Compact By-Pass Valve Arrangement for Exhaust Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing by-pass valve arrangements for internal combustion engine exhaust systems require multiple valves and actuators, consuming significant space, especially in applications like ship engines, where compact solutions are needed to bypass catalyst devices effectively.
Innovation Solution
A compact by-pass valve arrangement using a single valve with dual inlets and outlets, allowing fluid flow to be redirected between two duct elements, enabling bypass of catalyst devices with a single actuator, and can be manufactured as butterfly valves with duct elements that are often identical and made by casting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple valves and actuators are used to bypass catalyst devices, then the bypass function is reliable, but the space consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions into a single multi-port valve assembly. This single valve integrates the functionality of multiple separate valves, allowing exhaust gases to be directed to different outlets (catalyst inlet, catalyst outlet, or bypass) while reducing the number of actuators and overall space required for the bypass system.
Solution Approach 2:
The single multi-port valve performs multiple functions: it can direct exhaust flow to the catalyst inlet, catalyst outlet, or bypass path. This universal valve design eliminates the need for separate dedicated valves for each function, thereby reducing space consumption while maintaining reliable bypass capability.
2Reliability
If multiple valves are used in the by-pass arrangement, then the flow control is precise, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple valve functions into a single multi-port valve with multiple inlets and outlets. This integration maintains precise flow control capability by providing dedicated ports for each flow path while reducing the overall number of moving parts and actuators required in the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly is segmented into multiple ports and internal passages that independently control different flow paths. This segmentation within a single valve body allows precise control of exhaust flow to different destinations without requiring multiple separate valve mechanisms.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact by-pass valve arrangement is used, then the space utilization is efficient, but the manufacturing complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple duct elements and valve functions into an integrated assembly that can be manufactured as a single unit or pre-assembled module. This approach achieves compact space utilization while managing manufacturing complexity through modular design and potential use of casting or additive manufacturing techniques for the integrated valve body.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
The by-pass valve arrangement (1) for an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine (2) comprises a valve (5) and ducting having a first inlet (3a), a second inlet (4a), a first outlet (3b) and a second outlet (4b). In a first position of the valve (5), flow from the first inlet (3a) to the first outlet (3b) and from the second inlet (4a) to the second outlet (4b) is allowed, and flow from the first inlet (3a) to the second outlet (4b) and from the second inlet (4a) to the first outlet (3b) is blocked. In a second position, flow from the first inlet (3a) to the second outlet (4b) and from the second inlet (4a) to the first outlet (3b) is allowed, and flow from the first inlet (3a) to the first outlet (3b) and from the second inlet (4a) to the second outlet (4b) is blocked. The invention also concerns an exhaust system.