Spiral Fluid Flow Resistor for Adjustable Pressure Drop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid flow resistors lack the ability to easily adjust fluid flow resistance and have complex fabrication processes, limiting their versatility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A fluid flow resistor design featuring two 180-degree offset spiral fluid flow paths connected by a connecting path, allowing for adjustable resistance through the strategic placement of fluid flow restriction passages, simplifying manufacturing and inventory management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing fluid flow resistors use complex multi-disc assemblies with convoluted flow paths, then fluid flow resistance can be achieved, but fabrication complexity increases and ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path is segmented into discrete chambers (first chamber, second chamber, third chamber) connected by restriction passages, allowing each segment to be independently formed while maintaining overall flow resistance functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from complex multi-disc three-dimensional assemblies to a planar two-dimensional flow path within a single body, simplifying fabrication while maintaining flow resistance through carefully designed spiral chambers and restriction passages
2Reliability
If existing fluid flow resistors use fixed complex internal structures, then fluid flow resistance is provided, but adaptability and ease of adjustment decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The invention enables dynamic adjustment of fluid flow resistance by allowing selective connection of different restriction passages (first, second, third restriction passages) between chambers, permitting reconfiguration of flow paths to achieve different resistance settings
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple restriction passages are pre-formed within the body during manufacturing, allowing later selection and connection of appropriate passages based on desired flow resistance requirements, eliminating the need for complex post-manufacturing modifications
3Ease of manufacture
If existing fluid flow resistors use single-direction flow paths, then simple fabrication is achieved, but fluid flow resistance efficiency and particle handling capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs spiral-shaped flow chambers (first spiral chamber, second spiral chamber) that create rotational flow patterns, improving fluid mixing and particle suspension while maintaining relatively simple planar geometry suitable for straightforward fabrication
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines multiple flow path elements (spiral chambers, restriction passages, connecting passages) within a single integrated body, creating a composite flow structure that achieves enhanced flow resistance efficiency without requiring multiple separate components
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 adjustable fluid flow resistance with reduced fabrication complexity, providing efficient and clog-free fluid flow while accommodating small particles, with the potential for high pressure drops and fine-tuned resistance settings.
Implementation Method 1
a first spiral fluid flow path in a first spiral direction, and a second spiral fluid flow path in a second spiral direction opposite the first spiral direction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2E
Figure 2F~2H
AI summary
A fluid flow resistor includes: a body having entry and exit fluid flow ports, and an internal fluid flow path fluidly extending between the entry and exit fluid flow ports; the internal fluid flow path having a first spiral fluid flow path in a first spiral direction, and a second spiral fluid flow path in a second spiral direction opposite the first spiral direction; each of the first spiral flow path and the second spiral flow path having a plurality of discrete flow chambers fluidly connected in series via interconnecting fluid flow restriction passages; the first and second spiral flow paths having a connecting fluid flow path therebetween; the fluid flow resistor being configured to resistively permit fluid flow from the entry fluid flow port to the exit fluid flow port via the first spiral flow path, the connecting fluid flow path, and the second spiral flow path, in succession.