U-Shaped SMA Valve for Lumbar Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve arrangements for filling and maintaining air bubbles in automobile seats require a combination of two valves, leading to increased structural size and inefficiency, as single valves are not suitable for both filling and pressure holding.
Innovation Solution
A valve arrangement featuring a U-shaped SMA element with two actuators in mirror symmetry, each comprising a base plate, actuating element, connecting element, and SMA element, allowing for independent filling and venting functions while maintaining pressure, reducing structural size compared to V-shaped designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate valves are combined to achieve filling and pressure holding functions, then the functional requirements are met, but the structural size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate valve functions (filling valve and pressure holding valve) into a single integrated valve unit. The valve body contains both an inlet opening for filling and an outlet opening for pressure regulation, with a single actuating element controlling both functions. This merging eliminates the need for two separate valves, thereby reducing structural size while maintaining both filling and pressure holding capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The single valve unit performs multiple functions: it can fill the air bubble through the inlet opening, maintain pressure by regulating through the outlet opening, and hold pressure when closed. The actuating element can selectively open or close different passages to achieve filling, venting, or pressure holding modes, making the valve universal for both filling and pressure management operations.
2Ease of operation
If V-shaped SMA element is used in existing valve designs, then the actuation function is achieved, but the structural size is larger than necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a U-shaped (curved) SMA element instead of a straight or V-shaped configuration. The U-shape allows the SMA element to be mounted in a compact arc around the actuating element, reducing the overall structural footprint. The curved geometry enables the SMA element to effectively actuate the valve while occupying less space compared to linear arrangements.
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 U-shaped SMA element configuration enables compact design and efficient filling or emptying of air bubbles, while maintaining pressure when both valves are closed, addressing the inefficiencies of previous valve arrangements.
Implementation Method 1
current is applied to it, as a result of which it shortens and is thus able to move the actuating element
Implementation Method 2
a martensitic structure with a tetragonal, space-centered lattice is present, which starting at a transformation temperature of about 100° C. transforms into an austenitic structure with a cubic surface-centered lattice
Data Source
AI summary
A valve arrangement includes a housing with pump and consumer connections, and first and second actuators arranged symmetrically. Each first and second actuator includes one base plate; one actuating element having first and second end sections, and a sealing element in the first end section; one connecting element; and one SMA element having a U-shape with first and second ends, and a middle section between the ends. The actuating element is at least partially arranged on and connected to the base plate via the second end section. The connecting element is conductively connected to two points of the SMA element. The middle section is connected to the first end section of the actuating element so that shortening the SMA element causes a stroke of the sealing element. A related pump mechanism is disclosed.