapted to it by rotating about axis X. The stator 52 is also precisely positioned so that the fluid passages are aligned with the one or more communicating slots 511. For this purpose, the stator is held on the collector 60 by suitable fasteners.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the stator 52 includes one or more holes 522 on the side opposite to its stator surface 520, into which one or more centering devices 620 (e.g., centering pins or pins) can be inserted. The holes may be blind holes with a defined depth. Alternatively, to simplify hole manufacturing, the holes may also be through holes. The advantage of this configuration is that it limits machining operations on the stator 52, whose material is difficult to work with. However, other configurations are also conceivable. For example, centering lugs may be provided instead of holes 522 or as a supplement to holes 522. Alternatively or as a supplement, the holes 522 may also be arranged on the side of the stator 52, rather than on its bottom.

[0056] For reasons of manufacturing economy and efficiency, the shape of stator 52 is kept as simple as possible. For example, stator 52 can be disc-shaped, with one of its surfaces designated as stator surface 520. The stator shape can be circular or elliptical, or alternatively, it can have straight edges, which are easier to manufacture. Therefore, the shape of stator 52 can be square or rectangular. The dimensions of stator 52 are also limited by the requirement to establish a sealing connection with rotor surface 510. In other words, the area of ​​stator surface 520 can be comparable to, or even slightly smaller than, the area of ​​rotor surface 510.

[0057] The stator 52 and rotor 51 together form a single unit, which constitutes the valve body 50. The valve body 50 can initiate or stop the distribution of fluids supplied by other components of the device. In this case, the collector 60 can supply multiple fluids to the stator 52. Alternatively or supplementarily, the valve body 50 can meter the distributed fluids. Alternatively or supplementarily, the valve body 50 can also mix or agitate and distribute different fluids. Alternatively or supplementarily, the valve body 50 can also regulate or select the flow rate of the distributed fluids.

[0058] exist Figure 2 In this configuration, the connecting slot 511 is configured to connect a fluid channel 521 to a first fluid channel 521a. Rotating 1 / 3 of a turn around axis X connects the first fluid channel 521a to a second fluid channel 521b. Rotating another 1 / 3 of a turn connects the third fluid channel 521b to the initial fluid channel 521. The motor allows for 120° rotation around axis X.

[0059] Stator 52 is a component that is distinct from collector 60. Figure 3a , Figure 3b and Figure 3c An example of stator 52 being mounted on collector 60 is shown. Collector 60 has a front surface 600 designed to be positioned relative to rotor 51. However, the front surface 600 is significantly larger than rotor surface 510 and stator surface 520. Collector 60 includes a recess 61 adapted to receive stator 52. The shape of recess 61 is adapted to the geometry of stator 52 so that the stator can be precisely wedged into recess 61. The recess is centrally located on the front surface 600 of collector 60. The depth of recess 61 is also adapted to the thickness of stator 52. According to one embodiment, the depth of recess 61 of collector 60 is equal to the thickness of stator 52, such that stator surface 520 is flush with front surface 600 of collector 60. Alternatively, the depth of recess 61 is less than the thickness of stator 52, such that stator surface 520 protrudes relative to front surface 600 of collector 60. Of course, the connection between the stator and the collector 60 remains sealed.

[0060] The collector 60 includes one or more centering devices 62 that allow the stator 52 to be correctly positioned in the seat groove 61. Specifically, the fluid passage 521 of the stator 52 should be precisely arranged opposite the fluid guide 64 of the collector 60, as described below. For this purpose, the collector 60 may include one or more centering devices 620 arranged opposite to the bore 522 of the stator 52. The centering device may be a hole allowing the insertion of a centering shaft or pin, one or more lugs engaging with the bore 522 of the stator 52, or any other equivalent device.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the centering device 620 and the orifice 522 are not symmetrically arranged, thus acting as a détrompeur (anti-misalignment device) when positioning the stator 52 in its seat groove 61. Alternatively, the centering device 620 and the orifice 522 are symmetrically arranged, allowing the stator 52 to be in multiple positions within the collector 60. For example, this allows for adjustment of the valve configuration according to different fluid guides 64 to be used without machining new components. The collector 60 has fluid passages leading to the seat groove 61. The stator 52 is arranged in the seat groove 61 such that the fluid passage 521 of the stator 52 coincides with, or at least some of, the fluid passages of the collector.

