Gas valve unit comprising an actuation mechanism for a solenoid valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas valve units for gas burners face issues with the shut-off valve being deformed when excessive force is applied, leading to impaired function and inability to maintain the open position due to insufficient magnetic force.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a helical spring with a varying coil radius as the connecting element, which yields under high forces to prevent damage and ensures the shut-off valve can be kept open by a magnet unit powered by a thermocouple, while maintaining normal operating forces and using a deflection device to transfer axial movements effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the actuating shaft is pressed with great force to open the shut-off valve, then the shut-off valve can be opened, but the shut-off element can be deformed which impairs the function of the shut-off valve
Solution Approach 1:
A buffer element is introduced between the actuating shaft and the shut-off element to absorb excess pressing force. This buffer element deforms elastically when excessive force is applied, preventing the force from being transmitted to the shut-off element and causing deformation. The buffer element thus cushions the shut-off element against damage while still allowing normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer element serves as an intermediary component between the actuating shaft and the shut-off element. It mediates the force transmission by being deformable - allowing force transmission during normal operation to open the valve, but absorbing and isolating excessive force that would otherwise deform the shut-off element.
2Ease of operation
If the shut-off element is deformed, then the air gap between the shut-off element and the magnet unit increases, but the magnetic force remains insufficient to hold the shut-off valve open
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer element prevents deformation of the shut-off element before it can occur. By absorbing excessive force through elastic deformation, the buffer element ensures the shut-off element maintains its proper position and geometry, keeping the air gap to the magnet unit within acceptable limits for magnetic holding force.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer element acts as a protective intermediary that preserves the geometric relationship between the shut-off element and the magnet unit. By preventing shut-off element deformation, it ensures the magnetic field can effectively hold the valve open without excessive air gap.
3Productivity
If a rigid connecting element is used to transmit force to the shut-off valve, then force transmission is efficient, but the shut-off element can be damaged by excessive force
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer element is positioned in the force transmission path to provide beforehand cushioning against excessive forces. During normal operation, it transmits force efficiently to open the shut-off valve. When excessive force is applied, the buffer element deforms elastically, absorbing the excess energy and preventing damage to the shut-off element.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer element changes its mechanical parameters (stiffness, deformation) based on the applied force. Under normal operating conditions, it remains relatively rigid for efficient force transmission. Under excessive force conditions, it becomes more compliant through elastic deformation, thereby protecting the shut-off element.
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 ensures the shut-off valve is reliably opened and maintained in the open position without deformation, ensuring consistent operation and preventing damage to valve components.
Implementation Method 1
the connecting element has at least one spring designed as a helical spring. The coil spring has a varying coil radius. When a particularly large force is applied to the connector, the spring yields, preventing damage to check valve components.
Implementation Method 2
The shut-off valve usually also has a magnet unit with which the shut-off element can be held in the open position after the shut-off element has been brought into this open position manually by pressing the valve shaft.
Implementation Method 3
The magnet assembly typically includes a wound coil connected to a thermocouple located in the area of a gas burner. The electrical voltage generated by the thermocouple causes a current to flow through the coil of the magnet unit
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a gas valve unit for adjusting a gas volume flow fed to a gas burner of a gas appliance, in particular a gas cooker. Said gas valve unit has a valve housing (20), an actuation pin (31) for adjusting a cross-section of the opening in the gas valve unit, and an additional shutoff valve (40). A movement of the actuation pin (31) can be transferred to the shutoff valve (40) by means of a slidable connection element (45). According to the invention, the connection element (45) has at least one spring (45b). According to a further development of the invention, the spring (45b) of the connection element (45) is designed as a compression spring. The spring (45b) of the connection element (45) is designed as a coil spring, preferably a coil spring having a variable coil diameter.