Continuously variable topological manifold for entrapped flow control

Abstract

This disclosure provides adjustable flow-control devices and systems for modulating the passage of matter. In a first apparatus, a central shaft with a flexible flow tube includes wall apertures that communicate with a lumen. A cone piece, threaded to the central shaft and having a non-threaded conical section, defines an annular gap that houses flow-modifying elements, positioned radially outward of the apertures. Rotation of the cone piece advances or retracts the conical section to cam the elements between open and closed conditions, selectively occluding apertures and varying effective flow area; a nozzle outlet and elastomeric, resilient liners are supported. A system embodiment connects first and second such apparatuses in series, directly or via tubing. A second outlet assembly employs thin, flexible vanes arranged around a pipe and a buckling collar that deflects inward under axial actuation to vary vane angle and thus the orifice size and / or shape.

Description

Docket No. MIT 26044PCT CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TOPOLOGICAL MANIFOLD FOR ENTRAPPED FLOW CONTROL CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 708,705, filed 10 / 17 / 2024, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of flow-control and dispensing systems for flowable media. More specifically, the present invention is related to variable-geometry valves and outlet assemblies that modulate effective orifice area and / or shape to control the passage of fluids, semi-solids, gels, or gases. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] This invention relates to flow control for fluid passing through orifices including, but not limited to, nozzles and valves. Flow valves control fluid flow by opening, closing, or partially obstructing passageways. Common types include gate valves, globe valves, ball valves, butterfly valves, and diaphragm valves. Adjustments are typically made manually or through actuators (pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric) for automated control. Nozzles direct the flow of fluids or gasses by controlling speed, pressure, and pattern. They are used in applications like spray painting, irrigation, fire hoses, and jet engines. Nozzles can be adjustable, allowing users to change the spray pattern or flow rate, or fixed, designed for specific applications. Current solutions for delivering and controlling fluid flow speed, pressure, pattern, etc. require manual adjustment or a bulky, external mechanized system with limited scope to change orifice shape and size. The proposed solutions allow for continuous adjustment of shape and size, can be applied in series to produce complex fluid flow, compatible with high temperatures and pressures, and maintains laminar flow by avoiding flow interruptions. 1 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0004] Embodiments of the present invention are an improvement over prior art systems and methods. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In one embodiment, the present invention provides an apparatus (100) comprising: (a) an inlet (102); (b) an outlet (104); (c) a central shaft (106) extending along a longitudinal axis from the inlet to the outlet and having a wall that bounds a lumen and defines an inner surface (108) and an outer circumferential surface (110), the outer circumferential surface comprising an externally threaded portion and at least one non-threaded portion (112), wherein at least one non-threaded portion (114) includes one or more apertures (116) extending through the wall from the outer circumferential surface to the lumen; (d) a flexible flow tube (118) disposed within the lumen and lining the inner surface of the central shaft (106); (e) a cone piece (120) having an internally threaded bore (122) coaxial with the longitudinal axis and a non-threaded conical section (124), the internally threaded bore (122) configured to engage the externally threaded portion of the central shaft (112); and (f) one or more flow-modifying devices (126) disposed within an annular gap (128) defined between the outer circumferential surface (110) of the central shaft (106) and an inner surface of the non-threaded conical section (124), the flow-modifying devices (126) positioned radially outward of the apertures (116) and configured to selectively occlude and not occlude the apertures (116) upon rotation of the cone piece (120) relative to the central shaft (106), wherein rotation in a first direction moves the flow- modifying devices (126) into a closed condition in which they occlude the apertures (116), and rotation in an opposite, second direction moves the flow-modifying devices into an open condition in which they do not occlude the apertures (116); and wherein the flow-modifying devices (126) are configured to modify a flow of matter between the inlet (102) and the outlet (104) by selectively occluding the apertures (116).

[0006] In one embodiment, each flow-modifying device (126) comprises a ball. 2 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0007] In one embodiment, the flow-modifying devices (126) comprise one or more rollers, each roller having a cylindrical outer surface and being oriented within the annular gap such that, upon rotation of the cone piece relative to the central shaft (106), the cylindrical outer surface is configured to occlude at least one of the apertures.

[0008] In one embodiment, the outlet (104) comprises a nozzle.

[0009] In one embodiment, the flexible flow tube (118) comprises an elastomeric flow tube.

[0010] In one embodiment, the flexible flow tube (118) is resilient.

[0011] In one embodiment, the matter comprises a fluid, semi-solid, gel, or gas.

[0012] In one embodiment, the one or more apertures (116) comprises a plurality of apertures that are asymmetrically distributed about the central shaft.

[0013] In one embodiment, the one or more apertures comprises a plurality of apertures that are symmetrically distributed about the central shaft.

[0014] In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises an actuator operatively coupled to the cone piece and a controller configured to rotate the cone piece relative to the central shaft to continuously and automatically vary an effective flow area through the apertures by moving the flow-modifying devices between the open and closed conditions.

[0015] In one embodiment, the actuator is selected from the group consisting of servomechanical, hydraulic, electromechanical, electromagnetic, and pneumatic actuators.

[0016] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a system comprising a first flow- control apparatus and a second flow-control apparatus connected in series, wherein each of the first and second flow-control apparatus comprises: (a) an inlet; (b) an outlet; (c) a central shaft extending along a longitudinal axis from the inlet to the outlet and having a wall that bounds a lumen and defines an inner surface and an outer circumferential surface, the outer circumferential surface comprising an externally threaded portion and at least one non- threaded portion, wherein at least one non-threaded portion includes one or more apertures extending through the wall from the outer circumferential surface to the lumen; (d) a flexible 3 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT flow tube disposed within the lumen and lining the inner surface of the central shaft; (e) a cone piece having an internally threaded bore coaxial with the longitudinal axis and a non-threaded conical section, the internally threaded bore configured to engage the externally threaded portion of the central shaft; and (f) one or more flow-modifying devices disposed within an annular gap defined between the outer circumferential surface of the central shaft and an inner surface of the non-threaded conical section, the flow-modifying devices positioned radially outward of the apertures and configured to selectively occlude and not occlude the apertures upon rotation of the cone piece relative to the central shaft, wherein rotation in a first direction moves the flow-modifying devices into a closed condition in which they occlude the apertures, and rotation in an opposite, second direction moves the flow-modifying devices into an open condition in which they do not occlude the apertures; wherein, in each flow- control apparatus, the flow-modifying devices are configured to modify a flow of matter between the inlet and the outlet by selectively occluding the apertures; and wherein an outlet of the first flow-control apparatus is fluidly coupled to an inlet of the second flow-control apparatus, directly or via an intervening tube or conduit.

