Multi-Outlet Valve Apparatus with Rib-Based Pressure Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In valve apparatuses with multiple outlets, internal pressure increases when one plunger closes an outlet, causing unintended opening of another outlet due to pressure transfer, leading to fluid leakage.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating ribs on the orifices surrounding the plungers to block pressure, preventing direct pressure application to the second plunger when the first plunger closes, thus maintaining the closure of the second outlet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple plungers and coils are used to independently control multiple outlets, then each outlet can be independently opened or closed, but internal pressure increases when one outlet is closed, causing unintended opening of another outlet due to pressure transfer
Solution Approach 1:
A pressure equalization chamber is introduced as an intermediary component between the plungers and the outlets. This chamber receives pressure from closing outlets and redistributes it uniformly, preventing direct pressure transfer to individual plungers that would cause unintended opening. The chamber acts as a buffer that mediates the pressure interactions between multiple independently controlled outlets.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure control function is extracted from the individual plunger-outlet system and separated into a dedicated pressure equalization chamber. By removing the direct pressure coupling between outlets and placing pressure management in a separate component, the system eliminates the harmful pressure transfer effect while preserving independent outlet control capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a three-way valve structure is used with one inlet and two outlets, then water purification and ice-making functions are enabled, but pressure buildup causes cross-contamination between flow paths
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure equalization chamber serves as a mediator between the multiple flow paths (purified water and ice-making paths). It receives pressure from whichever outlet is closed and redistributes it evenly, preventing pressure-induced fluid leakage between the different flow paths while maintaining the versatility of multiple functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure equalization chamber provides beforehand cushioning by anticipating and absorbing pressure buildup before it can cause harmful effects. When an outlet closes, the chamber immediately captures and redistributes the pressure, cushioning against the potential for cross-contamination between flow paths.
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
Prevents unintended opening of outlets and fluid leakage by effectively blocking pressure transfer, ensuring reliable operation of the valve apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
a coil wound on an outer circumference of an upper portion of the valve body, a plunger provided in the valve to rise by magnetic force generated in the coil
Data Source
AI summary
A valve apparatus includes a housing including an inlet and first and second outlets, through which water introduced through the inlet is discharged, a first orifice including an opening communicating with the first outlet and a second orifice including an opening communicating with the second outlet, the first and second orifices being received in the housing, a first plunger for opening and closing the opening of the first orifice; and a second plunger for opening and closing the opening of the second orifice. Each of the orifices includes a rib surrounding the circumference of each of the plungers in a state in which each of the plungers closes the opening of each of the orifices.