Integrated Multifunctional Valve Device for Fluid Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
In fluid containers like inkjet cartridges, numerous valves occupy valuable space and add complexity, requiring design tradeoffs for proper placement, which limits their functionality and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An integrated multifunctional valve device that combines multiple valve functions, such as regulator, pressure-actuated, and capillary relief valves, into a single device using a flexible disk member and actuator system, allowing efficient use of space and durable performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate valves are used in fluid containers, then each valve can perform its specific function reliably, but the device occupies more space and increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate valve functions (regulator valve, pressure-actuated valve, and capillary relief valve) into a single integrated multifunctional valve device. This merging reduces the total number of valve components while maintaining all necessary functions, directly addressing the contradiction between reliability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated valve device is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - regulating fluid flow, responding to pressure changes, and providing capillary relief. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate valves, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate valves are installed in fluid containers, then comprehensive fluid control is achieved, but valuable space within the container is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple valve functions into a single integrated device, the patent significantly reduces the total volume occupied by valve components within the fluid container. The consolidated design eliminates the need for multiple separate valve assemblies, thereby preserving valuable internal space.
Solution Approach 2:
The multifunctional valve design enables comprehensive fluid control capabilities to be achieved within a compact single-device footprint. This multi-functionality ensures that all necessary fluid control operations can be performed without requiring the space that would be needed for multiple separate valves.
3Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate valves are used, then specific valve functions can be optimized independently, but the overall system requires more components and assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple valve functions into a single manufactured component or assembly, reducing the total number of parts that need to be produced and assembled. While maintaining the ability to optimize each function's performance, the merged design simplifies the manufacturing and assembly process by eliminating the need to handle and assemble multiple separate valve components.
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 integrated multifunctional valve device efficiently directs fluid flow, reduces space constraints, and enhances durability by consolidating multiple valve functions into a single location, optimizing space usage and performance within fluid containers.
Implementation Method 1
In response to a change in pressure within the regulated chamber, the flexible disk member deflects to close the first port and open the second port
Implementation Method 2
A capillary path is configured to selectively transport air from the second port to the regulated chamber
Data Source
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
An integrated multifunctional valve device includes a surface member having a first port and a second port formed therein, a flexible disk member having a central portion and a surrounding portion, a first seat member extending outward from the surface member and coupled to the surrounding portion of the flexible disk member, a second seat member extending outward from the surface member and surrounded by the first seat member. The central portion is movable between an open port position to establish fluid communication between the respective ports and a close port position to stop the fluid communication between the respective ports. The second seat member is configured to selectively receive the central portion of the flexible disk member corresponding to the close port position. The integrated multifunctional valve device also includes an actuator member configured to selectively move the central portion of the flexible disk member into the open port position and the close port position.