Distributor Valve Magnetic Drive for Drift-Free Flow Setting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing distributor valves with integrated flow measuring devices require operator tact and precision for flow rate adjustment, which can be imprecise and costly in terms of production and maintenance, due to manual drive limitations and imprecise setting elements.

Innovation Solution

A distributor valve design featuring a rotating sight glass with a regulating insert and adjustable stop, secured by a locking cap, allows for precise and reproducible adjustment of the flow rate through different adjustment paths, simplifying axial adjustment and locking of valve components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual drive with adjustable sleeves is used for flow rate adjustment, then the valve can be operated manually, but the setting precision is insufficient and components can move unintentionally

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual operation capabilityVSAvoidflow rate setting precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical handwheel with a magnetic drive system. The magnetic coupling transmits rotational force from the outer periphery to the valve element internally, eliminating the need for mechanical connections that can move or loosen. This substitution provides precise, drift-free setting while maintaining easy manual operation through the handwheel interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If axially adjustable sleeves with stops are provided for closing limitation, then end positions can be set, but the setting elements can move when the hand wheel is actuated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveend position setting capabilityVSAvoidsetting element stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates mechanical connection elements between the handwheel and valve element by using magnetic coupling. The magnetic field transmits torque without physical contact, preventing any movement or displacement of setting elements during operation. This ensures stable, drift-free positioning while maintaining the ability to set end positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Manufacturing precision

If precision adjustment mechanism is implemented, then flow rate can be precisely regulated, but production costs and maintenance effort increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflow rate regulation precisionVSAvoidadjustment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a magnetic drive system that provides precise control through magnetic coupling strength and direction. This eliminates complex mechanical precision mechanisms while achieving accurate flow rate regulation. The magnetic system is simpler in construction, reducing production costs and maintenance requirements compared to traditional precision mechanical adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

This design enhances the precision and operation of the distributor valve while reducing production and maintenance costs by providing a secure and repeatable method for setting and locking the flow rate, improving the overall performance and accuracy of flow rate adjustments.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic drive is provided in the distribution valve, in that a magnetic coupling is provided in the magnetic drive, by means of which the rotational force acting on the outer periphery is transmitted to the valve element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP3029362B1Distribution valve comprising integrated flow measuring device
Publication Date: 2017.11.01 STRAUB KG
  • EP3029362B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3029362B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3029362B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a distributor valve (1) with an integrated flow measuring device for use on a pipe, in particular for hot water and heating systems, with which, through simplified axial adjustment and locking of the components of the valve body with regard to a flow rate, better operation of the distributor valve combined with more precise adjustment of the flow rate is obtained, the flow rate being adjusted by rotating a sight glass (3) and thus adjusting a regulating insert (7) arranged at a lower end of the sight glass, with different adjustment paths of the regulating insert being achieved by an adjustable stop by means of a setting element (16) are provided, which is adjustable in height and held securely in a predetermined position, thereby limiting the flow.