Regulated Flow Divider Valves with Secondary Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flow divider valves in aerospace gas turbine systems face challenges in smoothly transitioning between flow splits, especially at low flow conditions, leading to potential disturbances and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates an equalization bypass valve (EBV) and a secondary equalization valve (SEV) connected to a drain pressure inlet, with a piston mechanism that apportions flow based on pressure differential, and an un-equalized enrichment valve to manage pressure between primary and secondary conduits, providing an alternate flow path for backup in case of solenoid or valve failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional flow divider valves are used to control flow split between primary and secondary nozzles, then the system can maintain basic flow control functionality, but transitions between flow splits cause disturbances especially at low flow conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control system is segmented into multiple independent valves: an equalization bypass valve (EBV) for primary flow control, a secondary equalization valve (SEV) for secondary flow control, and a pressure equalization solenoid (PES) for pressure balancing. This segmentation allows each valve to independently manage specific flow paths, enabling smooth transitions between flow splits without causing disturbances, especially at low flow conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure equalization solenoid (PES) acts as an intermediary mechanism that equalizes pressure between the primary and secondary conduits during transitions. This intermediary pressure equalization prevents sudden pressure changes that would cause disturbances, allowing seamless switching between different flow split configurations.
2Loss of energy
If the equalization bypass valve and secondary equalization valve are added to improve flow control, then pressure drop is reduced and flow transitions are smoother, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The equalization bypass valve (EBV) and secondary equalization valve (SEV) are designed with multi-functionality. The EBV serves both as an equalization pathway and a flow control mechanism, while the SEV provides both pressure equalization and flow regulation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby managing complexity while achieving reduced pressure drop and smoother transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes pneumatic and hydraulic principles where the pistons in the EBV and SEV respond to pressure differentials to automatically regulate flow. The pressure equalization solenoid (PES) uses pneumatic actuation to switch between equalization modes. These fluid-based control mechanisms eliminate the need for complex mechanical linkages or additional actuators, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining effective flow control.
3Stress or pressure
If the secondary equalization valve opens during fast acceleration, then over-pressurization is prevented, but the valve response time must be sufficiently fast
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary equalization valve (SEV) is designed as a self-regulating component that automatically opens in response to pressure differentials generated during fast acceleration events. The piston within the SEV responds passively to pressure changes, eliminating the need for external actuation or control systems. This self-service mechanism ensures rapid response to pressure transients while preventing over-pressurization during acceleration phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The SEV acts as a preemptive cushioning mechanism that opens before excessive pressure buildup occurs during fast acceleration. By providing an alternate flow path through the SEV, the system preemptively releases excess pressure, preventing over-pressurization before it can cause damage or disturbance. This beforehand cushioning effect is achieved through the passive pressure-differential-driven opening of the SEV.
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
This configuration reduces total pressure drop and prevents over-pressurization during fast accelerations by allowing the SEV to open, ensuring seamless transitions and improved system performance even at low flow conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The SEV can include a piston that divides between inlet pressure from fuel flow meter (PFDV) and PD to apportion flow from the flow inlet conduit to the secondary conduit based on pressure differential between PFDV and PD
Implementation Method 2
The EBV can include a piston that divides between an equalization conduit and the flow inlet conduit to apportion flow from the flow inlet conduit to the secondary conduit based on pressure in the equalization conduit
Implementation Method 3
The equalization conduit can be connected to a pressure equalization solenoid (PES) configured to equalize pressure between PFA and PD
Implementation Method 4
The UEV can be configured to pressurize the primary conduit higher than the secondary conduit in the un-equalized mode
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
A system (100) includes a flow inlet conduit (102). A primary conduit (104) branches from the flow inlet conduit (102) for delivering flow to a set of primary nozzles. An equalization bypass valve (EBV) (106) connects between the flow inlet conduit (102) and a secondary conduit (!08) for delivering flow to a set of secondary nozzles. The EBV (106) is connected to be controlled to apportion flow from the flow inlet conduit (102) to the secondary conduit (108). A secondary equalization valve (SEV) (114) connects between the flow inlet conduit (102) and the secondary conduit (108). The SEV (114) is connected to be controlled by drain pressure (PD) to apportion flow from the flow inlet conduit (102) to the secondary conduit (108).