Linear 3-Way Spool Valve for Constant Flow Split Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve technologies, such as T-port ball valves and splitters, fail to allow an arbitrary separation of fluid flow into two paths while maintaining a constant total flow rate as the flow transitions from 100% through one path to 100% through the other.
Innovation Solution
A linearly actuated three-way valve with a spool having converging passageways, controlled by an actuator, which allows precise adjustment of fluid flow between two paths, ensuring a constant total flow rate as the valve transitions from 100% flow through one path to 100% flow through the other.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a T-port ball valve is used to divert flow, then the valve structure is simple and easy to operate, but the incoming flow cannot be divided between two paths according to an arbitrary ratio
Solution Approach 1:
The valve employs a rotatable spool with variable geometry that can be dynamically positioned at different angles. The spool features a first passageway and a second passageway whose effective flow areas change continuously with rotation angle, enabling arbitrary flow ratio control between two output paths while maintaining simple valve body structure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the flow paths by rotating the spool to different angular positions. The effective cross-sectional area of each passageway is dynamically adjusted through rotation, allowing continuous variation of flow division ratio from 0% to 100% through each path while keeping the total flow constant
2Adaptability or versatility
If flow control valves are added to each output path, then arbitrary flow percentage control is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the flow division function and flow control function into a single integrated spool component. The rotatable spool simultaneously performs flow path switching and flow ratio control through its geometric design, eliminating the need for separate flow control valves at each output path while maintaining arbitrary flow percentage control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The spool serves multiple functions: it acts as both a flow path switch and a flow control element. By rotating the spool to different positions, the user can control both which paths are open and the flow division ratio, making the single component universal for both switching and metering applications
3Productivity
If the total flow rate varies during transition between paths, then flow control is simpler, but the source operation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve design ensures continuous and constant total flow rate through the valve during the entire transition process from one path to another. The spool geometry is designed so that as one passageway closes, another opens in a complementary manner, maintaining constant total flow area and preventing flow rate variations that would reduce source efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
A three-way valve is disclosed. The valve achieved constant flow rate as the valve transitions from 100% flow through the first path to 100% flow through the second path. The valve is linearly actuated, which allows a plurality of valves to be efficiently disposed in a manifold. The valve comprises a spool having two passageways therethrough which converge at the input. The spool is disposed in a housing. By linear movement of the spool within the housing, the amount of the incoming flow that passes through each of the two passageways can be controlled. In certain embodiments, the spool is in communication with an actuator to control its position within the housing. The three-way valve may be used as part of a manifold.