Motor Control Valve Seal Reinforcement for High Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Engine control valves with extended seals face poor sealing due to deformation under high pressure and temperature, leading to gas leaks, as the central part of the seal is not adequately supported and can warp, creating potential leak passages.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a reinforcement zone in the seal, such as a hollow relief or extra thickness, specifically in the solid portion closest to the opening, to prevent deformation and maintain tightness without increasing the valve's bulk or weight, ensuring the seal covers all peripheral edges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the seal is extended to cover all four peripheral edges of the flap, then the sealing coverage is improved, but the seal deforms under high pressure and temperature causing gas leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adding a reinforcement zone specifically in the central part of the seal, while keeping the peripheral edges flexible for sealing contact. This localized reinforcement with additional material or structural support prevents deformation in the most vulnerable area without making the entire seal rigid, thus maintaining both sealing coverage and dimensional stability under high pressure and temperature conditions.
2Reliability
If a larger gasket is used to cover all peripheral edges, then leakage sources are reduced, but the gasket deforms under thermal expansion creating bumps and hollows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the physical properties of the seal through the reinforcement zone, which changes the local stiffness and thermal expansion characteristics. The reinforcement zone alters the mechanical parameters of the seal in the central area, preventing excessive deformation and maintaining a flat sealing surface even when the overall seal size is increased to cover all peripheral edges.
3Reliability
If the seal is made larger to ensure complete coverage, then sealing effectiveness is improved, but the central part becomes poorly maintained and deforms easily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the seal into different functional zones: a reinforced central zone for structural support and resistance to deformation, and peripheral sealing edges for maintaining contact with the flap. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for its specific function, with the central reinforcement providing strength without compromising the flexibility needed for effective sealing at the edges.
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 reinforcement zone enhances the seal's durability and prevents deformation, achieving a double level of tightness by ensuring the seal remains effective and leak-proof under high pressure and temperature conditions, maintaining the valve's efficiency and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
it is subjected to both high pressure and high temperature from the gases present in the valve, and that it will therefore tend to deform under the effect of thermal expansion
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to an engine control valve including a body defining an inner duct and comprising a flap (10) mounted such that it can pivot by means of a shaft (12), said flap (10) comprising a first portion (11). The flap can pivot between an open position allowing the passage of fluid into the duct and a closed position in which the flap (10) comes into contact with a flat seal (100) of the flap. The outer contour of the seal (100) surrounds the outer contour of the flap (10), said seal (1) comprising an opening (6) and a solid portion (3). The above-mentioned first portion (11) seals the opening (6) in the seal (1) when the flap (10) is in a closed position. The seal (100) includes a reinforcement area (101) in the solid portion (3) thereof, such as to prevent the seal (100) from deforming owing to the high pressure and high temperature of the gases in the valve.