Rotary Microchannel Valve for High-Pressure Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing diaphragm valve designs are not well suited for regulating and controlling process flows, especially in high-pressure applications, and require separate control lines for each valve, increasing complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A microchannel valve apparatus that is compatible with capillaries and high-pressure gases or fluids, featuring a rotatable element that aligns or misaligns microchannels to control fluid flow, with ON/OFF switching capability and sufficient resolution for variable flow control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional diaphragm valve designs are used, then valve operation is achieved through membrane deformation, but the valve is not suitable for regulating and controlling process flows and cannot handle high-pressure flows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional diaphragm membrane deformation mechanism with a microchannel flow control mechanism. Instead of using a flexible membrane that deforms under pressure, the invention uses a fixed microchannel structure with a movable occlusion element (such as a ball, disk, or gate) that physically blocks or opens the flow path. This mechanical substitution enables the valve to handle high-pressure flows while providing precise flow regulation capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If separate control lines are fabricated for each independently operated valve, then each valve can be controlled independently, but the complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple valve functions into a single integrated microchannel structure. Instead of requiring separate control lines for each valve, the invention uses a common control mechanism (such as a single pneumatic or hydraulic line) that can simultaneously control multiple occlusion elements within the microchannel network. This merging approach reduces the number of control lines and inputs while maintaining independent control capability for each valve function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal microchannel valve structure that can perform multiple valve functions (opening, closing, partial blocking, flow direction control) using a single integrated design. The microchannel network is configured so that a single control input can activate different occlusion elements at different locations, providing multi-functional control without requiring separate control lines for each function. This universal design reduces complexity while maintaining operational independence.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus, system and method for a microchannel valve. The valve is configured to control or switch the flow of gasses or liquids. The valve includes a first substrate with a microchannel interrupted by a rotational element having a matching microchannel. The rotational element is attached to a second substrate in contact with the first. Actuation of the valve is achieved by rotating the second substrate relative to the first. The valve may be configured for capillary input and output, and/or for high pressure operation by means of capillary retention features. The valve may be disposed within a subassembly for maintaining contact, axial alignment, and relative rotational alignment between the first and second substrates. The present disclosure also provides a method for fabricating the valve. The present disclosure also provides ways to eliminate gaps between the two substrates.