Overpressure Relief Valve Assembly for Aircraft Galley Coolant Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
In fluid propagation systems, such as coolant systems for aircraft galleys, pressure buildup can occur when all valves are closed, leading to issues like leaks and pump surge due to the inability to effectively manage overpressure.
Innovation Solution
An overpressure relief valve assembly with a movable actuator and spring mechanism that alternately allows or blocks communication between an inlet and outlet cavity, using a nozzle and valve housing to manage pressure differentials and prevent fluid buildup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If all valves are closed or blocked to control fluid flow, then fluid flow control is improved, but pressure buildup occurs causing leaks and pump surge
Solution Approach 1:
The overpressure relief valve is pre-configured with a spring mechanism and actuator that automatically activate when pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold, preventing harmful pressure buildup before it causes damage. The valve is positioned upstream to intercept overpressure conditions early in the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The relief valve assembly acts as an intermediary component between the closed valve system and the potential overpressure hazards. It provides a controlled escape path for excess pressure, mediating between the need for valve closure and the need to prevent overpressure damage.
2Reliability
If an overpressure relief valve is added to prevent pressure buildup, then overpressure protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The relief valve incorporates multiple functions into a single integrated assembly: the valve body, spring mechanism, actuator with holes, and nozzle are combined into one compact unit. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining overpressure protection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The relief valve is designed as a self-activating device that automatically responds to pressure conditions without external control. The spring-loaded actuator self-regulates the valve opening based on pressure differentials, eliminating the need for external actuators or control systems.
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
Effectively prevents overpressure by allowing fluid to bypass blocked valves, thereby preventing leaks and pump surge, ensuring safe operation of the fluid propagation system.
Implementation Method 1
The valve may include a spring to bias the actuator towards the inlet cavity
Implementation Method 2
the actuator may be movable within the valve housing to alternatingly expose the holes to be in communication with the inlet cavity and to cut off the holes from communication with the inlet cavity
Data Source
AI summary
An overpressure relief valve assembly includes an outer housing having an inlet at a first end opening to an inlet cavity and an outlet at an opposite second end opening to an outlet cavity, and a valve located in the outer housing, the valve including a valve housing that is fixed with respect to the outer housing and an actuator movable within the valve housing to alternatingly cut off and allow communication between the inlet cavity and the outlet cavity.