Integrated Valve Actuation for Single-Signal Fluid Flow Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve arrangements requiring multiple valves for fluid control necessitate complex and costly setups with separate actuation signals, demanding manual configuration and high external control device complexity.
Innovation Solution
A valve arrangement combining a 2/2-way proportional valve and a switching valve, actuated by a control device generating individual signals for each valve based on a single setpoint signal, simplifying control and reducing manual configuration needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are used for fluid control, then fluid flow control capability is improved, but device complexity and control signal requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions (proportional valve for flow control and switching valve for direction control) into a single integrated valve arrangement that responds to one actuation signal. The control device integrates the functionality of multiple separate valves, reducing the number of independent control signals needed while maintaining comprehensive fluid control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve arrangement is designed to perform multiple functions (proportional flow control, switching, and direction control) through a single actuation signal. The control device acts as a universal controller that manages both proportional and switching valve operations, eliminating the need for separate control circuits for each valve type.
2Measurement precision
If multiple separate actuation signals are provided for each valve, then individual valve control precision is improved, but external control device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device merges the generation of multiple actuation signals into a single integrated unit. Instead of requiring external controllers to generate separate signals for proportional and switching valves, the control device internally generates both actuation signals based on one actuation signal, simplifying the external control architecture while maintaining precise individual valve control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration is required for valve arrangements, then adaptability to different applications is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The valve arrangement is designed to automatically adapt to different applications through self-configuration capabilities. The control device can automatically determine the appropriate actuation signals and valve settings based on the application requirements, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining high adaptability to different fluid control scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a valve arrangement and a method for actuating a valve arrangement having a 2/2-way proportional valve and a switching valve. The valve arrangement receives a single control signal and generates individual actuation signals from this control signal for the individual valves of the valve arrangement.