[0017] In one embodiment, an outlet of the first flow-control apparatus is directly fluidly coupled to an inlet of the second flow-control apparatus.

[0018] In one embodiment, an outlet of the first flow-control apparatus is fluidly coupled to an inlet of the second flow-control apparatus via an intervening tube or conduit.

[0019] In one embodiment, each flow-modifying device comprises a ball.

[0020] In one embodiment, the flow-modifying devices comprise one or more rollers, each roller having a cylindrical outer surface and being oriented within the annular gap such that, upon rotation of the cone piece relative to the central shaft, the cylindrical outer surface is configured to occlude at least one of the apertures.

[0021] In one embodiment, the outlet comprises a nozzle.

[0022] In one embodiment, the flexible flow tube comprises an elastomeric flow tube. 4 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0023] In one embodiment, the flexible flow tube is resilient.

[0024] In one embodiment, the matter comprises a fluid, semi-solid, gel, or gas.

[0025] In one embodiment, the one or more apertures comprises a plurality of apertures that are asymmetrically distributed about the shaft.

[0026] In one embodiment, the one or more apertures comprises a plurality of apertures that are symmetrically distributed about the shaft.

[0027] In one embodiment, each of the first and second flow-control apparatus further comprises an actuator operatively coupled to the cone piece and a controller configured to rotate the cone piece relative to the central shaft to continuously and automatically vary an effective flow area through the apertures by moving the flow-modifying devices between the open and closed conditions.

[0028] In one embodiment, the actuator is selected from the group consisting of servomechanical, hydraulic, electromechanical, electromagnetic, and pneumatic actuators.

[0029] In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides an outlet assembly for matter, the outlet assembly comprising: (a) a rigid pipe defining a central axis and an outlet end; (b) a circumferential array of vanes formed of thin, flexible material, each vane having a base portion secured adjacent the outlet end and a free edge extending radially inward to define an outlet orifice, each vane being angled inward relative to the central axis; and (c) a collar surrounding the vanes and including a buckling member positioned radially outward of the vanes, the buckling member being axially displaceable to deflect radially inward into distributed surface contact with the vanes, whereby axial displacement of the buckling member changes the inward angle of the vanes and thereby varies at least one of a size and a shape of the outlet orifice.

[0030] In one embodiment, the vanes are rectangular or trapezoidal and are arranged symmetrically around the pipe. 5 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0031] In one embodiment, the outlet assembly further comprises a compliant layer disposed between the buckling member and the vanes to reduce stress concentration and / or thermally isolate the flow.

[0032] In one embodiment, the buckling member is operatively coupled to a linear actuator selected from a screw drive, motorized leadscrew, or other linear actuator.

[0033] In one embodiment, increasing fluid flow through the pipe urges the vanes outward to increase the orifice diameter in a passive mode.

[0034] In one embodiment, the assembly is rotatable about the central axis to maintain a constant exit-flow shape despite movement.

[0035] In one embodiment, the vanes are hinged or flexurally compliant at their base to permit adjustment of the vane angle relative to the central axis.

[0036] In one embodiment, the outlet assembly further comprises a compliant layer disposed between the vanes and the buckling member, the compliant layer being configured to (i) distribute contact forces to reduce stress concentration on the vanes and / or (ii) thermally isolate the fluid from the buckling member.

[0037] In one embodiment, the outlet assembly further comprises an actuator operatively coupled to the buckling member and a controller configured to drive the actuator to axially displace the buckling member relative to the vanes and thereby continuously and automatically vary at least one of a size and a shape of the orifice without user intervention.

[0038] In one embodiment, the matter comprises a fluid, semi-solid, gel, or gas.

[0039] The following Detailed Description references the accompanying drawings which form a part this application, and which show, by way of illustration, specific example implementations. Other implementations may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0040] The present disclosure, in accordance with one or more various examples, is described in detail with reference to the following figures. The drawings are provided for purposes of 6 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT illustration only and merely depict examples of the disclosure. These drawings are provided to facilitate the reader's understanding of the disclosure and should not be considered limiting of the breadth, scope, or applicability of the disclosure. It should be noted that for clarity and ease of illustration these drawings are not necessarily made to scale.

[0041] FIG.1 depicts a Cross-sectional view of the n-Ball mechanism. As the cone piece rotates around the central shaft, it will move vertically. The tapered surface pushes the balls / rollers into the holes in the central shaft, pushing onto the elastomer flow tube and changing the flow area profile.

[0042] FIG. 2 depicts a trimetric view of an actuated n-Ball mechanism. In a mechanized application of the mechanism, a motor rotates the driving gear, which interfaces with the driven gear. The driven gear is rigidly attached to the cone piece. Thus, a rotation of the motor will cause the cone piece to rotate, moving it vertically and in turn changing the positioning of the balls.

[0043] FIGS.3(A) and 3(B) show an unmechanized (left) and mechanized (right) prototype of n- ball mechanism.

[0044] FIG.4 shows selective placement of rollers.

[0045] FIG. 5 shows an unmechanized (left) and mechanized (right) prototype of n-ball mechanism.

[0046] FIG.6 depicts a cross-sectional diagram to solve parameterization problem.

[0047] FIG.7 shows a top cross-sectional diagram to solve change in area problem.

[0048] FIG.8 shows a diagram for calculating area of intersection.

[0049] FIG.9 depicts a cross-sectional diagram to calculate change in velocity and pressure.

[0050] FIGS.10(A)-10(C) show a free body diagram of assembly (left), cone piece (center), and ball / roller (right).

[0051] FIGS.11(A) and 11(B) depict Side and Overhead view of Flow-Adjusting Nozzle.

[0052] FIGS.12(A)-12(C) depict Geometry and Governing Equations of Segmented Nozzle. 7 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0053] FIG.13 shows an Analysis of Flow under Bernoulli Regime of Reynolds Numbers.

[0054] FIGS.14(A) and 14(B) show an Analysis of Flow under Viscosity-Dominated Regime.

[0055] FIGS.15(A) and 15(B) depict side views of the screw-actuated diameter-adjusting nozzle in two states. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] While this invention is illustrated and described in a preferred embodiment, the invention may be produced in many different configurations. There is depicted in the drawings, and will herein be described in detail, a preferred embodiment of the invention, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and the associated functional specifications for its construction and is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiment illustrated. Those skilled in the art will envision many other possible variations within the scope of the present invention.

