Magnetorheological Valve Actuator for Low-Cost Fluid Path Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Beverage filling systems require cost-effective actuators for controlling fluid paths, as electro-pneumatic actuators are expensive and not economically viable for long-term use.
Innovation Solution
A magnetorheological elastomer-based actuator element is used, activated by a magnetic field, allowing rapid movement between defined positions to control fluid paths with sealing or non-sealing effects, eliminating the need for additional components like springs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electro-pneumatic actuators are used to control valves, then the fluid paths can be controlled reliably, but the cost becomes too high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electro-pneumatic actuator system with a magnetorheological elastomer-based actuator. The magnetorheological elastomer undergoes rapid shape changes when exposed to magnetic fields, providing reliable fluid path control through direct magnetic actuation rather than complex pneumatic mechanisms. This substitution eliminates the need for expensive pneumatic components while maintaining control reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the magnetic field strength parameter to control the shape and position of the magnetorheological elastomer. By varying the magnetic field intensity, the actuator can reliably transition between different states (expanded/contracted, engaged/disengaged), providing precise fluid path control through parameter modulation rather than mechanical complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex actuator systems are used, then the control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential actuation function from complex electro-pneumatic systems and implements it through a single magnetorheological elastomer element. This eliminates unnecessary intermediate components, mechanical linkages, and control mechanisms, achieving precise fluid path control with minimal structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs magnetorheological elastomer, a composite material combining magnetic particles within an elastomeric matrix. This material provides both the precision needed for controlled deformation and the simplicity of a single-element actuator, eliminating the need for complex mechanical assemblies while maintaining manufacturing precision.
3Productivity
If rapid movement between positions is required, then the productivity is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes periodic magnetic field application to achieve rapid valve switching. The magnetorheological elastomer responds quickly to alternating magnetic field cycles, enabling high-speed opening and closing operations. The periodic nature of magnetic field application allows for efficient energy usage, as energy is supplied only during the brief moments when field buildup is needed, rather than continuous energy consumption.
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 magnetorheological elastomer actuator provides a simple, inexpensive solution with a long service life, achieving secure closure and opening of fluid paths with adjustable forces, suitable for beverage filling systems, reducing operational costs and maintaining efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator element consists of a material which, as a dependency of a first control signal, undergoes a first expansion, in which the actuator element adopts a first position of rest, and which, as a dependency of the second control signal, undergoes an expansion, in which the actuator element adopts a second engagement position
Implementation Method 2
the magnetorheological elastomer can be activated by an externally imposable magnetic field by means of the electromagnet according to the invention
Implementation Method 3
Magnetorheological elastomers (MRE) are, for example, composites of magnetizable particles, such as iron in an elastomer matrix such as silicone or natural rubber. When a magnetic field is imposed, the MRE body deforms or moves in the magnetic field
Implementation Method 4
when the magnetic field is switched off the material reverts to its initial shape or position
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator for controlling a fluid path includes an actuator having a seat part, either a fluid-valve membrane or a movable part, and a magnetorheological elastomer that changes form when a magnetic field changes. This causes the path to open or close.