Reversible Modular Valve Assembly for Flexible Flow Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular valve assemblies lack flexibility in configuration and functionality, as they are limited to specific orientations and port combinations, which restricts their ability to adapt to various fluid flow requirements and applications.
Innovation Solution
A modular valve assembly system comprising reversible valve bases with interchangeable channels and expandable seals, allowing for flexible arrangement and orientation of modular valves to create different flow paths and port combinations, enabling the assembly to function as both two-way and three-way valves with selective fluid communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modular valve assemblies use fixed orientations and port combinations, then manufacturing and assembly are simplified, but flexibility in configuration and functionality is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is divided into separate modular components including valve bodies, end connectors, and expandable seals that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for manufacturing while enabling flexible reconfiguration of the complete assembly to create different port combinations and flow paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve bases are designed with universal mating surfaces and standardized channel configurations that allow the same component to function in multiple orientations and configurations. The expandable seal system provides universal sealing capability across different valve arrangements, enabling a single valve body design to serve both two-way and three-way valve functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular valve assemblies use fixed orientations, then sealing between mating parts is simplified, but ability to adapt to various fluid flow requirements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The expandable seal transitions from a static sealing component to a dynamic one that automatically adjusts its configuration. When fluid pressure is applied, the seal expands radially to engage sealing surfaces, ensuring reliable sealing regardless of the valve's orientation or the specific flow path configuration. This dynamic response maintains sealing reliability across all adaptive configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal's physical parameters (particularly its radial dimension) change in response to fluid pressure conditions. The seal expands or contracts based on the pressure differential across it, allowing it to maintain optimal sealing contact under varying operating conditions and orientations, thereby ensuring reliable sealing across different fluid flow requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular valve assemblies allow flexible arrangement and orientation, then functionality and adaptability are enhanced, but manufacturing precision and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve bases incorporate asymmetric features including keyed mating surfaces and positioned mounting holes that provide self-alignment during assembly. These asymmetric elements guide the components into correct relative positions, ensuring proper channel alignment and seal engagement regardless of how the valves are arranged or oriented in the final configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The expandable seal acts as an intermediary element between mating valve bases, compensating for minor misalignments and variations in manufacturing tolerances. The seal's flexibility allows it to conform to slight deviations in mating surfaces, maintaining effective sealing without requiring extremely tight manufacturing precision across all assembled components.
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 system provides a versatile solution for controlling fluid flow by allowing modular valves to be connected in various orientations, enabling multiple fluid inputs and outputs, and accommodating different fluid types, enhancing adaptability and functionality in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
an expandable seal used between mating parts of a modular valve assembly
Implementation Method 2
The expandable seals include a flexible cover disposed about a rigid internal support
Data Source
AI summary
A modular valve assembly is formed from multiple modular valves having a valve base and a valve actuator. Each base includes at least a first channel and a second channel and an internal passage forming an opening in the first channel so as to be in selective fluid communication with an exterior port of the valve base, and with the second channel being a through passage that is not in fluid communication with the internal passage. Adjacent valve bases are interconnectable in one of two orientations either with the first and second channels of one valve base being aligned with the first and second channels, respectively, of an adjacent valve base, or with the first and second channels of one valve base being aligned with the second and first channels, respectively, of an adjacent valve base. The valve bases may be provided with third and fourth channels for three-way operability.