Pilot Valve Dual-Inlet Separating Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pilot valves in fluid distribution systems are complex and difficult to use due to their internal and external fluid paths, requiring multiple conduits and complex connections to control the piloted valve effectively.
Innovation Solution
A pilot valve design with two inlets that feed fluid to opposite surfaces of a separating element, where the position of the valve rod determines which inlet is in fluid communication with the outlet, reducing the complexity of internal fluid paths and external conduits needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple internal and external fluid conduits are used to enable fluid flow at different pressures, then the pilot valve can control the piloted valve effectively, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fluid paths into a single integrated chamber structure. The chamber receives fluid from multiple inlets at different pressures and uses a single outlet to deliver controlled fluid to the piloted valve, eliminating the need for separate external conduits for each pressure level.
Solution Approach 2:
The chamber serves multiple functions simultaneously: it receives fluid from multiple inlets, houses the valve rod and separating element mechanisms, and provides the fluid communication pathways to the outlet. This multi-functional design reduces the overall number of components needed.
2Reliability
If complex internal and external fluid paths are implemented, then fluid communication at different pressures is achieved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pilot valve system is self-regulating through the interaction of the valve rod and separating element. The valve rod moves in response to pressure differences between inlets, automatically controlling which fluid path is active without requiring external intervention or complex operational procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The separating element and valve rod create dynamic fluid paths that automatically adjust based on operating conditions. The fluid communication between inlets and outlet changes dynamically as the valve rod moves, allowing the system to adapt to different pressure conditions automatically.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple external fluid conduits are required, then complete fluid control paths are provided, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fluid control functions are merged into the internal chamber structure. The chamber integrates the reception of fluid from multiple inlets, the separation and control mechanisms, and the delivery to the outlet, eliminating the need for multiple external conduits while maintaining full fluid control flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional approach with separate external conduits to a three-dimensional integrated chamber structure. The chamber provides volumetric fluid management with multiple inlet ports and internal flow paths, reducing the need for multiple linear external connections.
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
This design simplifies the control of fluid flow to the piloted valve, reducing the number of external conduits required and allowing for precise control of fluid communication, enhancing the flexibility and ease of use of the pilot valve.
Implementation Method 1
fluid from two inlets are fed to opposite surfaces of a separating element for at least partly control the movement of a valve rod
Implementation Method 2
a difference between said first and second forces controls the movement of the separating element and the valve rod
Data Source
AI summary
A pilot valve that includes a pilot valve body including a chamber, a first fluid inlet and a second fluid inlet for providing fluid to the chamber, and a fluid outlet for receiving fluid from the chamber. The pilot valve further includes a separating element and a valve rod, the valve rod is arranged to control fluid flow from the first or second fluid inlet to the fluid outlet via the chamber. The separating element is connected to, and movable with the valve rod, and has a first fluid contacting area configured to be in fluid communication with the first fluid inlet, and a second fluid contacting area configured to be in fluid communication with the second fluid inlet and arranged on an opposite side to the first fluid contacting area. The pilot valve is at least partly controlled by a difference between a first force and a second forces acting on the first and second fluid contacting areas of the separating element.