WO2022201131A1 - Device and system for the control of a fluid flow - Google Patents

Device and system for the control of a fluid flow Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022201131A1
WO2022201131A1 PCT/IB2022/052836 IB2022052836W WO2022201131A1 WO 2022201131 A1 WO2022201131 A1 WO 2022201131A1 IB 2022052836 W IB2022052836 W IB 2022052836W WO 2022201131 A1 WO2022201131 A1 WO 2022201131A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
elastic membrane
channel
control
pressure
chamber
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2022/052836
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Calogero Maria ODDO
Luca MASSARI
Domenico Camboni
Giuseppe TERRUSO
Mariangela FILOSA
Giacomo D'ALESIO
Alessandro SATTA
Barbara MARI
Original Assignee
Scuola Superiore Di Studi Universitari E Di Perfezionamento Sant'anna
Maxres S.R.L.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Scuola Superiore Di Studi Universitari E Di Perfezionamento Sant'anna, Maxres S.R.L. filed Critical Scuola Superiore Di Studi Universitari E Di Perfezionamento Sant'anna
Priority to EP22718779.6A priority Critical patent/EP4314571A1/en
Publication of WO2022201131A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022201131A1/en

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/04—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with a single servomotor
    • F15B13/0401—Valve members; Fluid interconnections therefor
    • F15B13/0405—Valve members; Fluid interconnections therefor for seat valves, i.e. poppet valves
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/06—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with two or more servomotors
    • F15B13/08—Assemblies of units, each for the control of a single servomotor only
    • F15B13/0803—Modular units
    • F15B13/0878—Assembly of modular units
    • F15B13/0882—Assembly of modular units using identical modular elements
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K27/00—Construction of housing; Use of materials therefor
    • F16K27/02—Construction of housing; Use of materials therefor of lift valves
    • F16K27/0236—Diaphragm cut-off apparatus
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
    • A47C27/08—Fluid mattresses or cushions
    • A47C27/081—Fluid mattresses or cushions of pneumatic type
    • A47C27/083—Fluid mattresses or cushions of pneumatic type with pressure control, e.g. with pressure sensors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C31/00—Details or accessories for chairs, beds, or the like, not provided for in other groups of this subclass, e.g. upholstery fasteners, mattress protectors, stretching devices for mattress nets
    • A47C31/12—Means, e.g. measuring means for adapting chairs, beds or mattresses to the shape or weight of persons
    • A47C31/123—Means, e.g. measuring means for adapting chairs, beds or mattresses to the shape or weight of persons for beds or mattresses
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/04—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with a single servomotor
    • F15B13/042—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with a single servomotor operated by fluid pressure
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/04—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with a single servomotor
    • F15B13/0401—Valve members; Fluid interconnections therefor
    • F15B2013/041—Valve members; Fluid interconnections therefor with two positions
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B2211/00—Circuits for servomotor systems
    • F15B2211/80—Other types of control related to particular problems or conditions
    • F15B2211/875—Control measures for coping with failures
    • F15B2211/8757—Control measures for coping with failures using redundant components or assemblies

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of pneumatic and/or hydraulic actuation systems.
  • the invention relates to a "soft" valve for controlling a fluid flow.
  • the invention relates to an actuation system comprising a plurality of soft valves.
  • CN111232076A some embodiments are described of a soft valve comprising two chambers separated by a bistable membrane capable of deforming in relation to the pressure difference between the two chambers, managed by respective control tubes.
  • the flow channels are connected in such a way that the displacement of the membrane, occluding one or the other channel, allows the passage of fluid along a first path or along a second path.
  • EP1715229A2 describes a valve device for managing gaseous flows comprising two main valves having respective closing elements fluidically operated by a pilot valve.
  • the two main valves comprise respective membranes which move as the pressure in the working chambers of the valves decreases, allowing the flow to pass from the inlet to the outlet.
  • this solution is not very compact and difficult to implement within a wider pneumatic actuation system.
  • the device of EP1715229A2 is difficult to manufacture in elastic or elastoplastic materials, such as elastomers for example.
