Solenoid Piston Flow Control for Reconfigurable Product Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing processing systems are often static and require extensive mechanical, electrical, and software modifications to produce different products, limiting their configurability and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A flow control device with a solenoid, armature, and piston mechanism that controls fluid flow through secondary orifices, combined with sensors and actuators to dynamically adjust ingredient mixing and processing, allowing for modular and flexible product generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If processing systems are designed with dedicated components for specific products, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but adaptability and device complexity deteriorate when reconfiguring for different products
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic reconfiguration capabilities where processing modules can be programmatically adjusted to handle different products. The control system allows dynamic modification of processing parameters, flow rates, and module activation states without physical reconfiguration, enabling the system to adapt to various products while maintaining operational reliability through consistent control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing system is designed with universal modules that can perform multiple functions across different product types. Rather than dedicated components for each product, the system uses multi-functional processing modules that can be programmed and configured to handle various ingredients and product formulations, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining reliability through standardized module designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If processing systems are reconfigured to produce different products, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and modification requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic control mechanisms that allow reconfiguration through software programming rather than physical modifications. Processing modules can be dynamically adjusted by changing control parameters, flow rates, and module activation sequences, enabling product variety expansion without increasing device complexity or requiring extensive mechanical/electrical modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces mechanical reconfiguration mechanisms with electronic/software-based control. Instead of physically adding or removing components to produce different products, the system uses programmable control to adjust processing parameters, enabling product variety while reducing device complexity and modification requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If extensive mechanical and electrical modifications are made to produce different products, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables rapid product switching through dynamic reconfiguration capabilities. Processing modules can be reprogrammed and reassigned in real-time based on production demands, eliminating the need for extensive mechanical modifications. This dynamic approach significantly reduces reconfiguration time while maintaining full adaptability for different products.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces time-consuming mechanical reconfiguration with electronic control mechanisms. Product switching is achieved through software programming and electronic signal adjustments rather than physical component changes, thereby eliminating reconfiguration delays and maintaining continuous productivity while providing full product variety capability.
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 dynamic reconfiguration of processing systems to produce a wide variety of products with reduced mechanical and software changes, enhancing flexibility and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The flow control device includes a solenoid, the solenoid including an armature. Also, a piston connected to the armature.
Data Source
AI summary
A flow control device is disclosed. The flow control device includes a solenoid, the solenoid including an armature. Also, a piston connected to the armature. The piston includes a primary orifice. The piston having an open position and a closed position. A piston spring connected to the piston is also includes and at least one secondary orifice. The movement of the piston to the open position at least partially opens the at least one secondary orifice and the movement of the piston to the closed position at least partially closes the at least one secondary orifice. The movement of the armature actuates the piston movement and controls fluid flow from the primary orifice through the at least one secondary orifice.