Regulating Piston Flow-Guiding Structure for Lower Pressure Loss
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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 turbulent fluid flow reducing system efficiency and requiring durable, lightweight materials for aircraft applications.
Innovation Solution
A regulating piston with a tubular sleeve and support structure that directs fluid flow smoothly, reducing turbulence and pressure loss, formed using additive manufacturing techniques for enhanced structural integrity and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional valve design with simple port in piston sleeve is used, then device complexity is reduced, but fluid flow turbulence increases and pressure loss occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure within the piston features curved surfaces that guide fluid flow smoothly from the port through the piston interior to the outlet. These curved pathways eliminate sharp corners and abrupt direction changes, reducing turbulence and pressure loss while maintaining controlled fluid dynamics.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure acts as an intermediary element between the port and the piston outlet, mediating the fluid flow by providing a structured pathway that transitions the fluid from the port entrance through the piston interior to the outlet in a controlled manner, reducing turbulence without requiring complete redesign of the piston.
2Reliability
If additive manufacturing is used to form the regulating piston, then structural integrity and fluid flow guidance are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the manufacturing parameter from conventional machining to additive manufacturing, enabling the creation of complex internal support structures with curved surfaces that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing methods. This parameter change allows for integrated structural features that improve reliability while accepting the specialized manufacturing process.
3Productivity
If turbulent fluid flow occurs in the piston, then device simplicity is maintained, but system efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The piston interior is segmented into flow guidance zones by the support structure, which divides the fluid flow path into controlled segments. This segmentation allows each portion of the fluid to be guided through specific curved pathways, reducing turbulence and improving overall system efficiency while maintaining a relatively simple overall piston design.
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 improves fluid dynamics, reduces weight, and enhances durability and reliability by minimizing turbulence and pressure loss, allowing for quicker pressure regulation and improved structural integrity under extreme conditions.
Implementation Method 1
turbulent flow reduces pressure and hence efficiency of the system
Data Source
AI summary
A regulating piston for a pressure regulating shut-off valve comprises: a tubular sleeve; a first closed end; a second open end; a port defined in the tubular sleeve between the first and second ends, arranged to permit fluid flow between the exterior and interior of the regulating piston; and a support structure disposed within the piston arranged to direct fluid flow between the port and the second open end. The piston can be included in a pressure regulating shut-off valve, and methods for manufacturing the piston and valve.