Multi-Stable Poppet Valve Assembly for Zero-Power Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional poppet valves require constant actuation power to maintain the poppet in position and prevent fluid leakage, which is inefficient and consumes excess energy.
Innovation Solution
A multi-stable poppet valve assembly with a crankshaft and compliant beams that allow the poppet to remain in stable positions without external power, using a torque reduction device to facilitate movement between positions, reducing the need for continuous actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional poppet valves use constant actuation power to maintain position, then the poppet can reliably prevent fluid leakage, but energy consumption increases and system efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system transitions from continuous actuation to periodic actuation, where the poppet is actuated only when position changes are needed. The multi-stable mechanism maintains positions without continuous power, and actuation occurs periodically when the actuator applies force to transition between stable states. This eliminates constant energy consumption while maintaining sealing reliability through periodic positioning adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly becomes self-sustaining in its positioned states through the multi-stable mechanism with compliant beams. Once actuated to a desired position, the system maintains that position through its inherent mechanical stability without requiring external power. The compliant beams store and release mechanical energy to maintain sealing contact, making the system self-serviceable between actuation events.
2Reliability
If constant actuation power is applied to maintain poppet position, then fluid leakage is prevented, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-stable mechanism with compliant beams creates a self-sustaining positioning system that maintains fluid sealing without continuous external actuation. The compliant beams provide inherent mechanical stability and sealing force, reducing the need for complex continuous control systems while maintaining reliable fluid sealing through passive mechanical means.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a multi-stable mechanism with compliant beams is used to eliminate constant actuation, then energy consumption decreases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compliant beams function as flexible structural elements that provide both mechanical stability and sealing force. These beam-like structures bend and deform elastically to maintain contact between the poppet and valve seat, providing the necessary sealing force without requiring active actuation. This flexible element approach achieves energy efficiency while adding manageable structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly incorporates dynamic compliant beams that can elastically deform to adapt to pressure changes and maintain sealing contact. The beams transition between different elastic states corresponding to different stable positions, allowing the system to dynamically respond to operating conditions without continuous power input, thus reducing energy consumption while managing complexity through intelligent use of material properties.
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
The solution enables the poppet valve to maintain positions with zero actuation power, reducing energy consumption and improving efficiency by using compliant beams to provide the necessary force for sealing and movement.
Implementation Method 1
A multi-stable poppet valve assembly with a crankshaft and compliant beams that allow the poppet to remain in stable positions without external power
Implementation Method 2
a crankshaft configured to actuate the poppet assembly between a first end position and a second end position
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a valve assembly including one or more poppet valves. In general, the valve assembly can have one or more poppet assemblies selectively actuatable between a first end position and a second end position. According to some aspects, a crankshaft assembly can be coupled to the one or more poppet assemblies and the crankshaft assembly can selectively actuate the one or more poppet assemblies between the first end position and the second end position.