Modular gas pressure controller

Abstract

The utility model discloses a modularization air pressure controller, it includes detachable connection's positive pressure module and negative pressure module, the positive pressure module includes the casing and the proportional valve, buffer tank and solenoid valve that casing inside are connected in proper order, the negative pressure module includes the casing and the opening valve, vacuum generator, check valve and negative pressure sensor that casing inside are connected in proper order. The utility model discloses the air pressure controller function modularization and each module can be independently split and use, and the positive pressure module function is simple, and the volume reduces, and the response is faster, and it is not easy to appear the dead machine phenomenon, and simultaneously convenient multi -channel quick switching, has good application prospect in the actual production process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of pneumatic control technology, and in particular relates to a modular pneumatic controller. Background Technology

[0002] Existing pneumatic controllers are commonly used in fields such as dispensing and 3D printing. Dispensing and 3D printing technologies can precisely control the distribution and coating of fluid materials to achieve product bonding, sealing, or encapsulation. With the rapid development of modern manufacturing towards high precision, miniaturization, and automation, dispensing technology has gradually become one of the core processes in electronics manufacturing, semiconductor packaging, the automotive industry, medical devices, and new energy equipment. In application scenarios, dispensing technology covers everything from nanoscale adhesive dot coating in microelectronic chip packaging to large-area sealing of automotive battery packs, and bonding and waterproofing of smartphone screens. With the increasing level of industrial automation, higher demands are being placed on the configuration flexibility and response speed of pneumatic controllers.

[0003] However, existing pneumatic controllers generally suffer from inflexible functional configurations, bulky structures, and a lack of quick-installation capabilities. Specifically, on the one hand, the functional modules of existing pneumatic controllers are typically used as a whole, rather than independently. Some functions (such as negative or positive pressure control) may be completely unnecessary in specific application scenarios, but users cannot add or remove modules according to actual needs. On the other hand, when used on a production line, many function buttons and displays on the control panel are often redundant, occupying space and increasing equipment costs. Furthermore, unnecessary functional modules cannot be removed, resulting in resource waste and increased equipment size. These problems severely limit the adaptability and cost-effectiveness of pneumatic controllers in different application scenarios.

[0004] For example, patent CN 217140987 U discloses a dispensing controller, including an air inlet pipe, a two-position three-way solenoid valve, a first direct pressure sensor connected to the air inlet pipe, a first electro-proportional valve and a second electro-proportional valve respectively connected to the first direct pressure sensor, and a first air tank and a second direct pressure sensor sequentially connected to the first electro-proportional valve; the second electro-proportional valve is also sequentially connected to a vacuum generator, a second air tank, and a third direct pressure sensor; the two-position three-way solenoid valve has a positive pressure inlet, a negative pressure inlet, and a working port; the second direct pressure sensor and the third direct pressure sensor are respectively connected to the positive pressure inlet and the negative pressure inlet of the two-position three-way solenoid valve, and the working port of the two-position three-way solenoid valve is used to connect to an external dispensing device. It can be seen that in existing pneumatic controllers, the positive pressure module and the negative pressure module are used as a whole and cannot be separated.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need to provide a modular air pressure controller that can flexibly configure functional modules according to actual application needs and achieve rapid installation and disassembly. Utility Model Content

[0006] The main objective of this invention is to provide a modular air pressure controller to solve the technical problem that the positive pressure module and the negative pressure module are an integral unit that cannot be used separately in the prior art.

[0007] This utility model provides a modular air pressure controller, which includes a detachably connected positive pressure module and a negative pressure module. The positive pressure module includes a housing and a proportional valve, a buffer tank and a solenoid valve connected in sequence inside the housing. The negative pressure module includes a housing and an opening valve, a vacuum generator, a one-way valve and a negative pressure sensor connected in sequence inside the housing.

[0008] Furthermore, the modular pressure controller also includes a switching module that is detachably connected to the positive pressure module.

