Dynamic resistance device capable of advancing in mutual embedding mode

By designing modular components with multiple channels and a main body, and utilizing the dynamic adjustment of plunger and support structures, the problems of pressure loss and space requirements when regulating fluid flow by orifice plates and throttling fittings are solved, thus achieving flexible pressure regulation and flow control.

CN121969855APending Publication Date: 2026-05-01KSB SE & CO KGAA
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
KSB SE & CO KGAA
Filing Date
2024-07-23
Publication Date
2026-05-01

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing orifice plates and throttling devices cannot regulate pressure independently of volumetric flow when adjusting fluid flow, resulting in pressure loss and flow disturbance. They also require a large amount of space and are difficult to protect critical equipment.

Method used

The modular components with multiple channels and main bodies are used. Through axial movement and embedding design, the flow resistance is dynamically adjusted. The characteristic curve is realized by using plunger and support structure. The components are fabricated by combining additive manufacturing technology.

Benefits of technology

It enables pressure loss regulation independently of volumetric flow within a minimal space, reduces flow resistance, improves component flexibility and adaptability, and simplifies spare parts replacement.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly having a module (1) for regulating a fluid flow. The module (1) comprises a first element (2) having a plurality of channels (4) and a second element (3) having a plurality of bodies (5). The elements (2, 3) are arranged so as to be axially movable relative to one another, and each body (5) is associated with a channel (4) in order to release a different number of channels (4) depending on the position of the elements (2, 3) relative to one another.
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Description

Dynamic drag devices that can be interlocked for movement Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an assembly having a module for regulating fluid flow. Background Technology

[0002] This component could be, for example, a replacement for a perforated plate.

[0003] The term orifice disc refers to a special device used in some equipment or as an insert for intermediate flanges to restrict the flow rate of liquids or gases. An orifice disc is a plate with regularly arranged holes, typically of a specific diameter. The orifice disc is inserted into the flow passage of a pipeline to influence the flow rate of the liquid or gas. The flow rate is matched accordingly by changing the position of the orifice disc (e.g., a double-orifice disc with different opening diameters).

[0004] This component can also be used as an alternative to throttling accessories.

[0005] A throttling fitting (also known as a throttling valve or regulating valve) is a device used in process engineering to control or regulate the flow rate of liquids or gases in pipeline systems. Throttling fittings reduce the pressure or velocity of flowing media by changing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow opening.

[0006] Throttling fittings typically consist of a housing with an adjustable opening that reduces flow rate. This opening can take various forms, such as a conical or cylindrical through-flow opening. The fitting enables precise flow rate regulation by rotating or moving a gate element or valve element to match the cross-section of the opening.

[0007] Implementations of throttling fittings often also require sufficient structural space, which is not always available to a sufficient extent when installed in existing pipelines due to adjacent components.

[0008] In orifice disc implementations, a persistent problem exists: the flow resistance of the orifice disc exists only within a defined volumetric flow region. Consequently, pressure in a pipeline system with an orifice disc cannot be regulated or reduced outside this defined volumetric flow region.

[0009] This poses a common problem for many components where the component's flow resistance cannot be decoupled from the volumetric flow of the flowing medium. Any disturbance to the flow (e.g., in the form of a change in flow path or blockage) results in pressure loss and thus an increase in the drag coefficient. To protect, for example, very expensive, critical, or sensitive installations in pipelines, it may be important to limit pressure independently of the volumetric flow of the flowing medium. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The objective of this invention is to provide an assembly having a module for regulating fluid flow, which enables pressure loss through volumetric flow independent of fluid flow. Furthermore, the assembly should reduce pressure within a minimal space. The resistance of the assembly should be dynamically adjustable. The structure of the assembly should facilitate the replacement of spare parts. The assembly should be simple and cost-effective to implement.

[0011] According to the invention, this task is accomplished by an assembly having the features of claim 1, incorporating a module for regulating fluid flow. Preferred variations can be obtained from the parallel independent claims, dependent claims, description, and drawings.

