Adjustable Bypass Flow Rate Limiting Valve for Manipulators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid flow rate limiting valves for mechanical load manipulators cannot be calibrated to match specific loads, leading to inefficiencies and safety concerns, as they either require replacement or operate suboptimally across a range of loads.
Innovation Solution
A fluid flow rate limiting valve with adjustable by-pass channels and regulating means, allowing calibration of flow rates based on the load, featuring a shutter with perimeter and central gaps, and a compact design for easy installation and overload protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed flow rate limiting valve is used, then the valve structure is simple, but the valve cannot be calibrated to match specific loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the by-pass channel adjustable rather than fixed. The regulating means (screw mechanism) allows the by-pass channel passage section to be dynamically modified to match different load requirements, transforming a static valve into an adaptable system that can be calibrated for specific applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the passage section of the by-pass channel to be varied through the regulating means. This enables adjustment of the flow rate parameter to match different load conditions, providing calibration capability without requiring complete valve replacement.
2Measurement precision
If the valve is designed for a specific load, then the flow rate control is precise, but the valve must be replaced when load changes
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable by-pass channel with regulating means allows the valve to adapt to different load conditions dynamically. Instead of replacing the valve when load changes, the user can modify the by-pass channel passage section to maintain precise flow rate control, significantly reducing downtime and operational interruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables parameter adjustment of the by-pass channel passage section to match different load requirements. This eliminates the need for valve replacement when loads change, as the same valve can be recalibrated by modifying the by-pass channel dimensions through the regulating means.
3Productivity
If the by-pass channel is always open, then fluid flow is unrestricted, but flow rate cannot be limited during sudden movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fluid flow path into two distinct routes: the main conduit with the shutter for flow rate limiting, and the by-pass channel for unrestricted flow. This segmentation allows the system to provide both safety control through the shutter and productivity through the by-pass channel, resolving the contradiction between unrestricted flow and flow rate limitation.
Solution Approach 2:
The by-pass channel acts as an intermediary element that provides an alternative flow path when the main conduit needs flow rate limitation. During sudden movements, the shutter closes to limit flow through the main conduit, but the by-pass channel remains open to maintain some fluid flow, balancing safety and productivity.
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 calibration of flow rates to match the load, enhancing safety and productivity by avoiding the need for frequent valve replacements and ensuring optimal control of mechanical arm movements.
Implementation Method 1
a shutter (5) interposed between a pair of springs (55, 65) which render it floatational inside the main conduit (2a)
Implementation Method 2
The shutter (5) is immersed in the flow of fluid and is equipped with a plurality of perimeter gaps (5a) positioned along the perimeter of the shutter and designed to be passed through by the fluid
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Described is a fluid flow rate limiting valve (1), in particular for manipulators, comprising: a chamber (2) defining a main conduit (2a) for the passage of an operating fluid, the chamber (2) having an inlet opening (2i) and a delivery opening (2m) for the fluid; an inlet conduit (3) connected to the inlet opening (2i) of the chamber (2); a delivery conduit (4) connected to the delivery opening (2m) of the chamber (2); a shutter (5) positioned inside the main conduit (2a) of the chamber (2) and movable between an operating position for allowing passage of the fluid and an operating position for at least partly obstructing the passage of the fluid towards the delivery opening (2m), in such a way as to limit the fluid flow rate in the delivery opening (2m). More specifically, the valve (1) comprises: at least one main by-pass channel (6) forming a fluid communication passage between the inlet conduit (3) and the delivery conduit (4); means (7) for regulating the passage section of the main by-pass channel (6); the main by-pass channel (6) allowing or blocking the passage of fluid irrespective of the operating position of the shutter (5).