Integrated Membrane Valve Structure to Reduce Part Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional diaphragm valves for underwater applications, such as diving masks, require multiple constructional parts and additional sealing elements, which can lead to complexity and potential loss of fragile components during cleaning or use.
Innovation Solution
A diaphragm valve design where the diaphragm plug is made in one piece with the flexible supporting wall, separated by slots and connected by material bridges, and secured with an annular tightening element, allowing for a single-piece manufacturing process and enhanced integration with the supporting wall.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the diaphragm valve uses multiple constructional parts (separated diaphragm plug and valve seat), then the valve can be assembled and disassembled, but the device complexity increases and the risk of component loss during cleaning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the diaphragm plug and valve seat into a single integral construction made of flexible material. The diaphragm plug is formed as one continuous piece with the valve seat, eliminating the need for separate fastening means and reducing the number of parts. This integration maintains assembly capability while significantly reducing device complexity and the risk of component loss during cleaning operations.
2Reliability
If the diaphragm valve uses multiple constructional parts with additional sealing elements, then the sealing function can be achieved, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing function and structural support into a single flexible diaphragm assembly. The continuous flexible material provides both structural integrity and sealing capability without requiring separate sealing elements like O-rings or gaskets. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining reliable sealing performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses homogeneous flexible material for both the diaphragm plug and valve seat, creating a uniform construction that is easier to manufacture as a single piece. The consistent material properties throughout the assembly eliminate the need for complex joining processes and additional sealing interfaces, thereby simplifying manufacturing while ensuring reliable sealing.
3Ease of repair
If the diaphragm plug is made separate from the supporting wall, then the valve can be independently replaced, but the structural integrity decreases and the risk of component loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the diaphragm plug with the supporting wall into a single flexible assembly, maintaining structural integrity through continuous material. The design allows the entire diaphragm assembly to be replaced as one unit if needed, preserving replaceability while eliminating the risk of losing small separate components during maintenance operations.
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
This design simplifies manufacturing, reduces the risk of component loss, and enhances the structural integrity and functionality of underwater devices by integrating the diaphragm valve seamlessly with the supporting wall, ensuring reliable fluid flow control.
Implementation Method 1
a diaphragm plug (130) made of elastic flexible material
Implementation Method 2
connected to the supporting wall by means of two material bridges (330) provided on opposite sides of the perimetrical edge of said diaphragm plug
Data Source
AI summary
A diaphragm or non-return valve is disposed in a supporting wall and includes a diaphragm plug and a valve seat having a passage opening surrounded by a continuous surface for sealing adhesion contact of a sealing lip of the diaphragm plug. The diaphragm plug is made as one piece and is of the same elastic, flexible material as the supporting wall, from which the diaphragm plug is separated along its perimetric edge by slots having a predetermined length. The diaphragm plug and the supporting wall are connected by at least two material bridges provided on opposite sides of the perimetric edge of the diaphragm plug, and the valve seat is configured as a shaped plate locked to the supporting wall in a position coincident with the diaphragm plug by a tightening ring, the valve seat and the tightening ring being engaged by elements passing through at least part of the slots.