Servovalve Nozzle Press-Fit Locking for Easier Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing servovalve nozzle positioning and locking methods are complex and costly due to tight tolerances, making calibration difficult and prone to damage, and once calibrated, nozzles cannot be easily repositioned without risking damage.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using conical tapered locking members with push rods to securely position and lock a nozzle within a servovalve body, allowing for easier calibration and repositioning by creating a self-locking press fit without damaging the nozzle or servo.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional nozzle positioning methods with tight tolerances are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the positioning parameter from fixed tight tolerances to an adjustable press fit mechanism. The locking member can be moved axially to create different levels of press fit, allowing the nozzle to be securely positioned without requiring manufacturing to achieve tight tolerances. This transforms a manufacturing precision problem into a mechanical adjustment problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member acts as an intermediary between the nozzle and the valve body. Instead of directly positioning the nozzle against the valve body with tight tolerances, the locking member mediates this relationship by providing a mechanical press fit that secures the nozzle in place, simplifying the positioning requirement.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional nozzle locking methods are used, then nozzle position stability is improved, but ease of repositioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the press fit dynamic rather than static. The locking member can be moved axially to adjust the press fit level, allowing the nozzle to be easily repositioned by temporarily reducing the press fit, then securely locked by increasing the press fit. This dynamic mechanism resolves the contradiction between stability and repositioning ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is pre-configured to allow axial movement that can temporarily reduce the press fit. This preliminary design enables easy repositioning by simply moving the locking member, without requiring complex tools or procedures, and then allows secure locking by returning the locking member to its locked position.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional nozzle positioning with fixed press fit is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to temperature changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a variable press fit parameter that can adapt to temperature changes. The locking member's axial movement capability allows the press fit to be adjusted to compensate for thermal expansion or contraction of the nozzle and valve body, maintaining proper positioning across different temperatures without complicating manufacturing.
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 approach simplifies the calibration process, reduces the need for precise dimensions, and allows for easy repositioning of nozzles, while maintaining a secure press fit that is not affected by temperature changes, thus reducing the risk of damage and operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
the first locking member fits within the second locking member with the tapered surfaces contacting each other
Implementation Method 2
the outer surface of the first locking member comprises a conical shape that is tapered at a first angle; the inner surface of the second locking member has a conical shape that is tapered at a second angle
Data Source
AI summary
A nozzle with changeable press fit and a method for calibrating a nozzle is described. The nozzle may be used in a nozzle/flapper type servovalve. The method comprises the steps of providing a nozzle within a cylindrical body defining a cylindrical bore, the nozzle having a tubular shape with an outer cylindrical surface and an inner radial surface, the method further comprises the steps of positioning a first, tubular locking member within the nozzle, and axially moving the first, tubular locking member within the nozzle. The first tubular locking member is configured to cause the nozzle to become positionally fixed at a selected position within the bore in response to the first, tubular locking member being axially moved relative to the nozzle. A nozzle positioning system is also described herein.