Dual-Passage Oven Valve Modulation for Stable Gas Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional oven valves often fail due to misalignment of resistance values between the igniter and valve, leading to operational failures, and they are inefficient in maintaining consistent temperature, requiring frequent cycling to adjust heat levels.
Innovation Solution
A dual flow path electronic modulating valve with shape memory alloy wires and a control circuit that allows for precise control of gas flow through two passages, one of which can remain open to maintain temperature, using a bypass mechanism to adjust for heat loss and fuel type, and an actuator to manage valve operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single flow passage valve is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the temperature control precision and reliability deteriorate due to frequent cycling and misalignment of resistance values
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is divided into two separate flow passages (first passage and second passage) instead of using a single passage. Each passage can be independently controlled by separate actuators, allowing one to remain open while the other closes. This segmentation enables continuous gas flow maintenance and improves reliability without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional cycling operation is used, then the temperature control adaptability is reduced, but the energy efficiency deteriorates due to frequent on-off cycling
Solution Approach 1:
The second passage is designed to remain open continuously during normal operation, providing uninterrupted gas flow to maintain oven temperature. This eliminates the frequent on-off cycling of traditional single-passage valves, improving energy efficiency while maintaining temperature control adaptability through modulating the first passage as needed.
3Manufacturing precision
If resistance values are precisely matched, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates when resistance values change over time
Solution Approach 1:
The valve incorporates adjustable components including a bypass screw that can modify flow characteristics and actuator adjustment mechanisms. These allow field adjustments to compensate for resistance value drift over time, maintaining proper operation without requiring precise initial manufacturing matching. The system adapts to changing parameters through manual adjustment rather than relying solely on initial precision.
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 dual flow path valve ensures consistent temperature control, reduces operational failures by maintaining gas flow even when one passage is closed, and allows for efficient switching between fuel types, enhancing oven performance and reducing cycling costs.
Implementation Method 1
the current may tighten a shape memory alloy wire to pull the spring down to thus open the valve seat to provide gas flow
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic modulating oven valve provides advantages over prior art designs. Additionally, for at least some embodiments, a dual passage valve operating in a modulating manner has been found to be desirable for oven and possibly other applications.