[0009] Furthermore, the input port of the switching module is connected to the output port of the positive pressure module, and the switching module has multiple output ports, each of which has a locking function.

[0010] Furthermore, the switching module includes a housing and a solenoid valve inside the housing, the solenoid valve being used to switch the air outlet channel.

[0011] Furthermore, the input ports of the positive pressure module and the negative pressure module are connected to the air source.

[0012] Furthermore, the positive pressure module, negative pressure module, and switching module are fixed together by guide rails on the side of the modules.

[0013] Furthermore, each module is electrically connected via a plug, with electrical and pneumatic connections located on the front, back, or pressing surface of the module.

[0014] Furthermore, the positive pressure module is connected to a host computer, and the positive pressure module is also equipped with a pressure gauge for acquiring pressure readings.

[0015] Furthermore, the vacuum generator is provided with an exhaust port, and the exhaust port is connected to a silencer.

[0016] Furthermore, the solenoid valve is a two-position three-way solenoid valve.

[0017] Furthermore, the air pressure controller can be connected to the dispensing head or the 3D printing head for control.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0019] (1) The functions are modular and each module can be used independently; Through modular design, the functions of the air pressure controller can be selected according to the actual application scenario, avoiding unnecessary redundancy.

[0020] (2) The positive pressure module has a simplified function, reduced size, faster response, and is less prone to crashing. This utility model adopts a combination design of proportional valve, buffer tank and two-position three-way solenoid valve, which makes the positive pressure output more stable and controllable. The negative pressure module is independently configured, which does not affect the response speed of the positive pressure module, and has the advantage of fast exhaust of one-way valve, which makes the air pressure response of dispensing head or printing head faster and the protection of sensor better.

[0021] (3) Facilitates rapid switching between multiple dispensing heads or multiple printing heads; This utility model reduces the number of controllers required for multi-channel dispensing machines when multiple dispensing heads or multiple printing heads are not working at the same time by adding a switching module, thereby improving equipment utilization and facilitating rapid switching between multiple channels. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1-4 This is a schematic diagram of the positive pressure module structure described in this utility model;

[0023] Figure 5-8 This is a schematic diagram of the negative pressure module structure described in this utility model;

[0024] Figure 9-12 This is a schematic diagram of the switching module structure described in this utility model;

[0025] Figure 13-15 This is an overall structural diagram of the three modules described in this utility model used together;

[0026] Figure 16 This is a gas path diagram showing the combined operation of the various modules described in this utility model;

[0027] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 1-Positive pressure module, 2-Negative pressure module, 3-Proportional valve, 4-Buffer tank, 5-Solenoid valve, 6-Opening valve, 7-Vacuum generator, 8-Check valve, 9-Negative pressure sensor, 10-Switching module, 11-Pressure gauge, 12-Silencer. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the embodiments of this utility model. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0029] As described in the background section of this utility model, existing pneumatic controllers generally suffer from inflexible functional configuration, bulky structure, and lack of quick-installation capabilities. Specifically, this manifests in two ways: First, the functional modules of existing pneumatic controllers are typically used as a whole, rather than independently. Some functions (such as negative or positive pressure control) may be completely unnecessary in specific application scenarios, but users cannot add or remove functional modules according to actual needs. Second, when used on a production line, many function buttons and displays on the control panel are often redundant, occupying space and increasing equipment costs. Furthermore, unnecessary functional modules cannot be removed, resulting in resource waste and increased equipment size. These problems severely limit the adaptability and economy of pneumatic controllers in different application scenarios.

[0030] This utility model provides a modular pneumatic controller that can flexibly configure functional modules according to actual application needs and achieve rapid installation and disassembly. The modular pneumatic controller includes a detachably connected positive pressure module 1 and a negative pressure module 2. The positive pressure module 1 includes a housing and a proportional valve 3, a buffer tank 4, and a solenoid valve 5 connected in sequence inside the housing. The negative pressure module 2 includes a housing and an opening valve 6, a vacuum generator 7, a one-way valve 8, and a negative pressure sensor 9 connected in sequence inside the housing.

