Integrated Flapper Valve Assembly for Aspirator Pressure Relief
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aspirator systems for inflating inflatable assemblies face issues with pressure relief valves that can leak or complicate packaging and handling, and these valves are not efficient across varying temperature conditions.
Innovation Solution
A flapper assembly with a pivotally connected valve assembly that includes pressure relief apertures and a reverse valve mechanism integrated into the flapper plate, which pivots to open and close the inlet based on fluid flow rates, eliminating the need for a dedicated pressure relief valve and enhancing packing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated pressure relief valve is integrated into the inflatable assembly, then pressure relief function is provided, but the device complexity increases and packaging handling becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pressure relief function with the existing flapper assembly by integrating a valve assembly into the flapper plate. The valve assembly includes a valve plate with pressure relief apertures that can selectively open or close based on fluid flow rates, merging two functions (flow control and pressure relief) into a single integrated component rather than using separate dedicated valves.
Solution Approach 2:
The flapper assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls fluid flow into the aspirator body during normal operation and simultaneously provides pressure relief when excessive pressure is detected. The valve assembly integrated into the flapper plate can selectively allow fluid passage during inflation while automatically relieving excess pressure, making the component universal rather than requiring specialized single-function parts.
2Reliability
If a dedicated pressure relief valve is integrated into the inflatable assembly, then pressure relief is provided, but ease of operation deteriorates due to leakage issues
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly operates autonomously based on fluid flow rates without requiring external control or adjustment. The valve plate automatically opens or closes the pressure relief apertures in response to changing flow conditions, allowing the system to self-regulate pressure relief needs. This eliminates the need for manual operation or complex control mechanisms that could introduce leakage points or operational difficulties.
3Reliability
If traditional pressure relief valves are used, then pressure relief is achieved, but adaptability to varying temperature conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly responds to changes in fluid flow rates, which can vary with temperature conditions, by automatically adjusting the opening state of the pressure relief apertures. The system adapts to different operating conditions including temperature variations through its flow-rate-sensitive operation, maintaining effective pressure relief across varying environmental parameters without requiring temperature-specific adjustments or materials.
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 flapper assembly effectively manages pressure relief without a dedicated valve, improving handling and efficiency while maintaining performance across different temperatures, thus addressing the limitations of traditional pressure relief systems.
Implementation Method 1
The flapper assembly is arranged to pivot towards the closed position to close the inlet 34, at the end or towards the end of the inflation process, responsive to a fluid flow rate through the inlet 34 being less than a threshold
Implementation Method 2
Excess pressure may be vented by a pressure relief valve that is integrated into the inflatable assembly
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A flapper assembly for an aspirator system includes a flapper plate (40) and a valve assembly (24). The flapper plate defines a first plurality of apertures (50). The valve assembly includes a first valve plate (60) disposed over the first plurality of apertures and a first pressure relief assembly (64) arranged to move the first valve plate relative to the flapper plate.