Form-Fitting Valve Block Assembly for Precise Actuator Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve systems for single-use applications are costly and require complex, space-consuming installations, with separate valve units leading to potential misassembly and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A valve block body with form-fitting sections and clamping elements that allow for quick, secure, and error-free connection to an actuator carrier, reducing installation space and simplifying assembly by integrating multiple functions into a single unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate valve units are used, then valve functions are provided, but installation space increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate valve units into a single integrated valve block body that houses multiple valve seats and channels. This merging of previously separate components into one unified structure directly reduces installation space while maintaining all necessary valve functions, resolving the contradiction between providing comprehensive valve adaptability and minimizing installation area.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve block body is designed as a universal component that can accommodate multiple different valve types and configurations within a single unit. By making the valve block multi-functional, the system provides diverse valve capabilities without requiring multiple separate installations, thereby reducing overall installation space while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate valve units are used, then valve functions are provided, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple valve functions into a single valve block body with integrated drive connection sections, the patent reduces the number of separate components that need to be assembled. This integration simplifies the overall assembly process and reduces device complexity while still providing multiple valve functions through the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal valve block body design allows a single component to perform multiple valve functions, eliminating the need to assemble and coordinate multiple separate valve units. This multi-functionality approach reduces assembly complexity by standardizing the interface and structure, making the system easier to install and maintain.
3Ease of operation
If conventional connection methods are used, then valve bodies can be connected to actuators, but positioning accuracy decreases and misassembly risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric form-fitting sections with specific geometric shapes that only fit together in one correct orientation. This asymmetric design ensures that the valve block body can only be connected to the actuator carrier in the proper position, eliminating misassembly risks and ensuring high positioning accuracy while maintaining ease of connection through the intuitive form-fitting interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The form-fitting sections are pre-designed with specific geometric features that guide the alignment and positioning of the valve block body relative to the actuator carrier before final connection. This preliminary geometric guidance ensures accurate positioning is achieved automatically during the connection process, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures.
4Ease of manufacture
If single-use valve bodies are used, then cost reduction is achieved, but connection security decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping sections are pre-configured with form-fitting geometric features that ensure secure connection when the valve block body is installed on the actuator carrier. This preliminary design of the connection interface provides inherent security through precise geometric matching, ensuring reliable connections even for single-use disposable valve bodies without requiring complex additional securing mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
A valve block body (100) is provided for arrangement on a drive carrier (200), comprising: a plurality of process fluid channels (102, 104a-d) between which valve seats are arranged; a plurality of drive connection sections (110a-d) associated with the valve seats, which are arranged on at least one side (112) of the valve block body (100); and a plurality of clamping sections (120a-d) which are arranged facing away from at least one side (112) of the valve block body (100).