Double Flapper Valve for Variable Cam Timing Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable cam timing systems rely on single opening check valves, which limit flow passage and increase costs and complexity, while prior art inlet check valves for these systems often use ball check valves that are less efficient.
Innovation Solution
A double flapper check valve assembly is introduced, featuring a housing with stoppers and flexible flaps that open and close to control fluid flow into a variable cam timing phaser, allowing for higher flow passage and improved performance with a smaller package size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single opening check valve is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the flow passage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The check valve is segmented into multiple flapper valves (typically three) arranged radially around a central axis, each controlling a separate flow passage. This segmentation allows simultaneous multi-directional flow control, dramatically increasing total flow passage area while keeping each individual flapper simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single opening check valve to a multi-opening radial arrangement. The flapper valves are positioned at different angular positions around the central axis, utilizing the radial dimension to create multiple flow paths that operate simultaneously, thereby increasing flow capacity without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Productivity
If prior art ball check valves are used, then the valve structure is simple, but the flow efficiency and dynamic response are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flapper valves are designed to be lightweight and flexible, enabling rapid opening and closing responses to pressure changes. The flappers pivot on hinges located at their outer edges, creating a lever arm that amplifies the effect of pressure differential, allowing the valve to respond dynamically to flow conditions with minimal lag.
Solution Approach 2:
The flapper valves are constructed as thin, flexible elements that can deform slightly under pressure while maintaining their sealing function. This flexibility allows for smooth opening and closing transitions, reducing turbulence and improving flow efficiency compared to rigid ball check valves.
3Productivity
If a double flapper valve design is implemented, then the flow passage increases two to three times, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple flapper valves are merged into a single integrated check valve assembly that shares a common housing, central axis, and inlet passage. The flappers work simultaneously as a coordinated system, with their combined flow passages providing 2-3 times the flow capacity of a single opening valve while occupying a compact radial space.
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
The double flapper valve design enhances flow passage by two to three times that of prior art check valves, reduces costs, and improves dynamic response, making it a more efficient and cost-effective solution for variable cam timing systems.
Implementation Method 1
When fluid flows through the openings of the valve seat, the fluid pushes the at least two flaps away from the valve seat and towards the at least two stoppers, permitting the flow of fluid into the variable cam timing phaser
Implementation Method 2
a flapper valve comprising at least two flexible flaps received within the housing
Implementation Method 3
When fluid flows from the body onto the at least two flaps, the fluid pushes the at least two flaps towards the valve seat, sealing the openings of the valve seat and preventing fluid from entering the supply
Data Source
AI summary
An inlet check valve for controlling fluid from a supply into a variable cam timing phaser includes a double flapper check valve assembly with an open position and a closed position, which includes a housing having a body forming at least two stoppers, a flapper valve comprising at least two flexible flaps received within the housing and aligned with the at least two stoppers, and a valve seat received within the housing, the valve seat defining openings aligned with the at least two flexible flaps, axially opposite the two stoppers. In another embodiment, the stoppers are on a stopper piece separate from the housing.