Mixing Valve Assembly With Atomizing Tip for Precise Spray Pattern Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in controlling the spray pattern of mixed fluids, particularly when the fluids have short pot lives, as atomizing the mixed fluid can compromise control over the spray pattern.
Innovation Solution
A valve system comprising a feeding mechanism with two pumps, a mixing element, and an air cap that atomizes the mixed fluids, allowing for precise control of the spray pattern by using volumetric pumps and a fluted air cap to generate laminar jets of compressed air.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If atomizing is applied to mixed fluids with short pot lives, then the fluid can be sprayed onto the substrate, but control of the spray pattern is sacrificed
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the fluid delivery process by using separate pumps for each fluid component, allowing independent control of each fluid's flow rate and timing. This segmentation enables precise control of the mixed fluid composition and spray pattern while maintaining the ability to atomize and spray onto substrates efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamically adjustable parameters including variable pump speeds, adjustable mixing ratios, and controllable atomization intensity. These dynamic controls allow the spray pattern and fluid delivery to be optimized in real-time based on the specific application requirements, maintaining both productivity and precision.
2Reliability
If mixed fluids with short pot lives are used, then the reaction between fluids occurs quickly, but the time for mixing and spraying is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-mixing the fluids in controlled ratios immediately before spray application. The separate pumps deliver each fluid component simultaneously and in precise proportions, ensuring optimal mixing occurs just prior to atomization, maximizing reaction effectiveness while minimizing the time the mixed fluid is held before application.
Solution Approach 2:
The system rushes through the mixing and spraying process by using high-speed pumps and immediate atomization upon mixing. The mixed fluid is sprayed onto the substrate almost instantly after mixing, minimizing the time window during which the short-pot-life fluid could degrade or lose reactivity, thus maintaining reliability while reducing time loss.
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 system enables precise and controlled application of mixed fluids with short pot lives, ensuring a defined spray pattern for selective coating on substrates, such as circuit boards, with flexibility in operation.
Implementation Method 1
an air cap that atomizes the mixed fluids, allowing for precise control of the spray pattern by using volumetric pumps and a fluted air cap to generate laminar jets of compressed air
Implementation Method 2
a feeding mechanism with two pumps, a mixing element, and an air cap that atomizes the mixed fluids, allowing for precise control of the spray pattern by using volumetric pumps and a fluted air cap
Data Source
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AI summary
A valve including a feed mechanism, a mixing element operably connected to the feed mechanism, wherein the feed mechanism delivers at least two fluids to the mixing element, the at least two fluids being mixed in the mixing element, and an air cap disposed proximate an outlet of the mixing element to atomize the mixed fluids exiting the outlet of the mixing element, is provided. Furthermore, an associated method is also provided.