Swirl Valve Jet Control for Low-Power Precision Flow
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spool valves for gas turbine engines are costly to manufacture and require significant power to overcome flow pressure, while electronic solenoid valves need large forces, necessitating an improved, cost-effective and reliable valving solution.
Innovation Solution
A directional jet system with a spin chamber and rotational actuator controls flow direction, allowing for adjustable flow rates without match grinding or high power requirements, using a directional jet system with a jet tube that rotates between tangential and radial positions to manage flow through a valve system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If spool valves are made with carefully toleranced port openings and match ground with the sleeve, then flow control precision is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical match-grinding process with a hydraulic balancing mechanism. The balanced pressure force automatically equalizes pressure distribution across the valve face, eliminating the need for precision mechanical tolerancing and match grinding while maintaining flow control accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the control parameter from mechanical dimensional precision to hydraulic pressure balance. By using pressure forces to control valve opening and flow, the system achieves precise flow control without requiring tight mechanical tolerances, thereby reducing manufacturing cost and complexity.
2Extent of automation
If electronic solenoid type valves are used to control the spool window, then automated flow control is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system uses the process fluid's own pressure to actuate the valve through the balanced pressure force mechanism, eliminating the need for external power sources like solenoids or motors. The hydraulic balance automatically responds to pressure changes, providing self-actuating flow control that consumes no additional power.
3Adaptability or versatility
If spool valves are used to control flow in fuel injectors, then flow control capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the valve body and the pressure balancing mechanism into a single integrated structure. The balanced pressure force is generated within the valve assembly itself through strategically positioned pressure chambers, eliminating the need for separate external balancing components and reducing overall device complexity.
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 system provides reliable and cost-effective flow control without the need for precise manufacturing tolerances or high power, enabling adjustable flow rates and integration with existing hydromechanical valves.
Implementation Method 1
A directional jet system 108 is in fluid communication with the spin chamber 102. The directional jet system 108 includes a jet tube 112 configured to rotate to direct a jet orifice 110 more toward a periphery of the spin chamber 102 in the first position relative to the second position.
Implementation Method 2
The directional jet system 108 is configured to direct a tangential flow around the drain 104 in the first position relative to the second position.
Implementation Method 3
The directional jet system 108 is configured to direct a radial flow toward the drain 104 in the second position relative to the first position.
Implementation Method 4
A spin chamber 102 having an outlet drain 104 configured to allow flow out of the spin chamber 102. A main spin surface 106 of the spin chamber 102 is defined around the outlet drain 104.
Data Source
AI summary
A valve system includes a spin chamber having an outlet drain configured to allow flow out of the spin chamber. A main spin surface of the spin chamber is defined around the outlet drain. A directional jet system is in fluid communication with the spin chamber. The directional jet system includes a member that is configured to move between a first position for directing a tangential flow around the drain, and a second position for directing a radial flow toward the drain.