[0062] A seal 621 can be provided at the centering device. Alternatively or as a supplement, a seal can be provided to ensure a tight seal between the stator 52 and the collector 60. Since the fluid passage 521 is positioned facing a fluid passage of the same diameter leading to the seat groove 61, such a seal ensures a tight seal at the bottom of the seat groove 61. These passages leading to the seat groove 61 communicate with the fluid guide 64 of the collector. Of course, the shape, size, and material of the seal are all suitable. The seal used can be, for example, an O-ring seal.

[0063] The manifold 60 is secured directly or indirectly to the valve bracket 20 by suitable fasteners. It can be secured, for example, to the housing 30, which is integral with the bracket 20. The manifold 60 may include a fastening position 63 around the seat groove 61, for example. This fastening position may be in the form of a through hole into which a suitable fastening device 630 (such as a bolt, stud, pin, or any other equivalent) can be inserted. Other fastening systems are also contemplated, including, for example, threaded rings, clips, screws, or any equivalents that can be screwed onto the bracket. The fastening device may also be arranged to act as a misalignment preventer and to ensure the correct orientation of the manifold 60 relative to other elements of the device.

[0064] Once the collector 60 is fixed to the valve bracket 20 directly or through the housing 30, the stator surface 520 rests against the rotor surface 510. Tightening the collector 60 maintains a seal between the stator surface 510 and the rotor surface 520.

[0065] According to an advantageous embodiment, current collector 60 is made of a material that is easier to process and / or less expensive than stator 52. Current collector 60 may comprise or be made of materials such as metals like steel, copper, aluminum, metal alloys, composite materials, polymers, or any material suitable for the need. It may be manufactured by molding, machining, or additive manufacturing, or a combination of these different processes. Machining herein includes any micromachining operations.

[0066] The collector 60 is equipped with multiple fluid channels 64, which can deliver some separate fluids to the fluid channel 521 of the stator 52. Figure 3d An example is shown in which multiple fluid channels 64 are arranged on the rear surface 601 and side surface 602 of the collector 60. The diameters of the fluid channels 64 can be the same or different. The geometry of the collector 60 can be adjusted as needed. Its shape can be circular, cylindrical, or angular, such as a cube or parallelepiped. The corners can be truncated 602 to form additional surfaces capable of accommodating one or more fluid channels 64.

[0067] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view shows a manifold 60 comprising multiple fluid channels 64. The diameter of the fluid channels 64 varies from the periphery of the manifold 60 toward the stator seat groove 61. In this case, the diameter decreases. Therefore, the fluid channels 64 can terminate at the inlet 640 in the stator seat groove 61, which has a smaller diameter than at the periphery of the manifold 60. This ensures continuity with the fluid passage 521 in a reliable and precise manner. The small-diameter channel section dedicated to fluid circulation minimizes the amount of circulating fluid (which can be costly) and the internal volume of the valve, thus contributing to high accuracy. The larger diameter channel section is used to receive fluid connections.

[0068] As required, the fluid guide 64 and / or the manifold 60 may be treated appropriately after manufacturing, such as with chemical coating, electrochemical coating or impregnation coating, to improve the valve’s resistance and / or performance.

[0069] The number and arrangement of fluid channels 64 are unlimited. Since the collector is much easier to manufacture than the stator 52, a wide variety of configurations are possible. Figure 5aOne configuration is shown in which the collector 60 has four, six, eight, ten, or twelve fluid channels 64 arranged in a plane, each fluid channel coinciding with a fluid passage in the stator 52. The collector can have, for example, three to 24 channels. The same rotor can be used with various types of collectors 60. A connecting slot 511 can be provided in the rotor 51 to individually select one or the other of these fluid channels 521. Alternatively, the connecting slot 511 can be arranged diametrically to connect opposing fluid channels two by two. Rotating the rotor 51 by an appropriate angle allows selection of the fluid channels to be connected. The connecting slot 511 can be arranged eccentrically to connect fluid channels that are not radially opposite.

[0070] Figure 5b A switching configuration is shown that allows switching from a connection of two channels 64a to a connection of two channels 64b or two channels 64c.

[0071] The fluid conduit 64 of the collector 60 includes one or more inlets and one or more outlets, through which fluid to be distributed is collected and distributed.