[0012] According to the invention, the module includes a first element having a plurality of channels and a second element having a plurality of bodies, wherein the elements are arranged axially movable relative to or embedded in each other, wherein each body is associated with a channel to release a different number of channels depending on the relative positions of the elements relative to each other.

[0013] For example, the body can be implemented as a plunger, each plunger having a head which is mounted on a common plate member by means of a stelze.

[0014] The shape of the body, especially the head (which can respectively restrict or close the flow of the second element's channel), can be specifically constructed to meet the requirements of pressure reduction and / or to achieve the desired characteristic curve.

[0015] Furthermore, in implementations with different axial lengths of the strut, the position of the body, particularly the position of the plunger, can be specifically varied to achieve the desired characteristic curve or to achieve a defined pressure reduction.

[0016] For example, all entities can construct together.

[0017] Ideally, the main body is arranged in the form of a plunger on the section, especially on a cylindrical plate, wherein the cylindrical plate has multiple notches according to the desired flow rate, thereby realizing the flow rate. Through the common arrangement of the main body and the elements that are movably opposite to each other, and especially movably embedded in each other, all the main bodies can travel together and therefore simultaneously.

[0018] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, each body includes a head and a strut, wherein at least two struts of the body of the second element have different axial lengths. The head is here arranged on one side of the strut opposite to the section.

[0019] In one implementation variant, there are two axial lengths for the strut.

[0020] For example, two supports always have the same axial length, so the number of axial lengths is half the number of supports.

[0021] In a variant of the invention (which has an odd number of bodies but only an integer number of axial lengths), the number of axial lengths is either half the number of supports minus one support, or half the number of supports plus one support.

[0022] In another implementation variant, all axial lengths of the strut are constructed differently in order to achieve a customer-specific characteristic curve preset for the component.

[0023] For example, the sections, pillars, and head form a one-piece structure.

[0024] Here, specific pressure loss characteristics of the component can be achieved by utilizing the position of the main body, especially the axial position of the plunger heads relative to each other. This personalized and task-specific matching can be done quickly and appropriately for each component, especially through additive manufacturing of the elements.

[0025] For example, the head of the main body has a radius or a rounded shape.

[0026] The radius or rounding of the head can be matched specifically for the task to achieve the desired pressure loss characteristics and / or the specific characteristic curve shape of the component.

[0027] Equal percentage characteristic curves, especially valve characteristic curves, are a special type of characteristic curve for components with modules used to regulate fluid flow. An equal percentage valve characteristic curve describes the relationship between the opening position of the component and the flow rate through that component.

[0028] In the equal percentage characteristic curve, the flow rate increases or decreases exponentially as the component opening changes. This means that near the closed position, a small change in opening causes a large change in flow rate, while near the fully open position, a large change in opening causes only a small change in flow rate. This characteristic curve is advantageous when slight changes in flow rate at low opening positions have a significant impact on the process.

[0029] In a linear characteristic curve, doubling the opening doubles the flow rate, and vice versa. This linear relationship allows for simple and direct flow rate adjustment based on the opening.

[0030] In a linear implementation of the characteristic curve, the body is constructed such that the support has a variety of different axial lengths, which are uniformly distributed in terms of their frequency.

[0031] The square characteristic curve is a special type of characteristic curve for a component. It describes the relationship between the location of the component's opening and the flow rate passing through it.

[0032] In a square characteristic curve, the flow rate increases or decreases quadratically as the opening changes. This means that a large change in opening causes a large change in flow rate. Compared to an equal percentage characteristic curve, at lower opening positions, changes in opening result in a larger proportion of the flow rate change.

[0033] The shape of the characteristic curve is achieved through the targeted definition of the axial length of the support and / or the shape of the head or the rounded and / or cross-sectional construction of the channel. Thus, the characteristic curve of the component can be matched to specific customer requirements without cost, and the component is additively produced.

[0034] In principle, it is also conceivable that all supports have the same axial length.

