Flow Control Valve Locking Mechanism for Differential Screw Position Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow control valves face challenges in easily locking the position of a differential screw without displacing the adjusted valve element and in identifying the fully open position, particularly when used with high corrosive chemicals or ultra-pure water in semiconductor manufacturing, due to issues with backlash and torque resistance.
Innovation Solution
A flow control valve design featuring a rotation member with a locking portion that prevents rotation when slid along the operation member's direction, using a differential screw with first and second thread portions and a flange for easy identification of the fully open position, and a detachable stopper for resistance adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a locknut is used to fix the position of the differential screw, then the operation becomes easier, but the adjusted position may be displaced due to backlash
Solution Approach 1:
A locking member with a locking portion is introduced as an intermediary between the differential screw and the external environment. The locking portion engages with the ridges and recesses on the differential screw to prevent rotation, while the locking member itself is moved axially to engage and disengage the locking portion, thereby preventing position displacement during locking operations.
2Measurement precision
If the pitch difference of the differential screw is reduced for finer control, then the measurement precision improves, but the torque resistance increases making operation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation member is divided into two independent functional parts: a rotation portion that rotates with the differential screw for flow control, and a locking portion that can be moved axially to engage or disengage the locking mechanism. This segmentation allows the operator to rotate the screw for precise control while separately using the locking mechanism to prevent position drift, reducing the overall torque required.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a cover is added to prevent touching the differential screw, then the position stability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation member is designed to serve multiple functions: it transmits rotation from the operation member to the differential screw for flow control, and its locking portion engages with the ridges and recesses to prevent unwanted rotation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate protective cover, maintaining position stability while reducing structural complexity.
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 design allows for easy locking of the differential screw position without displacement and provides clear indication of the fully open position, reducing the risk of thread damage and improving operational precision.
Implementation Method 1
a position of the operation member is adjusted with a differential screw to adjust a position of the valve element body
Implementation Method 2
a position of the operation member is adjusted with a differential screw to adjust a position of the valve element body
Implementation Method 3
a locking portion to prevent the rotation member from rotating when the rotation member is slid along the moving direction of the operation member
Data Source
AI summary
A flow control valve is provided in a manner to be capable of locking a position of a differential screw easily without displacing a position adjusted valve element body. The valve element body is brought into or out of contact with a valve seat provided between a first port and a second port, and is connected to an operation member. The operation member is movably inserted into a cover and urged to a direction toward the valve seat by an urging member. A position of the operation member is adjusted by a differential screw, and accordingly a position of the valve seat is adjusted. A rotation member for exerting a rotation force on the differential screw is slidably mounted in the cover along a moving direction of the operation member without rotating. A locking portion is provided in the rotation member to engage with the cover without rotating when the operation member is slid along its moving direction.