Regulating Piston Flow-Guiding Structure for Low-Turbulence PRSOVs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pressure regulating shut-off valves (PRSOVs) face challenges in operating efficiently under extreme temperature and pressure conditions, with conventional pistons experiencing turbulent fluid flow that reduces system efficiency and requires durable yet lightweight materials for aircraft applications.
Innovation Solution
A regulating piston with a tubular sleeve and a support structure that directs fluid flow smoothly, featuring a port extending around the entire periphery and internal vanes to minimize turbulence, combined with additive manufacturing techniques for complex geometries and reduced material usage, enhancing structural integrity and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional pistons with simple ports are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but fluid flow turbulence increases and system efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates curved surfaces and smooth transitions instead of sharp edges or flat surfaces. The curved geometry of the support structure guides fluid flow smoothly from the port through the piston interior, eliminating turbulence and reducing energy loss while maintaining structural integrity.
2Weight of moving object
If lightweight materials are used to reduce aircraft weight, then the weight of the valve is reduced, but durability and ability to withstand extreme pressure and temperature may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs composite material construction where the piston is formed from multiple materials or a gradient structure that optimizes both weight and strength properties. This allows the valve to remain lightweight for aircraft applications while maintaining the durability and extreme condition resistance required for engine inlet anti-ice systems.
3Productivity
If the port extends about the entire periphery of the piston, then fluid flow capacity is improved, but the structural integrity of the tubular sleeve may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple segments or struts that are distributed around the piston interior. These segmented elements provide structural reinforcement to the tubular sleeve where material has been removed to create the peripheral port, maintaining structural integrity while allowing maximum fluid flow capacity.
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 reduces turbulence and pressure loss, improves fluid dynamics, and increases the durability and responsiveness of the valve, while maintaining a lightweight design suitable for aircraft use.
Implementation Method 1
the piston of the present disclosure provides a means of reducing turbulence within the fluid flow by directing fluid flow between the port and the second open end
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
There is provided a regulating piston for a pressure regulating shut-off valve, wherein the regulating piston comprises: a tubular sleeve 149; a first closed end 141; a second open end 142; a port 147 defined in the tubular sleeve 149 between the first and second ends, arranged to permit fluid flow between the exterior and interior of the regulating piston; and a support structure 144 disposed within the piston arranged to direct fluid flow between the port 147 and the second open end 142. There is also provided a pressure regulating shut-off valve comprising such a piston, and methods for manufacturing the piston and valve.