Concentric-Ring Control Valve for Preset Flow and Constant Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing differential pressure governors in liquid-carrying systems lack the ability to preset and adjust the flow of liquid, limiting their flexibility and control in applications such as heating or cooling systems.
Innovation Solution
A control valve with an adjustable flow mechanism featuring two concentric rings with annular recesses, where the internal ring is rotatably connected to a handle for manual adjustment and axially displaceable to set the flow, ensuring a constant pressure difference across the inlet and outlet sides.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If a differential pressure governor is used to maintain constant pressure difference, then pressure control is improved, but flow adjustment capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control function is segmented into two independent mechanisms: circumferential rotation of the inner ring for presetting maximum flow, and axial displacement for adjusting flow within preset limits. This segmentation allows the valve to maintain constant pressure difference while providing multi-stage flow control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve members are made dynamically adjustable through two degrees of freedom: the inner ring can rotate circumferentially to change the angular overlap of recesses (presetting maximum flow), and can also displace axially to adjust flow within the preset limits. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction between pressure control and flow adjustment capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If flow adjustment capability is added to the differential pressure governor, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Both flow control functions (presetting maximum flow and adjusting flow within limits) are merged into a single integrated valve assembly with two concentric rings. The inner ring combines rotational and axial movement capabilities, allowing both functions to be performed by one component system rather than requiring separate control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner ring serves multiple functions: it maintains the differential pressure governor function by overlapping recesses with the outer ring, presets the maximum flow through circumferential rotation, and adjusts flow within preset limits through axial displacement. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity compared to using separate components for each function.
3Manufacturing precision
If the inner ring is made displaceable in circumferential and axial directions, then flow control precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inner ring is nested within the outer ring, with the inner ring having approximately half the outer diameter. This nested configuration allows the inner ring to move independently in both circumferential and axial directions while maintaining precise alignment and overlap of the recesses, achieving high flow control precision without complex manufacturing requirements.
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 precise adjustment of flow from zero to maximum value, allowing for complete blocking of flow, while maintaining a constant pressure difference, enhancing control and flexibility in liquid-carrying systems.
Implementation Method 1
A spring 26 urges the piston to its top position
Implementation Method 2
an adjustable flow valve having two valve members consisting of two concentric rings with annular recesses which extend over approximately 180 degrees
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A control valve for use in a liquid-carrying system, such as a heating or cooling system, containing a differential pressure governor which, keeps the differential pressure between the inlet and the outlet constant. The control valve also includes an arrangement for setting and adjusting the maximum flow of liquid through the valve. This arrangement comprises a flow valve having two cooperating valve members (4 and 6) , which are arranged in the flow path and are constructed as two concentric rings, each of which has a recess extending about 180 degrees in the circumferential direction. The outer ring (4) is stationary relative to the valve housing, while the inner ring (6) may be displaced in the circumferential direction by means of a ro- tatable handle, whereby a greater or smaller overlap between the recesses may be provided. The maximum flow amount may hereby be set manually. The inner ring (6) may also be displaced in the axial direction, whereby a greater or smaller overlap between the recesses in the axial direction may be provided. The flow amount may hereby be adjusted within the limits of the presetting e.g. by means of an actuator. The flow may be blocked completely in an outer position.