Thermoelectric Valve Controller Cooling for High-Temperature Reliability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Pneumatic valve controllers in high-temperature applications face component failure due to thermal cycling and high operational temperatures, with existing solutions like remote mounting and expensive coatings being costly and inefficient, and introducing latency and complexity.

Innovation Solution

Integration of a thermoelectric cooler surrounding the valve controller to actively transfer heat to an ambient environment, reducing operating temperatures and eliminating the need for remote mounting and additional cooling measures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the valve controller is remotely mounted to avoid high temperatures, then component reliability improves, but system complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomponent reliabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical solution of remote mounting with a thermoelectric cooling system that allows the valve controller to remain in its original location while actively managing heat through electrical cooling components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the thermal parameter of the valve controller environment by introducing active cooling, transforming the operating temperature conditions to protect components without requiring physical relocation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If expensive thermal coatings are applied to protect components, then component reliability improves, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomponent reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces passive thermal protection coatings with an active thermoelectric cooling system, substituting material-based protection with a functional cooling mechanism that manages heat dynamically

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The thermoelectric cooler actively manages the thermal environment of the valve controller, making the system self-regulating regarding temperature without requiring external protective measures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Volume of moving object

If the valve controller is placed in a high-temperature environment, then space utilization improves, but component lifespan decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidcomponent lifespan

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the effective operating temperature parameter of the valve controller by introducing active cooling, allowing the controller to remain in the compact original location while maintaining component lifespan through temperature management

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This solution decreases component failure rates, saves space and cost, improves control latency by eliminating long lines, and reduces thermal protection costs, while maintaining efficient operation and extending component life.

Implementation Method 1

a thermoelectric cooler that surrounds the valve controller and transfers heat between the valve controller and an ambient environment

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermoelectric effect: Peltier Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9945292B2Thermoelectric cooled torque motor

Publication Date: 2018.04.17 HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORP

AI summary

A valve system includes a valve, a valve controller, a thermoelectric cooler, and a controller. The valve is configured to open and close a control device in response to a working fluid. The valve controller controls the flow of the working fluid through the valve. The thermoelectric cooler surrounds the valve controller transfers heat between the valve controller and an ambient environment. The controller directs a current to drive the thermoelectric cooler.