Electrically Actuated Valve Assembly for Stable Seal Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of seals in electrically actuated valves is complex and costly due to the mechanical instability of seals, requiring precise alignment of the electronics and actuator housings.
Innovation Solution
A positioning device with alignment pins and recesses is used to simplify and stabilize the assembly of seals, allowing for self-alignment of the electronics housing and actuator housing, thereby reducing assembly costs and increasing seal tightness over the valve's service life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If seals are clamped between the electronics housing and the actuator housing to ensure sealing, then sealing reliability is improved, but the assembly complexity and cost increase due to the need for precise alignment devices
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device enables self-alignment of the electronics housing and actuator housing through the pin-recess mechanism. The pins on one housing fit into recesses on the other housing, automatically guiding precise alignment during assembly without requiring complex external alignment equipment or skilled manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning device acts as an intermediary element between the electronics housing and actuator housing. It mediates the alignment process by providing physical guides (pins and recesses) that ensure the two housings are precisely positioned relative to each other before the seal is clamped, thereby simplifying the overall assembly process.
2Manufacturing precision
If a complex assembly device is used to achieve precise alignment of housings, then manufacturing precision is improved, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device with pins and recesses is pre-integrated into the housing designs before assembly. The pins are formed on one housing and the corresponding recesses on the other housing, so that precise alignment features are already in place before the actual assembly operation begins, eliminating the need for complex alignment equipment during manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning device uses simple, inexpensive elements (pins and recesses) that can be easily manufactured into the housing structures. These are not complex reusable alignment tools but rather integrated features that provide precise alignment at minimal cost, comparable to disposable or single-use alignment aids.
3Reliability
If seals are mechanically clamped for sealing, then sealing function is achieved, but the seals become mechanically unstable and require precise assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device enables the seal to be self-positioned and self-stabilized between the housings. As the housings are brought together with the pin-recess alignment mechanism, the seal automatically finds its correct position and is evenly compressed, eliminating the need for complex clamping mechanisms that would otherwise be required to maintain seal stability.
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 positioning device facilitates precise and cost-effective assembly of seals, ensuring long-term tightness and ease of replacement or servicing without damaging the seals, while maintaining precise alignment and electrical connections.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electromagnetic actuator which has an actuator housing
Data Source
AI summary
An electrically actuated valve with a hydraulic unit includes a valve housing and at least one electric actuator. Electronics are fastened to the hydraulic unit and at the same time are precisely positioned so that a seal between the electronics and the actuator does not shift or fold over on itself. To this end, a positioning device is formed between the electronics and the hydraulic unit.