Expandable Sealing Sleeve With Rigid Support for Modular Valve Bases
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve systems lack flexibility in configuring different functionalities and orientations, limiting their adaptability to various fluid control scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A modular valve assembly composed of interconnected modular valves that can be connected in different orientations, utilizing reversible valve bases and selectable outlet ports, allowing for flexible arrangement and configuration to achieve diverse operational functionalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing valve systems use fixed configurations, then manufacturing and operation are simple, but adaptability to various fluid control scenarios is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system is divided into modular valve bodies that can be independently configured and connected. Each valve body contains internal passages and ports that can be selectively activated, allowing the system to be segmented into functional units that can be rearranged to create different fluid control configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve system is designed with universal valve bodies that can perform multiple functions depending on configuration. The same basic valve body structure can be arranged in different orientations and connected to create various valve assemblies (e.g., 2-way, 3-way, 4-way valves), eliminating the need for completely different valve designs for different applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular valves are interconnected in different orientations, then functionality and adaptability are enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve bodies incorporate asymmetric port configurations and internal passage arrangements that allow for different functional outcomes based on orientation. By designing valve bodies with specific asymmetric features, the system can achieve multiple valve functionalities (2-way, 3-way, 4-way) through simple rotational arrangements rather than requiring complex internal mechanisms in each valve.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve system allows dynamic reconfiguration of fluid pathways by changing the orientation and arrangement of modular valve bodies. This dynamic capability enables the same set of valve components to adapt to different operational requirements without physical modification, achieving versatility through reconfigurable geometry rather than fixed complex designs.
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
Enables the creation of various valve assembly embodiments with customizable inlet and outlet port combinations, enhancing adaptability and functionality in fluid control applications.
Implementation Method 1
The expandable seals include a flexible cover disposed about a rigid internal support
Implementation Method 2
The expandable seals include a flexible cover disposed about a rigid internal support
Data Source
AI summary
An expandable seal for adjoiningly sealing components together includes an elongate body having opposed open ends defining a passage through the body and a flexible outer cover, with the seal being configured for insertion into cavities of adjoined components to seal there between. The body comprises a rigid support configured as a separate component from the flexible cover with the support including an aperture between the open ends, and wherein the open ends comprise a pair of distally opposed support ends with the aperture disposed between the support ends. The cover has a pair of distally opposed cover ends that are engaged with an external portion of respective support ends, with the cover including a central section disposed between the cover ends and over the aperture of the support.