Segmented Valve Assembly for Exhaust Branch Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve devices for managing overflow areas in internal combustion engine exhaust gas ducts require significant effort, occupy large installation space, and have slow control adjustment speeds due to high force expenditure and complex control systems.
Innovation Solution
A valve device comprising two valve elements, where one element opens a larger portion of the overflow area against fluid pressure, reducing closure force, and the other element opens with fluid pressure support, allowing for efficient regulation of fluid flow with minimal effort, using a mechanically simple design with reduced flow resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single valve element is used to close the overflow area, then the valve device has simple structure, but high force is required to close the overflow area against fluid pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The overflow area is divided into two portions (first and second portions) that are closed by separate valve elements (first and second valve elements). The first valve element closes the first portion against fluid pressure, while the second valve element closes the second portion with fluid pressure support, thereby reducing the total closure force required compared to a single valve element closing the entire overflow area.
2Force
If a controller with high force capability is used to close the overflow area, then the overflow area can be closed effectively, but the installation space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the overflow area into two portions controlled by separate valve elements, the patent reduces the force requirement for each valve element. This eliminates the need for a large, high-force controller, thereby reducing the installation space requirement while maintaining effective closure capability.
3Measurement precision
If a complex controller is used to manage the overflow area, then precise control is achieved, but the actuating speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control function into two separate valve elements that can be actuated independently or in sequence. This segmentation allows for simpler, faster-acting actuators compared to a single complex controller, while maintaining precise control over the overflow area through coordinated operation of the two valve elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The second valve element is opened before the first valve element to equalize pressure partially, reducing the force required to open the first valve element. This preliminary action simplifies the control requirements and enables faster actuation without requiring a complex high-force controller.
4Device complexity
If a single valve element design is used, then the valve device has simple structure, but the flow resistance at the junction increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the overflow area into two portions with separate valve elements, the patent creates a more distributed flow path that reduces turbulence and flow resistance at the junction. The segmented configuration allows fluid to flow more smoothly through the branch passage compared to a single valve element design.
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
This configuration reduces the force required to close the overflow area, enhances actuating speed, and minimizes installation space and flow resistance, improving control behavior and reducing costs associated with complex controllers.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first valve element is pressed into the closed position by the fluid pressure in the first fluid channel
Implementation Method 2
at least one second valve element is pressed by the fluid pressure in the first fluid channel in the direction of an open position
Data Source
Figure 1~4
AI summary
The valve device comprises two valve elements that are arranged, such that one valve element opens a part of an overflow surface of a branch against the fluid pressure in a fluid channel (10). Another valve element closes other part of the overflow surface of the branch opposite to the fluid pressure in the fluid channel. An independent claim is also included for a method for opening or closing an overflow surface of a branch of a fluid channel.