Electric Expansion Valve Feedthrough for Compact Sealed Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronically controlled stepper motor valves for refrigeration and air conditioning systems face challenges in precise flow control and reliability, particularly in harsh environments, and require complex assembly processes and additional sealing methods.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a stepper motor linear actuator with a gear cup and lead screw mechanism that provides precise flow control, a stainless steel electrical feed through assembly for efficient sealing, and flexible electrical connectivity options, allowing the valve to operate reliably in harsh conditions with reduced material usage and simplified assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sealing methods are used in stepper motor valves, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical feed through assembly is integrated directly into the valve body, combining the electrical connection function with the sealing function. This eliminates the need for separate sealing components and complex assembly procedures while maintaining reliable sealing in harsh environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical feed through assembly serves multiple functions: providing electrical connection, ensuring sealing, and structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed in the valve system.
2Manufacturing precision
If precise flow control is achieved through complex mechanisms, then flow control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical flow control mechanisms with an electronically controlled stepper motor system. The stepper motor provides precise positional control of the valve pin through electronic signaling, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve internal geometry is optimized with segmented flow paths and precisely positioned features that work together with the stepper motor control to achieve accurate flow regulation through simplified mechanical means.
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 enables precise and reliable refrigerant flow control, improved manufacturing efficiency, and reduced material costs while maintaining high reliability and flexibility in installation, even in tight spaces.
Implementation Method 1
lead screw; wherein the gear cup is positioned in a cylindrical cavity in the valve body and threadably secured to the gear cup
Data Source
AI summary
An electronically controlled stepper motor valve utilizes an electric feed through assembly providing electrical connection between the stepper motor and a mating cable connector; wherein the electric feed through assembly includes four individual leads that are sequenced to allow the mating cable connector to be installed in any of four positions, each 90 degrees apart. The ability to use a 90 degree elbow style cable connector allows the EEV footprint to be minimized which provides an advantage when the electric expansion valve is installed in the tight confines of a package system.