[0031] In some specific embodiments, the modular air pressure controller may further include a switching module 10 detachably connected to the positive pressure module 1. The switching module 10 is used to connect multiple dispensing heads or printing heads. The switching module 10 includes a housing and a solenoid valve 5 inside the housing, the solenoid valve 5 being used to switch the air outlet channel. The input port of the switching module 10 is connected to the output port of the positive pressure module 1, and the switching module 10 has multiple output ports, each with a locking function.

[0032] In some specific embodiments, the positive pressure module 1, negative pressure module 2, and switching module 10 are fixed together by side guide rails. The guide rails employ a T-slot design, and the modules have corresponding protruding structures on their sides, allowing them to slide and be fixed along the guide rails. Limiting blocks are provided at both ends of the guide rails to prevent the modules from sliding out. The connection between modules uses a quick-locking mechanism, allowing for tool-free installation and removal. Specifically, a standardized DIN35 guide rail installation method can be used, facilitating the addition or reduction of the number of channels or switching of channel openings, without affecting the normal use of other functional modules, and simplifying maintenance and upgrades.

[0033] In some specific embodiments, the input ports of the positive pressure module 1 and the negative pressure module 2 are connected to an air source. The air source is compressed air with a pressure range of 0.4-0.8 MPa. The air source can be processed by a filter and dryer to remove moisture, oil, and impurities from the air, ensuring the normal operation and service life of the pneumatic system.

[0034] In some specific embodiments, the modules are electrically connected via plugs, with electrical and pneumatic connections located on the front, back, or pressing surface of the modules. The electrical connections use standard aviation plugs with a multi-pin design, capable of simultaneously transmitting multiple electrical signals and power supplies. The pneumatic connections use quick-connect couplings with a self-locking function, ensuring a secure connection and easy disassembly. When the modules are pressed together, the pin contacts automatically align, enabling the transmission of electrical signals without requiring additional wiring.

[0035] In some specific embodiments, the positive pressure module 1 is connected to a host computer, which runs dispensing control software to set dispensing parameters, monitor system status, and record operating data. The positive pressure module 1 is also equipped with a pressure gauge 11 for acquiring pressure readings. The pressure gauge 11 uses a digital display, which allows operators to intuitively monitor the system pressure status.

[0036] In some specific embodiments, the vacuum generator 7 is provided with an exhaust port, which is connected to a silencer 12. The silencer 12 is made of a porous material, which can effectively reduce exhaust noise, control the noise level below 70 dB, and improve the working environment. The silencer 12 is removable and replaceable, facilitating regular cleaning and maintenance.

[0037] In some specific embodiments, the air pressure controller can be connected to the dispensing head or the 3D printing head.

[0038] In some specific embodiments, the solenoid valve 5 is a two-position three-way solenoid valve, which enables the system to have a more flexible control method and a faster response speed. The two-position three-way solenoid valve operates on a 24V DC power supply, has a power of 5W, and a response time of less than 20ms. The valve body of the solenoid valve 5 is made of aluminum alloy, the valve core is made of stainless steel, and the sealing ring is made of fluororubber, which has good wear resistance and sealing performance. The operating pressure range of the solenoid valve 5 is 0~0.8 MPa, and the applicable temperature range is -10~60℃. The two-position three-way solenoid valve has an air inlet and a working port; in the switching module 10, the air inlet of the two-position three-way solenoid valve is connected to the pressure output port of the positive or negative pressure module, and the working port of the two-position three-way solenoid valve is connected to an external dispensing head or printing head.

