Multi-Adjustable Lubrication Valve for Dual-Range Pressure Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas turbine engine fluid lubrication systems lack a valve that can provide Pressure Adjusting Valve (PAV)-like behavior below a certain pressure threshold and Pressure Regulating Valve (PRV)-like behavior above that threshold.
Innovation Solution
A multi-adjustable valve is designed with a biasing member, a housing, first and second adjustable pistons, and a spool. This valve meters fluid flow by adjusting the spool's position based on the pressure difference between two fluid pressures and the biasing force, allowing for both PAV and PRV functionalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If a Pressure Adjusting Valve (PAV) is used to control system oil pressure, then the oil inlet pressure to component cavities is proportional to pump speed, but the system cannot maintain constant pressure differential under varying pump speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The valve employs a dynamic spool that can shift between different positions (first, second, and intermediate positions) to adapt to varying pump speeds and pressure conditions, transitioning from a static pressure control approach to a dynamic one that maintains optimal performance across different operating ranges
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure control function is segmented into different operating ranges handled by different spool positions: the first spool position handles lower pressure ranges with PAV-like behavior, the second position handles higher pressure ranges with PRV-like behavior, and intermediate positions provide transitional control, dividing the control task into manageable segments
2Stress or pressure
If a Pressure Regulating Valve (PRV) is used to maintain constant pressure differential, then pressure spikes are dampened, but the valve cannot provide PAV-like behavior below a given pressure threshold
Solution Approach 1:
The spool dynamically transitions between fixed positions (first and second positions) and intermediate positions to adapt the valve's behavior to the current pressure conditions, enabling the system to switch between PAV-like and PRV-like characteristics as needed
Solution Approach 2:
The single valve assembly incorporates multiple functions by combining PAV-like pressure adjustment capability at lower pressures with PRV-like constant differential maintenance at higher pressures, allowing one device to perform multiple pressure control roles that previously required separate systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate PAV and PRV systems are used to cover different pressure ranges, then each pressure range can be optimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of separate PAV and PRV systems into a single integrated valve assembly with a common housing, spool, and biasing member, reducing the number of components while maintaining the ability to provide both PAV-like and PRV-like behavior across different operating ranges
Solution Approach 2:
A single valve assembly performs multiple pressure control functions by utilizing different spool positions: the first spool position provides PAV-like behavior for lower pressure ranges, the second position provides PRV-like behavior for higher pressure ranges, and intermediate positions provide transitional control, eliminating the need for separate dedicated valves
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 multi-adjustable valve effectively controls fluid pressure differentials across component cavities, providing efficient lubrication and cooling while optimizing oil flow and pressure distribution, thus overcoming the limitations of traditional PAV and PRV systems.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing member, when in the compressed state, produces a biasing force that biases the spool toward the second end of the housing
Implementation Method 2
The multi-adjustable valve is configured to receive fluid at a first pressure between the spring housing and the first end of the housing, and to receive fluid at a second pressure between the spool end cap and the second end of the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-adjustable valve for a flow of fluid within a lubrication system is provided, having a longitudinal axis. The valve includes a biasing member, a housing, first and second adjustable pistons, and a spool. The housing has an interior cavity and inlet and outlet fluid ports. The first adjustable piston is disposed in the housing interior cavity and is positionally adjustable within the housing interior cavity and is configured to produce a pressure adjusting effect on the flow of fluid. The biasing member is axially disposed between the second adjustable piston and the spool. The second adjustable piston is disposed within the housing interior cavity and is attached to the first adjustable piston and is positionally adjustable relative to the first adjustable piston, wherein the second adjustable piston, the biasing member, and the spool are configured to produce a pressure regulating effect on the flow of fluid.