[0057] Note that in this description, references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” mean that the feature being referred to is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Further, separate references to “one embodiment” in this description do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment; however, neither are such embodiments mutually exclusive, unless so stated and except as will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Thus, the present invention can include any variety of combinations and / or integrations of the embodiments described herein.

[0058] The following mechanisms allow for the internal adjustment of the diameter and shape of an orifice through which fluid or quasi-fluid passes. The mechanisms are able to be mechanized and automatically controlled, allowing for continuous adjustment. Furthermore, the mechanisms can be put in series to create highly variable shapes and sizes within the same body. The benefits of a continuously variable orifice size and shape might include precise flow control, adaptability to changing conditions, efficient operation, versatility, improved safety, enhanced process control, customizable performance, and reduced wear 8 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT and tear. Applications that these benefits might be realized in include jet propulsion to help optimize fuel injection rates, injection systems for engines, irrigation systems for which precise control over water distribution might be helpful, medical devices, concrete dispensing, laser nozzles, confectionary arts, forming modeling compounds such as Play-Doh, flowing sand, extrusion, and all extrusion- and injection-based manufacturing (e.g. additive manufacturing, injection molding).

[0059] A mechanism containing a rigid central threaded shaft, a rigid threaded cone piece, a flexible, resilient elastomer flow tube, and a variable number of balls or rollers allows for the adjustment of the size and shape of an orifice through which fluid can pass. The central shaft threads onto the cone piece, in which small balls or rollers rest. The balls align with holes along the diameter of the central shaft. When the cone piece is rotated with respect to the central shaft, the tapered surface of the cone piece pushes the bearing balls in and out of the central shaft holes. As the bearing balls are pushed into the holes, they push onto the elastomer flow tube lining the inside of the central shaft, changing the shape and size of the orifice formed by the flow tube. This mechanism can be mechanized, introducing continuous and automatic control of the orifice size / shape, in turn allowing for changing parameters of fluid passing through including shape, size, pressure, and direction. Multiple modules can also be put in series, which can enable the creation of complex cross-sectional profiles of varying shapes and sizes.

[0060] In one embodiment, as depicted in FIG.1, the present invention provides an apparatus (100) comprising: (a) an inlet (102); (b) an outlet (104); (c) a central shaft (106) extending along a longitudinal axis from the inlet to the outlet and having a wall that bounds a lumen and defines an inner surface (108) and an outer circumferential surface (110), the outer circumferential surface comprising an externally threaded portion (112) and at least one non- threaded portion (114), wherein at least one non-threaded portion includes one or more apertures (116) extending through the wall from the outer circumferential surface to the lumen; 9 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT (d) a flexible flow tube (118) disposed within the lumen and lining the inner surface of the central shaft (106); (e) a cone piece (120) having an internally threaded bore (122) coaxial with the longitudinal axis and a non-threaded conical section (124), the internally threaded bore (122) configured to engage the externally threaded portion of the central shaft (112); and (f) one or more flow-modifying devices (126) disposed within an annular gap (128) defined between the outer circumferential surface (110) of the central shaft (106) and an inner surface of the non-threaded conical section (124), the flow-modifying devices (126) positioned radially outward of the apertures (116) and configured to selectively occlude and not occlude the apertures (116) upon rotation of the cone piece (120) relative to the central shaft (106), wherein rotation in a first direction moves the flow-modifying devices (126) into a closed condition in which they occlude the apertures (116), and rotation in an opposite, second direction moves the flow-modifying devices into an open condition in which they do not occlude the apertures (116); and wherein the flow-modifying devices (126) are configured to modify a flow of matter between the inlet (102) and the outlet (104) by selectively occluding the apertures (116).

[0061] In one embodiment, each flow-modifying device (126) comprises a ball.

[0062] In one embodiment, the flow-modifying devices (126) comprise one or more rollers, each roller having a cylindrical outer surface and being oriented within the annular gap such that, upon rotation of the cone piece relative to the central shaft (106), the cylindrical outer surface is configured to occlude at least one of the apertures.

[0063] In one embodiment, the outlet (104) comprises a nozzle.

[0064] In one embodiment, the flexible flow tube (118) comprises an elastomeric flow tube.

[0065] In one embodiment, the flexible flow tube (118) is resilient.

[0066] In one embodiment, the matter comprises a fluid, semi-solid, gel, or gas.

[0067] In one embodiment, the one or more apertures (116) comprises a plurality of apertures that are asymmetrically distributed about the central shaft. 10 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0068] In one embodiment, the one or more apertures (116) comprises a plurality of apertures that are symmetrically distributed about the central shaft.

[0069] In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises an actuator operatively coupled to the cone piece and a controller configured to rotate the cone piece relative to the central shaft to continuously and automatically vary an effective flow area through the apertures by moving the flow-modifying devices between the open and closed conditions. A non-limiting example is depicted in FIG.2, where a motor (202) rotates a first gear (204), which in turn rotates a second gear (206) which, depending on the direction of rotation, either moves the flow- modifying devices (126) to occlude the apertures (116), or moves the flow-modifying devices (126) away from and not occluding the apertures (116).

[0070] In one embodiment, the actuator is selected from the group consisting of servomechanical, hydraulic, electromechanical, electromagnetic, and pneumatic actuators.

[0071] FIG.3(A) depicts another non-limiting example with a plurality of flow-modifying devices occluding the apertures and modifying the flow of matter.

[0072] FIG. 4 shows selective placement of rollers. Arcs (402) indicate where rollers are not placed.

[0073] Selective placement of balls / rollers

[0074] When fully loosened (i.e. no protrusion of the balls / rollers into the flexible tube), the ball / rollers are able to be removed from the mechanism. We can selectively remove / add balls / rollers to create complex shapes as shown in FIG.4. If we have ^^ possible slots / rollers, the number of ^^ potential configurations is

[0075] ∑^^^^! ^^=0 (^^!(^^−^) = 2^^ ^!)

[0076] For 8 rollers, this is 256 combinations. With selective placement of rollers, there is high potential for complex geometries, and placing the modules with varying configurations can have many benefits as described in the next section. 11 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0077] Placement in series

[0078] The selective placement of rollers can be combined with placing multiple modules in series, with different configurations as seen in FIG.5.

