Integrated Solenoid Valve Assembly for Multi-Path Flow Routing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The need for multiple solenoid valves to achieve circulation of multiple flow paths results in a large number of pipelines and valves in a system.

Innovation Solution

A valve assembly with a valve bonnet, valve core, and driving device that allows the valve core to move within an accommodating cavity, forming a chamber and multiple channels for fluid branches, reducing the need for multiple solenoid valves by enabling fluid to flow through different channels based on the valve core's position.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple solenoid valves are used to realize circulation of multiple flow paths, then the flow path circulation capability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflow path circulation capabilityVSAvoidnumber of pipelines and valves
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple solenoid valves into a single integrated valve assembly. The valve body contains multiple cavities (first accommodating cavity, second accommodating cavity) that can be communicated with each other through configurable channels. By using a single driving device to control the valve core position, the patent merges the functions of multiple separate valves, thereby reducing the overall number of valves and pipelines in the system while maintaining the capability to circulate multiple flow paths.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The valve assembly is designed as a universal component that can handle multiple flow paths through a single device. The valve core can be positioned at different locations to configure different communication channels between the first and second accommodating cavities, enabling a single valve assembly to perform the functions that would otherwise require multiple specialized valves. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve flow path circulation without increasing the number of valves.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If a single valve assembly controls multiple flow paths, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of valvesVSAvoidvalve core positioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The valve assembly is segmented into distinct functional regions including the first accommodating cavity, second accommodating cavity, and multiple configurable channels. The driving device is also segmented into a solenoid coil, stationary iron core, movable iron core, and shaft rod. This segmentation allows for modular manufacturing and assembly, where each component can be precision-manufactured and tested independently before integration, thereby managing the overall manufacturing precision requirements more effectively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with an electromagnetic driving mechanism. The solenoid coil generates a magnetic field that actuates the movable iron core, which in turn moves the valve core to different positions through the shaft rod. This electromagnetic actuation system provides precise and repeatable positioning of the valve core without requiring complex mechanical linkages or manual adjustment mechanisms, thereby reducing manufacturing precision requirements compared to purely mechanical systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Reduces the number of pipelines and valves required in a system by allowing fluid to flow through separate branches via a single valve assembly, enhancing efficiency and integration.

Implementation Method 1

the movable iron core is magnetically attracted with the stationary iron core

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

the solenoid coil is fitted over the sleeve... the movable iron core is magnetically attracted with the stationary iron core

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP4717950A1Valve assembly and solenoid valve
Publication Date: 2026.04.01 ZHEJIANG DUNAN ARTIFICIAL ENVIRONMENT CO LTD
  • EP4717950A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4717950A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4717950A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A valve assembly and a solenoid valve. The valve assembly comprises a valve bonnet (200a), a valve element (300a) and a driving device (400a), wherein the valve bonnet (200a) is provided with a first accommodating cavity (201a), the valve element (300a) is located in the first accommodating cavity (201a), and the driving device (400a) can drive the valve element (300a) to move along an inner wall of the first accommodating cavity (201a); the valve element (300a) is provided with a second accommodating cavity (301a), and a chamber (308a) is formed between the valve element (300a) and the valve bonnet (200a); and the second accommodating cavity (301a) is in communication with the first accommodating cavity (201a) outside the chamber (308a). Fluid flowing into the valve bonnet (200a) comprises at least a first branch and a second branch, the first branch flowing out through a first channel where the chamber (308a) is located, and the second branch flowing out through a second channel located outside the chamber (308a). The number of pipelines and valves in a system can be reduced.