Multi-Port Control Valve Piston Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve arrangements for controlling liquid flow to multiple flow paths are complex, especially when different flow sequences and paths are required for various process steps, and they often necessitate separate valves and piping for functions like regeneration and shutoff.
Innovation Solution
A control valve with a movable piston and annular flow cavities within an elongated cylindrical bore, allowing selective positioning to direct liquid flow through multiple paths, integrate functions like water shutoff and bypass, and enable regeneration of resin materials in water treatment systems without separate valves or piping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate valves and piping are used to control liquid flow to multiple flow paths, then flow control functionality is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions (shutoff valve, bypass valve, regeneration control) into a single integrated valve assembly with a piston that controls multiple flow paths simultaneously. This merging eliminates the need for separate valves and associated piping, directly resolving the technical contradiction by maintaining flow control versatility while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly is designed as a universal multi-functional device where a single piston mechanism can control normal flow, bypass flow, and regeneration operations. The piston's position determines which of multiple flow paths are active, enabling one component to perform functions that previously required multiple separate valves
2Ease of operation
If separate valves are used for shutoff and bypass functions, then specific flow control is achieved, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shutoff valve and bypass valve functions are merged into a single integrated valve assembly. The piston's longitudinal movement simultaneously controls both the shutoff function (blocking normal flow path) and the bypass function (opening or closing bypass passages), reducing the component quantity from multiple separate valves to one unified device
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are installed for different process steps, then process flexibility is achieved, but installation and maintenance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is designed as a universal device that can handle multiple process steps (normal operation, bypass mode, regeneration) through a single piston mechanism. This multi-functionality means that instead of installing and maintaining multiple separate valves for different process steps, a single valve assembly performs all functions, significantly improving ease of repair and maintenance
Data Source
AI summary
A control valve (10) includes a valve body with a plurality of ports (A, B, C, D, E, F) and a plurality of annular flow passages (53, 55, 57). A piston (34) which includes a plurality of annular flow passages and a longitudinal flow passage is selectively movable within a bore (32) within the valve body through operation of a valve controller (70). The valve controller is selectively operative to control the position of the piston so as to enable liquid flow through a plurality of flow paths. The valve controller further includes a installable and removable valve controller housing (74) which is releasibly engageable with a valve base (72). The valve may include a changeable piston and changeable injector and plug components to adapt the valve to different flow and fluid mixing requirements.