Integrated Valve Module for Operating Fluid Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing operating liquid container systems require multiple valves and ports for ventilation, refueling, and filter purging, leading to complex constructions and increased component count, which limits adaptability to different systems and designs.
Innovation Solution
A valve module with a housing featuring three ports (one for the container interior, one for the filler pipe, and one for atmospheric connection) that are interconnected and independently adjustable, allowing for combined functions of ventilation and filter purging through a single assembly, reducing the need for multiple ports and components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves and ports are used for ventilation, refueling, and filter purging, then the system can perform all necessary functions, but the construction becomes complex and component count increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions (ventilation valve, refueling valve, and purge valve) into a single integrated valve module. This module includes a housing with multiple ports that are internally connected through fluid passages, allowing one component to perform the functions previously requiring separate valves and ports. The consolidation reduces construction complexity while maintaining adaptability to different operating liquid systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve module is designed as a universal component that can serve multiple functions: ventilation during normal operation, controlled refueling with vapor recovery, and purge valve operation for activated carbon filter maintenance. The single module adapts to different system configurations through its internal port connections and valve mechanisms, eliminating the need for system-specific multiple valve assemblies.
2Device complexity
If a single valve module is used to combine ventilation and purging functions, then component count is reduced, but the valve module must handle multiple fluid paths simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The valve module internally segments different fluid paths through separate ports and controlled passages. Each port (first port for container interior, second port for filler pipe, third port for atmosphere) can be independently controlled by its own valve mechanism, allowing simultaneous or separate operation of ventilation, refueling, and purge functions without interference between fluid paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing of the valve module serves as an intermediary structure that provides internal fluid passages connecting the multiple ports. These passages act as mediators that route fluids between ports while maintaining pressure differentials and preventing cross-contamination, enabling the single module to efficiently handle multiple fluid paths simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
A valve module for an operating fluid container system. The valve module has a housing which has a first connection for fluidically connecting to an operating fluid container interior, a second connection for fluidically connecting to a filler tube, and a third connection for at least indirectly fluidically connecting to the atmosphere. The valve module comprises the following features: the first connection is connected to the second connection and the third connection within the housing in a fluidic manner in each case; the second connection is connected to the third connection within the housing in a fluidic manner; and the first connection, the second connection, and the third connection can each be adjusted independently of one another between an open position, in which fluid communication through the respective connection is allowed, and a closed position, in which fluid communication through the respective connection is prevented.