Piezoelectric proportional control valve
US8608127B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 24, 2011 |
| Grant date | Dec 17, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 14, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/0324
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A control valve has a piezoelectric actuator substantially immersed in a fluid and a sealing mechanism configured to be in a closed position and an open position. The piezoelectric actuator is configured to distort in response to an applied voltage causing the sealing mechanism to transition between the closed position and the open position. In the open position, the sealing mechanism allows fluid to flow therethrough. In response to removing the applied voltage, the piezoelectric actuator returns to an undistorted position causing the sealing mechanism to close and prevent fluid from flowing therethrough. In at least one embodiment, the piezoelectric actuator is configured to contract due to the fluid pressure, and the tube is configured to contract due to the fluid pressure to compensate at least in part for the contraction of the piezoeletric actuator.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.