Multiple-way mixing valve and method for controlling a multiple-way mixing valve over time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-way mixing valves are limited in their ability to connect more than two heat sinks to a single heat source, making it difficult to integrate a hot water storage tank and implement priority switching effectively in heating systems.
Innovation Solution
A multi-way mixing valve with at least five connections, where three connections are offset by 90° in the first switching level and two connections are assigned to a second switching level, allowing for priority circuits and compact design, with features like EPDM coating for reduced friction and PTFE sealing elements to prevent overflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing multi-way mixing valves are used with traditional switching element arrangements, then the valve structure is simple, but the ability to connect more than two heat sinks to a single heat source is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a second switching level in addition to the first switching level, creating a multi-level switching architecture. The first switching level connects the inlet to two outlets, while the second switching level provides additional connection possibilities including a third outlet and a bypass. This dimensional expansion from single-level to multi-level switching enables the valve to connect more than two heat sinks to a single heat source without proportionally increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching element is designed to perform multiple functions across different switching levels. At the first switching level, it controls flow between the inlet and two outlets. At the second switching level, it enables priority circuits that can connect the inlet directly to outlets or activate bypasses. This multi-functionality allows a single valve structure to handle various heating system configurations including standard heating, hot water storage tank integration, and priority-based flow distribution.
2Speed
If three connections are offset by 90° in the first switching level, then switching paths between different mixed states are short, but the valve requires a compact design that may conflict with installation space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the conflict between short switching paths and compact design by adding a second switching level. The 90° offset arrangement in the first switching level provides short switching paths for rapid mixing state transitions. The second switching level, with its own set of connections and bypasses, adds functional capacity without requiring an increase in the radial or axial dimensions of the first level, thus maintaining compactness while enabling additional heat sink connections.
3Ease of operation
If EPDM coating is applied to the switching element, then friction is reduced for smoother operation, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching element is manufactured as a composite structure combining a rigid base material (such as metal or hard plastic) with an EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber coating. The EPDM coating is applied through processes such as dipping, spraying, or co-molding, creating a layered composite that reduces friction between the switching element and the valve body. This composite approach balances the ease of operation achieved through reduced friction with manufacturing feasibility, as EPDM coating is a well-established industrial process.
4Reliability
If PTFE sealing elements are used, then overflow between connections is prevented, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve incorporates PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) sealing elements at critical interfaces, including between the switching element and valve body, and around connection points. PTFE is selected for its exceptional chemical inertness, low friction, and excellent sealing properties that prevent hydraulic fluid overflow. While PTFE is more expensive than common sealing materials, its use is localized to specific sealing points rather than throughout the entire valve, balancing reliability requirements with manufacturing cost considerations.
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 efficient interconnection of three heat sinks with one heat source, allowing for priority switching and gradual fluid dosing, while maintaining high fluid throughput and preventing hydraulic imbalances across switching states.
Implementation Method 1
a switching element which is mounted in the valve housing and has flow channels, wherein three first connections of a first switching level of the switching element are assigned and two second terminals are assigned to one or more deviating from the first level of the second switching level
Implementation Method 2
EPDM coating for reduced friction
Implementation Method 3
PTFE sealing elements to prevent overflow
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
The invention relates to a multiple-way mixing valve (1), comprising a valve housing (3; 51) and at least five connections (A, B, C, D, E), which can be connected to each other by means of a switching element (5), which is supported in the valve housing (3) and which has flow channels (17, 19, 21, 29, 31). The multiple-way mixing valve is characterized in that three first connections (A, B, D) are associated with a first switching level (I) of the switching element (5) and two second connections (C, E) are associated with one or more second switching levels (II) of the switching element (5) deviating from the first switching level (I). The invention further relates to a method for temporally controlling the connection of five fluid-conducting connections (A, B, C, D, E) among each other.