Motor-Integrated Disk Valve for Precise Bi-Directional Water Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC system valves lack efficient motorized control mechanisms for managing water flow, particularly in bi-directional systems, which limits precise flow rate adjustments and automation capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A motorized flow control valve design featuring a rotatable disk and a fixed disk within a cylindrical bore, where a motor is integrated to rotate the rotatable disk relative to the valve body, allowing for precise alignment of apertures to control water flow, enabling both open, closed, and variable flow positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a motorized control mechanism is added to the valve, then automation capability and precise flow rate adjustment are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor is integrated directly into the valve body, merging the actuation mechanism with the valve structure. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate external motors and complex transmission mechanisms, achieving motorized control while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable disk serves multiple functions: it controls flow rate adjustment, enables bi-directional flow management, and provides precise positioning when aligned with the fixed disk apertures. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components that would increase complexity.
2Measurement precision
If a rotatable disk with apertures is used to control flow, then precise flow rate adjustment is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control function is segmented into two independent disks (rotatable and fixed), each with apertures. By dividing the control mechanism into separate components that can be independently positioned and aligned, precise flow rate adjustment is achieved through the relative alignment of aperture patterns without requiring a single complex moving part.
Solution Approach 2:
Flow control is achieved by adding rotational positioning as a new dimension of control. The rotatable disk can be rotated to different angular positions, creating a second degree of freedom for flow rate adjustment beyond simple valve opening/closing, thereby enabling precise control without increasing mechanical complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A valve in which the flow control element includes a fixed disk and a rotatable disk, and a motor operable to rotate the rotatable disk. The motor is disposed in the bore of the valve, aligned with the long axis of the valve body and the axis of rotation of the rotatable disk.