Ballpoint Valve with Multiple Switching Stages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve control devices with ballpoint pen mechanisms can only switch between fully open and closed positions, lacking the ability to achieve partial opening, which is necessary in certain applications to reduce flow rates.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a ballpoint pen mechanism that includes additional switching stages, allowing for partial opening of the valve, with a manual or motor-actuated switching device, and a magnetically coupled system for media separation, enabling precise flow rate adjustment through multiple switching stages and end position settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional ballpoint pen mechanism is used for valve actuation, then the valve can be switched between fully open and closed positions with simple operation, but the valve cannot be partially opened to reduce flow rate
Solution Approach 1:
The switching device is divided into multiple switching stages (first switching stage for fully open position, second switching stage for fully closed position, and third switching stage for intermediate position). This segmentation allows the valve to achieve different opening positions while maintaining the simple ballpoint pen mechanism operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional switching stages are added to enable partial opening, then flow rate control capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ballpoint pen mechanism is extended to perform multiple functions by adding intermediate switching stages. The same basic mechanism structure is used to achieve fully open, fully closed, and intermediate positions, making the device multi-functional without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If media-separated design is implemented with magnetic coupling, then hygienic construction is improved by avoiding backwater and dead water areas, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic field is introduced as an intermediary to transmit actuation forces across the media separation boundary. The magnet in the switching device magnetically couples to an actuating element on the other side of the media barrier, enabling control without direct mechanical connection and eliminating dead water areas.
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 intuitive operation of the valve in multiple switching stages, reducing flow rates by up to 50% in intermediate positions, while maintaining the advantages of conventional ballpoint pen mechanisms and ensuring a hygienic construction by avoiding backwater and dead water areas.
Implementation Method 1
the switching device is coupled to a magnet. The magnet, in turn, can be coupled without contact to an actuating element, for example, a bistable plunger of a solenoid valve
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a control device for a valve, in particular a self-actuated servo valve, with a switching device designed as a ballpoint pen mechanism for opening and closing the valve, wherein the switching device has at least three switching stages.