Dual-Force Valve Actuation to Prevent Tube Surface Sticking
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Solution Overview
Problem
In bioprocess flow systems, pinch and diaphragm valves often experience issues with internal surfaces sticking together due to material homogenization or material property differences, leading to flow blockages, especially after prolonged closure with high clamping force, which can be problematic in automated systems.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a control system that allows valves to operate in three states: an open state and two closed states with different closing forces, where the higher force is used during fluid flow and a lower force during idle conditions, reducing the risk of surfaces sticking together.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a high closing force is applied to ensure reliable flow stoppage, then the valve sealing performance is improved, but the risk of internal surfaces sticking together increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of closing force based on operational requirements. The control system switches between a first closing force during active flow control and a second reduced closing force during idle periods, allowing the valve to maintain reliability when needed while preventing surface sticking during extended closure periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing idle cycles where the valve periodically reduces its closing force to a lower level during periods when flow control is not actively required. This periodic reduction in force prevents continuous high-pressure contact between sealing surfaces, thereby preventing sticking while maintaining sealing capability when flow control is needed
2Manufacturing precision
If the valve remains closed for prolonged periods with high clamping force, then flow control precision is maintained, but the tube inner surfaces tend to stick together causing flow blockage
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts the closing force based on operational state. During idle periods when precision flow control is not required, the system reduces the closing force to prevent surface sticking, thereby maintaining the ability to restore flow when needed without manual intervention
3Productivity
If manual intervention is used to resolve stuck valves, then flow blockage can be cleared, but system automation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system performs self-service by automatically preventing surface sticking through dynamic closing force adjustment. The control system monitors operational state and autonomously reduces closing force during idle periods, eliminating the need for manual intervention to resolve stuck valves while maintaining full system automation
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 approach ensures reliable valve operation by minimizing the risk of flow obstruction due to sticking surfaces, allowing for efficient fluid flow management in bioprocess systems without requiring significant modifications to existing valve designs.
Implementation Method 1
The opening of the tube is achieved by the elastic properties of the tube and its desire to assume its original shape of an open tube and lumen
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling at least one valve provided to a tube in a bioprocess flow system, said method comprising the steps of: —controlling the at least one valve to be in a first state, which is an open state when a flow through the tube should be allowed; —controlling the at least one valve to be in a second state during some parts of a process run in the system, said second state is a closed state were a first closing force is provided; and—controlling the at least one valve to be in a third state during some parts of a process run in the system, said third state is a closed state were a second closing force is provided which is a higher force than the first closing force.