  • a device for controlling a fluid flow comprising:
  • a second channel fluidically connected to a second opening arranged to allow the passage of the fluid flow between the second channel and the inner chamber, in the second channel a pressure P T2 being present;
  • a first elastic membrane comprising a first inner face and a first outer face, the first outer face being oriented towards the first opening, the first elastic membrane arranged to pass between a locking configuration, where the first elastic membrane obstructs the first opening, and a unlocking configuration, where the first elastic membrane does not obstruct the first opening;
  • a second elastic membrane comprising a second inner face and a second outer face, the second outer face being oriented towards the second opening, the second elastic membrane arranged to pass between a locking configuration, where the second elastic membrane obstructs the second opening, and a unlocking configuration, where the second elastic membrane does not obstruct the second opening; the device being configured in such a way that:
  • the first channel is hydraulically connected with the second channel by the inner chamber
  • the device according to the present invention is more reliable and durable than the devices of the prior art.
  • fluidic connection is meant a pneumatic or hydraulic connection.
  • fluidic connection we preferably mean pneumatic connection.
  • a first control chamber is also provided fluidically connected to at least one first control channel, the first control channel being configured for maintaining a first control pressure P C1 in the first control chamber.
  • the first elastic membrane is arranged to fluidically separate the first control chamber from the inner chamber and from the first channel orienting the first inner face towards the first control chamber, the first elastic membrane arranged to deform elastically, passing between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration, in response to a suitable variation of the first control pressure P C1 .
  • the first control pressure P C1 acts on a surface S C1 of the first inner face
  • a second control chamber is also provided fluidically connected to at least one second control channel, the second control channel being configured for maintaining a second control pressure P C2 in the second control chamber.
  • the second elastic membrane is arranged to fluidically separate the second control chamber from the inner chamber and from the second channel orienting the second inner face towards the second control chamber, the second elastic membrane arranged to deform elastically, passing between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration, in response to a suitable variation of the second control pressure P C2 .
  • first control chamber and the second control chamber are interposed between the first elastic membrane and the second elastic membrane.
  • the first control chamber and the second control chamber are arranged one above the other and separated from a septum.
  • the inner chamber comprises two lateral channels arranged laterally with respect to the first elastic membrane and at the second elastic membrane.
  • the device is completely made of deformable materials.
  • such deformable material are selected from the group consisting of:
  • such materials can be polymers such as silicones or rubbers, foams, gels, composite materials.
  • At least one electromechanical actuator is provided arranged to make at least one among the first elastic membrane and the second elastic membrane to pass between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration .
  • the actuator can be a chemical, magnetic, electromagnetic, hydraulic, piezoelectric or other actuator.
  • a system for managing fluid flows comprising a number n*m of devices for controlling a fluid flow, the devices arranged according to a reticular geometry forming n lines and m columns and being connected to each other in such a way that:
  • each device for the system for managing fluid flows comprises:
  • first elastic membrane comprising a first inner face and a first outer face, the first outer face being oriented towards the first opening, the first elastic membrane arranged to pass between a locking configuration, where the first elastic membrane obstructs the first opening, and an unlocking configuration, where the first elastic membrane does not obstruct the first opening;
  • a second elastic membrane comprising a second inner face and a second outer face, the second outer face being oriented towards the second opening, the second elastic membrane arranged to pass between a locking configuration, where the second elastic membrane obstructs the second opening, and an unlocking configuration, where the second elastic membrane does not obstruct the second opening;
  • each device being configured in such a way that: - when the first elastic membrane and the second elastic membrane are arranged in the respective unlocking configurations, the first channel is hydraulically connected with the second channel by the inner chamber; - when at least one among the first elastic membrane and the second elastic membrane is in the locking configuration, the first channel is not hydraulically connected with the second channel by the inner chamber.
  • each second channel of a respective device is fluidically connected to a respective pneumatic actuator arranged to vary its own volume in response to the fluid flow passing through the device.
  • each pneumatic actuator comprises a pressure sensor configured to measure a pressure acting on an outer surface of the pneumatic actuator.
  • the fluid flows managed by the devices according to the present invention are air flows and all the fluidic connections between the channels and chambers described above, both within each device and in the system, are pneumatic connections.
