L-Shaped Valve Flow Channel Structure for Stable Ultrasonic Welding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow channel switching valves face challenges in maintaining ultrasonic welding efficiency and rigidity due to the distance between the supported and welded portions, particularly in L-shaped channels, leading to potential deformation and connection damage when hoses are mounted.
Innovation Solution
The valve device incorporates projecting portions that interpose the flow channel portions radially, extending from the outer circumferential surface of the first portion to the second portion, allowing for stable ultrasonic welding and increased rigidity by reducing the distance between supported and welded areas, with the projecting portions also serving as positioning stoppers for hoses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lid member is stacked on the tip end of the first portion and ultrasonic vibration is applied for welding, then the flow channel can be sealed, but the distance between the supported portion and welded portion becomes long which decreases ultrasonic welding efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a support portion as an intermediary element between the lid member and the first portion. This support portion provides a nearby support point during ultrasonic welding, reducing the distance between supported and welded portions thereby maintaining welding efficiency while still achieving reliable sealing of the flow channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The support portion extends in a direction different from the axial direction of the first portion, creating a new spatial dimension for support. This dimensional change allows the support portion to be positioned close to the welding location without interfering with the sealing function of the lid member.
2Ease of operation
If the flow channel is made flexible to allow hose mounting, then ease of operation improves, but the connection between first portion and second portion may damage and deform due to applied force
Solution Approach 1:
The support portion acts as a preemptive reinforcement structure that cushions and distributes forces applied during hose mounting. By providing additional structural support before force is applied, it prevents damage and deformation to the connection between the first and second portions while still allowing adequate flexibility for hose installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the flow channel switching valve is designed with L-shaped flow channels for directional hose connection, then adaptability improves, but the distance between supported and welded portions increases reducing manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 1:
The support portion serves as an intermediary support structure that enables the L-shaped configuration while maintaining manufacturing precision. By providing a local support point near the welding location, it allows the flow channel to be sealed reliably through ultrasonic welding despite the extended geometry required for directional hose connection.
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 design enhances the efficiency of ultrasonic welding and increases the rigidity of the flow channel connections, preventing deformation and ensuring stable hose mounting.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic vibration is applied to the lid member for welding
Data Source
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AI summary
[Object] To provide a valve device that can effectively inhibit the efficiency of ultrasonic welding for a flow channel from decreasing and that can increase the rigidity of the flow channel, and a method for assembling the valve device. [Solution] A first flow channel (11) of a flow channel switching valve (1) includes a first portion (11a) that is connected to a valve body (10) and that is linear, a second portion (11b) that is connected such that the second portion is perpendicular to the first portion (11a) and that is linear, and a lid member (11c) that is joined such that the lid member covers an opening of a tip end (11a1) of the first portion (11a). The first flow channel (11) also includes a pair of projecting portions (11d) that is disposed such that the projecting portions interpose the first portion (11a) therebetween in a radial direction and face each other, and a connecting portion (11e) that couples the pair of projecting portions (11d) with each other. The pair of projecting portions (11d) includes a planar surface portion (11f) that faces the valve body (10) direction.