Multi-Way Valve Sealing Layout for Lower Actuation Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-way valves require high power for actuation due to interdependent sealing forces that increase friction and torque, leading to increased costs and size of actuators.
Innovation Solution
A multi-way valve design with a sealing system that decouples rotor and housing sealing forces, using a bias member to apply an axial force to the valve rotor, minimizing friction and reducing the need for high torque actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sealing systems are used with interdependent sealing forces, then sealing reliability is improved, but actuation power requirements increase due to increased friction and torque
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is segmented into two independent sealing interfaces: a first sealing interface between the seal and the valve housing, and a second sealing interface between the seal and the valve rotor. This segmentation allows the sealing forces to be decoupled, with the first sealing force preventing leakage between the valve rotor and housing, and the second sealing force preventing leakage between the seal and rotor. By independentizing these sealing forces, the friction and torque during actuation are reduced while maintaining reliable sealing at both interfaces.
2Reliability
If higher sealing forces are applied to improve sealing, then sealing performance is improved, but friction and torque increase requiring larger actuators
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing forces are segmented into two independent components: a first sealing force applied at the interface between the seal and valve housing, and a second sealing force applied at the interface between the seal and valve rotor. This allows each sealing interface to be optimized independently, ensuring reliable sealing without requiring excessive total sealing force that would increase friction and actuator size.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sealing forces are applied at different locations: the first sealing force acts between the seal and the stationary valve housing, while the second sealing force acts between the seal and the rotating valve rotor. This local differentiation of sealing forces allows each interface to achieve adequate sealing with appropriate local force, rather than applying high force uniformly across all interfaces, thereby reducing overall friction and actuator requirements.
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
Reduces friction and torque requirements, allowing for smaller, less costly actuators and improved valve performance by decoupling sealing forces, thus minimizing power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
The bias member may be a spring or other element configured to apply the axial force
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-way valve adapted to control a flow of fluid to different fluid circuits includes a valve housing, a valve flow controller, and a sealing system. The valve flow controller is arranged in the valve housing to control flow through the valve housing. The sealing system is configured to seal between the valve housing and the valve flow controller.