Fluid Flow Control Valve with Shape-Transforming Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid control systems, particularly in the petroleum industry, face challenges with sensitivity to viscosity changes, impurities, and require complex and maintenance-intensive components, leading to increased space and operational costs, as well as difficulties in remote and automated chemical injection processes.
Innovation Solution
A fluid flow control apparatus featuring a valve with a gear mechanism that utilizes a shape transformation source, such as a heating or cooling element, to provide attenuated or amplified displacement of the valve adjuster, allowing for fine-tuning and responsiveness independent of fluid pressure, viscosity, and temperature, and incorporating smart materials for self-regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional control valves (damper, choke, needle, gate) are used for chemical injection, then fluid flow can be regulated, but the system requires complex actuators and flow meters that increase space requirements and maintenance needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control valve and flow meter functions into a single integrated device. The valve body incorporates a flow measurement chamber with a float mechanism that directly measures flow rate while the valve adjuster controls fluid flow, eliminating the need for separate actuators and flow meters.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve body serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both a flow control element and a flow measurement device. The integrated design allows the same component to regulate fluid flow while also providing accurate flow rate indication, reducing the total number of components required.
2Reliability
If filter systems are added to retain impurities in narrow flow areas, then impurity sensitivity is reduced, but servicing frequency increases and access becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the separate filter system from the design by incorporating a self-cleaning mechanism into the valve body. The flow measurement chamber is designed to prevent particle accumulation, and the valve adjuster can be operated to flush out any impurities, eliminating the need for dedicated filter elements that require frequent replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve incorporates a self-cleaning capability where the fluid flow itself helps remove impurities from the measurement chamber. The design allows the valve to maintain its own functionality without external intervention for filter maintenance, as the flow pattern and valve operation naturally prevent particle buildup.
3Stability of the object's composition
If heating and insulation are provided to maintain chemical temperature and prevent viscosity increase, then viscosity control is improved, but economic and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a float mechanism that dynamically adjusts to changes in fluid density and flow rate. The float automatically positions itself according to the actual flow conditions, providing real-time flow measurement without requiring active heating or insulation systems to maintain constant fluid properties.
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 apparatus achieves precise control of fluid flow with reduced maintenance needs, improved responsiveness, and self-regulation, minimizing the impact of viscosity and impurities, while enabling efficient and automated fluid injection processes.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator device (17) connected to said second portion (7) and comprising at least one elongate member (22) configured for undergoing a change in dimension, i.e. change in shape, upon activation of a shape transformation source (9)
Implementation Method 2
the actuator element and regulating device body are connected in such a way that the actuator element and the regulating device body are arranged to move freely independently of each other in consequence of a material expansion or material contraction
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~1d
Figure 1e
AI summary
An apparatus (1) for controlling a fluid flow, the apparatus comprising a valve (11) provided with a valve adjuster (12) for controlling a fluid flow through the valve (11), the valve (11) comprising a fluid inlet (13) in fluid communication with a fluid inlet conduit (13'), and a fluid outlet (15) in fluid communication with a fluid outlet conduit (15'), for flowing fluid through the valve (11), wherein the apparatus (1) further comprising an actuator device (17) capable of undergoing a change in shape, said change in shape of the actuator device (17) providing via a connecting member (20;3) an attenuated or amplified displacement of a fixation point (5) connected to the valve adjuster (12), when compared to the change in shape of the actuator device (17).