Multi-stage Valve Axially Movable Seat Leakage Prevention
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-stage valves are complex, expensive, and prone to premature leakage during switching processes, with limitations in manual operation and tamper-proof functionality.
Innovation Solution
A multi-stage valve design featuring an axially movable second seat that automatically returns to its starting position upon deactivation of the operating means, allowing for secure disconnection and reconnection of medium ports without premature leakage, with manual and automatic operation options for flexible use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional multi-stage valve design is used, then the valve can regulate medium flow, but the construction becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is divided into multiple working positions (first working position, second working position, third working position) that are sequentially activated. This segmentation allows the complex flow regulation function to be achieved through simpler, sequential valve operations rather than a complex simultaneous multi-port system.
Solution Approach 2:
The first valve element closes the first outlet port before the second valve element opens the second outlet port. This preliminary action ensures that medium flow is completely blocked before redirection, preventing leakage and ensuring reliable sealing during the transition between working positions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional valve switching mechanisms are used, then the valve can change flow paths, but premature leakage occurs during switching processes
Solution Approach 1:
The first valve element is designed to close the first outlet port before the second valve element opens the second outlet port. This preliminary closing action ensures that the medium flow path is completely blocked before redirection begins, eliminating premature leakage during the switching process.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve switching process is designed to maintain continuous flow control throughout the transition. The sequential operation of valve elements ensures that at every moment during switching, the medium flow is either blocked or directed through a controlled path, preventing uncontrolled leakage.
3Ease of operation
If manual operation mechanisms are added to existing valves, then operational flexibility improves, but device complexity and vulnerability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manual operating mechanism is merged with the existing valve structure, where the operating rod integrates both manual operation capability and solenoid actuation. This unified design allows both manual and automatic operation modes to share the same mechanical components, reducing overall complexity compared to separate systems.
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 reliable and leakage-free switching of medium ports, allowing for safe disconnection of one set of ports before connecting another, and can be used as a tamper-proof on/off steering valve with flexible operation modes.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid which is mounted to a lower side of the housing. During rest, a core of the solenoid is pushed upwards by means of a lower spring. If a coil of the solenoid is then activated, the core is pulled downwards
Implementation Method 2
a core of the solenoid is pushed upwards by means of a lower spring. The button lies against a diaphragm which in turn lies against an upper multi-armed manual valve guide. This upper manual valve guide is equipped with two pushing arms for pushing against the valve element
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A multi-stage valve (1) comprises a housing having an axial bore (3) which connects to medium ports (A, B, C). A valve element (5) is axially moveable in the bore. First and second seats (24, 10) are provided for the valve element to sealingly engage against in first and second end positions while disconnecting some of the medium ports from each other. Operating means are provided for moving the valve element in an axial direction. The second seat (10) is axially movable in the bore. The operating means, for example formed by a pushing button, are designed to act on the second seat for being able to move it in the axial direction while at the same time pushing the valve element towards its first end position and the valve element maintains to sealingly engage the second seat during this movement.