Integrated Sequence Valve for Reverse Free Flow at Low Cracking Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic valves require additional components to enable reverse flow, increasing complexity and cost, and often have high cracking pressures due to seal friction, which is not desirable.
Innovation Solution
A sequence valve with a reverse free flow configuration, incorporating a valve piston with forward and reverse flow springs and a pressure setting spring, allowing fluid flow from a first port to a second port and back without additional valves, utilizing a check element and pilot port to manage pressure differentials for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an additional valve is added to enable reverse flow, then reverse flow capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines forward flow control and reverse flow control into a single valve body by integrating a check element with the valve piston assembly. The check element is positioned within the valve mechanism such that it can be actuated by pressure differentials to permit reverse flow, eliminating the need for a separate reverse flow valve while maintaining both forward and reverse flow capabilities in one integrated component
Solution Approach 2:
The valve piston assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls forward flow when pressed against the seat, controls reverse flow when the check element is actuated, and responds to pressure differentials from either direction. This multi-functional design allows a single valve to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized valves, reducing system complexity while achieving versatile flow control
2Reliability
If seal friction is present in existing valves, then sealing is maintained, but cracking pressure increases to undesirable levels
Solution Approach 1:
The check element acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the sealing requirement and the cracking pressure issue. It is positioned to be actuated by pressure differentials across the valve piston, allowing it to open reverse flow paths at lower pressures than would be required to overcome seal friction directly, thereby reducing cracking pressure while maintaining sealing integrity when closed
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 solution integrates reverse flow capability into a single valve, reducing complexity and cost, and allows fluid flow at lower pressure levels, enhancing operational efficiency by minimizing seal friction and optimizing pressure utilization.
Implementation Method 1
a forward flow spring applying a first biasing force on the valve piston in a distal direction
Implementation Method 2
a reverse flow spring applying a second biasing force on the valve piston in a proximal direction
Implementation Method 3
a pressure setting spring applying a third biasing force on a check element in the distal direction
Implementation Method 4
fluid from the first port applies a fluid force on the check element in the proximal direction
Data Source
AI summary
An example valve includes a valve piston configured to block fluid flow from a first port of the valve to a second port of the valve when the valve is in a closed position; a forward flow spring applying a first biasing force on the valve piston in a distal direction; a reverse flow spring applying a second biasing force on the valve piston in a proximal direction; and a pressure setting spring applying a third biasing force on a check element in the distal direction, wherein fluid from the first port applies a fluid force on the check element in the proximal direction, and fluid from a pilot port applies a respective fluid force on the check element in the distal direction.