  • FIG. 1 schematically shows the device for controlling a flow of fluid according to the present invention, with both elastic membranes in the unlocking configuration;
  • FIG. 2 schematically shows the device for controlling a flow of fluid according to the present invention, with both elastic membranes in the locking configuration;
  • - Figs. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D show the possible locking/unlocking combinations of the two elastic membranes and the relative behaviour of the fluid flow;
  • - Figs. 4, 5A and 5B show three different cross- sections of a preferred embodiment of the device for controlling a fluid flow;
  • FIG. 6A shows in top view a preferred embodiment of the system for managing fluid flows comprising a plurality of devices similar to that shown in
  • FIG. 6B shows a perspective view of the system for managing fluid flows of Fig. 6A;
  • Fig. 7 shows a cross section of a system for managing fluid flows similar to that of Figs. 6A and 6B;
  • FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the system for managing fluid flows wherein pneumatic actuators operated by respective devices for controlling a flow of fluid are present.
  • the device 100 comprises an inner chamber 105 where a pressure P I is present and two channels 110 and 120 wherein respective pressures P T1 and P T2 are present.
  • the two channels 110 and 120 are fluidically connected to respective openings 111 and 121 arranged to allow, at opposite sides, the movement of fluid between the channels 110 and 120 and the inner chamber 105.
  • the device 100 then comprises two elastic membranes 115 and 125, each membrane being configured to pass between an unlocking configuration and a locking configuration.
  • Fig. 1 both the membranes 115 and 125 are in the respective unlocking configurations
  • Fig. 2 both the membranes 115 and 125 are in the respective locking configurations .
  • the elastic membranes 115 and 125 are diagrammatically shown as non-deformable walls connected to springs and the passage between the locking and unlocking configurations is shown as a translation of these walls.
  • the elastic membranes 115 and 125 are intended to be made of deformable materials and the transition between the locking and unlocking configurations is to be understood as being achieved by deformation of said membranes 115 and 125.
  • the device 100 is configured in such a way that, when at least one of the membranes 115 and 125 is in the locking configuration, the channels 110 and 120 are not fluidically connected to each other, preventing the passage of fluid through the device 100.
  • both the membranes 115 and 125 are in the unlocking configuration, as shown in Fig. 3D, the channels 110 and 120 are fluidically connected to each other and the fluid can pass through the device 100.
  • the present invention provides that the elastic membranes 115 and 125 can pass between the respective locking and unlocking configurations by means of actuation systems selected from the various solutions present in the prior art.
  • the actuators can be of the electromechanical, chemical, magnetic, electromagnetic, piezoelectric or other type.
  • the device 100 provides for the pneumatic or hydraulic actuation of the membranes 115 and 125, in order to avoid the presence of rigid or semi-rigid components inside the device itself.
  • the device 100 also comprises a first control chamber 131, fluidically connected to a first control channel 131' configured for maintaining a first control pressure P C1 in the first control chamber 131, and a second control chamber 132, fluidically connected to a second control channel 132' configured for maintaining a second control pressure P C2 in the second control chamber 132.
  • the first elastic membrane 115 is arranged to fluidically separate the first control chamber
  • the second elastic membrane 125 is adapted to fluidically separate the second control chamber
  • the first control pressure P C1 acts on a surface S C1 of the first inner face 115a;
  • the pressure P T1 acts on a surface S T1 of the first outer face 115b; the pressure P I acts on a surface S I1 of the first outer face 115b; the second control pressure P C2 acts on a surface
  • the device 100 is configured in such a way that the first elastic membrane 115 passes from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration when the following condition occurs:
  • F 11 and F 12 are the internal forces in the first elastic membrane 115 dependent on the displacements d 11 and d 12 effected, respectively, by the first inner face 115a and by the first outer face 115b.
  • the device 100 is configured in such a way that the second elastic membrane 125 passes from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration when the following condition occurs:
  • F 21 and F 22 are the internal forces in the second elastic membrane 125 dependent on the displacements d 21 and d 22 effected, respectively, by the second inner face 125a and by the second outer face 125b.
  • such deformable material are selected from the group consisting of:
  • such materials can be polymers such as silicones or rubbers, foams, gels, composite materials.
  • the membranes 115 and 125 comprise conical protuberances suitable, in the locking configurations, to occlude the respective openings 111 and 121.
  • the inner chamber 105 is formed by four channels suitable for connecting the openings 111 and 121 together, so that, when both membranes 115 and 125 are in the unlocking configuration, the device 100 allows the passage of fluid between the channels 110 and 120.
  • control channels 131' and 132' of each device 100 are arranged orthogonally to each other, to integrate a plurality of devices 100 within the matrix system 10 shown in Figs. 6A to 8.
  • the structure is modular and the values of the rows and columns can be varied in relation to specific needs.
