Noise reducing plunger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inflatable air beds often experience noise issues due to the impact of valve components during operation, which can be disruptive during sleep.
Innovation Solution
A solenoid valve system with a plunger core and valve disc configuration that includes a chamfered head and a projection to cushion impacts, utilizing different elastomers for the valve disc and projection to dampen noise, allowing for quieter operation by creating an air gap and using a core spring to bias the plunger, thereby reducing sound when the valve is opened and closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional valve components are used in air beds, then the valve can perform its basic function of controlling air flow, but noise is generated due to impact during valve operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating a projection on the plunger core that cushions impact when the valve opens, and a valve disc with a receptacle that cushions impact when the valve closes. These cushioning features are built into the valve structure in advance to prevent noise-generating impacts during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing elastomeric materials (such as rubber or silicone) between the moving valve components and the valve seat. These elastomeric elements act as intermediaries that absorb impact energy and reduce noise transmission while still allowing the valve to perform its air flow control function.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If impact cushioning features are added to the valve, then noise is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cushioning function with the existing valve components. The projection is integrated into the plunger core, and the receptacle is formed as part of the valve disc structure. This combining of cushioning features with existing components reduces overall device complexity compared to adding separate cushioning elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the physical properties of the valve components - specifically by adding elastomeric materials with different hardness and damping characteristics. The head of the core is configured with specific geometric parameters (chamfered or rounded) to control how it interacts with the valve seat, creating noise reduction through parameter optimization rather than structural complexity.
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 effectively reduces noise during valve operation in air beds by cushioning impacts and creating a dampened spring effect, providing a quieter environment for users.
Implementation Method 1
a plunger having a core configured to respond to a magnetic field generated by the solenoid coil
Implementation Method 2
elastomer material of the valve disc) acts as a dampened spring
Implementation Method 3
configured to dampen impact when the valve closes and impacts the valve seat, thus reducing sound
Data Source
AI summary
A valve can include a solenoid coil, a plunger having a core configured to respond to a magnetic field generated by the solenoid coil, and a valve disc. The valve disc can be positioned at a head of the core and configured to cushion impact when the valve is closed. A projection can be positioned and configured to cushion impact when the valve is opened. The valve can be used in an air bed system in fluid connection between an air pump and an inflatable air chamber of a mattress.