SMA Valve Element Layout for Compact Decentralized Lift Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lift elements in automotive and industrial applications require a central valve assembly, which is space-consuming and increases laying costs and error susceptibility, especially due to the need for individual laying of lift elements and supply lines.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution includes a valve element with an SMA wire actuator, return spring, and sealing elements, which allows for a compact and efficient 3/3-way valve configuration, eliminating the need for a central valve assembly and reducing the impact of leaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a central valve assembly is used to control multiple lift elements, then individual control of lift elements is achieved, but space requirements increase and laying costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the valve function into two segments: a central valve assembly for common control functions and decentralized valve elements integrated directly into each lift element for individual control. This segmentation allows the system to maintain individual control capability while reducing the size and space requirement of the central valve assembly, as the control function is distributed to the lift elements themselves.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a central valve assembly is used to control multiple lift elements, then individual control of lift elements is achieved, but laying costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system is segmented into a central control unit and distributed valve elements at each lift location. This reduces the complexity of supply line laying since the decentralized valve elements can be integrated directly into the lift element structures, eliminating the need for extensive individual supply line routing from a large central assembly to each lift element.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve element is merged with the lift element structure, combining the valve body, actuator, and sealing elements into an integrated unit. This merging reduces the number of separate components that need to be laid and connected, thereby reducing laying costs while maintaining individual control capability.
3Device complexity
If a central valve assembly is used, then control functions are centralized, but error susceptibility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into a central valve assembly and multiple independent valve elements distributed at each lift location. This segmentation isolates potential errors to individual valve elements rather than affecting the entire system, thereby reducing error susceptibility while maintaining a relatively simple centralized control structure.
4Device complexity
If sealing elements are arranged on the base plate side, then valve structure is simplified, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing elements are arranged on the head side of the valve element rather than on the base plate side, representing a dimensional repositioning within the valve structure. This arrangement optimizes the spatial configuration to reduce the overall volume of the valve element while maintaining the simplicity of the valve structure, effectively resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and compactness.
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 error susceptibility, minimizes space requirements, and lowers laying costs by allowing for a more decentralized and compact valve system, while maintaining effective control over lift elements.
Implementation Method 1
The valve element (17) comprises an actuator (72) with an SMA wire (74)
Implementation Method 2
a return spring (76)
Data Source
AI summary
A valve element can selectively seal or open two ports. The valve element includes a base plate, first and second actuators operated by SMA wires to selectively move sealing elements via deflection of return elements such as leaf springs. The valve element can used in a lift elements or actuators in components of vehicles.