Multi-Lumen Spherical Valve Assembly With Reduced Rotation Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ball valves are cumbersome due to the need for an actuator that protrudes from the valve housing, requiring significant rotational movement (at least 90 degrees) to switch between open and closed positions, which is undesirable in space-limited applications.
Innovation Solution
A compact valve assembly with a generally spherical valve member that moves between open and closed positions through approximately 57 to 77 degrees of rotation, utilizing a camming mechanism with cam surfaces and a cam pin for actuation, and includes features like an annular recess with an O-ring for sealing and a frangible ring for tamper-proofing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional ball valve with protruding actuator is used, then the valve can be reliably actuated between open and closed positions, but the valve becomes cumbersome and requires significant space
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator mechanism is nested within the valve body rather than protruding from it. The cam mechanism is housed inside the valve housing, with the cam follower and cam surface arranged such that the actuation components are contained within the valve assembly boundaries, eliminating the need for a protruding actuator and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the actuation dimension by using a cam mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear displacement of the valve member. The cam follower translates rotational input into axial movement that rotates the valve ball, providing a compact actuation path that reduces the spatial footprint of the valve assembly.
2Ease of operation
If a conventional ball valve requiring 90 degrees rotation is used, then the valve can achieve full open and closed positions, but the actuator requires significant rotational movement which is undesirable in space-limited applications
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism provides dynamic actuation where the relationship between cam rotation and valve member displacement varies throughout the cycle. The cam profile is designed to provide the necessary valve rotation through a reduced cam rotation angle, with the mechanical advantage varying dynamically during the actuation cycle to achieve full valve opening/closing with less than 90 degrees of actuator rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the rotational parameter by using a cam mechanism that converts a smaller rotation angle into the required valve member movement. The cam profile transforms the input rotation parameter, allowing the valve to achieve full 90-degree opening/closing positions while the actuator itself rotates through a smaller angle, thus reducing the volume space required for actuator rotation.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact valve design is used, then space requirements are reduced, but achieving reliable sealing and tamper-proof functionality becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The frangible ring is merged with the valve assembly, integrating the tamper-proof feature directly into the compact valve structure. The ring is positioned within the valve housing and engages with internal features, combining the sealing and tamper-evident functions within the same compact volume, eliminating the need for separate external components.
Solution Approach 2:
The frangible ring acts as a thin, flexible tamper-evident component that can be integrated within the compact valve assembly. This thin-film approach allows the tamper-proof feature to be incorporated without significantly increasing the valve volume, as the ring can be positioned within existing clearance spaces in the compact design.
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 solution provides a compact, reliable, and efficient valve operation with reduced rotational requirements, ensuring a tight seal and tamper-proof functionality, suitable for various applications including medical and consumer use.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a camming mechanism with cam surfaces and a cam pin for actuation
Implementation Method 2
an annular recess with an O-ring for sealing
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly includes a valve housing having an upper body portion and a lower body portion that define an internal chamber for accommodating a valve member. The housing has axially aligned inlet and outlet ports. The valve assembly includes a generally spherical valve member seated within the internal chamber that defines first and second bores. The first bore defines a first longitudinal axis and the second bore defines a second longitudinal axis offset relative to the first longitudinal axis. The valve member is mounted for movement between a first position and a second position. The valve assembly includes a caroming mechanism for moving the valve member between the first position and the second position, including cam surfaces formed on the exterior surface of the valve member and a cam pin formed on the interior surface of the upper body portion of the housing.