Embeddable Pinch Valve for Localized Flow Control in Soft Robots
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Soft robots equipped with fluid-driven actuators face challenges such as increased complexity and reduced scalability due to multiple tubes connecting multiple valves, which can limit their size optimization and flexibility, and existing high-pressure valves are often too heavy for these robots to carry.
Innovation Solution
The development of a vasoconstriction-like pinch valve with an embeddable micro pitch valve (EMPV) that uses a plunger and solenoid to control the cross-section area of a soft tube, allowing for localized flow control with a lightweight and compact design, capable of operating with low voltage and embedding easily into robots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tubes and valves are used to control multiple actuators, then the robot can achieve more degrees of freedom and functionality, but the system complexity increases and scalability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple flow control functions into a single integrated valve body with multiple independently controllable channels. Each channel can be controlled by its own actuator, allowing multiple degrees of freedom to be achieved through one compact valve unit rather than requiring separate tubes and valves for each actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve design provides multi-functionality by enabling a single valve to control multiple fluid channels simultaneously. Each channel can be independently opened or closed, allowing the valve to perform multiple flow control functions while reducing the overall number of components needed in the system.
2Stress or pressure
If traditional high-pressure valves are used, then the robot can operate with higher pressure actuators, but the valve weight becomes too heavy for the robot to carry
Solution Approach 1:
The valve incorporates a flexible membrane that separates the high-pressure fluid chamber from the low-pressure actuator chamber. This flexible shell allows the valve to withstand high operating pressures while maintaining a lightweight structure, eliminating the need for heavy metal pressure vessels traditionally required for high-pressure applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve design changes the pressure distribution parameters by creating a pressure differential across the flexible membrane. The high-pressure side controls the fluid flow while the low-pressure side is actuated by a lightweight pneumatic or electronic actuator, enabling high-pressure operation with lightweight components.
3Ease of operation
If multiple separate valves are used for each actuator, then each actuator can be controlled independently, but the number of tubes required increases and the robot's size optimization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions into a single integrated unit with multiple independently controllable channels. This merging approach maintains independent control capability for each actuator while significantly reducing the total volume required compared to using separate valves for each actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve design employs a nested structure where multiple flow channels are arranged concentrically or in compact configurations within a single valve body. This nesting allows independent control of multiple channels while minimizing the overall valve dimensions and the space required in the robot system.
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 EMPV enables efficient and scalable control of fluid flow in soft robots, reducing the number of tubes required and allowing for more degrees of freedom, while being lightweight and easy to integrate, thus enhancing the robots' dexterity and modularity.
Implementation Method 1
The plunger controller comprises a solenoid configured to receive the electric current from the circuitry
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes one or more embodiments of a device for localized flow control. The device includes a plunger configured to slide along a longitudinal axis; a gate connecting to a proximal end of the plunger and configured to slide with the plunger; a spacer disposed along the longitudinal axis and on a same side with the gate relative to the plunger; a soft tube disposed in a gap between the spacer and a proximal end of the gate; and a plunger controller configured to slide the plunger between a closed position and an open position. In response to the plunger at the open position, the device is at an open state configured to allow a flow in the soft tube, and in response to the plunger at the closed position, the device is at a closed state configured to cut off the flow in the soft tube.