  • the reticular geometry is configured in such a way that the devices 100 arranged along a same line are fluidically connected to each other by means of respective first control channels 131' and have a same control pressure P C1 in the respective first control chambers 131, and the devices 100 arranged along a same column are fluidically connected to each other by means of respective second control channels 132' and have a same control pressure P C2 in the respective second control chambers 132.
  • the devices 100 arranged along a same line are fluidically connected to each other by means of respective first control channels 131' and have a same control pressure P C1 in the respective first control chambers 131
  • the devices 100 arranged along a same column are fluidically connected to each other by means of respective second control channels 132' and have a same control pressure P C2 in the respective second control chambers 132.
  • the system 10 is configured for maintaining in the channels 131' and 132' a pressure such that all the first membranes 115 and the second membranes 125 are in the respective locking configurations, i.e. they occlude the respective openings 111 and 121 preventing the fluid present in the first channels 110 from passing through the devices 100.
  • this system 10 for managing fluid flows can comprise a plurality of pneumatic or hydraulic actuators 200, each of which is fluidically connected to a respective device 100 which allows its activation by means of the matrix logic described above.
  • each actuator 200 can comprise a respective pressure sensor adapted to measure the pressure acting on the external surface of the actuator 200 itself.
  • the fluid flows managed by the devices 100 according to the present invention are air flows and all the fluidic connections between the channels and chambers described above, both within each device 100 and in the system 10, are pneumatic connections.
  • the system 10 can have numerous technological applications.
  • a preferred application concerns the sector of so-called intelligent mattresses, i.e. capable of varying the pressure acting on the surface in relation to the position or weight of a user.
  • the system 10 can be configured to vary the force expressed by the actuators 200 in relation to the pressures measured by the aforementioned pressure sensors.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Reciprocating Pumps (AREA)

Abstract

A device (100) for controlling a fluid flow comprising an inner chamber (105) where a pressure P/ is present, a first channel (110) fluidically connected to a first opening (111) arranged to allow the passage of the fluid flow between the first channel (110) and the inner chamber (105) and a second channel (120) fluidically connected to a second opening (121) arranged to allow the passage of the fluid flow between the second channel (120) and the inner chamber (105). Furthermore, the device (100) comprises a first elastic membrane (115) arranged to pass between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration and a second elastic membrane (125) arranged to pass between a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration. In particular, the device (100) is configured in such a way that, when the first elastic membrane (115) and the second elastic membrane (125) are arranged in the respective unlocking configurations, the first channel (110) is hydraulically connected with the second channel (120) by the inner chamber (105) and, when at least one among the first elastic membrane (115) and the second elastic membrane (125) is in the locking configuration, the first channel (110) is not hydraulically connected with the second channel (120) by the inner chamber (105).

Description

TITLE
Device and system for the control of a fluid flow
DESCRIPTION
Field of the invention [0001] The present invention relates to the field of pneumatic and/or hydraulic actuation systems.
[0002] In particular, the invention relates to a "soft" valve for controlling a fluid flow.
[0003] Furthermore, the invention relates to an actuation system comprising a plurality of soft valves.
Description of the prior art
[0004] As well known, currently most pneumatic or hydraulic actuators are controlled by means of "hard" valves, i.e. valves made with rigid elements. [0005] Generally, to control the flow rate and the pressure of the fluid, such "hard" valves make use of solenoids or other rigid devices which open and close in response to a certain signal, typically electronic or pneumatic.
[0006] However, these elements are not intrinsically adaptable to systems requiring high flexibility and/or deformation. Therefore, in the case of implementation in a "soft" system, these valves must be arranged externally to the system, increasing their size, the complexity of pneumatic or hydraulic connections and reducing their reliability .
[ 0007] From these considerations arises the need to realize a soft valve for the control of pneumatic or hydraulic actuation systems.
[ 0008] However, one of the main technical problems related to the use of soft elements is that the materials with which they are made often tend to have non-linear and/or viscoelastic behaviours and, consequently, could affect the ability to have precise control of movements in pneumatic actuators. Furthermore, the consistency of the soft materials, if on the one hand allows high deformation and adaptability, on the other hand limits the force that these elements are able to exert. [ 0009] Therefore, the implementation of soft valves within actuation systems must take into account these intrinsic limits of elastic materials.
