Fluid Mixing System with Adjustable Orifices for Constant Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for precisely metering and mixing fluids do not allow for changes in mix ratios while maintaining a substantially constant flow rate of the fluid mixture.
Innovation Solution
A system with a mixing chamber, constant flow valves, and adjustable and fixed metering orifices that regulate fluid flow and pressure to maintain a constant flow rate and variable mix ratios, using a modulating assembly with a flexible diaphragm and spring mechanism to control fluid flow through the orifices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a known system for precisely metering and mixing fluids is used, then the flow rate is maintained at a substantially constant level, but the mix ratio of the fluids cannot be changed
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs adjustable metering orifices that can be dynamically modified to change the mix ratio of fluids being mixed. The metering orifices are designed to be adjustable in size or configuration, allowing the system to adapt to different mix ratio requirements while maintaining constant flow rate delivery. This dynamic adjustability resolves the contradiction by enabling mix ratio variability without requiring a completely different system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameters of the metering orifices (such as opening size, cross-sectional area, or flow resistance) to control the mix ratio of the fluids. By varying these parameters while keeping the overall system flow rate constant, the system achieves adaptability in mix ratio selection. This parameter change approach allows the system to be versatile in mixing different proportions of fluids without increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the mix ratio of fluids is varied, then the adaptability of the system is improved, but the constancy of the delivered fluid mixture volume is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms through constant flow valves that monitor and adjust the flow rates of individual fluid components. When the mix ratio needs to be changed, the feedback system automatically compensates by adjusting the metering orifices to maintain the desired mix ratio while ensuring the total delivered fluid mixture volume remains constant. This feedback control resolves the contradiction by simultaneously achieving mix ratio variability and volume consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The constant flow valves are designed to perform multiple functions: they individually control the flow rate of each fluid component, maintain constant total flow rate delivery, and enable mix ratio adjustment. This multi-functionality allows the system to vary mix ratios while maintaining stable fluid mixture volume composition, as the same valve mechanism serves both control and stabilization purposes.
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
Enables progressive variation of mix ratios over a wide range while maintaining a constant volume of the fluid mixture, ensuring a consistent flow rate for all selected mix ratios.
Implementation Method 1
modulating assembly with a flexible diaphragm and spring mechanism to control fluid flow
Implementation Method 2
regulate fluid flow and pressure to maintain a constant flow rate
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid mixing and delivery system comprises a mixing chamber; a first supply line for supplying a first fluid component to the mixing chamber via a first CFValve and a downstream first metering orifice; a second supply line for supplying a second fluid component to the mixing chamber via a second CFValve and a downstream second metering orifice, with the first and second fluid components being combined in the mixing chamber to produce a fluid mixture; and a discharge line leading from the mixing chamber and through which the fluid mixture is delivered to a dispensing valve.