Microvalve Non-Linear Conduits Pressure Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microvalve devices face challenges in efficiently controlling fluid flow due to pressure imbalances and limited fluid flow rates, particularly in designs with non-linear flow paths and complex valve mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A microvalve device with a body formed of multiple plates, featuring a slider element that moves within a cavity to control fluid communication between ports, utilizing non-linear and angled fluid conduits to maintain fluid flow regardless of the slider's position, and incorporating trench structures for pressure balancing and feedback mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a non-linear flow path is used in the microvalve body, then fluid communication is maintained between ports regardless of slider position, but the device complexity increases due to the complex routing structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multi-layer plate structures with fluid conduits routing in different spatial dimensions. The non-linear flow path is achieved by utilizing vertical and lateral routing across multiple plates, allowing fluid communication to be maintained in three-dimensional space without requiring complex two-dimensional routing within a single plane.
Solution Approach 2:
The microvalve body is segmented into multiple plates, each containing specific fluid conduits and ports. This segmentation allows the complex non-linear flow path to be divided into manageable sections, with each plate handling a portion of the fluid routing, thereby reducing the complexity of individual components while maintaining overall system functionality.
2Productivity
If pressure balancing structures are added to reduce friction and leakage, then fluid flow control efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates pressure balancing structures directly into the existing plate and conduit architecture. The non-linear flow path itself serves dual purposes: maintaining fluid communication while simultaneously providing pressure balancing. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate pressure balancing components, reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid conduits in the microvalve body are designed to perform multiple functions: transporting fluid between ports, maintaining pressure balance across the slider, and reducing friction through optimized flow paths. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated components for each function, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Reliability
If a slider element with sealing surfaces is used to control fluid flow, then fluid communication control improves, but friction and leakage increase due to contact between moving and stationary parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes fluid pressure fields to maintain sealing between the slider element and the body. Pressure balancing structures create equal pressure distribution across the sealing surfaces, preventing leakage without requiring high contact pressure that would increase friction. The hydraulic pressure itself becomes the sealing mechanism rather than relying solely on mechanical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the geometric parameters of the sealing surfaces and fluid conduits to minimize friction and leakage. By carefully designing the contact area, surface finish, and flow path dimensions, the system achieves reliable fluid control while minimizing harmful friction and leakage effects.
Data Source
AI summary
A microvalve device for controlling the supply of pressurized fluid to a load in a fluid circuit, and having multiple internal fluid conduits for providing pressure feedback.