Modular Valve Manifold With Bistable Control for Low-Heat Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manifold systems for fluid flow control are often custom-designed and inflexible, leading to issues with power consumption, heat generation, and valve reliability, particularly in systems requiring frequent state changes, and integrating bistable valve assemblies is complex and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A modular manifold assembly with standardized modules and on-board controllers allows for rapid re-purposing and specialized functions, incorporating bistable valve assemblies that operate efficiently without undue power consumption or heat generation, and enable easy replacement of individual valve assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manifold systems are custom-designed for specific liquid flow control apparatus, then the system can be optimized for that specific application, but the system cannot be easily re-purposed for other applications
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold system is divided into modular components that can be independently configured and re-purposed. Each module can be selectively assembled to create different manifold configurations for various applications, enabling easy re-purposing without redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold system is designed with universal interfaces and standardized components that allow the same basic structure to serve multiple functions and applications. The modular architecture enables a single manifold design to be adapted for different liquid flow control apparatus through selective assembly of modules.
2Use of energy by moving object
If traditional manifold valves are used, then the system can be simpler in structure, but power consumption increases and heat generation occurs during frequent state changes
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold valves utilize bistable operation where they remain in a stable state without continuous power input, and only consume energy during state transitions. This periodic action pattern reduces overall power consumption compared to traditional valves that require continuous power to maintain state.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from traditional monostable valve operation to bistable valve operation, changing the fundamental operational parameter of the valve. This parameter change enables the valve to maintain states without continuous power input, significantly reducing energy consumption during frequent state changes.
3Loss of energy
If bistable valve assemblies are integrated into the manifold system, then power consumption is reduced, but the integration becomes overly complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The bistable valve assemblies are integrated as separate, self-contained modules within the manifold system. This segmentation allows the complex bistable valve technology to be incorporated without complicating the overall manifold design, as each module can be independently manufactured and assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The bistable valve modules are designed to be self-contained with integrated control electronics and power management. This self-service design reduces the complexity of integration into the manifold system, as the modules can be easily connected without requiring complex external control circuitry or integration procedures.
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 modular system provides flexible and efficient fluid flow control with reduced power consumption and heat generation, enabling easy adaptation to various pump/valve devices while maintaining reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
a circuit board having one or more electrical output connectors for connection to an electromagnetic coil to actuate the valve assembly
Implementation Method 2
The controller comprises a pressure sensor mounted on a control board, the pressure sensor configured to form a reversible sealed connection with the pressure sensing port of the manifold base
Data Source
AI summary
A valved manifold module is disclosed, constructed and arranged to be readily connected in a chain with similar modules to form a manifold assembly. The modular manifolds allows for expansion or modification of the manifold assembly to control a group of pneumatically or hydraulically driven pumps, valves or combinations thereof in a liquid flow control apparatus. The valved manifold module can be configured to accept a group of four substantially identical valve assemblies, and can be controlled by a local controller mounted to the manifold module, thus forming an independently programmable valved manifold module. The resulting modular system is expandable to allow for coordinated operations of a liquid flow control system, using substantially independent controller functions originating at the manifold assembly level.