Sequenced Ball Valve Mechanism for Low-Torque Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ball valves face challenges with complex structures, high torque, and frictional forces due to intricate mechanisms and sealing issues, which complicate assembly, increase costs, and are not environmentally friendly.
Innovation Solution
A valve design featuring a valve body, valve stem, and valve seat with a transmission device and position limiting device that allows the valve cartridge to rotate and move radially, reducing friction and torque by only pressing against the valve seat during closure, and utilizing positioning limiting structures to ensure proper movement sequences and sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a complex driving device is used to achieve low torque, then the valve can open and close smoothly, but the device occupies much space and has complex structure
Solution Approach 1:
The driving device is segmented into multiple functional components: a driving piece with cam surface, a transmission piece with groove, and a valve core with lifting portion. These segments work together to convert rotational motion into lifting and closing actions, reducing torque while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of the valve core directly rotating to close the valve, the invention inverts the mechanism: the driving piece rotates and uses its cam surface to lift the valve core, which then closes the valve. This inversion reduces the torque required for valve operation
2Reliability
If traditional sealing means are used, then the sealing process can be simplified, but leakage is likely to occur
Solution Approach 1:
The valve core is preliminarily lifted by the driving piece before the actual closing action. This preliminary lifting ensures proper alignment and contact between the valve core and valve seat, guaranteeing reliable sealing while simplifying the sealing process
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission piece acts as an intermediary between the driving piece and the valve core. It converts the cam surface motion into precise lifting and positioning of the valve core, ensuring reliable sealing contact
3Ease of operation
If a large rotation angle of 180 degrees is used, then the valve can be fully opened, but the workspace requirements increase and sealing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The valve core performs a dynamic motion sequence: first lifting vertically to separate from the valve seat, then rotating to the open position. This dynamic approach allows full opening while reducing the workspace requirements and simplifying sealing compared to a static 180-degree rotation
4Reliability
If the valve core continuously contacts the valve seat during operation, then sealing is maintained, but friction and torque increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve core engages in periodic contact with the valve seat: contacting during closing to maintain sealing, separating during opening to reduce friction. This periodic action ensures reliable sealing while minimizing frictional forces and torque
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
The design achieves low torque and reduced frictional forces, allowing for safe and efficient opening and closing of the valve with reduced environmental impact and simplified operation.
Implementation Method 1
the resilient ribs and the inner wall of the recess have disconnectable connection relationship... under the elastic effect of the elastic convex rib of the driving piece
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A valve (100, 200, 300). The valve (100, 200, 300) comprises a valve body (1); a valve rod (4, 302); a valve core (2, 2', 304); a vale base (3, 305); a transmission apparatus (5', 5", 307) used for transmitting movement of the valve rod (4, 302) to the valve core (2, 2', 304); and a limiting apparatus (1h, 1g) used for limiting the movement sequence of the valve core (2, 2', 304). The limiting apparatus (1h, 1g) is used for limiting the movement of the valve core (2, 2', 304) during opening of the valve (100, 200, 300). The valve (100, 200, 300) can be opened according to a movement sequence, has a compact structure, and is easy to operate.