Pilot-Operated Oscillating Valve for Low-Energy Remote Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remotely operated valves have limited battery life due to high energy expenditure in changing states, which restricts their duty cycle and efficiency in applications like water management systems.
Innovation Solution
A pilot-operated oscillating valve with a diaphragm that uses fluid pressure to switch between open and closed states with minimal energy expenditure, allowing for an extended duty cycle and potential energy harvesting to recharge the battery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a remotely operated valve uses a battery power source, then the valve can be operated remotely, but the battery life is limited due to high energy expenditure in changing states
Solution Approach 1:
The valve employs an oscillating mechanism where the main valve alternates between open and closed states in a periodic cycle. This oscillating action allows the valve to spend most time in the closed position (saving energy) while periodically opening to allow fluid flow, thereby reducing overall energy expenditure compared to continuously powered valves
Solution Approach 2:
The valve design allows the oscillating mechanism to utilize the fluid pressure differential and stored mechanical energy to maintain operation. The system harvests energy from the fluid flow itself and the oscillating motion to sustain valve operation, reducing dependence on external battery power and extending operational duration
2Use of energy by moving object
If a pilot-operated valve is used to reduce energy consumption, then energy expenditure decreases, but the device complexity increases due to additional components like diaphragm and pilot channel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pilot valve as an intermediary component that controls the main valve's operation. The pilot valve, operated by minimal energy input, modulates fluid pressure to automatically open and close the main valve, thereby reducing the energy required to operate the main valve while managing the added complexity through a well-integrated pilot mechanism
3Use of energy by moving object
If the valve remains in closed position to conserve energy, then energy expenditure is reduced, but the duty cycle and operational efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The valve operates in periodic oscillation cycles, alternating between closed (energy-saving) and open (productivity) states. This periodic operation allows the valve to achieve both energy conservation during closed periods and adequate duty cycle during open periods, balancing energy expenditure with operational productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The oscillating mechanism ensures continuous useful action by maintaining a rhythm of opening and closing that provides continuous flow control. The valve delivers continuous service through its oscillating operation, ensuring that water flow is regulated continuously rather than intermittently, thereby maintaining productivity while conserving energy
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 oscillating valve design significantly extends the battery life by reducing energy consumption during state changes, enabling longer operation cycles and potential energy recharging, thus improving the efficiency and reliability of remotely operated systems.
Implementation Method 1
When the diaphragm is in a closed position, fluid pressure opens the valve, and when the diaphragm is in an open position, fluid pressure closes the valve
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods described herein provide a pilot-operated oscillating valve including a diaphragm. The valve is configured such that when the diaphragm is in a closed position, pressure of a fluid supply opens the valve, and when the diaphragm is in an open position, the pressure of the fluid closes the valve. The oscillating valve may further include an actuator that can cause the valve to be arrested selectively in the open position or the closed position depending on a state of the actuator. The state of the actuator is switchable with a small expenditure of energy, enabling an extended duty cycle for a battery or other power source associated with the actuator. In some implementations, energy from the oscillating movement of the diaphragm may be captured to recharge the battery for the actuator.