Supply Manifold Slider Actuation for Multi-Zone Valve Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hydronic heating or cooling systems require complex and expensive supply manifolds with multiple zone valves, which are costly and have inefficiencies in actuation mechanisms, and lack precise and leak-proof opening and closing mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A supply manifold design featuring a slider driven by a screw drive over a splined rotatable shaft, which actuates valves through cross gears, allowing for precise and leak-proof quarter-turn operation, reducing the need for complex electric wiring and improving actuation efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple zone valves with individual actuators are used to control each zone, then each zone can be independently controlled, but the supply manifold becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple zone valve actuators are merged into a single slider mechanism that can service all valves sequentially. The slider carries actuating elements that engage with cross gears on each valve, allowing one moving component to perform the function of multiple individual actuators, thereby reducing overall system complexity and cost while maintaining independent zone control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The slider is designed as a universal actuating mechanism that can interact with multiple different valves along its travel path. By incorporating actuating elements that engage with cross gears on each valve, the single slider performs multiple actuation functions, replacing what would traditionally require multiple specialized actuators
2Measurement precision
If solenoid actuators with electric wires are used to actuate zone valves, then precise control is achieved, but the wiring becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical solenoid actuation system with a mechanical screw drive mechanism. The screw drive converts rotational motion into linear motion of the slider, providing precise positioning and actuation without requiring electric wires to travel back and forth with the moving carriage, thereby eliminating wiring complexity while maintaining control precision
Solution Approach 2:
The slider acts as an intermediary mechanical element that transfers the actuation force from the screw drive to the valve cross gears. This mechanical intermediary eliminates the need for direct electrical connections to each valve, replacing complex wiring with a simple mechanical linkage system
3Ease of operation
If conventional valve actuation mechanisms are used, then valve operation is achieved, but leakage and imprecise opening/closing occur
Solution Approach 1:
The valve actuation mechanism uses a dynamic quarter-turn rotation system where the slider carries actuating elements that rotate the valve plugs through a precise 90-degree motion. This controlled rotational movement ensures reliable sealing surfaces engage properly, preventing leakage while maintaining ease of operation through automated actuation
Solution Approach 2:
The valve design incorporates a plug valve mechanism where the rotating plug creates hydraulic sealing against the valve body ports. The quarter-turn rotation ensures the plug's sealing surfaces align precisely with the flow paths, providing leak-proof operation while the mechanical actuation maintains ease of operation
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 solution simplifies the actuation mechanism, reduces costs, and provides precise control over valve operation, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of hydronic systems by enabling independent control of each zone with reduced complexity and leakage.
Implementation Method 1
a slider driven by a screw drive over a splined rotatable shaft
Implementation Method 2
actuates valves through cross gears
Data Source
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AI summary
A manifold has a frame and a plurality of valves supported by the frame, each valve having a cross gear. The manifold also has a screw drive and a splined rotatable shaft parallel to the screw drive. The manifold further includes a slider driven by the screw drive over the splined rotatable shaft. The slider includes an actuator that protrudes from the slider to engage one of the cross gears to actuate a respective one of the plurality of valves.