Magnetically Coupled 3/2 Fluid Valve for Single-Actuator Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microfluidic circuits rely on combinations of monostable 2/2 valves to create 3/2 valves, requiring separate actuators and precise synchronization, which is complex and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A bistable 3/2 fluidic valve device using two permanent magnets with magnetic interaction to control fluid flow between a single fluidic inlet and two outlets, where the magnets are synchronized by magnetic effect alone, allowing for reliable operation with a single actuator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate monostable 2/2 valves are combined to create a 3/2 valve, then the valve can control fluid flow to two outlets, but the device complexity increases due to requiring two separate actuators and synchronization mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate valve functions into a single integrated 3/2 valve device with one actuator. The housing contains both fluidic pathways (first outlet and second outlet) and the actuator simultaneously actuates both openings/closings means through magnetic coupling, eliminating the need for two separate actuators and their synchronization mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic coupling mechanism as an intermediary between the actuator and the two openings/closings means. The actuator generates magnetic field variations that induce corresponding movements in both openings/closings means through magnetic interaction, serving as a mediator that automatically synchronizes their operation without direct mechanical connection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two separate actuators are used to control a 3/2 valve, then each outlet can be controlled independently, but the ease of operation decreases due to the need for precise synchronization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-synchronizing mechanism where the actuator automatically coordinates both openings/closings means through magnetic coupling. The system serves itself by using the actuator's magnetic field variations to inherently synchronize the operation of both outlets without requiring external synchronization control, making operation simpler while maintaining independent control capability.
3Ease of operation
If magnetic switching means are used in a fluidic valve, then the valve can be actuated without direct mechanical connection, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase due to the need for precise magnetic alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the magnetic coupling mechanism to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides non-contact actuation, ensures precise synchronization of both openings/closings means, and compensates for manufacturing tolerances. The magnetic field interaction is designed to be robust against alignment variations, making the system universally applicable while maintaining precision.
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 reliable and efficient operation of a 3/2 valve in microfluidic circuits without the need for complex synchronization of separate actuators, using a single actuator to control fluid flow between multiple outlets.
Implementation Method 1
The first permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet being arranged relative to each other another so as to be in a first state of magnetic interaction, making it possible to obtain a first stable mechanical configuration in which the first permanent magnet and the second permanent magnet are held by magnetic effect respectively in their first position and in their second position
Data Source
Figure 1A~2C
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a fluidic valve device intended to be arranged in a fluidic circuit, said device comprising in particular ∘ A first switching assembly comprising a first compartment defining a first internal space and a first permanent magnet (20) arranged freely to slide in said first internal space, ∘ A second switching assembly comprising a second compartment defining a second internal space and a second permanent magnet (21) arranged freely to slide in said second internal space, ∘ The first permanent magnet (20) and the second permanent magnet (21) being arranged relative to each other so as to be in a first state of magnetic interaction, allowing a first stable mechanical configuration to be obtained or in a second state of magnetic interaction, allowing a second stable mechanical configuration to be obtained.