Integrated Pneumatic Valve with Check Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pneumatic valve combinations for vehicles require auxiliary energy and are costly and space-intensive due to the need for separate check and solenoid valves, and pressure relief valves with integrated check valves do not allow pressure passage in the blocking position.
Innovation Solution
A valve design that integrates a check element and restoring element, allowing pressure passage even in the blocking position without auxiliary energy, where the blocking function is dependent on pressure input and restoring element counterforce, and the check element only closes when outlet pressure exceeds inlet pressure, with coaxial movement and compression springs for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate check valve and solenoid valve are used, then blocking function and non-return function are achieved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a check valve and a solenoid valve into a single integrated valve unit. The check element (18) and switching element (13) are housed together with shared components including a common housing (14), restoring elements (15, 37), and sealing mechanisms. This merging eliminates the need for separate valve assemblies, reducing device complexity and space requirements while maintaining both blocking and non-return functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated valve performs multiple functions simultaneously: the switching element (13) provides blocking control when activated, while the check element (18) provides non-return functionality. The valve body and restoring elements serve both functions, creating a multi-functional component that replaces what would traditionally require separate specialized valves.
2Reliability
If pressure relief valve with integrated check valve is used, then blocking function is achieved, but passage in blocking position is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The valve path is segmented into multiple routes: a main passage through the switching element (13) for controlled flow, and a separate bypass passage through the check element (18) for non-return flow. This segmentation allows the blocking function to be applied selectively to the main passage while the bypass maintains pressure transmission capability through the check element when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The check element (18) acts as an intermediary that allows pressure passage through an alternative path when the switching element (13) is in the blocked position. The check element opens to permit flow from pressure inlet (11) to pressure outlet (12) when outlet pressure exceeds inlet pressure, thereby maintaining productivity while the switching element provides the blocking function.
3Reliability
If solenoid valve is used, then blocking function is achieved, but electrical energy is required
Solution Approach 1:
The valve utilizes pneumatic self-actuation where the pressure differential between inlet (11) and outlet (12) automatically controls the check element (18). When outlet pressure exceeds inlet pressure, the pressure differential itself opens the check element without requiring external energy input. The restoring elements (15, 37) are passively actuated by pressure forces, eliminating the need for electrical energy while maintaining reliable blocking and non-return functions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are combined, then functional requirements are met, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple valve functions into a single manufactured unit with a common housing (14), shared restoring elements (15, 37), and integrated sealing systems. This merging reduces the total number of separate components that would need to be manufactured, assembled, and tested individually, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining the versatility to meet multiple functional requirements.
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
Enables efficient pressure transmission and blocking function without electrical energy, allowing almost any pressure to be transmitted even when the switching element is blocked, and reduces costs and space requirements by integrating all necessary components within a single valve.
Implementation Method 1
the restoring element being a compression spring
Implementation Method 2
the restoring element for the non-return element being a compression spring
Implementation Method 3
the check element only closes when the pressure at the pressure outlet is higher than at the pressure inlet
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a valve (10) for pneumatic applications in vehicles, comprising a pressure inlet (11), a pressure outlet (12), a switching element (13), and a return element (15), wherein the switching element (13) is movable between a closed position and a flow position, the transition from the flow position to the closed position depending on the pressure at the pressure inlet and the counterforce of the return element (15), and wherein a check valve element (18) is integrated into the switching element (13). According to the invention, in the closed position of the switching element (13), the check valve element (18) can open a passage from the pressure inlet (14) to the pressure outlet (12).