[0039] like Figure 1-4As shown, the housing of the positive pressure module 1 is made of aluminum alloy, which has good heat dissipation and corrosion resistance. A proportional valve 3 is installed inside the housing. The inlet of the proportional valve 3 is connected to an external air source, and the outlet is connected to the inlet of the buffer tank 4. The proportional valve 3 can precisely control the gas flow rate, with an adjustment range of 0-0.7 MPa and a control accuracy of ±0.01 MPa. The buffer tank 4 is used to stabilize the air pressure, reduce air pressure fluctuations, and ensure the stability of air pressure during the dispensing process. The outlet of the buffer tank 4 is connected to the inlet of the solenoid valve 5. The solenoid valve 5 is a two-position three-way solenoid valve with normally open and normally closed states and a response time of less than 20 ms. The outlet of the solenoid valve 5 serves as the output port of the positive pressure module 1, providing a stable positive pressure air source to the dispensing system.

[0040] like Figure 5-8 As shown, the housing of the negative pressure module 2 is also made of aluminum alloy, similar in structure to the housing of the positive pressure module 1. An opening valve 6 is installed inside the housing. The inlet of the opening valve 6 is connected to an external air source, and the outlet is connected to the inlet of the vacuum generator 7. The opening valve 6 is controlled by a 0-24V electrical signal; the higher the voltage, the larger the valve opening and the greater the flow rate. The vacuum generator 7 operates on the Venturi effect principle. When compressed air passes through the nozzle, a negative pressure area is formed at the nozzle outlet, thus creating a vacuum effect. The vacuum level of the vacuum generator 7 can reach -80 kPa, and the pumping speed is 15 L / min. The negative pressure generation port of the vacuum generator 7 is connected to a one-way valve 8. When there is residual positive pressure discharged from the positive pressure module 1 in the negative pressure air path (the residual pressure in the printhead is discharged through the exhaust air path at the moment the printhead is shut off), the one-way valve 8 is activated, discharging the positive pressure from the rapid exhaust port. When the pipeline pressure drops below the activation pressure of the one-way valve 8, the vacuum generator 7 further reduces the pipeline pressure to the target value. One-way valve 8 prevents gas backflow, ensuring system stability and safety. The outlet of one-way valve 8 is connected to negative pressure sensor 9. Negative pressure sensor 9 is used to monitor the negative pressure value of the system in real time, with an accuracy of ±0.5%, and outputs a standard current signal of 4–20 mA.

[0041] like Figure 9-12 As shown, the housing of the switching module 10 is made of the same aluminum alloy as the positive pressure module 1 and the negative pressure module 2. Multiple solenoid valves 5 are installed inside the housing; the number of solenoid valves 5 is determined by the number of dispensing heads or printing heads to be controlled. The air inlets of the solenoid valves 5 are connected to the input port of the switching module 10 via internal air passages, and the air outlets of each solenoid valve are connected to their respective output ports of the switching module 10. Each output port is equipped with a quick connector and a locking device. The locking device uses a rotary locking mechanism to prevent accidental detachment of the air tubing during the dispensing process.

[0042] Working principle:

[0043] When using only positive pressure module 1: Compressed air (air source) enters positive pressure module 1 through the input port, is regulated by proportional valve 3, and stored in buffer tank 4. The air pressure output port is connected to the exhaust port via solenoid valve 5. When the host computer sends an "open" signal, solenoid valve 5 switches the air path, connecting the pressure output port to buffer tank 4 and simultaneously disconnecting from the exhaust. At this time, the output air pressure of positive pressure module 1 will be determined by the pressure regulating valve. The host computer can control the output pressure of the pressure regulating valve via the bus, thereby controlling the dispensing or material output for precise control. Pressure gauge 11 is connected in series between solenoid valve 5 and pressure output port via a three-way valve. The reading can be observed externally. Pressure gauge 11 reflects the real-time pressure output reading and can provide real-time feedback of the actual pressure to the host computer via the bus. The pressure output port is connected to a dispensing head or print head. In this mode, negative pressure module 2 and switching module 10 can be disassembled and not used.