[0035] For example, the second element includes a segment with an opening.

[0036] Here, the segment can be designed as a flat column with multiple notches and / or openings.

[0037] For example, all the main components are arranged together on the section to facilitate the common axial movement of the main components.

[0038] In one embodiment of the invention, the segment may be constructed in the form of a grid.

[0039] For example, the openings in the section are implemented in a diamond shape, thereby achieving a grid structure for the section. The grid structure is particularly advantageous for avoiding vibrations that may occur when the flow assembly passes through.

[0040] In one variant of the invention, the second element, particularly the segment comprising the body, has a one-piece structure.

[0041] For example, the module has a guide device for positioning the components relative to each other.

[0042] For example, the guiding device can be implemented using two guide rods.

[0043] In one variant of the invention, the guide rod has the shape of a head or channel.

[0044] Exemplarily, the guide rod can be positioned at the outer edge of the element in a half-shaft embodiment of the head or channel shape. Advantageously, by having the same shape, the guide rod can slide into the channel, thereby positioning the elements relative to each other and constructing them in a displaceable manner that is embedded in each other.

[0045] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the guiding device may also include more than two, preferably more than three, and especially more than four guide rods. Here, the guide rods are arranged, for example, evenly distributed across the cross-section of the element, or evenly distributed along the outer edge of the element.

[0046] In one implementation variant, the guide device is configured as a guide rod with a half-hexagonal cross-section.

[0047] Alternatively, the guide device can also be centrally located within the component.

[0048] In addition, the guide device can also be envisioned as having a polygonal cross-section (half or full) and a circular cross-section.

[0049] In one variant of the invention, the second element has at least one guide rod that engages in a guide sleeve or channel of the first element to orient and / or arrange the elements relative to or embedded in each other.

[0050] For example, at least one channel has at least one interference structure, especially for variably constructing K. vs value.

[0051] K vs The value is a characteristic value used to describe the flow rate of a liquid or gas through a specific fitting or regulating valve, especially a component. K vs The value indicates how much volumetric flow (in cubic meters per hour, m³) occurs within a specific pressure drop (in bar). 3 (in units of / h) can flow through the components.

[0052] K vs The value enables the prediction of component flow based on pressure drop and allows for the correct selection of components for specific applications. A higher K value... vs A higher K value indicates a larger flow rate for a given pressure drop, while a lower K value indicates a lower flow rate. vs The value indicates a smaller flow rate.

[0053] Disturbance structures for fluid flow are artificially generated changes in fluid flow that are used to achieve specific pressure loss or characteristic curve features of a component.

[0054] For example, such a disturbance structure can be implemented in the form of an obstacle, wherein the obstacle affects and / or reduces the flow cross-section of the channel. Additionally, the obstacle can have a specific shape to influence the type of flow.

[0055] Obstacles are introduced into the channel to impede the flow of fluid and / or cause changes in the flow. These obstacles can be implemented, for example, as plates, cylinders, cones, or other geometries. The presence of obstacles can generate eddies, turbulence, and other complex flow patterns, which are advantageous for achieving desired characteristic curve properties and pressure loss.

[0056] In one embodiment of the invention, the channel having a late-sinking plunger, particularly a body with a smaller or shorter axial length, has a widerstand. The widerstand, in the form of an obstacle, can be implemented in the channel of the first element during additive manufacturing.

[0057] For example, a component may include at least one driver.

[0058] The actuator can be operated manually, electrically, pneumatically, or hydraulically. In this way, the flow resistance can be changed even during the operation of the component, and thus it can be matched to changing volumetric flow instantly and directly.

[0059] In one variant of the invention, the channel has a polygonal cross-section.

[0060] A polygonal cross-section is the surface created when a three-dimensional object is cut along a plane. Instead of a smooth curve or a closed surface, this cross-section consists of a combination of straight lines and corners. It has a polygonal shape, which can be regular or irregular.

