Pneumatic Diaphragm Valve for Pulse Air and One-Way Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid valve systems fail to recover or reuse motion or energy and do not effectively contribute to valve function, particularly in delivering a pulse of pressurized air or providing a one-way valve operation.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly with a moveable flexible member that deforms and moves based on fluid flow and pressure, featuring a diaphragm extending between a base and seated end, allowing reversible positioning to control fluid flow and pressure, and incorporating a leak path for pressure relief, enabling efficient use of compressed air.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional fluid valve systems are used, then the valve function is provided, but motion or energy is not recovered or reused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the valve actuation function with energy recovery by integrating a spring mechanism that stores energy during valve opening and releases it during valve closing. The spring is mechanically coupled to the valve stem, allowing it to perform dual function: providing restoring force for valve closure and storing/releasing mechanical energy that would otherwise be lost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic spring mechanism that adapts its stiffness characteristics to optimize energy recovery. The spring system transitions between different energy states during the valve cycle, dynamically storing energy when the valve opens and releasing it when the valve closes, converting what would be wasted motion into useful mechanical energy.
2Ease of operation
If a moveable flexible member is added to control fluid flow, then fluid flow and pressure control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible diaphragm member that deforms in response to pressure differential to control fluid flow. The diaphragm is positioned between an inlet chamber and outlet chamber, and its flexible nature allows it to automatically respond to pressure changes without requiring complex mechanical actuators, providing simple yet effective flow control.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible diaphragm operates autonomously by responding directly to pressure differential across the valve. When inlet pressure exceeds outlet pressure, the diaphragm deflects to open the flow path; when outlet pressure equals or exceeds inlet pressure, the diaphragm returns to its original position to close the flow path, eliminating the need for external control mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If compressed air is used to actuate the valve, then valve actuation is achieved, but continuous actuation is difficult to prevent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a pneumatic button mechanism that delivers periodic pulses of compressed air to actuate the valve. Each button press generates a discrete pressure pulse that triggers valve actuation, and the system is designed to automatically reset between pulses. The spring mechanism ensures the valve returns to its initial state after each actuation, preventing continuous operation even if the button is held down.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible diaphragm provides inherent feedback by its position-dependent sealing action. When the valve is actuated and the diaphragm deflects to the open position, it creates a pathway for pressure equalization that automatically reduces the pressure differential driving the actuation. This self-regulating feedback mechanism prevents continuous actuation by naturally limiting the duration of the actuation pulse.
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
The solution allows for effective control of fluid flow and pressure, enabling momentary motion to perform work and preventing continuous actuation of the valve when the pneumatic button is held, thus optimizing the use of compressed air and improving control over fluid flow.
Implementation Method 1
the moveable or flexible member configured and arranged to deform, flex and/or move based on a flow and/or pressure of fluid from the inlet
Implementation Method 2
the first position is characterized by at least a portion of the moveable or flexible member being at least partially at least one of coupled to, proximate to, sealed to the at least one aperture
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments include an assembly with an inlet housing enclosing an outlet housing that includes an inlet. The outlet housing includes an outlet port and a channel or aperture coupled to an outlet and apertures coupled to atmosphere. A moveable or flexible member is positioned in the inlet housing coupled to the outlet housing, and can deform, flex and/or move based on a flow and/or pressure of fluid from the inlet. Based on the flow and/or pressure of fluid from the inlet, the moveable or flexible member can reversibly move from a first position to a second position and/or from a second position to a first position. The first position is characterized by the moveable or flexible member being coupled to, proximate to, sealed to the aperture, and the second position is characterized by the moveable or flexible member being moved away from the aperture.