[0044] When using only negative pressure module 2: Compressed air (air source) enters negative pressure module 2 through the inlet, and after the flow rate is regulated by the opening valve 6, it is input into the vacuum generator 7. The vacuum generator 7 generates negative pressure, and the negative pressure sensor 9 monitors the pressure in real time. A negative pressure setting port is provided on the housing of negative pressure module 2, from which the pressure is output. The negative pressure setting port can be directly connected to a dispensing head or a printing head. In this mode, positive pressure module 1 and switching module 10 can be disassembled and not used.

[0045] When using positive pressure module 1, negative pressure module 2, and switching module 10 simultaneously: For example... Figure 13-16 As shown, the air path of the negative pressure module 2 contains a one-way valve 8. When used in conjunction with the positive pressure module 1, the dispensing head or print head downstream of the module (the downstream component of the pressure output) contains high-pressure gas. At the instant the positive pressure module 1 shuts off, the high-pressure gas is discharged through the solenoid valve 5 via the exhaust port, negative pressure setting port, and opening valve 6 into the vacuum port of the vacuum generator 7, and silenced by the silencer 12. Because the outlet of the vacuum generator 7 is very small, the high-pressure gas at the instant the positive pressure module 1 shuts off needs to pass through this outlet, causing a sudden increase in pipeline pressure, which may damage the negative pressure sensor 9. Therefore, adding a one-way valve 8 to the negative pressure module 2 can effectively slow down the increase in internal pipeline pressure at the moment of exhaust and also make the internal air pressure of the print head drop faster. A working indicator light is also provided on one side of the negative pressure setting port. The working indicator light is an LED red and green light; red indicates that the device is powered on, and green indicates that the pressure at the negative pressure setting port has reached the set value. The working principles of the positive and negative pressure modules are the same as described above. Finally, the gas is output from the pressure output port to the switching module 10. Multiple solenoid valves 5 can be installed inside the switching module 10 to switch between different gas outlet channels. The output port of the switching module 10 can have multiple interfaces, each used to connect to multiple dispensing heads or print heads. This mode is suitable for situations with multiple dispensing heads or print heads.

[0046] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0047] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the present invention.

Claims

1. A modular air pressure controller, characterized in that, It includes a detachably connected positive pressure module (1) and a negative pressure module (2). The positive pressure module (1) includes a housing and a proportional valve (3), a buffer tank (4) and a solenoid valve (5) connected in sequence inside the housing. The negative pressure module (2) includes an opening valve (6), a vacuum generator (7), a one-way valve (8) and a negative pressure sensor (9) connected in sequence inside the housing.

2. The modular air pressure controller according to claim 1, characterized in that, The modular pressure controller also includes a switching module (10) that is detachably connected to the positive pressure module (1).

3. The modular air pressure controller according to claim 2, characterized in that, The input port of the switching module (10) is connected to the output port of the positive pressure module (1). The switching module (10) has multiple output ports, each of which has a locking function.

4. The modular air pressure controller according to claim 2, characterized in that, The switching module (10) includes a housing and a solenoid valve (5) inside the housing, the solenoid valve (5) being used to switch the air outlet channel.

5. The modular air pressure controller according to claim 1, characterized in that, The input ports of the positive pressure module (1) and the negative pressure module (2) are connected to the gas source.

6. The modular air pressure controller according to claim 1, characterized in that, The positive pressure module (1), negative pressure module (2) and switching module (10) are fixed together by the side rails of the modules.

7. The modular air pressure controller according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each module is electrically connected via a plug, with electrical and pneumatic wires located on the front, back, or pressing surface of the module.

8. The modular air pressure controller according to claim 1, characterized in that, The positive pressure module (1) is connected to the host computer, and the positive pressure module (1) is also equipped with a pressure gauge (11) for obtaining pressure readings.

9. The modular air pressure controller according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vacuum generator (7) is provided with an exhaust port, and the exhaust port is connected to a silencer (12).

10. The modular air pressure controller according to claim 1, characterized in that, The solenoid valve (5) is a two-position three-way solenoid valve.

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