Double Valve With Shared Outlet Passages For Pneumatic Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current double valve systems for pneumatically powered machine tools require complex configurations to achieve a normally open function, and malfunctions can lead to improper actuation or deactuation of solenoid pilot valves, causing operational issues.
Innovation Solution
A double valve design incorporating two unitary valve assemblies with shared outlet passages, allowing fluid to flow through either of two common outlet passages depending on the position of the spools, ensuring continuous operation even during malfunctions by maintaining fluid flow through one passage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate valve assemblies are used in a particular configuration to achieve a 3-2 normally open function, then the normally open function is achieved, but the device complexity increases and the risk of malfunction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The double valve is divided into two separate unitary valve assemblies (first and second valve assemblies), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows each assembly to function as a complete 3-position, 2-way valve with its own solenoid pilot valve, spool, and outlet passage, reducing the complexity of the overall system while maintaining the normally open function.
Solution Approach 2:
Each unitary valve assembly is designed to be universally functional, capable of operating independently to control fluid flow. The assemblies share common inlet and outlet passages through the valve body, allowing either assembly to handle the full flow requirement, providing multi-functionality and redundancy that simplifies the overall system configuration.
2Reliability
If solenoid pilot valves are actuated or deactuated non-simultaneously, then the double valve can malfunction, but achieving simultaneous actuation increases control complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system maintains continuous fluid flow capability through redundant outlet passages. When one solenoid pilot valve fails to actuate or deactuate simultaneously, the other valve assembly continues to function, ensuring uninterrupted fluid flow and preventing system malfunction. This continuity eliminates the need for complex synchronization controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual valve assembly design provides built-in redundancy that cushions against actuation failures. Each assembly is prepared to independently handle the full flow requirement, so if one assembly fails to actuate properly, the other is already positioned to maintain system operation, preventing malfunctions without requiring complex control mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If a single outlet passage is used, then the valve structure is simplified, but the fluid can only be directed to a single location reducing versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet passage system is segmented into two separate outlet passages (first outlet passage and second outlet passage), each associated with a different valve assembly. This segmentation allows fluid to be directed to different locations independently, enhancing system versatility while keeping each passage structurally simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve system transitions from a single-dimension outlet configuration to a two-dimension outlet configuration by providing two separate outlet passages. This dimensional change allows fluid flow to be directed to multiple locations simultaneously or alternatively, greatly enhancing the system's adaptability and versatility without significantly increasing overall structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A double valve includes a first unitary valve assembly and a second unitary valve assembly. Each unitary valve assembly includes a first outlet port, a second outlet port, and a spool. A first pilot assembly and a second pilot assembly are coupled to the first unitary valve assembly and the second unitary valve assembly, respectively. A plate is coupled to the unitary valve assemblies and includes a passage to provide a first common outlet passage that is coupled to the respective first outlet ports of the unitary valve assemblies and a second common outlet passage that is coupled to the respective second outlet ports of the unitary valve assemblies. When the spools are in a first position, fluid flows through the first common outlet passage, and when the spools are in a second position, the fluid flows through the second common outlet passage.