Electro-magnetic check valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transport refrigeration systems face challenges in maintaining optimal oxygen and carbon dioxide levels within enclosed areas, as existing technologies are inefficient in controlling air exchange, potentially damaging perishable goods due to inadequate fresh air supply and energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
An electro-magnetic check valve is integrated into an air exchange panel, utilizing a valve cap made of iron-based steel with a resilient flexible member and an electromagnet, controlled by a sensor to manage oxygen levels by selectively opening or closing the air intake duct, ensuring optimal oxygen supply while minimizing energy use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If fresh air is drawn into the refrigeration system to maintain oxygen levels, then oxygen concentration is improved, but energy consumption increases and cargo may dry out
Solution Approach 1:
The check valve automatically controls air exchange based on oxygen concentration feedback from the sensor, opening when oxygen is low and closing when oxygen is sufficient, eliminating the need for continuous mechanical ventilation and reducing energy consumption while maintaining proper oxygen levels
Solution Approach 2:
The oxygen sensor continuously monitors oxygen concentration and provides feedback to the control system, which actuates the check valve accordingly to maintain optimal oxygen levels without excessive air intake, thereby balancing cargo preservation with energy efficiency
2Quantity of substance
If fresh air is drawn into the refrigeration system to maintain oxygen levels, then oxygen concentration is improved, but cargo drying increases
Solution Approach 1:
The check valve automatically limits air intake to only when necessary (when oxygen concentration drops below threshold), preventing excessive air flow that would dry out perishable cargo while still maintaining adequate oxygen levels through minimal necessary air exchange
Solution Approach 2:
The oxygen sensor provides continuous feedback on oxygen concentration, enabling the control system to activate the check valve only when oxygen levels are insufficient, thereby minimizing air flow and preventing cargo drying while maintaining proper oxygen concentration
3Extent of automation
If a magnetic valve is used to control air exchange, then automation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve body is extracted as a separate, simple component that can be easily manufactured and assembled, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining automated control functionality through the integrated sensor and electromagnet system
Solution Approach 2:
The valve body serves multiple functions: it provides the magnetic coupling surface for actuation, incorporates the sealing mechanism for air tightness, and integrates the resilient member for automatic return motion, thereby reducing the need for additional separate components and simplifying the overall device structure
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 solution effectively regulates oxygen levels within the refrigeration system, preventing damage to perishable goods by ensuring a controlled air exchange that maintains optimal oxygen concentrations while reducing energy consumption and minimizing air drying effects.
Implementation Method 1
An electromagnet is positioned inside the air exchange panel, opposite the valve cap
Implementation Method 2
the valve cap includes a magnetic portion... An electromagnet is positioned inside the air exchange panel, opposite the valve cap
Data Source
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AI summary
A valve for use in an air exchange panel (20) of a transportation refrigeration system is provided including a valve cap (102) configured and arranged to be positioned adjacent the air exchange panel (20) and movable between a first position and a second position. The valve cap (102) includes a magnetic portion. A resilient flexible member (110) is coupled to the valve cap (102) and is configured and arranged to be coupled to the air exchange panel (20). The resilient flexible member (110) biases the valve cap (102) into a first position. An electromagnet (150) is positioned inside the air exchange panel (20), opposite the valve cap (102). A controller is coupled to the electromagnet (150) to selectively apply power to move the valve cap (102) between the first position and the second position.