Multi-Disc Flow Control for Precise Low Liquid Dosing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for regulating liquid flow are unable to achieve precise low flow rates, particularly for mixing phytosanitary products with water at high concentrations.
Innovation Solution
A device with multiple rotating and fixed discs, featuring angularly offset orifices and adjustable elements, allows for precise control of liquid flow through multiple orifices, enabling fine adjustments of low flow rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional flow control devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the liquid flow rate cannot be precisely adjusted at low values
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control device is segmented into multiple rotating discs (first rotating disc, second rotating disc) with multiple orifices arranged in different angular positions. Each disc acts as an independent flow control stage, allowing progressive refinement of flow rate adjustment. The segmentation of the flow path through multiple discs enables precise low flow rate control by combining the effects of multiple orifice configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces angular positioning as an additional dimension for flow control. Orifices are arranged at different angular positions (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) on rotating discs, allowing flow rate adjustment not only through radial positioning but also through angular orientation. This dimensional addition enables more granular control over the effective flow area.
2Measurement precision
If multiple rotating discs with angularly offset orifices are used, then precise low flow rates can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple flow control functions are merged into a single rotating assembly. The first and second rotating discs are mounted on the same rotational axis and rotate together as a unified mechanism. The adjustment element simultaneously controls the angular position of multiple orifices across different discs, combining several flow control stages into one coordinated motion. This merging reduces the number of independent adjustment mechanisms while maintaining precise control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating discs serve multiple functions: they act as flow restriction elements, angular positioning mechanisms, and flow distribution devices. The same rotating assembly that controls flow rate also distributes liquid through multiple orifices at different angular positions, potentially creating spray patterns or distribution profiles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.
3Measurement precision
If conventional single disc designs are used, then the device is compact, but additional pressure drops cannot be created for precise dosing
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid flow continuously passes through multiple orifice stages on different rotating discs in sequence, rather than through a single orifice. This continuous passage through multiple restriction points creates cumulative pressure drops that can be precisely controlled by the angular position of each disc. The continuous action through multiple stages enables finer dosing control compared to a single-stage system.
Solution Approach 2:
The orifices are arranged on rotating discs that can be dynamically positioned at different angular orientations. This dynamic positioning allows the effective flow area and pressure drop to be adjusted in real-time by rotating the discs to different angles. The dynamic configuration enables the same physical structure to produce a range of pressure drops and flow rates depending on the rotational position.
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
Enables precise and adjustable low flow rates, suitable for applications like spraying phytosanitary products, by creating additional pressure drops and allowing for precise dosages.
Implementation Method 1
Thanks to the invention, the liquid flow rate can be very finely adjusted by passing the liquid through multiple orifices which allow for precisely adjustable low flow rates
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for controlling the flow of a liquid in a pipe, which comprises a hollow body including an inlet port and an outlet port, between which a liquid is capable of flowing. The device includes at least one adjustment element rotatably movable in the hollow body, the adjustment element comprising a plurality of rotary discs rotatably secured to one another and each bored with a plurality of openings having different diameters. The device comprises intermediate discs attached relative to the adjustment element and inserted between the rotary discs, the intermediate discs being bored with at least one opening. The adjustment element is suitable for being rotated so as to place one of the openings of the rotary discs opposite the opening of the intermediate discs.