Shape Memory Alloy Resettable Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature monitoring systems in manufacturing and automotive applications require operator attention and electrical power, limiting their ability to operate autonomously and efficiently in varying thermal conditions.
Innovation Solution
A passively actuated resettable valve using a shape memory alloy actuator element that transitions between martensite and austenite phases in response to thermal signals, allowing the shuttle valve to move between positions and control fluid flow without external power, combined with a resilient member to oppose movement and ensure self-resetting functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing temperature monitoring systems are used, then temperature monitoring function is provided, but operator attention and electrical power are required
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly uses a shape memory alloy actuator element that automatically responds to temperature changes without external power or control systems. The system serves itself by using the thermal energy present in the environment to drive the phase transition and actuate the valve, eliminating the need for electrical power and operator attention
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory alloy actuator element exploits the martensite-austenite phase transition in response to thermal activation signals. This phase transition enables the material to change its crystal structure and dimensions automatically based on temperature, providing autonomous temperature monitoring and valve actuation without external energy input
2Extent of automation
If shape memory alloy actuator is used, then autonomous operation is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates complex electrical control systems, power supplies, and active components from the temperature monitoring system. By using only the shape memory alloy's inherent phase transition properties, the design removes unnecessary complexity while maintaining autonomous operation
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory alloy's physical parameters (crystal structure, dimensions) change in response to temperature variations. This natural parameter change is harnessed to drive the valve actuation, converting a material property change into a functional response without requiring complex mechanisms
3Reliability
If resilient member opposes shuttle valve movement, then self-resetting functionality is ensured, but force required for actuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient member acts as a counterforce element that opposes the shuttle valve movement during actuation. This counterforce ensures that the valve returns to its original position (self-resetting) when the thermal stimulus is removed, while the shape memory alloy generates sufficient force to overcome this resistance during active actuation
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 autonomous temperature monitoring and fluid control in various industrial and automotive applications, operating without external power and resetting automatically when conditions return to a desired temperature range, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator element is formed from a shape memory alloy that is transitionable between a martensite crystallographic phase and an austenite crystallographic phase in response to a thermal activation signal
Implementation Method 2
transitionable between a martensite crystallographic phase and an austenite crystallographic phase in response to a thermal activation signal
Implementation Method 3
a resilient member is adjacent the second surface of the shuttle valve. The resilient member is configured to oppose the movement of the shuttle valve moving from the first position to the second position
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly includes a body having a longitudinal axis and defining a cavity therein. A shuttle valve is arranged within the cavity. The shuttle valve has a first surface and a second, opposing surface. An actuator element is adjacent the first surface of the shuttle valve and configured for translating the shuttle valve along the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position. The actuator element is formed from a shape memory alloy that is transitionable between a martensite crystallographic phase and an austenite crystallographic phase in response to a thermal activation signal to thereby translate the shuttle valve between the first position and the second position. Furthermore, a resilient member is adjacent the second surface of the shuttle valve. The resilient member is configured to oppose the movement of the shuttle valve moving from the first position to the second position.