Rotary Flow Direction Block for Independent Fluid Path Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional four-way valves in automobile air-conditioning systems cannot independently control the flow through one flow path, necessitating an additional control valve for such control.
Innovation Solution
A multi-way valve with a rotary flow direction block, featuring two clearances that selectively connect internal passages, allowing independent control of one flow passage by rotating the block, which forms a solid of revolution for enhanced sealing and reduced size, with orifices and open channels for efficient flow management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional four-way valve with a ball closure is used to switch fluid flows, then the valve can accommodate two inlet flows and provide two outlet flows, but the valve cannot control the flow through one of the flow paths independently, requiring an additional control valve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the flow switching function and flow control function into a single multi-way valve body. The valve includes a first flow passage with a first valve member for controlling flow, and a second flow passage with a second valve member for switching flow, integrated within the same valve housing. This merging eliminates the need for separate control valves while providing both switching and control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve body is designed to perform multiple functions: it switches fluid flows between different paths and independently controls flow through specific passages. The first valve member provides flow control capability while the second valve member provides flow switching capability, making the single valve universal for both operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional control valves are added to achieve independent flow control, then flow control capability is improved, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple valve members (first valve member for control, second valve member for switching) within a single valve body, combining what would traditionally require separate valves into one integrated component. This reduces the total number of components while maintaining independent control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve is segmented into distinct functional zones with separate valve members for different purposes. The first valve member controls flow in the first flow passage, while the second valve member controls flow in the second flow passage, allowing independent operation of each function within the unified valve structure.
3Measurement precision
If a rotary flow direction block with clearances is used to selectively connect internal passages, then flow control precision is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flow direction block is designed as a solid of revolution with curved surfaces that rotate within the valve body. The clearances are formed between curved surfaces, which naturally provide smoother flow control and reduce sensitivity to manufacturing tolerances compared to flat-surface configurations. The spherical or cylindrical geometry allows for more forgiving manufacturing while maintaining precise flow control through rotation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Flow control valve, comprising a housing (1) forming a number of internal passages (8) and an internal cavity (2) in fluid communication with each of the internal passages (8); and a flow direction block (3) disposed in the internal cavity (2), the flow direction block (3) having an outer sealing face (4) acting sealingly together with an inner sealing face of the internal cavity, wherein the flow direction block (3) comprises two clearances extending through a portion of the flow direction block (3), wherein each of the two clearances is adapted to selectively connect one pair of the internal passages (8) of the housing (1) when the flow direction block (8) is rotated around a rotation axis (X) relative to the housing (1), thus forming a first flow passage and a second flow passage.