[0072] This description also covers an apparatus that includes a rotary valve as described herein. An apparatus refers to any device used for distributing, metering, and / or mixing fluids. It may, for example, refer to a distribution pump. The apparatus particularly includes a valve as described herein, wherein a manifold 60 is connected to multiple external conduits that allow the fluid to be distributed to be transferred from a suitable reservoir (not shown) to the distribution location.

[0073] This device includes a rotary valve control unit. In this case, controlling the rotary valve involves rotating the shaft 11, and thus the rotor 52, one or more times at a defined angle to connect the appropriate fluid passage. One or more electronic control units 70 are used for this purpose. Figure 1 According to one embodiment, the control device includes an electronic board arranged on valve 1.

[0074] Sensors C1, C2, and Cn can be mounted on the rotary valve to measure its operating parameters. One or more angle sensors can be mounted on or near the shaft 11 or the rotor 51, or both, to determine the angular position of the rotor 51, which determines the orientation of the communicating slot 511.

[0075] One or more current sensors can be installed to measure one or more operating parameters, such as motor heating, motor torque, and motor power consumption. The sensors can also be used to measure total current consumption. Alternatively or as a supplement, one or more voltage sensors can be installed to measure the aforementioned operating parameters, verify these parameters, or improve the reliability of their measurements.

[0076] One or more sensors can be installed to determine the vibration level of the valve caused by various mechanical movements, particularly those related to the rotation of the drive shaft 11. In this way, parameters such as vibration frequency and amplitude can be determined, depending on the stage of equipment operation or over time. Accelerometer-type sensors or any equivalent devices can be used for this purpose.

[0077] As an alternative or supplement, one or more infrared sensors can be oriented toward the motor to determine its temperature non-contactly. Where appropriate, direct measurement of the motor temperature can replace or confirm current and / or voltage measurements.

[0078] One or more pressure sensors for the distributed fluid can be installed to identify, for example, possible leaks, particularly at the collector or at the rotor and stator surfaces.

[0079] As an alternative or supplement, one or more ultrasonic sensors or other audio sensors may be provided to measure the sound and / or ultrasound generated during the mechanical movement of the valve.

[0080] The number and type of the aforementioned sensors C1, C2, and Cn are unlimited. In particular, they are capable of measuring the valve's operating parameters. These sensors are connected to or integrated into the electronic control unit 70 so that appropriate commands can be sent to the valve based on its operating parameters.

[0081] Other sensors suitable for measuring environmental parameters P1, P2, and Pn can also be connected to or associated with the electronic control unit 70. For example, in the case of an on-board unit, sensors for detecting environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, and vibration can be used. These environmental parameters are then transmitted to the electronic control unit 70, and valve commands can be adjusted based on these parameters. For metering functions, for example, ambient temperature and / or atmospheric pressure may affect dispensing accuracy, therefore these must be incorporated into the control commands transmitted to the valve. Alternatively or as a supplement, environmental parameters can verify whether the valve's use still meets specification requirements.

[0082] The device described herein can also be geolocated for identification and maintenance purposes, particularly in cases where a set of devices is installed in different locations for remote monitoring. Geolocation can be performed via GPS or any other alternative method.

[0083] The apparatus according to this document includes a communication module MC, which is suitable for receiving and transmitting data, such as measured parameter values ​​(whether operating or environmental parameters) and control commands automatically or manually transmitted to the valve. The communication module MC is compatible with any type of protocol, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, the Internet, wireless networks such as 4G or 5G, or equivalent protocols.

[0084] The device includes, within its electronic control unit 70, a memory required to store measured and / or transmitted data, which may be temporarily, long-term, or permanent. For example, a buffer memory may be used to temporarily store datasets transmitted at fixed intervals, after which these datasets are deleted. The transmission frequency can be determined as needed, for example, in minutes, hours, or days. Alternatively or supplementally, during technical inspection, locally stored data can be read locally using a suitable reader, for example, on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis. Alternatively or supplementally, data, or a portion of data, may be permanently stored locally in such memory. Those skilled in the art will understand its intended use and possible modifications.

[0085] The apparatus according to this document also includes one or more computing units (UCs) capable of collecting and analyzing measured and / or transmitted data. For this purpose, the computing units include the necessary electronic resources, including appropriate software and algorithms. According to an advantageous embodiment, the computing unit (UC) includes, or is connected to, an artificial intelligence and / or deep learning program. Analysis of the data can, in particular, verify the conformity of measured values ​​or the condition of valves, perform real-time or delayed operational diagnostics, perform quality control of measurements, conduct reliability checks, and perform predictive analysis for maintenance, fault, or adjustment.