[0061] In an advantageous variant of the invention, the channel has a hexagonal cross-section, which allows for a particularly high ratio of the permeable surface to the total cross-section of the component.

[0062] The cross-sections of channels can all have the same shape, or they can have different shapes.

[0063] For example, the cross-section of the channel can be triangular, circular, quadrilateral, square, or octagonal.

[0064] In an advantageous variant of the invention, the head of the body has a shape that precisely corresponds to the channel.

[0065] In one embodiment of the invention for a circular assembly installed in a circular pipeline, the number of hexagonal channels may be, for example, 55, 85, 121, 151, 187, or 199, in order to achieve the maximum flow-through surface according to the pipe cross-section.

[0066] Here, the body can almost close the channel by embedding the elements into each other, or create very significant flow resistance in the channel.

[0067] In principle, the component can be exited from both sides and flowed through.

[0068] For example, the first element of the module is first circulated, and a favorable flow direction is established here according to the installation orientation.

[0069] In principle, flow directions of different directions can also be envisioned.

[0070] In one variant of the invention, the component is constructed as a pipeline, in which the module is integrated. In this variant, fluid flow can be advantageously regulated. In particular, the resistance of the component can be dynamically adjusted.

[0071] In one embodiment of the invention, the one-piece structure of the components, particularly the elements of the modules, is manufactured using a method in which the components having modules for regulating fluid flow are produced by selectively applying energy radiation to layers of powder applied layer by layer.

[0072] Selective Laser Melting (SLM) is an additive manufacturing method used to create components with modular structures implemented as one piece from metal powders, particularly cast alloy powders. It is a form of 3D printing in which a high-performance laser is used to selectively melt powder and build modular components layer by layer.

[0073] The modular, interlocking, and mobile components are constructed layer by layer by applying a thin layer of powder to a structural platform. A laser beam is then directed at a selected area, where it melts the metal powder and binds it into a solid layer. New layers are then applied, and the process is repeated until the assembly with modules is complete.

[0074] Preferably, a high-performance laser, typically a fiber laser or a CO2 laser, is used. The laser beam is precisely controlled to melt and fuse the metal powder. Laser parameters such as power, intensity, and speed are adjusted according to process requirements and the selected material, especially metallic materials. For example, laser parameters can also be locally matched to achieve a defined and desired microstructure.

[0075] After the manufacturing process, it is possible to post-process the modular components to obtain, for example, flat surfaces at the ends and / or around the periphery of the components.

[0076] For example, the component has a housing with at least two openings that form a flowable space for fluid flow, wherein additional modules for throttling are arranged such that they restrict the cross-section of the space.

[0077] In an implementation of the component as an accessory, in addition to the module for regulating fluid flow, a separate module for throttling volumetric flow rate can be implemented. In such a component, the regulation of volumetric flow rate can be supplemented by the regulation of pressure loss, wherein the values ​​can be adjusted at least partially independently of each other.

[0078] In existing fittings, flow rate and the resulting flow resistance can only be adjusted by the valve stroke. By implementing a component with modules and additional modules for throttling, the flow resistance can now be adjusted variably independently of the component's opening degree.

[0079] Other modules for throttling can be configured as valves with a blocking body and a valve seat, wherein the blocking body moves in or against the flow direction when the valve is opened and closed. Alternatively, other modules for throttling can also be configured with a ball valve, valve, or gate as the blocking body, wherein, in this case, the blocking body preferably moves perpendicular to the flow direction.

[0080] In order to enable the components of the module to be embedded in each other for movement, for example, an external driver for moving the components is constructed in connection with the component, wherein the movement of another module for throttling can be performed using a separate and independent driver.

[0081] For example, the drive co-operation module and other modules for throttling.

[0082] In another variant of the invention, additional throttling modules and modules can move simultaneously via a common driver.

[0083] For example, the surface roughness of the space of additional modules used for throttling and / or the surface roughness of the channels of the modules can be specifically adjusted to match the pressure loss of the components.

[0084] For example, the passageway is laid out in a straight line.