[0079] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a system comprising a first flow-control apparatus and a second flow-control apparatus connected in series, wherein each of the first and second flow-control apparatus comprises: (a) an inlet; (b) an outlet; (c) a central shaft extending along a longitudinal axis from the inlet to the outlet and having a wall that bounds a lumen and defines an inner surface and an outer circumferential surface, the outer circumferential surface comprising an externally threaded portion and at least one non- threaded portion, wherein at least one non-threaded portion includes one or more apertures extending through the wall from the outer circumferential surface to the lumen; (d) a flexible flow tube disposed within the lumen and lining the inner surface of the central shaft; (e) a cone piece having an internally threaded bore coaxial with the longitudinal axis and a non-threaded conical section, the internally threaded bore configured to engage the externally threaded portion of the central shaft; and (f) one or more flow-modifying devices disposed within an annular gap defined between the outer circumferential surface of the central shaft and an inner surface of the non-threaded conical section, the flow-modifying devices positioned radially outward of the apertures and configured to selectively occlude and not occlude the apertures upon rotation of the cone piece relative to the central shaft, wherein rotation in a first direction moves the flow-modifying devices into a closed condition in which they occlude the apertures, and rotation in an opposite, second direction moves the flow-modifying devices into an open condition in which they do not occlude the apertures; wherein, in each flow- control apparatus, the flow-modifying devices are configured to modify a flow of matter between the inlet and the outlet by selectively occluding the apertures; and wherein an outlet of the first flow-control apparatus is fluidly coupled to an inlet of the second flow-control apparatus, directly or via an intervening tube or conduit. 12 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0080] Some of the potential benefits of this include:

[0081] - Enhanced control overflow characteristics, where the velocity profile and pressure at each stage can be managed

[0082] - Improved mixing, wherein having multiple modules in series can create turbulence at different stages to create well-mixed fluid

[0083] - Noise reduction through careful control of the flow characteristics at each stage

[0084] - Reduced wear and tear by reducing pressure drops at each stage

[0085] - Customized flow patterns by varying the shape at each stage to create different spray patterns or jet shapes

[0086] In one embodiment, an outlet of the first flow-control apparatus is directly fluidly coupled to an inlet of the second flow-control apparatus.

[0087] In one embodiment, an outlet of the first flow-control apparatus is fluidly coupled to an inlet of the second flow-control apparatus via an intervening tube or conduit.

[0088] In one embodiment, each flow-modifying device comprises a ball.

[0089] In one embodiment, the flow-modifying devices comprise one or more rollers, each roller having a cylindrical outer surface and being oriented within the annular gap such that, upon rotation of the cone piece relative to the central shaft, the cylindrical outer surface is configured to occlude at least one of the apertures.

[0090] In one embodiment, the outlet comprises a nozzle.

[0091] In one embodiment, the flexible flow tube comprises an elastomeric flow tube.

[0092] In one embodiment, the flexible flow tube is resilient.

[0093] In one embodiment, the matter comprises a fluid, semi-solid, gel, or gas.

[0094] In one embodiment, the one or more apertures comprises a plurality of apertures that are asymmetrically distributed about the shaft.

[0095] In one embodiment, the one or more apertures comprises a plurality of apertures that are symmetrically distributed about the shaft. 13 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0096] In one embodiment, each of the first and second flow-control apparatus further comprises an actuator operatively coupled to the cone piece and a controller configured to rotate the cone piece relative to the central shaft to continuously and automatically vary an effective flow area through the apertures by moving the flow-modifying devices between the open and closed conditions.

[0097] In one embodiment, the actuator is selected from the group consisting of servomechanical, hydraulic, electromechanical, electromagnetic, and pneumatic actuators.

[0098] Design Analysis

[0099] To ensure the functionality of the design, the following analysis is considered:

[0100] Function from turn of cone to ball movement and Rmin.

[0101] This problem aims to parametrize the turn of the cone to a designated movement of the balls, and consequently a minimum radius (FIG.6).

[0102] Variables:

[0103] • R0→ Radius of flow tube

[0104] • R1→ Radius of bearing balls

[0105] • Rmin → Smallest Radius of flow tube constriction

[0106] • ^^ → distance that balls were moved into flow tube

[0107] • ^^ → distance traveled by cone

[0108] • Φ → Angle of cone wall

[0109] • pitch of cone threads (not pictured)

[0110] Solution:

[0111] • From threads: ^^ = ^^ * ^^^^^^^^^^

[0112] • From trigonometry: ^^ = ^^ tan ϕ

[0113] • From tube geometry:

[0114] 2^^^^^^^^ = 2^^0 − 2^^^^^^^^^^ = ^^0 − (^^ ∗ ^^^^^^^^^^)(^^^^^^ϕ)14 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0115] Change in area of flow tube with ball movement - Top View Estimate

[0116] This problem aims to estimate the change in cross-sectional area of the flow tube with the variable for distance that the spheres were pushed. The following diagram represents this problem from the top view, using circles for simplification (FIG.7):

[0117] Variables:

[0118] • R0 → Radius of Large Circle (flow tube)

[0119] • A0→ Area of Large Circle (flow tube)

[0120] • R1→ Radius of small circle (steel bearing balls)

[0121] • A1 → Area of Large circle after deformation

[0122] • ^^ → distance that steel balls were pushed in

[0123] The design currently has four bearing balls, but the number of balls used should not be used to limit the present invention. This analysis works for any number of balls. To find the Area (A1) once the small circles have moved into it by the distance a, we first find the area of intersection between two circles. Then we subtract the intersections from the area of the larger circle.

[0124] Area of Intersection (FIG.8):

[0125] The specific solution for finding the area of intersection is given as:

[0126] ^^^^2+^^2−^^2^^^^^^ = ^^2^^^^^^−1( 2^^^^) + ^^2^^^^^^−1 (^^2−^^2+^^22^^^^ )−

[0128] ^^1 = ^^ − 4^^ = ^^^^20 ^^^^^^ 0 − 4^^^^^^^^

[0129] while substituting variables from our problem statement:

[0130] • ^^ = ^^0

[0131] • ^^ = ^^1

[0132] • ^^ = ^^0 + ^^1 – ^^ 15 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0133] Δv and ΔP of flow with change in area

[0134] This problem aims to estimate the change in velocity and pressure of the flow within the tube due to the change in cross-sectional area (FIG. 9). It is an estimate with several assumptions for a sanity check. The assumptions of the model include: the effect of gravity is negligible (Δh is only ~2 in), inviscid flow (zero viscosity), and incompressible, steady flow.