[0086] This description also covers a method for distributing fluid using the valves and devices described herein. The distribution method includes delivering one or more fluids from a storage location to a collector 60 associated with a stator 52, each fluid being directed to a fluid guide 64 of the collector, which is in permanent fluid communication with a fluid passage 521 of the stator 52. The one or more passages thus supplied are defined as supply passages. The method further includes the step of rotating a rotor 51 at an appropriate angle to connect the one or more fluid passages 521 to which the one or more fluids are supplied to are in fluid communication with one or more other fluid passages of the stator in fluid communication with one or more fluid guides 64 of the collector 60, thereby allowing fluid to be distributed through a valve. The associated one or more fluid passages are then defined as distribution passages.

[0087] The method also includes rotating rotor 51 to another angular position, thereby cutting off the communication between one or more fluid channels supplied with fluid and the corresponding one or more distribution channels. Therefore, this operation can stop the distribution of the one or more fluids at the end of operation, and / or select one or another fluid for distribution.

[0088] The rotation of the rotor can be controlled manually or automatically according to a preset program or based on parameters measured in real time. Automatic control may involve a control device 70, which may be associated with one or more computing units UC as described herein.

[0089] The method described herein may also include the following steps: considering one or more environmental parameters, such as ambient temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure, and accordingly determining a suitable rotor rotation value.

[0090] The method described herein may alternatively or additionally include the following steps: taking into account one or more operating parameters of the valve, such as motor power consumption, motor vibration, emission of one or more sound domains of the valve, motor temperature, and accordingly determining a suitable rotor rotation value, and / or issuing an alarm signal when necessary, and / or transmitting valve inspection or maintenance instructions when necessary.

[0091] The method described herein may alternatively or additionally include the following steps: considering one or more operating parameters of the valve (e.g., motor power consumption, motor vibration, emission from one or more sound domains of the valve, motor temperature) and / or one or more environmental parameters (e.g., ambient temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure), and processing them with an appropriate algorithm to generate operating status and / or operating predictions, including one or more of the following: wear predictions for one or more components, expected replacement of one or more components, upcoming maintenance deadlines, failure predictions, and end-of-life predictions for the valve.

[0092] The valve design described herein facilitates maintenance operations. Specifically, the valve can be easily replaced by removing the housing 30 from the bracket 20 (e.g., by unscrewing the two radially opposed screws securing the housing 30 to the bracket 20). Therefore, the assembly consisting of the rotor 51, stator 52, collector 60, housing 30, drive disc 41, and ball bearing 42 can be separated from the bracket 20 for replacement and / or repair.

[0093] The valves and devices described herein enable the distribution and / or metering of fluids, and are particularly suitable for medical, diagnostic or therapeutic, research, and analytical purposes. The fluids mentioned herein include all types of fluids, especially liquids with different viscosities at different pressures. Liquids include solutions of active ingredients, test or diagnostic solutions, injectable solutions, and infusion solutions.

