Integrated Valve With Dynamic Check Function
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve combinations with non-return functions are costly and complex, requiring additional components and space, and often lack a simple construction.
Innovation Solution
A 2/2-way valve design with a movable switching element and a non-return element, where the non-return function is integrated and can be canceled in a second switching position, allowing bidirectional flow, using a restoring element like a compression spring and a flexible membrane for sealing, with stops to define the switching positions and prevent axial movement of the membrane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If check valves are combined to meet specific functional requirements, then the functional requirements are satisfied, but costs and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a 2/2-way valve and a check valve into a single integrated valve unit. The switching element and non-return element share a common housing and working fluid chamber, eliminating the need for separate valve components. This merging reduces both space requirements and costs while maintaining the ability to satisfy multiple functional requirements through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated valve performs multiple functions within a single device: it can operate as a 2/2-way valve for bidirectional flow control and as a check valve for one-way flow protection. The switching element can position the valve to achieve different flow patterns, making the device universal and adaptable to various functional requirements without needing additional components.
2Reliability
If a non-return function is always present in the valve, then flow control in one direction is ensured, but bidirectional flow control is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the non-return function dynamic rather than static. The switching element can be positioned to either enable or disable the non-return function based on operational requirements. When the switching element is in the first position, the non-return function is active; when in the second position, bidirectional flow is enabled. This dynamic capability allows the valve to adapt between ensuring one-directional flow reliability and allowing bidirectional flow control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are used to achieve flow control functions, then functional requirements are met, but the construction becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple valve functions into a single construction with a unified housing, common working fluid chamber, and coordinated switching and non-return elements. This eliminates the need for multiple separate valves and their associated connections, mounting hardware, and control mechanisms, thereby simplifying the overall construction while maintaining comprehensive flow control capabilities.
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 design achieves a simple and cost-effective integration of non-return functionality without always being present, allowing for efficient bidirectional flow control based on pressure conditions without the need for additional components or electrical energy.
Implementation Method 1
A restoring element is provided, which exerts a restoring force on the switching element in the direction of the second switching position. The restoring element is advantageously a compression spring.
Implementation Method 2
a sealing bead of the non-return element can be lifted off the sealing contour of the switching element by elastic deformation of the non-return element, thus enabling a passage from the pressure inlet to the pressure outlet
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a valve (10) with a pressure inlet (11), a pressure outlet (12), a check valve element, and a movable switching element (13) having a sealing contour, wherein in a first switching position of the switching element (13) a check valve function formed by the check valve element and the sealing contour is present, with a flow direction from the pressure inlet (11) to the pressure outlet (12) and a blocking effect from the pressure outlet (12) to the pressure inlet (11). According to the invention, it is provided that in a second switching position of the switching element (13) this blocking effect is removed.