[ 00010 ] In CN111306324A, CN111306124A, CN111306147A and
CN111232076A some embodiments are described of a soft valve comprising two chambers separated by a bistable membrane capable of deforming in relation to the pressure difference between the two chambers, managed by respective control tubes. The flow channels are connected in such a way that the displacement of the membrane, occluding one or the other channel, allows the passage of fluid along a first path or along a second path.
[00011] However, for what has been said with regard to soft materials, the cited solutions of the prior art are not very reliable, especially in the case of high pressures. In fact, every time the membrane is activated, it is subjected to a high deformation which could lead, over time, to a high wear of the material and to a loss of elasticity. Furthermore, to ensure correct occlusion of the channel, the membrane must express a force capable of deforming an elastic wall arranged on the opposite side of the channel itself and capable, at the same time, of withstanding lateral pressure from the fluid. This force is very difficult to obtain using a soft material, especially as a result of progressive wear of the material.
[00012] Therefore, the solutions shown in the cited documents could, over time, lose effectiveness and allow the passage of fluid in the channel that should be occluded. [00013] EP1715229A2 describes a valve device for managing gaseous flows comprising two main valves having respective closing elements fluidically operated by a pilot valve. In particular, the two main valves comprise respective membranes which move as the pressure in the working chambers of the valves decreases, allowing the flow to pass from the inlet to the outlet. [00014] However, this solution is not very compact and difficult to implement within a wider pneumatic actuation system. Furthermore, due to its structure, the device of EP1715229A2 is difficult to manufacture in elastic or elastoplastic materials, such as elastomers for example.
Summary of the invention
[00015] It is therefore a feature of the present invention to provide a soft device for controlling a flow of fluid which ensures greater reliability and durability with respect to prior art devices.
[00016] It is also a feature of the present invention to provide such a device which requires a lower energy expenditure than devices of the prior art.
[00017] It is still a feature of the present invention to provide such a device which has a reduced size and weight.
[00018] It is a further feature of the present invention to provide a system that integrates a plurality of devices for the control of a fluid flow within a matrix structure that allows the number of actuation channels to be reduced to a minimum.
[00019] These and other objects are achieved by a device for controlling a fluid flow comprising:
— an inner chamber where a pressure PI is present; a first channel fluidically connected to a first opening arranged to allow the passage of the fluid flow between the first channel and the inner chamber, in the first channel a pressure PT1 being present;
— a second channel fluidically connected to a second opening arranged to allow the passage of the fluid flow between the second channel and the inner chamber, in the second channel a pressure PT2 being present;
— a first elastic membrane comprising a first inner face and a first outer face, the first outer face being oriented towards the first opening, the first elastic membrane arranged to pass between a locking configuration, where the first elastic membrane obstructs the first opening, and a unlocking configuration, where the first elastic membrane does not obstruct the first opening;
— a second elastic membrane comprising a second inner face and a second outer face, the second outer face being oriented towards the second opening, the second elastic membrane arranged to pass between a locking configuration, where the second elastic membrane obstructs the second opening, and a unlocking configuration, where the second elastic membrane does not obstruct the second opening; the device being configured in such a way that:
— when the first elastic membrane and the second elastic membrane are arranged in the respective unlocking configurations, the first channel is hydraulically connected with the second channel by the inner chamber;
— when at least one among the first elastic membrane and the second elastic membrane is in the locking configuration, the first channel is not hydraulically connected with the second channel by the inner chamber; whose main feature is that the first elastic membrane and the second elastic membrane are arranged one above the other. [ 00020 ] Therefore, the device according to the present invention is more reliable and durable than the devices of the prior art.
[ 00021 ] In fact, thanks to the need for both membranes and to be in the unlocking configuration to allow the passage of fluid, the probability of an unwanted fluid passage is greatly reduced. In the event that one of the membranes wears out, not perfectly occluding the respective opening, the second membrane would still guarantee sealing until the first membrane or the entire device is replaced, avoiding malfunctions on the line. [00022] Furthermore, thanks to the geometry of the device, the forces and deformations to which the membranes are subject are reduced compared to prior art devices, ensuring less wear and increasing the durability and reliability of the device.
[00023] For greater clarity, it is specified that, in all the embodiments described in the present invention, by fluidic connection is meant a pneumatic or hydraulic connection. In particular, by fluidic connection we preferably mean pneumatic connection.