[0094] The reference numerals used in the attached figures

[0095] 1 Rotary valve

[0096] 10 motors

[0097] 11-axis

[0098] 12-angle encoder

[0099] 20 brackets

[0100] 30 housing

[0101] 41 Transmission Disc

[0102] 42 ball bearing

[0103] 43 ball bearings

[0104] 50 valve body

[0105] 51 rotor

[0106] 510 rotor surface

[0107] 511 Connecting Slots

[0108] 52 stator

[0109] 520 stator surface

[0110] 521 Fluid Channel

[0111] 522 holes

[0112] 60 collector

[0113] 600 front surface

[0114] 601 rear surface

[0115] 602 side surface

[0116] 61 stator slot

[0117] 62 fixed center

[0118] 620 centering device

[0119] 621 seal

[0120] 63 Fastening Position

[0121] 630 Fastening Device

[0122] 64 fluid guide channels

[0123] 640 injection port

[0124] 70 Electronic Control Device

[0125] MC communication module

[0126] UC control unit

[0127] C1, C2, Cn sensors

[0128] P1, P2, Pn parameters

[0129] X-axis of rotation

Claims

1. A rotary valve (1), comprising: - A rotor (51) connected to a shaft (11) that is rotated about a rotation axis (X) by a motor (10), the rotor including a rotor surface (510) and one or more connecting slots (511) that can be in multiple stable angular positions relative to the rotation axis (X); - Stator (52), the stator includes a stator surface (520) facing the rotor surface (510) and sealingly contacting the rotor surface, and a plurality of fluid channels (521) passing through the stator and leading to the stator surface (520). - A collector (60) includes a stator seat groove (61) on its front surface (600) adapted to receive the stator, and the collector also includes one or more fluid guides (64). - Bracket (20), the collector (60) is directly or indirectly fixed to the bracket; - The stator (52) is fixed to the collector (60) such that the fluid passage (521) of the stator coincides with the fluid guide (64) of the collector (60), the stator is disc-shaped and includes one or more holes (522) and / or center pins (522) on the side opposite to the stator surface (520). The one or more connecting slots (511) are arranged on the rotor surface (510) to connect at least two fluid channels in the fluid channels (521) of the stator at one of their angular positions relative to the axis of rotation (X).

2. The rotary valve according to claim 1, wherein, The rotor (51) and the stator (52) are made of non-porous materials such as ceramics that have high mechanical, thermal and chemical resistance and low coefficient of friction.

3. The rotary valve according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein, The current collector (60) is made of a different material than the stator and is sealed to the stator (52).

4. The rotary valve according to any one of claims 1 and 3, wherein, The collector (60) includes one or more fastening devices (630) adapted to secure the collector directly or via the housing (30) to the bracket of the rotary valve.

5. The rotary valve according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, One or more centering devices (620) are one or more lugs and / or holes that allow insertion of the centering shaft, arranged opposite to the holes (522) in the stator (52).

6. The rotary valve according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, One or more centering devices (620) and the hole (522) are arranged asymmetrically to act as anti-misalignment devices.

7. The rotary valve according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The centering device (620) and the hole (522) are arranged symmetrically so that the stator can be in multiple positions in the collector (60).

8. The rotary valve according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The corner of the collector (60) is truncated to form an additional surface (602) that can accommodate one or more fluid channels (64).

9. The rotary valve according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The diameter of the fluid guide (64) changes from the periphery of the collector (60) toward the stator slot (61).

10. The rotary valve according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The fluid channel (64) and / or the collector (60) have a coating that improves resistance.

11. The rotary valve according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The rotary valve further includes at least one control device (70) adapted to position the rotor at one or more predetermined angular positions.

12. An apparatus comprising at least one rotary valve, wherein, The rotary valve is a rotary valve according to any one of claims 1 to 11, and the device further includes: - One or more valve operation sensors, such as angle sensors, motor current consumption sensors, voltage sensors, fluid pressure sensors, infrared sensors, sound or ultrasonic sensors, vibration sensors; - One or more computing units (UCs), which allow the aggregation of parameters measured by the one or more valve operation sensors; and - A communication module that allows the transmission of values ​​measured by the one or more valve operation sensors.

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein, The device also includes one or more environmental sensors that allow the measurement of one or more environmental parameters of the rotary valve, such as ambient temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 12 and 13, wherein, The one or more computing units (UCs) include or are connected to an artificial intelligence module, which is adapted to diagnose or predict wear, maintenance deadlines, malfunctions and / or end of life of one or more components and issue appropriate alarms or instructions.

15. A method for dispensing a quantity of fluid by means of a rotary valve according to any one of claims 1 to 11 or a device according to any one of claims 12 to 14, the method comprising the step of arranging the one or more communicating slots (511) of the rotor (51) opposite to two fluid passages (521) of the stator (52) by rotating the shaft (11) by a first predetermined angle value, so that fluid flows from the supply passage to the dispensing passage.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The method further includes the step of: rotating the shaft (11) by a second angle value to offset the one or more connecting slots (511) from the two fluid channels (521) to cut off the fluid passage.

17. The method according to any one of claims 15 and 16, wherein, The method further includes: measuring one or more operating parameters and / or environmental parameters of the rotary valve using suitable sensors, and adjusting the distribution control accordingly.

18. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein, The method further includes the following steps: predicting in advance one or more events, such as wear of one or more components, maintenance deadlines, failures, and the end of the rotary valve's life.

Images