Fluidic Oscillator Control Ports for Adjustable 3D Jet Output

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluidic oscillators are limited by fixed frequency and sweeping angle, which cannot be adjusted for varying application needs, and are restricted to two-dimensional output jets, limiting their use in scenarios requiring three-dimensional fluid streams.

Innovation Solution

A fluidic oscillator design incorporating control ports that allow for varying the frequency and sweeping angle by introducing or suctioning fluid streams, utilizing a feedback-type or jet interaction-type configuration to achieve adjustable output characteristics without moving parts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional fluidic oscillator is used, then the device has a simple maintenance-free design without moving parts, but the frequency and sweeping angle are fixed for a given flow rate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of frequency and sweeping angleVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the oscillator's characteristics variable rather than fixed. Control ports are introduced that allow dynamic adjustment of frequency and sweeping angle through varying control fluid flow rates, while the main oscillating structure remains without moving parts. This resolves the contradiction by enabling adaptability through fluidic control without mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes physical parameters of the fluid flow to achieve different oscillation characteristics. By varying the control fluid flow rate through the control ports, the frequency and sweeping angle are adjusted without changing the physical structure. This allows a single device design to provide multiple operating conditions, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If the oscillation frequency is increased up to five times, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoscillation frequencyVSAvoidcontrol mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses pneumatic/hydraulic control through fluid ports to adjust the oscillation frequency. Control fluid flow rates are varied to achieve frequency modulation up to five times, replacing what would traditionally require mechanical adjustment mechanisms. This resolves the contradiction by using fluidic control to increase productivity without adding mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

3Adaptability or versatility

If a two-dimensional output jet is used, then the device structure is simple, but the application scope is limited for three-dimensional fluid stream requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedimensional output capabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional to three-dimensional output capability by introducing control ports that manipulate the fluid stream in additional spatial dimensions. The control fluid interacts with the oscillating jet to create three-dimensional fluid structures, resolving the contradiction by enabling dimensional versatility through fluidic control mechanisms rather than structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 enables adjustable frequency and sweeping angle for a given flow rate, enhancing output flexibility and reducing maintenance needs, with potential frequency increases up to five times, and allowing for three-dimensional jet generation.

Implementation Method 1

The first feedback channel and second feedback channel are in fluid communication with the interaction chamber. Each of the first feedback channel and second feedback channel have a first end, a second end opposite and spaced apart from the first end, and an intermediate portion disposed between the first end and second end. The first ends are adjacent the outlet nozzle and the second ends are adjacent the fluid supply inlet. The first attachment wall and second attachment wall of the interaction chamber are shaped to allow fluid from the fluid stream to flow into the first ends of the first feedback channel and second feedback channel, respectively, causing the fluid stream to oscillate between the first attachment wall and second attachment wall of the interaction chamber.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFeedback mechanism: Feedback

Implementation Method 2

The at least one control port has a flow direction, and the at least one control port is for introducing a control fluid into the fluidic oscillator in the flow direction or suctioning the fluid stream from the fluidic oscillator in the flow direction.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid injection and suction: Injector

Data Source

PatentUS12453977B2Variable characteristics fluidic oscillator and fluidic oscillator with three dimensional output jet and associated methods
Publication Date: 2025.10.28 OHIO STATE INNOVATION FOUND
  • US12453977B2 patent drawing
  • US12453977B2 patent drawing
  • US12453977B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Various implementations include a fluidic oscillator having at least one control port. The at least one control port is for introducing a control fluid into the fluidic oscillator or suctioning the fluid stream from the fluidic oscillator. The introduction of a control fluid into the fluidic oscillator or suction of the fluid stream from the fluidic oscillator alters the frequency and sweeping angle of the oscillating fluid stream as it exits the fluidic oscillator. Various other implementations include a fluidic oscillator having a first control port defined by the first portion of the outlet nozzle and a second control port defined by the second portion of the outlet nozzle. The introduction of a control fluid into the fluidic oscillator or suction of the fluid stream from the fluidic oscillator through the control ports alters the exit angle of the oscillating fluid stream as it exits the fluidic oscillator.