Limiting Valve With Segmented Annular Regulation Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flow limiting valves using O-rings are limited to narrow ranges of flow speeds due to the physical constraints of the materials used, restricting their adjustable deformation and effectiveness across a wide range of flow speeds.
Innovation Solution
A limiting valve design featuring a support body with a tubular wall and annular regulation member, which is elastically deformable to regulate fluid flow, utilizing two limiting elements that act at different flow speeds to achieve multiple interception stages, allowing for a wider range of flow speed coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single O-ring is used for flow regulation, then the valve structure is simple, but the adjustable range of flow speed is narrow
Solution Approach 1:
The single O-ring is divided into multiple segments (first O-ring segment, second O-ring segment, third O-ring segment) that can deform independently at different flow speeds. This segmentation allows each segment to handle specific deformation ranges, collectively covering a broader flow speed spectrum while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The O-ring segments are designed with dynamic deformation characteristics where each segment becomes increasingly deformable at higher flow speeds. The first segment deforms at lower speeds, the second at intermediate speeds, and the third at higher speeds, creating a dynamic multi-stage flow regulation system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the O-ring material is made more flexible to increase deformation range, then the adjustable flow speed range increases, but the material strength decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The O-ring is segmented into multiple sections with different material properties or geometric characteristics. Each segment can be optimized for specific deformation requirements, allowing some segments to be more flexible while others maintain higher strength, thus resolving the trade-off between flexibility and strength.
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the O-ring have different local properties (such as varying cross-sectional areas, wall thicknesses, or material compositions) that enable each segment to deform at different flow speeds. This local differentiation allows the overall structure to achieve wide deformation range without compromising the strength of individual segments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple O-rings are used to cover wider flow speed range, then the adjustable range increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple O-ring segments are merged into a single integrated component that functions as one unified valve element. The segments are connected in such a way that they work together sequentially at different flow speeds, achieving multi-stage flow regulation without requiring multiple separate valves or complex control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented O-ring structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a seal, a flow regulator, and a multi-stage control element all in one component. Each segment contributes to different aspects of flow regulation, making the single component universally functional across various flow conditions.
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 effective regulation of fluid flow across a broader range of speeds, preventing leaks and distributing mechanical stress homogeneously, while being cost-effective and simple to produce, with the annular regulation member's deformation adjusting the lumen width in response to varying flow velocities.
Implementation Method 1
an annular regulation member (6), which is elastically deformable to regulate the flow of fluid
Implementation Method 2
at least a first (12) and a second (14) limiting element to which the annular regulation member (6) works mechanically to determine a first and second limit deformation of the member (6) depending on the flow speed of the fluid
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~6
Figure 7~10
AI summary
Limiting valve (1) of a fluid flow comprising a support body (2), an annular regulation member (6), housed at least partially in said body (2) and which in conjunction therewith delimits one or more lumen (8) for crossing of the fluid wherein, under the action of the fluid, the annular regulation member (6) is elastically deformable to narrow the lumen (8) so as to regulate the flow of fluid downstream of the valve (1). The valve further comprises at least a first (12) and a second (14) limiting element on which the annular regulation member (6) works mechanically to determine a first and a second limit deformation of said member (6) depending on the flow speed of the fluid. The invention further comprises an assembly comprising said valve (1).