Spool Valve Ratchet Actuator for Position Holding Without Continuous Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spool valve actuation systems require continuous hydraulic or pneumatic pressure to maintain the spool in position against operational pressure, which can be impractical and unsafe.
Innovation Solution
A spool valve actuator using a ratcheting mechanism and multiple position stops to hold the spool in desired positions, allowing intermittent hydraulic pressure to move the spool and maintaining position through the ratcheting mechanism and stop alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If continuous hydraulic pressure is applied to maintain spool position, then the spool remains stable against operational pressure, but the system becomes impractical and unsafe due to constant pressure requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static continuous pressure maintenance to dynamic intermittent actuation. The microprocessor controller monitors spool position and activates the actuator only when position deviation is detected, creating a dynamic control system that maintains stability while eliminating the need for continuous pressure application.
Solution Approach 2:
A feedback mechanism is implemented where the microprocessor controller continuously monitors the spool valve position and compares it against the desired position. Based on this feedback, the controller determines when actuation is necessary, enabling precise position maintenance without constant pressure application.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is incorporated to hold the spool in place, then the spool position is maintained without continuous pressure, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with an electronically controlled actuation system. The microprocessor controller and actuator assembly provide position maintenance through intelligent control algorithms rather than mechanical locks, reducing mechanical complexity while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-monitoring and self-correction of spool position. The microprocessor detects position deviations and automatically activates the actuator to correct the position, eliminating the need for external locking mechanisms or manual intervention.
3Force
If constant countering hydraulic force is applied to move the spool, then the spool can be positioned against operational pressure, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation system operates periodically rather than continuously. The microprocessor controller monitors spool position and activates the actuator only when position correction is needed, applying hydraulic force intermittently. This periodic action maintains the necessary actuation force capability while dramatically reducing overall energy consumption.
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 spool valve operation without continuous pressure, enhancing reliability and safety by maintaining spool position against operational back pressure using intermittent actuation.
Implementation Method 1
a main spring disposed between the positioner and the proximal side of the spool valve case and configured to provide a biasing force on the positioner
Implementation Method 2
a ratchet mechanism attachable to the spool shaft and a multiple position stop to hold the spool in desired positions
Data Source
AI summary
A spool valve actuator may include a stop fixed to the case with a cylindrical body member having a first set of slots of a first length at regular circumferential distances and a second set of slots of a second length at regular circumferential distances offset from the first set of slots, both set of slots configured to slidably receive a proximal portion of a positioner, a ratchet member may comprise, a cylindrical body slidably attached to the spool valve shaft and keyed to the stop to prevent relative rotation, a distal edge comprising a plurality of distally facing teeth configured to engage the proximal portion of the positioner when the ratchet is moved away from the stop, the positioner may comprise a plurality of proximally extending positioning members configured to engage with both the distally facing teeth and the slots in the stop.