Piezo-Actuated Valve Pintle for Precision Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing regulator valves in aerospace and other systems lack precise control over fluid flow and pressure, leading to inefficiencies in fluid management and propulsion systems.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly with a housing, a pintle, and a piezo-electric actuator that dynamically adjusts the flow area between the fluid input and output based on pressure ratios, using electronic feedback for precise control of the pintle's position to manage fluid flow efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing regulator valves are used, then the system is simple, but precise control of fluid flow and pressure is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements electronic feedback control by sensing output pressure and using this feedback signal to dynamically adjust the pintle position via an actuator, enabling precise pressure control that adapts to changing operating conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pressure regulation mechanisms with an electronically controlled actuator system that uses electronic signals and feedback loops to control pintle position, achieving superior precision while maintaining reasonable complexity
2Productivity
If pressure turn-down is achieved, then fluid flow control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamically adjustable pintle position controlled by an actuator in response to feedback signals, allowing the valve to adapt its flow characteristics in real-time to maintain optimal fluid flow control efficiency under varying pressure conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves pressure turn-down by dynamically changing the pintle position parameter based on feedback from pressure sensors, enabling efficient fluid flow control across a range of pressures without requiring multiple fixed-position valves
3Measurement precision
If precise pintle position control is implemented, then pressure control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses electronic feedback from pressure sensors to continuously monitor output pressure and adjust the actuator control signals accordingly, achieving precise pintle position control through closed-loop control rather than complex open-loop positioning mechanisms
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 precise control of fluid flow and pressure, allowing for efficient use of propellants, reducing the need for excess fuel and enabling variable thrust levels, and achieving pressure turn-down ratios of up to 20:1.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator is a piezo-electric actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly includes a housing (22) that has a fluid input (24) and a fluid output (26). A pintle (30) is disposed in the housing, and an actuator (36) is operatively coupled to move the pintle. The pintle includes a passage (32) that fluidly couples the fluid output with a pressure balance volume (34) located between the pintle and the housing adjacent the linear actuator. A controller (38) is electrically connected with the actuator, and there is a variable flow area (40) from the fluid input to the fluid output that is defined between the pintle and the housing.