Magnetic-Fluid Variable Nozzle for Precise Flow and Expansion Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional variable geometry nozzles lack efficient control over flow rate and expansion, leading to potential shock waves and inefficiencies in propulsion systems.
Innovation Solution
A variable geometry nozzle assembly utilizing magnetic fluid, where a magnetic field controls the deformation of a flexible inner wall to create a variable passageway geometry, allowing the magnetic fluid to solidify and maintain a desired shape for precise flow control and expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional variable geometry nozzles are used with mechanical actuation, then the nozzle geometry can be changed, but the control precision and response speed are insufficient leading to shock waves and inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical actuation systems with a magnetic field-based control system. Magnets positioned on opposite sides of the flexible membrane exert magnetic forces to deform the membrane and control the nozzle geometry, eliminating mechanical linkages and improving response speed and control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the magnetic fluid from liquid to solid-like using magnetic fields. By adjusting the magnetic field strength, the magnetic fluid's viscosity and yield stress change dramatically, allowing precise control of the membrane deformation and nozzle geometry without mechanical contact.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the magnetic field is turned on to solidify the magnetic fluid, then the desired geometry is maintained, but the flexibility for geometry variation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the nozzle geometry dynamically adjustable by controlling the magnetic field strength. The system can switch between a solidified state (high magnetic field) for geometry stability and a flexible state (low or zero magnetic field) for geometry reconfiguration, providing both stability and adaptability as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the phase transition of magnetic fluid from liquid to solid-like state under magnetic fields. By controlling the magnetic field strength, the system transitions between phases to achieve either geometry stability (solidified) or geometry variability (liquid state), resolving the contradiction between these two requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible inner wall is used to create variable geometry, then the nozzle can adapt to different flow conditions, but the structural strength and durability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials for the flexible membrane, combining elastomeric materials with magnetic fluid. This composite structure provides both the flexibility needed for geometry variation and the structural strength required for durability, as the magnetic fluid reinforces the elastomer while maintaining its flexible properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the structural support function from the flexible membrane itself and provides it through the magnetic fluid and magnetic field. The elastomeric material focuses solely on providing flexibility, while the magnetic fluid-magnetic field system provides structural reinforcement, allowing the membrane to be thinner and more flexible without compromising strength.
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
Achieves high-efficiency expansion and mass flow control with reduced turbulence and energy loss, suitable for applications like gas injectors and micro-satellite propulsion systems.
Implementation Method 1
when the magnetic field of the two magnet members is turned on or increased, the magnetic fluid becomes a viscoelastic solid or semi-solid, thereby allowing the solidified or semi-solidified magnetic fluid to remain in a desired or achieved geometry relative to the inner passageway
Implementation Method 2
when geometric variation of an inner passageway of the nozzle assembly is desired, a magnetic field of two magnet members positioned proximal to the inner passageway is turned off or reduced, thereby allowing deformation of the flexible inner wall to create a variable geometry of the inner passageway via flow of input fluid to the inner passageway
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides variable geometry nozzle or valve assemblies utilizing magnetic fluid (e.g., ferromagnetic fluid; magnetorheological fluid; non-Newtonian magnetic fluid; general viscous magnetic fluid). More particularly, the present disclosure provides variable geometry nozzle or valve assemblies utilizing magnetic fluid for high efficiency expansion and/or mass flow control in fluidic systems (e.g., gas injectors; micro-satellite propulsion systems; gas burners; fluid injectors; etc.).