Integrated Aircraft Tank Drain Ball Valve for Tight Installation Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft waste tank drain valves are not designed to be integrated within the tank's plumbing line, requiring additional space and complicating installation, and they fail to efficiently manage fluid flow under varying conditions such as turbulence and temperature changes.
Innovation Solution
A drain ball valve with an upper shell shaped to fit within the tank's plumbing line and a lower shell compatible with a funnel and bellow component, featuring a compact design that secures to the tank without altering its size, and includes a V-band coupling for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional drain ball valve is used, then the valve can control fluid flow, but it requires additional installation space and complicates installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the upper shell of the ball valve directly into the tank wall structure, merging two previously separate components (tank wall and valve mounting structure) into a unified assembly. This eliminates the need for external mounting brackets and reduces installation space requirements while maintaining valve functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper shell is designed with a universal integrated structure that simultaneously serves as both the tank wall and the valve mounting housing. This multi-functional design allows the same structural element to fulfill multiple roles, reducing the overall number of components and simplifying installation procedures.
2Reliability
If a conventional drain ball valve is used, then the valve can control fluid flow, but it fails to efficiently manage fluid flow under varying conditions such as turbulence and temperature changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a flexible bellows component between the lower shell and the outlet fitting, allowing the connection to dynamically adapt to temperature-induced expansion/contraction and turbulence-induced movements. This dynamic flexibility maintains seal integrity and prevents leakage under varying operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The bellows is constructed as a flexible metallic or polymer element that can expand and contract axially and radially, accommodating thermal expansion of the tank and piping system while maintaining a leak-proof seal. This flexible structure absorbs stress from turbulence and temperature variations without compromising the integrity of the fluid containment system.
Data Source
AI summary
A drain ball valve for an aircraft tank. Particular embodiments find use in connection with aircraft waste tanks. The drain ball valve has an upper shell that is shaped to be received within a tank drain plumbing line. The drain ball valve has a lower shell shaped to receive a funnel and/or a bellow component in order to help direct waste or other fluids exiting the tank.