[0135] Variables:

[0136] • R0→ Radius of flow tube

[0137] • A0→ Area of flow tube before constriction

[0138] • v0 → Velocity of flow before constriction

[0139] • P0 → Pressure of flow before constriction

[0140] • A1→ Area of constricted flow tube

[0141] • v1 → Velocity of flow after constriction

[0142] • P1 → Pressure of flow after constriction

[0143] • ρ → density of molten thermoplastic

[0144] • ṁ → mass flow rate of thermoplastic

[0145] Continuity calculation:

[0146] ^^0^^0 = ^^1^^1^^ ^^ =01^^1^^0

[0147] Using mass flow rate:

[0148] ^̇^= ^^ ^^ ^ ^^ =^̇^ ^^0 0 0^^0^^

[0149] Bernoulli calculation (the effect of gravity is negligible in this case since h0– h1is very small:

[0150] ^^ + 1 0 ^^^^2 + ^^^^ℎ = ^^ +1 00 1^^^^21 + ^^^^ℎ116 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0151] Combining the calculations:

[0152] Δ^^ =122 ^^(^^0 − ^^12) 1 ^̇^ 2 Δ^^ =^^0^̇^ 2 ^̇^21 1 2^^ ((^^0^^)− (^^1^^0^^)) =2^^ ( ^^20− ^^21)

[0153] , ρ of PET, tube dimensions from CAD,and P0= 2000 psi: the change in pressure was found to be negligible.

[0154] Free Body Diagrams (FBDs) / Torque Required to turn Cone

[0155] Using FBDs of the mechanism with the forces acting on the threads and the thread parameters listed, this problem aims to find a formula for the Torque required to turn the cone piece in terms of the Force from fluid pressure (FIGS.10(A)-(C)). FIGS.10(A), 10(B), and 10(C) show free body diagrams depicting the forces experienced by parts of the mechanism during fluid flow. FIG.10(A) is a combination of FIGS.10(B) and 10(C), and is a system FBD showing all internal forces related to fluid flow. FIG. 10(B) shows the forces experienced by the cone piece, specifically the force from the threads and the force from the bearing balls ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^. The equation is a force balance in the vertical direction. FIG.10(C) shows the forces experienced by an individual bearing ball (in this case, the right bearing ball shown in FIG.10(A)), specifically the normal force the cone piece applies on the ball (^^^^^^^^^^^^) and the resultant force from the pressure of the fluid. The equation is a force balance in the horizontal direction.

[0156] Free body diagrams and important resulting equations:

[0157] Variables:

[0158] • FR,ball→ Force of ball pushing on cone

[0159] • FR,t → Force of threads pushing on cone

[0160] • FP → Pressure force acting on ball

[0161] • Φ → Angle of cone wall

[0162] • dm→ Mean diameter of threads 17 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0163] • f → coefficient of friction of threads

[0164] • l → lead of threads = pitch / 2

[0165] Formula for Torque required to raise the load on a threaded mechanism with an applied force F, from Shigley’s Ch.8:

[0166] ^^ ^^^^ ^^+^^^^^^ ^ =^^^2 (^^^^^^^^−^^^^)

[0170] Circumferential Radius Adjustment Control

[0171] A mechanism consisting of interwoven rectangular pieces of thin, flexible material are ordered around the circumference of flow through a pipe and are angled inwards, such that at a low flow rate the diameter of flow permitted through the space between the thin, flexible petals is minimized. When the flow through the pipe increases, the pressure against the petals increases the inner diameter increases and allows for a wider flow. The simplest form of this is entirely passive; however, actuation of the angle at which the petals converge towards the center can be adjusted, changing the response of the flow’s exit diameter as back pressure changes. Actuation of the petals in or out from the center, along the direction tangential to their base can allow for a change of flow diameter at a fixed pressure. In some applications, allowing the whole mechanism to rotate may be desirable and can enable a constant shape of the flow passing through despite potential movement of the mechanism and its direction. This mechanism can be mechanized to change the size / shape, in turn allowing for changing parameters of fluid passing through including shape, size, pressure, and direction.

[0172] A mechanism consisting of interlocked rectangular or trapezoidal pieces of thin, flexible material, here termed petals, are positioned down the direction of flow, but permitted to adjust angle at the edge of their mounting. For each of the petals, or fewer if deemed sufficient for 18 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT flow control, a curved piece of material is placed such that it buckles and enters contact with the petals restricting flow. The gradual bend of the buckled piece of material is advantageous as it avoids creating a concentrated load on the petals, while providing support if there is substantial pressure in the flow. A piece of softer material may be placed between the petal and buckled material to further reduce stress concentrations or for desirable thermal isolation of the flow from the exterior of the system. The downstream end of the buckled material can then be connected to a screw, or other kind of linear actuator, and the control of this end can enable control of how far in the material buckles, thus restricting the diameter of the petals and the flow within them. Actuation of the buckling component enables for shaping of the bead. This mechanism can be mechanized to change the size / shape, in turn allowing for changing parameters of fluid passing through including shape, size, pressure, and direction.

[0173] In yet another embodiment, as depicted in FIGS. 11(A)-(B) and FIGS. 15(A)-(B), the present invention provides an outlet assembly for matter, the outlet assembly comprising: (a) a rigid pipe defining a central axis and an outlet end; (b) a circumferential array of vanes formed of thin, flexible material, each vane having a base portion secured adjacent the outlet end and a free edge extending radially inward to define an outlet orifice, each vane being angled inward relative to the central axis; and (c) a collar surrounding the vanes and including a buckling member positioned radially outward of the vanes, the buckling member being axially displaceable to deflect radially inward into distributed surface contact with the vanes, whereby axial displacement of the buckling member changes the inward angle of the vanes and thereby varies at least one of a size and a shape of the outlet orifice.

[0174] In one embodiment, the vanes are rectangular or trapezoidal and are arranged symmetrically around the pipe.

[0175] In one embodiment, the outlet assembly further comprises a compliant layer disposed between the buckling member and the vanes to reduce stress concentration and / or thermally isolate the flow. 19 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0176] In one embodiment, the buckling member is operatively coupled to a linear actuator selected from a screw drive, motorized leadscrew, or other linear actuator.

[0177] In one embodiment, increasing fluid flow through the pipe urges the vanes outward to increase the orifice diameter in a passive mode.

[0178] In one embodiment, the assembly is rotatable about the central axis to maintain a constant exit-flow shape despite movement.

[0179] In one embodiment, the vanes are hinged or flexurally compliant at their base to permit adjustment of the vane angle relative to the central axis.

[0180] In one embodiment, the outlet assembly further comprises a compliant layer disposed between the vanes and the buckling member, the compliant layer being configured to (i) distribute contact forces to reduce stress concentration on the vanes and / or (ii) thermally isolate the fluid from the buckling member.

[0181] In one embodiment, the outlet assembly further comprises an actuator operatively coupled to the buckling member and a controller configured to drive the actuator to axially displace the buckling member relative to the vanes and thereby continuously and automatically vary at least one of a size and a shape of the orifice without user intervention.

