Multiport Valve Cam Geometry for Axial-Rotary Spool Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotatable multi-way valves lack a direct mechanical control mechanism for axial and circumferential direction movement of components with a simple construction, leading to inefficiencies in sealing and operation.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable multiport valve module system with a spool and driving disc design that utilizes cams and sections with specific geometries for simultaneous or sequential rotation and axial movement, facilitated by a form-fitted coupling, and includes a stopping mechanism to control spool movement in both directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a direct mechanical control mechanism is implemented for axial and circumferential movement, then control precision and sealing efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines axial movement control and circumferential rotation control into a single integrated spool component. The driving disc simultaneously controls both movements through its cam profiles, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining precise control.
Solution Approach 2:
The driving disc serves multiple functions: it controls axial movement of the spool, controls circumferential rotation of the spool, and provides mechanical coupling between the actuator and spool. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed while achieving precise control in both directions.
2Productivity
If cams and sections with specific geometries are used for simultaneous rotation and axial movement, then operational efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam profiles on the driving disc and corresponding sections on the spool utilize curved geometries that enable simultaneous axial and circumferential movement. These curved surfaces are designed to guide the mechanical interaction, allowing the spool to perform complex motions while the manufacturing methods remain conventional.
Solution Approach 2:
The control mechanism is divided into discrete cam profiles and sections that can be independently designed and manufactured. Each cam profile corresponds to specific movement requirements, allowing for modular manufacturing approaches while achieving complex operational sequences.
3Manufacturing precision
If form-fitted coupling between cams and sections is implemented, then mechanical control precision is improved, but wear and friction increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cam and section interface acts as an intermediary mechanism that transforms rotational input from the actuator into coordinated axial and circumferential movements of the spool. This form-fitted coupling provides precise mechanical control through geometric constraints while distributing contact forces across curved surfaces.
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 precise and efficient sealing and switching of ports through axial and rotational movements, reducing wear and requiring minimal additional gaskets, while allowing flexible operation and precise control of spool movement.
Implementation Method 1
The rotation of the spool and the axial movement of the spool are both caused by a form-fitted coupling between the rotating cams and the sections
Implementation Method 2
A first track is arranged circumferentially between the cams and the spool having a sliding surface onto which the cams are sliding
Implementation Method 3
the housing surface and the valve surface have at least in part a rotationally symmetrical, preferably a conical or a spherical geometry such that the two surfaces, can be pressed against each other in axial direction
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a multiport valve module system, comprising a housing (1) having a central axis X, which encloses a working chamber (1.1) closed with a cover (1.2) that is assembled to the housing (1) for sealing the working chamber (1.1); a spool (2) placed in the working chamber (1.1) and being rotatable about the axis X and being linear moveable in axial direction of the axis X; a rotatable driving disc (3) positioned between the housing (1) and the spool (2) to drive the spool (2) and/or to drive cams (3.1); the cams (3.1) are rotatable about the axis X and are arranged between the spool (2) and the driving disc (3) with the cams (3.1) extending in axial direction to drive the spool (2); a first track (2.1) arranged circumferentially between the cams (3.1) and the spool (2) having a sliding surface (2.1a) onto which the cams (3.1) are sliding and with the sliding surface (2.1a) having sections (2.1b) extending in axial direction to drive the spool (2). A direct mechanical control in axial direction and in circumferential direction of the different components is to provide together with a simple construction. This is done solely by the geometry of the sections (2.1b) and the cams (3.1) that cause an axial movement of the spool (2) and a rotation of the spool (2).