Patent · US Expired

Variable stiffness flow control valve

US7370645B2 · kind B2 · utility

6Cited by
6References
40Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateMay 24, 2005
Grant dateMay 13, 2008
Priority date
Expiry dateJul 23, 2025

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10T137/7891
  • WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A flow control valve is provided. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the flow control valve includes a valve element and a support element. The valve element is configured to deflect responsive to a change in pressure difference across the valve element. The support element cooperates with the valve element to present an effective flow-through area that changes as the valve element deflects. The amount of relative engagement between the valve element and the support element changes as the valve element deflects. External vibration causes the valve element to vibrate to reduce stiction or ice buildup.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.