[0182] In one embodiment, the matter comprises a fluid, semi-solid, gel, or gas.

[0183] FIGS.11(A)-(B) depict Side and Overhead view of Flow-Adjusting Nozzle.

[0184] FIGS.12(A)-(C) depict Geometry and Governing Equations of Segmented Nozzle. FIGS. 12(A), 12(B), and 12(C) are diagrams used to calculate the necessary compression of the segmented nozzle petals to achieve a prescribed reduction in the exit diameter. FIG.12(A) shows an overhead and side view of the nozzles with the variables Ai and ri indicated. FIG. 12(B) depicts the arc formed by the buckled petal when under compression, and relevant measurements (h being the vertical distance between the entrance and exit, l being the length of the petal, r being the radius of the arc formed by the buckled petal, and d1 being half the 20 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT reduction in diameter). FIG.12(C) shows the petals in various states as a function of the arc's central angle θ (at θ = 0, 90, and 180 degrees).

[0185] Bernoulli between an upstream section (0) and a downstream section (1) across a single module is given below. It relates how static pressure trades with kinetic energy (and small hydrostatic differences) as the orifice size is adjusted by the balls / rollers (or petals). Assumptions include: steady, incompressible flow; negligible shaft work across the control volume; elevation change across the module being small; and viscous losses neglected for this estimate.

[0186] ^^ 120+ 2 ^^^^0 + ^^^^ℎ0 = ^^1 +122 ^^^^1 + ^^^^ℎ1at nearly the same elevation (few inches), so the hydrostatic term above can be ignored, i.e., ∆ℎ = ℎ1 − ℎ0 ≈ 0

[0188] Accordingly, ∆^^ =122 ^^(^^0 − ^^12)

[0189] Now, considering the geometry for the segmented / petaled nozzle. A regular n-gon can be decomposed into n identical isosceles triangles (central angle 2π / n). Each triangle has area 1 2^^2 sin(2^^⁄ ^^ ). Accordingly, the per-segment area at circumradius R=r0 (before actuation) andR=r1 (after actuation) is given below.

[0190] ^^ 120= 2 ^^0 sin (2^^ ^^ )

[0191] ^^ 1 2^ 1 = ^^221 sin (^ ^^ )

[0192] Now, the Bernoulli equation combined with continuity A0V0=A1V1 and ^̇^ = ^^^^^^ yields:

[0193] ∆^^ =^̇^2( 1 2 − 1 ^^ ^^2for a buckled petal is modeled as a circular arc. The petal’s material length l doesn’t change; as you increase central angle θ (more buckling), the arc radius r must decrease so that^^ = ^^^^ stays constant, where l is fixed and ^^1 = ^^0 − ^^1.

[0195] Next, chord length of the same petal arc is given by: 21 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0196] ℎ = 2^^ sin (^^) =2^^ 2sin (^^ ^^ 2) arc, i.e., the radial inboard displacement of the petaledge caused by buckling, is given by:

[0200] ^^^^ ^^ ^^ ^ 1= ^^ − ^^ cos2= ^^ (1 − cos(2)) =^^(1 − cos (^ 2))Regime of Reynolds Numbers. FIG.13 depicts the static pressure on the petals during fluid flow and is used to analyze the flow in the Bernoulli regime where the flow is laminar. The equation for force down integrates the pressure across the arc of the petal where the fluid is in contact with the petal, and is then multiplied across the circumference of the nozzle opening.

[0202] For Bernoulli Regime ^^^^^^^^^^^^ = ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ + ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ = ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ + ^^ ^^^^ ≫ 1

[0203] ^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^ = ∫^^ 0^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ .2^^^^under Viscosity-Dominated Regime. FIGS.14(A) and 14(B) are also used to calculate the pressure on the petals. FIG.14(A) is the same as FIG.13. FIG.14(B) is used to calculate the nozzle opening radius at each point along the petal.

[0209] For Viscous Regime ^^^^^^^^^^^^ = ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ + ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ = ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ + ^^ ^^^^ ≪ 1

[0210] Downward (axial) resultant from normal static pressure pressing on the curved petal surface is given by: 22 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0211] ^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^ = ∫^^ 0^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ .2^^^^of all three tractions on the wetted petal, i.e., normal staticpressure, any normal “dynamic” pressure / curvature effect, and tangential viscous shear (“drag”).

[0213] Viscous

[0214] ^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^ = ∬^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ + ∬^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ + ∬^^^^^^^^component (along ^^ instead of ^̂^) is given as:

[0216] Viscous

[0217] ^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ = ∬^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ + ∬^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ + ∬^^^^^^^^

[0219] ^^^^ =32^^^̅^ ^^2^^^^ where D is the hydraulic diameter.

[0220] The radius as a function of arc angle ∅ is given by:

[0221] ^^′ = ^^ ′1 + ^^(1 − cos∅)

[0222] Static pressure on the petal is given by:

[0223] ^⃗^^^^^^^^^^^^^ = ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ . (−^̂^) = ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^(cos∅^̂^ + sin∅^̂^)contribution to wall traction is negligible compared to viscous shear and the static pressure field.

[0225] ^⃗^ 1 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^= 2 ^^^^2~0shear traction is tangent to the petal arc (along +∅), which hascomponents (sin∅ , cos∅) in (^^, ^̂^), and is given as:

[0227] ^⃗^ 32^^^̅^ ^^^^^^^^= ^^2(−sin∅^̂^ + cos∅^̂^)23 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT 2^ ^^

[0229] ^⃗^^^^^^^^^ = ∬^⃗^^^^^^^^^^^^^ + ∬^⃗^^^^^^^^^ = ∫^∫2 0 0(^^1)^^^^^^^^^^^^^^(sin∅ ^̂^)^^∅^^^^ +has a horizontalcomponent of the pressure-normal and a horizontal component of the shear traction as follows:

[0232] ^^ = ^^ (cos ^^) −32^^^̅^ ^^ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^2sin ^^

[0233] FIGS.15(A) side views of the screw-actuated diameter-adjusting nozzlein two states. In FIG.15(A), the screws are loosened such that the petals are straighter and not as buckled, maintaining a larger nozzle diameter and the same properties of the upstream fluid flow. In FIG.15(B), the screws are configured such that the petals are further buckled, decreasing the diameter of the nozzle and restricting the fluid flow.

