Multi-Poppet Valve Assembly with Separated Flow Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Valves with multiple valve members in combustion appliances experience interference between flow paths, leading to vortices and turbulence that reduce the effectiveness of fluid flow, causing misleading pressure sensor readings and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly with a central flow diverter and/or baffle assembly that separates flow paths, preventing them from crossing and minimizing turbulence, ensuring each flow path remains on a specific side of the valve assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple valve members are arranged in parallel to increase maximum flow, then the cross section of the valve increases and maximum flow increases, but flow paths interfere with each other creating vortices and turbulence
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is divided into separate flow paths using flow dividers and side walls, creating distinct channels for each valve member's flow. This segmentation prevents interference between flows while maintaining parallel valve member configuration for high capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the valve assembly are designed with specific flow path characteristics - central flow dividers create laminar flow zones, while side walls contain turbulent flows to specific areas. Each local region is optimized for its specific flow control function.
2Productivity
If multiple valve members are arranged in parallel to increase maximum flow, then the cross section of the valve increases and maximum flow increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple valve members, flow dividers, and housing elements are merged into a single integrated valve assembly structure. This combining approach maintains the functional benefits of parallel valve members while reducing overall complexity compared to separate valve units.
Solution Approach 2:
The common actuator serves multiple valve members simultaneously, and the housing structure performs multiple functions including flow containment, structural support, and sealing. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If flow paths cross within the valve, then multiple valve members can be accommodated, but pressure sensor readings become misleading and incorrect
Solution Approach 1:
Pressure sensing ports are extracted and positioned in locations where they are not exposed to crossing flow paths. The flow dividers and side walls create protected zones where pressure measurements can be taken without interference from turbulent flows or vortex effects.
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly (1) comprising: a common housing having a first side (8a), a second side (8b), an inlet port (2) and an outlet port (3); the valve assembly (1) comprising a first pair of valve members or poppets (4a, 4c) and a second pair of valve members or poppets (4b, 4d), a first pair of valve seats (5a, 5c) for cooperation with the first pair of valve members or poppets (4a, 4c), and a second pair of valve seats (5b, 5d) for cooperation with the second pair of valve members or poppets (4b, 4d); a central flow diverter (13c) disposed in between the first pair of valve members or poppets (4a, 4c) and the second pair of valve seats (5b, 5d), the central flow diverter (13c) defining a first side (11a) of the valve assembly (1) and a second side (11b) of the valve assembly (1).