Rolling-Membrane Control Valve for Stable Differential Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control valves with automatic regulation and flow rate control are structurally complex, expensive, and cumbersome, leading to irregular flow due to multiple moving parts and variable geometry, which affects the regularity and precision of fluid flow.
Innovation Solution
A control valve design featuring a simpler, more compact structure with a central driving spindle, a cup-shaped body, and a spring, where fluid circulation occurs in conduits and chambers mainly parallel to the spindle, allowing for precise and rapid automatic regulation of differential pressure and flow rate without axial movement interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If control valves are equipped with automatic regulation and flow rate control devices, then the flow rate can be controlled precisely, but the structural complexity increases and the valve becomes more expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the differential pressure regulation function and flow rate control function into a single integrated valve body structure. The cup-shaped body with rolling membrane for differential pressure control and the flow shutter for flow rate control are merged into one compact unit, eliminating the need for separate devices and reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining precise control capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The valve body is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it houses the differential pressure automatic regulation device with the rolling membrane, contains the flow shutter for flow rate control, and provides fluid circulation paths. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed while achieving precise flow control
2Extent of automation
If multiple moving parts are used for regulation functions, then automatic control capability is improved, but the flow regularity deteriorates due to tortuous conduits and variable geometry
Solution Approach 1:
The valve internal flow path is segmented into distinct functional zones: an inlet zone, a differential pressure regulation zone with the rolling membrane, a flow control zone with the flow shutter, and an outlet zone. Each zone has a specific function and straightforward geometry, avoiding tortuous paths while maintaining automatic regulation capability through the coordinated action of segmented components
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the fluid flow through complex external piping to achieve regulation, the patent inverts the approach by integrating the regulation mechanisms directly within a compact valve body. The fluid flows through simple internal conduits while the cup-shaped body and flow shutter provide the automatic control functions, reversing the traditional arrangement where complex external components were needed
3Volume of moving object
If a compact design is implemented, then the valve size is reduced, but the flow circulation path may become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the cup-shaped body with the rolling membrane is positioned within the valve body, and the flow shutter is arranged concentrically around the central axis. The fluid circulation paths are nested within the valve body structure, with inlet conduits leading to the cup-shaped body and outlet conduits extending from it. This nesting achieves compactness without creating tortuous flow paths
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 design ensures a constant and regular flow with precise control of flow rate, reducing complexity and cost while maintaining efficient automatic regulation.
Implementation Method 1
a rolling membrane responsive to a differential pressure between an inlet and an outlet to a regulation of a flow shutter
Implementation Method 2
a rolling membrane having a radially inner edge fixed to the cup-shaped body and a radially outer edge fixed to the valve body
Implementation Method 3
a spring operatively interposed between the valve body and the cup-shaped body to push said cup-shaped body away from the flow shutter
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a control valve comprising: a valve body (2), a flow shutter (18) operatively interposed between an inlet (4) and an outlet (5), a driving spindle (14) having at least a first actuating end (14a) and a second end (14b) connected to the flow shutter (18). The valve also comprises a differential pressure automatic regulation device, comprising: a cup-shaped body (31) arranged around the driving spindle (14) and axially mobile with respect to said driving spindle (14); a spring (37) operatively interposed between the valve body (2) and the cup-shaped body (31) to push the latter away from the flow shutter (18); a rolling membrane (39) having a radially inner edge (40) fixed to the cup- shaped body (31) and a radially outer edge (41 ) fixed to the valve body (2) so as to delimit a first chamber (42) in fluid communication with the inlet (4) and a second chamber (43) in fluid communication with the outlet (5). The flow shutter (18) has at least one inlet opening (24) facing the inlet (4) of the valve body (2) and at least one outlet opening (23) facing the cup-shaped body (31). A shutter (26) is mounted around the driving spindle (14) and facing the outlet opening (23) of the flow shutter (18).