[0234] The above-described features and applications can be implemented as software processes that are specified as a set of instructions recorded on a computer readable storage medium (also referred to as computer readable medium). When these instructions are executed by one or more processing unit(s) (e.g., one or more processors, cores of processors, or other processing units), they cause the processing unit(s) to perform the actions indicated in the instructions. Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure may also include tangible and / or non-transitory computer-readable storage media for carrying or having computer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such non- transitory computer-readable storage media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer, including the functional design of any special purpose processor. By way of example, and not limitation, such non-transitory computer-readable media can include flash memory, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or 24 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions, data structures, or processor chip design. The computer readable media does not include carrier waves and electronic signals passing wirelessly or over wired connections.

[0235] Computer-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing device to perform a certain function or group of functions. Computer-executable instructions also include program modules that are executed by computers in stand-alone or network environments. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, components, data structures, objects, and the functions inherent in the design of special-purpose processors, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Computer- executable instructions, associated data structures, and program modules represent examples of the program code means for executing steps of the methods disclosed herein. The particular sequence of such executable instructions or associated data structures represents examples of corresponding acts for implementing the functions described in such steps.

[0236] Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read- only memory or a random access memory or both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor for performing or executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g., magnetic, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks. However, a computer need not have such devices. 25 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT

[0237] In this specification, the term “software” is meant to include firmware residing in read-only memory or applications stored in magnetic storage or flash storage, for example, a solid-state drive, which can be read into memory for processing by a processor. Also, in some implementations, multiple software technologies can be implemented as sub-parts of a larger program while remaining distinct software technologies. In some implementations, multiple software technologies can also be implemented as separate programs. Finally, any combination of separate programs that together implement a software technology described here is within the scope of the subject technology. In some implementations, the software programs, when installed to operate on one or more electronic systems, define one or more specific machine implementations that execute and perform the operations of the software programs.

[0238] A computer program (also known as a program, software, software application, script, or code) can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, declarative or procedural languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, object, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program may, but need not, correspond to a file in a file system. A program can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document), in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files that store one or more modules, sub programs, or portions of code). A computer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers that are located at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by a communication network.

[0239] These functions described above can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, in computer software, firmware or hardware. The techniques can be implemented using one or more computer program products. Programmable processors and computers can be included in or packaged as mobile devices. The processes and logic flows can be performed by one 26 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT or more programmable processors and by one or more programmable logic circuitry. General and special purpose computing devices and storage devices can be interconnected through communication networks.

[0240] Some implementations include electronic components, for example microprocessors, storage and memory that store computer program instructions in a machine-readable or computer-readable medium (alternatively referred to as computer-readable storage media, machine-readable media, or machine-readable storage media). Some examples of such computer-readable media include RAM, ROM, read-only compact discs (CD-ROM), recordable compact discs (CD-R), rewritable compact discs (CD-RW), read-only digital versatile discs (e.g., DVD-ROM, dual-layer DVD-ROM), a variety of recordable / rewritable DVDs (e.g., DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, etc.), flash memory (e.g., SD cards, mini-SD cards, micro-SD cards, etc.), magnetic or solid state hard drives, read-only and recordable Blu-Ray®discs, ultra density optical discs, any other optical or magnetic media, and floppy disks. The computer-readable media can store a computer program that is executable by at least one processing unit and includes sets of instructions for performing various operations. Examples of computer programs or computer code include machine code, for example is produced by a compiler, and files including higher-level code that are executed by a computer, an electronic component, or a microprocessor using an interpreter.

[0241] While the above discussion primarily refers to microprocessor or multi-core processors that execute software, some implementations are performed by one or more integrated circuits, for example application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). In some implementations, such integrated circuits execute instructions that are stored on the circuit itself.

[0242] As used in this specification and any claims of this application, the terms “computer”, “server”, “processor”, and “memory” all refer to electronic or other technological devices. These terms exclude people or groups of people. For the purposes of the specification, the 27 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT terms display or displaying means displaying on an electronic device. As used in this specification and any claims of this application, the terms “computer readable medium” and “computer readable media” are entirely restricted to tangible, physical objects that store information in a form that is readable by a computer. These terms exclude any wireless signals, wired download signals, and any other ephemeral signals.

[0243] It is understood that any specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of example approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged, or that all illustrated steps be performed. Some of the steps may be performed simultaneously. For example, in certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components illustrated above should not be understood as requiring such separation, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0244] Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language claims, where reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.” Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter gender (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the subject technology.

[0245] A phrase, for example, an “aspect” does not imply that the aspect is essential to the subject technology or that the aspect applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A phrase, for example, an aspect may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa. A phrase, 28 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT for example, a “configuration” does not imply that such configuration is essential to the subject technology or that such configuration applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to a configuration may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A phrase, for example, a configuration may refer to one or more configurations and vice versa.

[0246] The various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize various modifications and changes that may be made to the principles described herein without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described herein, and without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[0247] While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any invention or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular embodiments of particular inventions. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

[0248] Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the embodiments 29 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0249] As noted above, particular embodiments of the subject matter have been described, but other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. For example, the actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different order and still achieve desirable results. As one example, the processes depicted in the accompanying figures do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. In certain implementations, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. CONCLUSION

[0250] A system and method have been shown in the above embodiments for the effective implementation of a system, method and article of manufacture for continuously variable topological manifold for entrapped flow control. While various preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be understood that there is no intent to limit the invention by such disclosure, but rather, it is intended to cover all modifications falling within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims. 30 1532995.1

Claims

Docket No. MIT 26044PCT WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An apparatus (100) comprising: (a) an inlet (102); (b) an outlet (104); (c) a central shaft (106) extending along a longitudinal axis from the inlet to the outlet and having a wall that bounds a lumen and defines an inner surface (108) and an outer circumferential surface (110), the outer circumferential surface comprising an externally threaded portion and at least one non-threaded portion (112), wherein at least one non-threaded portion (114) includes one or more apertures (116) extending through the wall from the outer circumferential surface to the lumen; (d) a flexible flow tube (118) disposed within the lumen and lining the inner surface of the central shaft (106); (e) a cone piece (120) having an internally threaded bore (122) coaxial with the longitudinal axis and a non-threaded conical section (124), the internally threaded bore (122) configured to engage the externally threaded portion of the central shaft (112); and (f) one or more flow-modifying devices (126) disposed within an annular gap (128) defined between the outer circumferential surface (110) of the central shaft (106) and an inner surface of the non-threaded conical section (124), the flow-modifying devices (126) positioned radially outward of the apertures (116) and configured to selectively occlude and not occlude the apertures (116) upon rotation of the cone piece (120) relative to the central shaft (106), wherein rotation in a first direction moves the flow- modifying devices (126) into a closed condition in which they occlude the apertures (116), and rotation in an opposite, second direction moves the flow-modifying devices into an open condition in which they do not occlude the apertures (116); and 31 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT wherein the flow-modifying devices (126) are configured to modify a flow of matter between the inlet (102) and the outlet (104) by selectively occluding the apertures (116).

