Piston Valve Annular Passages Flow Path Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve arrangements for controlling liquid flow in multiple flow paths are complex, especially when different flow sequences and paths are required for various process steps, and they often necessitate separate valves and piping for functions like liquid shutoff and bypass.
Innovation Solution
A control valve with a movable piston and annular flow cavities that allows selective fluid communication between multiple ports, enabling the valve to direct liquid flow through different paths, integrate liquid shutoff, and bypass functions within a single unit, reducing the need for separate valves and piping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate valves and piping are used to control liquid flow through different paths, then each function (shutoff, bypass, mixing) can be independently controlled, but the device complexity and number of components increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions (shutoff, bypass, mixing, and flow direction control) into a single integrated valve body with a piston element. The piston can be positioned at different locations to simultaneously or selectively control multiple flow paths, eliminating the need for separate valves and reducing piping complexity while maintaining full functional versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The valve body is designed as a universal component that can perform multiple functions through a single piston element. The piston's ability to be positioned at different locations allows it to control different flow paths, provide shutoff, enable bypass, and facilitate mixing operations, making the valve multi-functional and adaptable to various process requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate valves are used for shutoff and bypass functions, then each function can be controlled independently, but the ease of operation and maintenance become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The shutoff and bypass functions are merged into a single valve body with a common piston control mechanism. The piston can be positioned to achieve shutoff, bypass, or intermediate positions, allowing all flow control functions to be operated from a single control point, simplifying operation and reducing the number of components that require maintenance
3Device complexity
If a single valve with multiple functions is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase to ensure proper sealing and flow control
Solution Approach 1:
The valve body incorporates localized sealing surfaces and flow passages designed for specific functions at different locations. The piston features locally optimized sealing rings and positioning features that ensure precise control at each flow path interface, allowing high manufacturing precision to be concentrated where it is most critical rather than distributed throughout the entire component
Data Source
AI summary
A control valve (10) includes a valve body with a plurality of ports (A, B, C, D, E, F) and a plurality of annular flow passages (53, 55,57). A piston (34) which includes a plurality of annular flow passages and a longitudinal flow passage is selectively movable within a bore (32) within the valve body through operation of a valve controller (70). The valve controller is selectively operative to control the position of the piston so as to enable liquid flow through a plurality of flow paths. The valve controller further includes a installable and removable valve controller housing (74) which is releasably engageable with a valve base (72). The valve may include a changeable piston and changeable injector and plug components to adapt the valve to different flow and fluid mixing requirements.