Electro-pneumatic Valve Assembly for Repeated High-Pressure Inflation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inflation valves are typically single-use, limiting their application in scenarios requiring repeated use of high-pressure gas for inflating objects like rafts or lifejackets.
Innovation Solution
An electro-pneumatic valve assembly with a solenoid valve configured as a two-position, three-way type valve, allowing for cycling between open and closed positions, integrated with a pneumatic valve and poppet mechanism to facilitate repeated use and built-in test features for valve health checks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single-opening action valve is used for inflation, then the valve can be actuated by electrical or mechanical arrangements, but the valve can only be used one time and cannot be repeatedly used
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism transitions from a static single-use design to a dynamic reusable design. The poppet is made movable between closed and open positions through pneumatic actuation, allowing the valve to be cycled multiple times. The poppet body can slide along the axis to open the valve and return to close it, enabling repeated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A pneumatic actuation system is introduced to replace electrical or mechanical actuation. Compressed gas from a gas source is directed through a solenoid valve to apply pressure on the poppet, forcing it open. The same pneumatic system can vent to allow the poppet to return to closed position, enabling controlled repeated opening and closing cycles.
2Reliability
If a reusable electro-pneumatic valve assembly is implemented, then repeated use is enabled, but the device complexity increases with solenoid valve and pneumatic components
Solution Approach 1:
The solenoid valve and pneumatic valve are integrated into a single assembly where the solenoid valve serves as the control element for the pneumatic system. The gas source connects to both valves, and the solenoid valve's outlet is connected to the pneumatic valve's inlet, creating a compact combined unit that reduces overall system complexity despite adding functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas source serves multiple functions: it provides compressed gas to actuate the pneumatic valve for opening, and can be vented through the solenoid valve to allow the poppet to return to closed position. This multi-functional use of the gas source reduces the need for separate actuation systems.
3Reliability
If built-in test features are added for valve health checks, then operational reliability is enhanced, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly includes built-in test features that allow self-diagnosis of valve health. Test ports and associated passages enable pressure testing and functionality verification without external equipment, allowing the valve to essentially test itself and report its operational status.
Solution Approach 2:
The test features provide feedback on valve health and operational status. By monitoring pressure differentials and flow characteristics through the test ports, the system can detect issues with the poppet sealing, solenoid valve operation, or gas source pressure, enabling proactive maintenance.
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
Enables the repeated use of inflation valves for high-pressure gas applications, ensuring reliable operation and maintenance through built-in testing capabilities, enhancing the usability and reliability of inflation systems.
Implementation Method 1
solenoid valve configured as a two position three-way type valve
Implementation Method 2
fluid flow from the pressurized container flows through the first port, through the inlet, through the outlet, through the second port and into the second chamber to urge the poppet towards the first position
Implementation Method 3
poppet is movable between a first position that inhibits a fluid flow through the valve outlet and a second position that facilitates the fluid flow through the valve outlet
Data Source
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AI summary
An electro-pneumatic valve assembly includes a valve having a valve housing (30) and a poppet (32) and a solenoid valve having an actuator housing and a valve body. The valve housing (30) has a wall that defines a valve inlet that is arranged to receive a fluid flow from a pressurized container and defines a valve outlet (62) and a first port (60). The poppet (32) is disposed within the valve housing (30) and is movable between a first position and a second position. The actuator housing defines an opening. The valve body has a first wall that defines an inlet that is fluidly connected to the first port and a second wall that defines an outlet that is fluidly connected to the second port (66).