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each flow-modifying device (126) comprises a ball.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flow-modifying devices (126) comprise one or more rollers, each roller having a cylindrical outer surface and being oriented within the annular gap such that, upon rotation of the cone piece relative to the central shaft (106), the cylindrical outer surface is configured to occlude at least one of the apertures.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the outlet (104) comprises a nozzle.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flexible flow tube (118) comprises an elastomeric flow tube.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flexible flow tube (118) is resilient.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the matter comprises a fluid, semi-solid, gel, or gas.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more apertures (116) comprises a plurality of apertures that are asymmetrically distributed about the central shaft.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more apertures (116) comprises a plurality of apertures that are symmetrically distributed about the central shaft.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus further comprises an actuator operatively coupled to the cone piece and a controller configured to rotate the cone piece relative to the central shaft to continuously and automatically vary an effective flow area through the apertures by moving the flow-modifying devices between the open and closed conditions.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the actuator is selected from the group consisting of servomechanical, hydraulic, electromechanical, electromagnetic, and pneumatic actuators.

12. A system comprising a first flow-control apparatus and a second flow-control apparatus connected in series, wherein each of the first and second flow-control apparatus comprises: (a) an inlet; 32 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT (b) an outlet; (c) a central shaft extending along a longitudinal axis from the inlet to the outlet and having a wall that bounds a lumen and defines an inner surface and an outer circumferential surface, the outer circumferential surface comprising an externally threaded portion and at least one non-threaded portion, wherein at least one non-threaded portion includes one or more apertures extending through the wall from the outer circumferential surface to the lumen; (d) a flexible flow tube disposed within the lumen and lining the inner surface of the central shaft; (e) a cone piece having an internally threaded bore coaxial with the longitudinal axis and a non-threaded conical section, the internally threaded bore configured to engage the externally threaded portion of the central shaft; and (f) one or more flow-modifying devices disposed within an annular gap defined between the outer circumferential surface of the central shaft and an inner surface of the non- threaded conical section, the flow-modifying devices positioned radially outward of the apertures and configured to selectively occlude and not occlude the apertures upon rotation of the cone piece relative to the central shaft, wherein rotation in a first direction moves the flow-modifying devices into a closed condition in which they occlude the apertures, and rotation in an opposite, second direction moves the flow-modifying devices into an open condition in which they do not occlude the apertures; wherein, in each flow-control apparatus, the flow-modifying devices are configured to modify a flow of matter between the inlet and the outlet by selectively occluding the apertures; and wherein an outlet of the first flow-control apparatus is fluidly coupled to an inlet of the second flow-control apparatus, directly or via an intervening tube or conduit.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein an outlet of the first flow-control apparatus is directly fluidly coupled to an inlet of the second flow-control apparatus. 33 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT 14. The system of claim 12, wherein an outlet of the first flow-control apparatus is fluidly coupled to an inlet of the second flow-control apparatus via an intervening tube or conduit.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein each flow-modifying device comprises a ball.

16. The system of claim 12, wherein the flow-modifying devices comprise one or more rollers, each roller having a cylindrical outer surface and being oriented within the annular gap such that, upon rotation of the cone piece relative to the central shaft, the cylindrical outer surface is configured to occlude at least one of the apertures.

17. The system of claim 12, wherein the outlet comprises a nozzle.

18. The system of claim 12, wherein the flexible flow tube comprises an elastomeric flow tube.

19. The system of claim 12, wherein the flexible flow tube is resilient.

20. The system of claim 12, wherein the matter comprises a fluid, semi-solid, gel, or gas.

21. The system of claim 12, wherein the one or more apertures comprises a plurality of apertures that are asymmetrically distributed about the shaft.

22. The system of claim 12, wherein the one or more apertures comprises a plurality of apertures that are symmetrically distributed about the shaft.

23. The system of claim 12, wherein each of the first and second flow-control apparatus further comprises an actuator operatively coupled to the cone piece and a controller configured to rotate the cone piece relative to the central shaft to continuously and automatically vary an effective flow area through the apertures by moving the flow-modifying devices between the open and closed conditions.

24. The system of claim 23, wherein the actuator is selected from the group consisting of servomechanical, hydraulic, electromechanical, electromagnetic, and pneumatic actuators.

25. An outlet assembly for matter, the outlet assembly comprising: (a) a rigid pipe defining a central axis and an outlet end; 34 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT (b) a circumferential array of vanes formed of thin, flexible material, each vane having a base portion secured adjacent the outlet end and a free edge extending radially inward to define an outlet orifice, each vane being angled inward relative to the central axis; and (c) a collar surrounding the vanes and including a buckling member positioned radially outward of the vanes, the buckling member being axially displaceable to deflect radially inward into distributed surface contact with the vanes, whereby axial displacement of the buckling member changes the inward angle of the vanes and thereby varies at least one of a size and a shape of the outlet orifice.

26. The outlet assembly of claim 25, wherein the vanes are rectangular or trapezoidal and are arranged symmetrically around the pipe.

27. The outlet assembly of claim 25, further comprising a compliant layer disposed between the buckling member and the vanes to reduce stress concentration and / or thermally isolate the flow.

28. The outlet assembly of claim 25, wherein the buckling member is operatively coupled to a linear actuator selected from a screw drive, motorized leadscrew, or other linear actuator.

29. The outlet assembly of claim 25, wherein increasing fluid flow through the pipe urges the vanes outward to increase the orifice diameter in a passive mode.

30. The outlet assembly of claim 25, wherein the assembly is rotatable about the central axis to maintain a constant exit-flow shape despite movement.

31. The outlet assembly of claim 25, wherein the vanes are hinged or flexurally compliant at their base to permit adjustment of the vane angle relative to the central axis.

32. The outlet assembly of claim 25, further comprising a compliant layer disposed between the vanes and the buckling member, the compliant layer being configured to (i) distribute contact forces to reduce stress concentration on the vanes and / or (ii) thermally isolate the fluid from the buckling member. 35 1532995.1Docket No. MIT 26044PCT 33. The outlet assembly of claim 25, further comprising an actuator operatively coupled to the buckling member and a controller configured to drive the actuator to axially displace the buckling member relative to the vanes and thereby continuously and automatically vary at least one of a size and a shape of the orifice without user intervention.

34. The outlet assembly of claim 25, wherein the matter comprises a fluid, semi-solid, gel, or gas. 36 1532995.1

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