[0085] In one variant of the invention, the channel may be implemented with a straight portion that then turns. In this embodiment, the body, for example, engages only in the straight portion of the channel.

[0086] In an alternative variant of the invention, the channel may also have a curved portion, wherein the curved portion corresponds to the shape of the body.

[0087] According to the present invention, in the method for traversing (Abfahren, sometimes also called running) characteristic curves, the elements are axially embedded in each other and / or moved relative to each other in their positions.

[0088] By using interlocking components, the flow resistance and thus the characteristic curves of the components can be matched even during operation (e.g., when the volumetric flow rate changes). Here, the flow resistance of the components can be adjusted at least partially independently of the volumetric flow rate.

[0089] For example, the main bodies can be arranged relative to each other in different axial positions to construct characteristic curves relevant to the application.

[0090] According to the present invention, the module is used in fittings or pipelines to form an assembly.

[0091] The implementation of the components allows users to achieve maximum flexibility while reducing high voltage in a minimal space.

[0092] Here, the component may consist only of modules for regulating fluid flow, or the component may be constructed as a complex assembly that, in addition to the main throttling or blocking body, particularly includes modules for regulating fluid flow. Attached Figure Description

[0093] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings and the drawings themselves.

[0094] Here: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the module for regulating fluid flow, Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the module for regulating fluid flow, Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the module in which the elements are embedded in each other, Figure 4 shows a top view of a second element of the module, and Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of the assembly having the module and additional modules for throttling. Detailed Implementation

[0095] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an assembly having a module 1 for regulating fluid flow. Module 1 includes a first element 2 and a second element 3. The first element 2 has a plurality of channels 4, while the second element 3 has a plurality of bodies 5. As can be seen from Figures 2 and 3, each channel 4 is associated with a body 5.

[0096] In the illustrated embodiment, each body 5 includes a head 6 and a support 7. The supports 7 of the body 5 of the second element 3 have different axial lengths, thereby achieving specific characteristic curve features.

[0097] The first element 2 has fifty-five channels 4, each having a hexagonal cross-section with the same construction. Thus, the module 1, with a diameter of 50 mm in the illustrated embodiment, has the largest possible flow-through cross-section.

[0098] The second element 3 has a section 8 with an opening 9. On the section 8, fifty-five main bodies 5 are arranged corresponding to the channel 4, so that the main bodies 5 can travel axially to or move into the channel 4.

[0099] Module 1 has a guide device 10 for positioning elements 2, 3 relative to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide device 10 is configured with guide rods 11 and guide grooves 12, wherein the two guide rods 11, arranged opposite each other at their outer edges, have a bisector hexagonal cross-section. The guide grooves 12, corresponding to the guide rods 11, receive the guide rods 11, thereby allowing elements 2, 3 to travel in a nested manner, and are configured for positioning elements 2, 3 relative to or nested with each other.

[0100] As can be seen in Figure 2, the head 6 is rounded and has a defined and uniform radius. Module 1 has a stroke of 30 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, the body 5 is configured to travel through the channel 4, which has four interference structures 13, and can only be embedded into each other by a short axial length. The interference structures 13 are implemented as flow barriers that narrow the cross-section of the channel 4 and thus achieve the desired characteristic curve features.

[0101] Figure 3 exemplarily illustrates how the first element 2 partially travels and positions itself into the second element 3. In a cross-sectional view of module 1, two bodies 5 are shown that move into the channel 4 and thus fill and block the cross-section of the channel 4. Therefore, they create pressure losses in module 1 corresponding to the axial positioning of elements 2 and 3.

[0102] Figure 4 shows a top view of the second element 3 facing the module 1, wherein fifty-five bodies 5 are fixed to the segment 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the segment 8 is constructed as a grille with openings 9, thereby ensuring good flow permeability of the module 1 in the positioning where the parts of elements 2 and 3 are partially embedded in each other during travel.