[00024] Advantageously, a first control chamber is also provided fluidically connected to at least one first control channel, the first control channel being configured for maintaining a first control pressure PC1 in the first control chamber.
[00025] In particular, the first elastic membrane is arranged to fluidically separate the first control chamber from the inner chamber and from the first channel orienting the first inner face towards the first control chamber, the first elastic membrane arranged to deform elastically, passing between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration, in response to a suitable variation of the first control pressure PC1.
[00026] In particular, in the locking configuration of the first elastic membrane: — the first control pressure PC1 acts on a surface SC1 of the first inner face;
— the pressure PT1 acts on a surface ST1 of the first outer face; — the pressure PI acts on a surface SI1 of the first outer face; the first elastic membrane passing from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration when the following condition occurs:
Figure imgf000010_0001
where F11 and F12 are the internal forces in the first elastic membrane dependent on the displacements d11 and d12 effected, respectively, by the first inner face and by the first outer face. [ 00027 ] Advantageously, a second control chamber is also provided fluidically connected to at least one second control channel, the second control channel being configured for maintaining a second control pressure PC2 in the second control chamber. [ 00028 ] In particular, the second elastic membrane is arranged to fluidically separate the second control chamber from the inner chamber and from the second channel orienting the second inner face towards the second control chamber, the second elastic membrane arranged to deform elastically, passing between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration, in response to a suitable variation of the second control pressure PC2.
[00029] In particular, in the locking configuration the second elastic membrane: — the second control pressure PC2 acts on a surface
SC2 of the second inner face;
— the pressure PT2 acts on a surface ST2 of the second outer face;
— the pressure PI acts on a surface SI2 of the second outer face; the second elastic membrane passing from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration when the following condition occurs:
Figure imgf000011_0001
where F21 and F22 are the internal forces in the second elastic membrane dependent on the displacements d21 and d22 effected, respectively, by the second inner face and by the second outer face.
[00030] In particular, the first control chamber and the second control chamber are interposed between the first elastic membrane and the second elastic membrane.
[00031] Advantageously, the first control chamber and the second control chamber are arranged one above the other and separated from a septum. [00032] In particular, the inner chamber comprises two lateral channels arranged laterally with respect to the first elastic membrane and at the second elastic membrane.
[00033] Advantageously, the device is completely made of deformable materials.
[00034] In particular, such deformable material are selected from the group consisting of:
— elastic materials;
— elastoplastic materials;
— thermoelastic materials;
— hyperelastic materials;
— elastomers;
— a combining the previous.
[00035] For example, such materials can be polymers such as silicones or rubbers, foams, gels, composite materials.
[00036] Alternatively, at least one electromechanical actuator is provided arranged to make at least one among the first elastic membrane and the second elastic membrane to pass between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration .
[00037] Alternatively, the actuator can be a chemical, magnetic, electromagnetic, hydraulic, piezoelectric or other actuator.
[00038] According to another aspect of the invention, a system for managing fluid flows is claimed comprising a number n*m of devices for controlling a fluid flow, the devices arranged according to a reticular geometry forming n lines and m columns and being connected to each other in such a way that:
- devices arranged along a same line are fluidically connected to each other by means of respective first control channels and have a same control pressure PC1 in the respective first control chambers;
- devices arranged along a same column are fluidically connected to each other by means of respective second control channels and have a same control pressure PC2 in the respective second control chambers.
