Conical Rotary Valve Centering to Reduce Mating Stress

The patent applies a conical (curved) interface design between the adapter and manifold instead of a traditional flat or cylindrical interface. The conical shape allows for self-centering during mating, eliminating lateral stresses while maintaining manufacturing feasibility. This curved geometry enables the valve to achieve precise alignment and stable operation without requiring complex alignment mechanisms.

The patent converts the potential harm of fluid pressure during mating into a beneficial self-centering force. The conical interface geometry is designed so that fluid pressure applied during the mating process naturally pushes the adapter into proper alignment with the manifold ports, rather than requiring external alignment mechanisms. This eliminates the need for high vertical pressing forces that would cause material wear and fluid carryover.

The patent employs an asymmetric conical interface design where the adapter and manifold have complementary conical surfaces with specific angle relationships. This asymmetric geometry inherently guides the mating process, ensuring that the adapter self-centers as it approaches the manifold. The asymmetric design eliminates lateral stresses and improves control stability while remaining manufacturable using standard conical machining processes.