Anti-collapse Valve Support for Flexible Fluid Containers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible containers used in wet chemistry instruments often collapse or deform, blocking fluid flow and leading to incorrect instrument readings or interruptions in workflow, especially when less than 50% full, due to the shape and composition of the container.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly with an anti-collapse support structure, such as a cage, corkscrew-shaped, or extended beam, is integrated into the flexible container to prevent collapse and ensure consistent fluid flow by maintaining fluidic communication between the container and the valve, even when the container is pressurized.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible container is used for fluid storage, then the container can be compact and adaptable to different volumes, but the container walls may collapse and block fluid flow when less than 50% full
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple segments including a header portion, multiple beam portions extending from the header, and a base portion. This segmentation allows each component to independently support different regions of the container, preventing collapse while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure extends into the interior volume of the container from the valve assembly, creating a three-dimensional support framework. This dimensional approach provides structural integrity throughout the container volume rather than just at the walls, preventing collapse that would block the valve.
2Volume of stationary object
If the flexible container collapses, then the container volume decreases, but the interior surface blocks fluidic communication between the container and valve
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure acts as an intermediary element between the container walls and the valve assembly. It mediates the mechanical stress and prevents the container walls from contacting and blocking the valve, while still allowing fluid to flow freely through the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is installed in advance to prevent the harmful collapse effect before it occurs. By providing preliminary structural support, the system prevents the container walls from blocking the valve, eliminating the need for corrective actions during fluid delivery.
3Reliability
If a support structure is added to prevent collapse, then fluid flow consistency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure utilizes thin, flexible beam portions that can bend and deform as the container volume changes. This flexibility allows the support structure to adapt to different fill levels without adding rigid, complex mechanical components, maintaining simplicity while ensuring reliable fluid flow.
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly for use with a flexible container, in which the valve assembly is anchored to the flexible container. The valve assembly provides for the egress of fluid from the flexible container such that the interior surfaces flexible container do not block or otherwise prevent fluid flow or fluidic communication between the interior of the flexible container and the valve assembly. The portion of the valve assembly within the interior of the flexible container includes a support structure that prevents the walls of the flexible container from collapsing down on, and blocking either completely or in part, fluid flow through the opening of the valve inside of the flexible container.