[0103] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of an accessory assembly having module 1 and an additional module 14 for throttling. The assembly, implemented as an accessory, has a housing 15 having at least two openings 16, 17 forming a permeable space 18 for fluid flow. The additional throttling module 14 is arranged so movably by means of an actuator that it restricts the cross-section of space 18.

[0104] A space 18 is provided in the housing 15, which opens into a first opening 16 and a second opening 17 at an end of the housing 15. An assembly implemented as a valve operates in the intended operating state such that the first opening 16 is configured as an inlet opening for flow and the second opening 17 is configured as an outlet opening for flow.

[0105] Space 18 is straight along the flow direction. This means that the flow does not undergo a deflection caused by the casing, or that the center point of the cross-section of space 18 is arranged at a height along the longitudinal direction. This design results in only a very small pressure loss between openings 16 and 17 when the valve is fully open. Although space 18 is straight, it expands longitudinally from the second opening 17 to a short distance before the first opening 16, where it then gradually narrows until it reaches the first opening 16.

[0106] To throttle the valve, an additional throttling module 14 is arranged in the section of space 18, which consists of a throttling head 20 and a drive rod 21. The throttling head 20 is constructed in the shape of a parabolic cone and is sealed to the valve seat 22 in the fully closed state of the valve.

[0107] To allow adjustment of the position of another throttling module 14, or to allow its movement, a throttling head 20 is positioned at the end of a drive rod 21, and a section of the drive rod 21 is configured as a lifting mechanism 23. The lifting mechanism 23 has three movable, arranged structural elements. This lifting mechanism 23 works in conjunction with a lever actuator 24, which is movablely arranged in space 18 and can be operated externally. Thus, external movement causes the other throttling module 14 to move linearly along or against the channel direction. The direction of movement depends on the rotation direction of the lever actuator 24.

[0108] For the joystick driver 24, which is connected to a driver, preferably an electric motor (not shown), wherein an additional throttling module 14 moves from the fully closed position to the fully open position by rotating the lifting mechanism 23, preferably by 90°.

[0109] The drive rod 21 is fully arranged within the space 18 and is linearly guided along or against the longitudinal direction via the guide device 10. Here, the guide device 10 moves the second element 3 into the first element 2. As the elements 2 and 3 of module 1 travel interlocked, the pressure loss of the assembly can be achieved independently of the volumetric flow rate through the valve.

Claims

1. An assembly having a module (1) for regulating fluid flow, characterized in that, The module (1) includes a first element (2) having a plurality of channels (4) and a second element (3) having a plurality of bodies (5), wherein the elements (2,3) are arranged relative to each other in an axially movable manner, wherein each body (5) is associated with a channel (4) to release a different number of channels (4) depending on the relative positions of the elements (2,3) relative to each other.

2. The component according to claim 1, characterized in that, All entities (5) can move together in the structure.

3. The component according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Each body (5) includes a head (6) and a support (7), wherein at least two supports (7) of the body (5) of the second element (3) have different axial lengths.

4. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The second element (3) includes a segment (8) having an opening (9), on which the body (5) is arranged so that the bodies travel in a common axial direction.

5. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The module (1) has a guide device (10) for positioning the elements (2,3) relative to each other.

6. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, At least one channel (4) has at least one interference structure (13), particularly for variably constructing K vs value.

7. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The component includes a driver.

8. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The channel (4) has a polygonal cross-section.

9. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The component has a housing (15) with at least two openings (16, 17) forming a flow-through space (18) for the flow of the fluid, in which additional throttling modules (14) are arranged so as to restrict the cross-section of the space (18).

10. The component according to claim 9, characterized in that, The driver jointly operates the module (1) and the additional throttling module (14).

11. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The component is constructed as a pipeline, and the module (1) is integrated into the pipeline.

12. A method for traversing characteristic curves, characterized in that, The elements (2,3) are axially interlocked and / or moved relative to each other in their positions.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The main bodies (5) are arranged opposite each other in different axial positions to generate characteristic curves.

14. A module (1) for use in fittings or pipelines to form an assembly.