Membrane Valve Profile for Reduced Hydraulic Shock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve designs often result in rapid and unsafe closure, leading to pressure shocks that can cause deformation or malfunction, lacking ergonomic and user-friendly features for safe operation.
Innovation Solution
A valve with a membrane and reinforcement portion having a non-uniform cross-sectional profile, supported by an elastic element like a compression spring, which delays closure and reduces pressure shocks, and is manufactured using 2K molding or 3D printing for enhanced strength and customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a standard valve design with uniform geometry is used, then the valve structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the valve closes relatively quickly causing intense pressure shocks that may lead to failure or process upset
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane is designed with non-uniform thickness, having a first thickness in a first region and a second thickness in a second region. This local variation in thickness allows different parts of the membrane to close at different rates, extending the overall closing time and reducing pressure shocks while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through a single molded piece.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a membrane with non-uniform cross-sectional profile is used, then the closing time is optimized and pressure shocks are reduced, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane's thickness parameter is varied across different regions to achieve non-uniform cross-sectional profile. This parameter change allows the membrane to close in a controlled manner, extending closing time and reducing pressure shocks. The complexity is managed by forming the entire membrane as a single molded piece with integrated features.
3Device complexity
If the membrane is made as a single piece, then the number of parts is reduced and assembly is simplified, but the membrane may lack sufficient strength and durability
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane incorporates a reinforcement portion with different material properties or structural characteristics than the main membrane body. This localized reinforcement provides enhanced strength and durability in critical areas while maintaining the single-piece construction and overall simplicity of the design.
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 solution provides a safe, efficient, and less shock-prone operation by optimizing the closing time of the valve, reducing hydraulic shocks, and extending the service life through the use of materials like silicon and 3D printing for improved mechanical assistance and resistance to corrosion.
Implementation Method 1
The valve includes an elastic element disposed between the valve body and the membrane. The elastic element biases the membrane in the closed position.
Implementation Method 2
The elastic element is a compression spring.
Data Source
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AI summary
A valve (100) is disposed in a liquid channel (102). The valve (100) includes a valve body (110). A valve cover (112) is adapted to at least partially enclose the valve body (110). A valve seat (114) is disposed within the valve body (110). A membrane (116) is adapted to be received on the valve seat (114). The membrane (116) is adapted to move between an open position allowing a liquid flow (F) through the liquid channel (102) and a closed position disallowing the liquid flow (F) through the liquid channel (102). An elastic element (118) is disposed between the valve body (110) and the membrane (116). The elastic element (118) is adapted to bias the membrane (116) in the closed position. The valve (100) is characterized in that at least one of the membrane (116) and the valve seat (114) has a non- uniform cross-sectional profile.