Piezoelectric Multi-Function Valve Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valves are limited in functionality, with mechanical valves being too large and inflexible, and electronic control valves restricted to low-flow or slow-response applications, often requiring separate control systems for pressure-relief, pressure-reduction, and pressure-regulation tasks.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function valve design featuring a movable poppet actuated by a piezoelectric actuator, integrated with sensors and an electronic control board, allowing for remote control and adaptive operation between closed, partly-open, and open states in response to environmental conditions such as pressure, flow, and temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If mechanical valves are used, then fast response and large flow capacity are achieved, but excessive size and weight prohibit use in many applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical actuator system with a piezoelectric actuator that uses electro-mechanical conversion to move the poppet. This substitution eliminates the need for large mechanical linkages, springs, and actuators, thereby dramatically reducing valve size and weight while preserving fast response characteristics inherent to piezoelectric materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the actuation mechanism from mechanical force application to electro-field induced deformation. By applying voltage to the piezoelectric element, the poppet is actuated through direct electro-mechanical coupling, achieving fast response without the mass penalties of traditional mechanical valve actuation systems.
2Speed
If mechanical valves are used, then fast response is achieved, but one set point cannot be changed remotely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an electronically controlled piezoelectric actuator system. The poppet position is controlled by applying specific voltage patterns to the piezoelectric element, allowing remote adjustment of the set point through electrical signals without mechanical access to the valve internals.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention makes the valve characteristics dynamically adjustable through electronic control. By varying the voltage applied to the piezoelectric actuator, the poppet position and thus the valve's set point can be changed remotely and dynamically, transforming a static mechanical valve into an adaptive electronically-controlled device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electronic control valves are used, then remote control capability is achieved, but performance of actuator limits them to low-flow or slow-response applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional electronic actuators (which are limited in speed and force) with a piezoelectric actuator. Piezoelectric materials exhibit extremely fast response times (microsecond range) and can generate sufficient force to actuate the poppet at high flow rates, thereby enabling electronic control valves to handle high-flow and fast-response applications simultaneously.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional electronic control valves are used, then remote control is possible, but separate control system with sensor is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sensing and actuation functions into a single integrated unit. The piezoelectric element serves dual purposes: it acts as the actuator to move the poppet when voltage is applied, and simultaneously functions as a sensor that can detect pressure differentials and fluid flow conditions. This integration eliminates the need for separate control systems and external sensors, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The piezoelectric element is designed to perform multiple functions within the valve: actuation, sensing, and potential feedback generation. This multi-functionality consolidates what would traditionally require separate components (actuator, sensor, control electronics) into a single integrated piezoelectric system, simplifying the overall valve architecture.
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 versatile and efficient performance across various applications, including pressure relief, reduction, and regulation, with compact size and adaptable response to changing conditions, suitable for industrial and defense uses.
Implementation Method 1
A piezoelectric actuator is also engaged with the poppet and effective to move the poppet from the first closed position to the second open position
Implementation Method 2
the electronic cable being effective to charge and discharge the piezoelectric element and cause the element to correspondingly expand or contract
Data Source
AI summary
A valve is disclosed and comprises a main valve body having first and second ports and a movable poppet positioned within the main valve body. The movable poppet is moveable from a first closed position in which the poppet establishes a fluid-tight seal with a sealing member, which is effective to prevent fluid flow from the first port to the second port, to a second open position in which the poppet is spaced apart from the sealing member and fluid is permitted to flow from the first port to the second port. The valve also has a piezoelectric actuator engaged with the poppet and effective to move the poppet from the first closed position to the second open position. Methods of use of the valve are also disclosed.