Elastomeric Diaphragm Valve With Electromagnetic Flow Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phacoemulsification systems face inconsistencies in fluid flow control due to solenoid actuation, which experiences force drop over time and varies with stroke length, leading to inefficiencies in cataract surgery.
Innovation Solution
An elastomeric diaphragm actuator valve using an embedded steel disc or magnetic material, controlled by an electromagnet, provides consistent fluid flow control by attracting the disc to close or open the pathway based on electromagnetic activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solenoid actuation is used to control fluid flow, then the valve can be actuated, but the force becomes inconsistent and drops over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the solenoid actuation system with a magnetic field-based actuation system. Instead of using electromagnetic coils that generate mechanical motion through magnetic fields (solenoid), the invention uses permanent magnets to create a stable magnetic field that directly interacts with a magnetizable element in the valve assembly. This substitution eliminates the force degradation issues inherent in solenoid systems while maintaining reliable actuation over extended periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the actuation mechanism from electromagnetic (solenoid) to magnetic (permanent magnets). This parameter change in the actuation method fundamentally resolves the force consistency issue, as permanent magnets provide stable magnetic field strength without the temporal degradation characteristic of solenoid systems. The magnetic field strength remains constant over time, ensuring consistent actuation force throughout the valve's operational lifetime.
2Reliability
If solenoid actuation is used, then the valve can be controlled, but the force varies with stroke length
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the solenoid actuation system with a magnetic field-based actuation system. Instead of using electromagnetic coils that generate mechanical motion through magnetic fields (solenoid), the invention uses permanent magnets to create a stable magnetic field that directly interacts with a magnetizable element in the valve assembly. This substitution eliminates the force degradation issues inherent in solenoid systems while maintaining reliable actuation over extended periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a magnetic spring mechanism that provides a progressive restoring force as the valve moves through its stroke. The magnetizable element interacts with permanent magnets positioned to create a varying magnetic field gradient, generating a force that naturally increases with displacement. This dynamic force characteristic compensates for the varying stroke length requirements, ensuring consistent actuation performance across the full range of motion.
3Reliability
If traditional valve actuation is used, then fluid flow can be controlled, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the actuation function and sealing function into a single integrated valve assembly. The valve member itself contains or is associated with the magnetizable element, eliminating the need for separate actuation mechanisms. The elastomeric valve body integrates the fluid passage, sealing surfaces, and magnetic actuation components into one unified structure, significantly reducing assembly complexity while maintaining reliable fluid flow control.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the sealing element, the actuated component, and the structural element that controls fluid flow. The magnetizable element integrated into the valve member combines the functions of a movable component and a magnetic actuator target, reducing the total number of parts and simplifying the overall assembly while ensuring reliable fluid flow control.
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 elastomeric diaphragm actuator valve ensures consistent fluid flow without variations, reducing assembly complexity and size, and enhancing surgical precision in phacoemulsification procedures.
Implementation Method 1
In response to an electric current being applied to an electromagnet, a magnetic field attracts, in accordance with the preferred embodiment, the steel disc embedded in the elastomeric valve material
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic field attracts, in accordance with the preferred embodiment, the steel disc embedded in the elastomeric valve material
Implementation Method 3
an elastomeric diaphragm having a magnetic material or steel disc embedded in the wall
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Actuation of an elastomeric valve with an electromagnet is disclosed wherein an elastomeric valve material may comprise a steel disc embedded in its wall to control the flow of fluid. In response to an electric current being applied to an electromagnet, a magnetic field attracts a disc embedded in the elastomeric valve material. The elastomeric valve would then move towards the electromagnet to create a seal, thereby blocking the flow of fluid.