Active Valve Preload Adjustment for Real-Time Shimming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional valve shimming methods for adjusting spring preload are time-consuming and difficult to modify during operation, leading to variations in steady-state performance and limitations in active preload adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A system with a moveable component, biasing member, and actuator connected to a controller, allowing for active adjustment of the preload member using a mechanical advantage device, such as a lever arm, to change the displacement and force applied to the biasing member, enabling on-the-fly preload adjustment without shutting down the fluid system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional shimming methods are used to adjust valve spring preload, then the valve can be adjusted during initial installation, but the process is time-consuming and cannot be modified during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static shimming process into a dynamic adjustment mechanism. A motor-driven actuator continuously moves a preload member (such as a screw or cam) to adjust the valve spring preload in real-time during operation, allowing the system to adapt to changing conditions without shutdown or time-consuming manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical shimming operations with an automated motor-driven system. The motor actuator translates rotational motion into linear displacement of the preload member, eliminating the need for manual insertion and adjustment of shims, thereby reducing adjustment time and enabling remote or automated control.
2Ease of operation
If manual shimming or adjustment screws are used, then valve preload can be adjusted, but additional factors in valve design lead to variation in steady-state performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback control where sensors monitor valve performance parameters (such as spring pressure, valve position, or flow characteristics) and feed this information to a controller. The controller automatically adjusts the motor actuator to maintain optimal preload, compensating for design variations and ensuring consistent steady-state performance across different valve units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic change of the preload parameter during operation. By continuously adjusting the preload member position based on real-time conditions, the system compensates for manufacturing tolerances and design variations, maintaining optimal performance across different valve configurations and operating conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional shimming methods are used, then initial valve installation is possible, but adjusting preload during operation is difficult or impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamically adjustable preload system where a motor-driven actuator can modify valve spring compression in real-time during operation. This allows the valve to adapt to changing system conditions, fluid properties, or performance requirements without requiring shutdown or manual intervention, significantly enhancing operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional valve system that combines the basic valve function with integrated preload adjustment capability. The motor actuator and control system enable the valve to perform both flow control and adaptive preload optimization, making it universally applicable across varying operating conditions without requiring separate adjustment mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise and dynamic adjustment of valve performance by changing the operating set point based on real-time feedback, improving accuracy and performance while minimizing system disturbance, and allowing for compensation of changes in load or temperature.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator can include a piezoelectric actuator
Implementation Method 2
a mechanical advantage device operatively connected between the preload member and the actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to move the preload member via the mechanical advantage device
Data Source
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AI summary
In accordance with at least one aspect of this disclosure, a system can include, a moveable component (102) configured to move between one or more positions, a biasing member (104) operatively connected on a first side (106) to bias the moveable component to a respective one of the one or more positions, and a preload member (108) operatively connected to provide a force to a second side (110) of the biasing member. An actuator (112) can be operatively connected to move the preload member in response to a signal (114) from a controller (116).