Fluid Feeding Circuit for Inflatable Chamber
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current circuits for feeding inflatable chambers, particularly those used in manometric probes, are costly and prone to malfunctions due to the use of complex and expensive solenoid valves and micro-compressors, which are strained by limited pressure and small volume requirements, leading to high risks of errors and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A simplified circuit using a micro-compressor, a two-way two-position solenoid valve, a pressure detector, and a control module with a vent opening, allowing for efficient inflation and deflation of the chamber with reduced backpressure and eliminating the need for a discharge port in the solenoid valve, thereby reducing component complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex solenoid valves and micro-processors are used to control the micro-compressor, then the circuit can properly function with limited pressure and volume, but the cost of components and operation becomes excessively high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the micro-processor from the control system. Instead of using a complex micro-processor to control the solenoid valve and monitor pressure, the invention uses a simple mechanical pressure detector that directly actuates the solenoid valve through a mechanical linkage, thereby removing the need for expensive electronic control components while maintaining proper circuit functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure detector is designed to automatically detect pressure conditions and mechanically actuate the solenoid valve without external electronic control. The system serves itself through mechanical feedback from the pressure detector directly to the valve actuator, eliminating the need for external processors and reducing operational costs
2Reliability
If complex solenoid valves and processors are employed to manage the micro-compressor, then the circuit can handle limited pressure and volume requirements, but the cost of the probe increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, complex components with simpler, cheaper alternatives that can be manufactured at lower cost. The mechanical pressure detector and simple solenoid valve assembly can be produced as disposable or low-cost reusable components, significantly reducing the manufacturing cost of the probe while maintaining adequate control capability
Solution Approach 2:
By removing the micro-processor and complex electronic control circuitry from the design, the patent eliminates the most expensive components. The simplified mechanical control system uses readily available, low-cost parts that can be manufactured more easily and at lower cost, making the probe more accessible for deployment
3Volume of moving object
If the micro-compressor is strained to provide limited pressure for small volume chambers, then the probe size can be kept small for transportability, but the risk of malfunctioning and errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical pressure detector provides continuous feedback on the pressure conditions within the chamber. This feedback mechanism allows the system to detect pressure buildup and adjust the solenoid valve accordingly, preventing over-pressurization and reducing the risk of malfunction. The feedback loop operates mechanically without requiring complex electronic sensors, maintaining reliability while keeping the system simple
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical pressure detector and solenoid valve assembly are designed to anticipate and prevent pressure-related failures before they occur. The system cushions against potential malfunctions by providing mechanical relief pathways and pressure monitoring that prevent extreme conditions that could cause compressor failure or probe damage
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 results in a more reliable, accurate, and cost-effective fluid feeding circuit with reduced risk of malfunctions, enabling efficient and precise control of pressure within the inflatable chamber while minimizing the load on the micro-compressor.
Implementation Method 1
a shaped obturator being made to slide by an electromagnetic actuator between two working positions
Implementation Method 2
A circuit for feeding a fluid to an inflatable chamber comprises a compressor (2), preferably a micro-compressor
Implementation Method 3
a pressure detector (P), which is arranged for measuring the pressure inside the second conduit (12)
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
A circuit for feeding a fluid to an inflatable chamber, comprising: a compressor (2); a two-way and two-position solenoid valve (3) provided with a first port (31 ) and a second port (32) and operable between an open configuration, in which the ports (31,32) are in communication with one another, and a closed configuration, in which at least the second port (32) is closed; a first conduit (11) connecting the compressor (2) and the solenoid valve (3); a second conduit (12) connected to the solenoid valve (3) and predisposed for being connected to an inflatable chamber; a pressure detector (P) arranged for measuring the pressure inside the second conduit (12); a control module (M) arranged for receiving a pressure signal of the detector (P) and for controlling the solenoid valve (3) and the compressor (2); a vent opening (A) arranged along the first conduit (11).