[ 00039] In particular, each device for the system for managing fluid flows comprises:
- an inner chamber where a pressure PI is present;
- a first channel fluidically connected to a first opening arranged to allow the passage of the fluid flow between the first channel and the inner chamber, in the first channel a pressure PT1 being present;
- a second channel fluidically connected to a second opening arranged to allow the passage of the fluid flow between the second channel and the inner chamber, in the second channel a pressure PT2 being present ;
- a first elastic membrane comprising a first inner face and a first outer face, the first outer face being oriented towards the first opening, the first elastic membrane arranged to pass between a locking configuration, where the first elastic membrane obstructs the first opening, and an unlocking configuration, where the first elastic membrane does not obstruct the first opening;
- a second elastic membrane comprising a second inner face and a second outer face, the second outer face being oriented towards the second opening, the second elastic membrane arranged to pass between a locking configuration, where the second elastic membrane obstructs the second opening, and an unlocking configuration, where the second elastic membrane does not obstruct the second opening;
- a first control chamber fluidically connected to at least one first control channel, the first control channel being configured for maintaining a first control pressure PC1 in the first control chamber; a second control chamber fluidically connected to at least one second control channel, the second control channel being configured for maintaining a second control pressure PC2 in the second control chamber; each device being configured in such a way that: - when the first elastic membrane and the second elastic membrane are arranged in the respective unlocking configurations, the first channel is hydraulically connected with the second channel by the inner chamber; - when at least one among the first elastic membrane and the second elastic membrane is in the locking configuration, the first channel is not hydraulically connected with the second channel by the inner chamber. [ 00040 ] Advantageously, in each device for the system for managing fluid flows:
- the first elastic membrane is arranged to fluidically separate the first control chamber from the inner chamber and from the first channel orienting the first inner face towards the first control chamber, the first elastic membrane arranged to deform elastically, passing between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration, in response to a suitable variation of the first control pressure PC1; - the second elastic membrane is arranged to fluidically separate the second control chamber from the inner chamber and from the second channel orienting the second inner face towards the second control chamber, the second elastic membrane arranged to deform elastically, passing between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration, in response to a suitable variation of the second control pressure PC2 · [00041] In particular, each second channel of a respective device is fluidically connected to a respective pneumatic actuator arranged to vary its own volume in response to the fluid flow passing through the device.
[00042] Advantageously, each pneumatic actuator comprises a pressure sensor configured to measure a pressure acting on an outer surface of the pneumatic actuator.
[00043] In particular, the fluid flows managed by the devices according to the present invention are air flows and all the fluidic connections between the channels and chambers described above, both within each device and in the system, are pneumatic connections.
Brief description of the drawings
[00044] The invention will be now shown with the following description of some exemplary embodiments, exemplifying but not limitative, with reference to the attached drawings in which:
- Fig. 1 schematically shows the device for controlling a flow of fluid according to the present invention, with both elastic membranes in the unlocking configuration;
- Fig. 2 schematically shows the device for controlling a flow of fluid according to the present invention, with both elastic membranes in the locking configuration;
- Figs. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D show the possible locking/unlocking combinations of the two elastic membranes and the relative behaviour of the fluid flow; - Figs. 4, 5A and 5B show three different cross- sections of a preferred embodiment of the device for controlling a fluid flow;
- Fig. 6A shows in top view a preferred embodiment of the system for managing fluid flows comprising a plurality of devices similar to that shown in
Figs. 4, 5A and 5B;
- Fig. 6B shows a perspective view of the system for managing fluid flows of Fig. 6A;
Fig. 7 shows a cross section of a system for managing fluid flows similar to that of Figs. 6A and 6B;
- Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the system for managing fluid flows wherein pneumatic actuators operated by respective devices for controlling a flow of fluid are present.
Description of some preferred exemplary embodiments [00045] In the figures 1 and 2, the device 100 for controlling a fluid flow, according to the present invention, is schematically shown.
[00046] In particular, the device 100 comprises an inner chamber 105 where a pressure PI is present and two channels 110 and 120 wherein respective pressures PT1 and PT2 are present. The two channels 110 and 120 are fluidically connected to respective openings 111 and 121 arranged to allow, at opposite sides, the movement of fluid between the channels 110 and 120 and the inner chamber 105.
[00047] The device 100 then comprises two elastic membranes 115 and 125, each membrane being configured to pass between an unlocking configuration and a locking configuration. In Fig. 1 both the membranes 115 and 125 are in the respective unlocking configurations, whereas shown in Fig. 2 both the membranes 115 and 125 are in the respective locking configurations . [ 00048 ] For the sake of clarity, the elastic membranes 115 and 125 are diagrammatically shown as non-deformable walls connected to springs and the passage between the locking and unlocking configurations is shown as a translation of these walls. However, in the spirit of the present invention, the elastic membranes 115 and 125 are intended to be made of deformable materials and the transition between the locking and unlocking configurations is to be understood as being achieved by deformation of said membranes 115 and 125.
[ 00049] In particular, when the first membrane 115 is in the locking configuration, the first opening 111 is completely occluded, preventing the passage of fluid between the first channel 110 and the inner chamber 105, whereas, when the first membrane 115 is in the unlocking configuration, the first opening 111 allows the passage of fluid between the first channel 110 and the inner chamber 105. In a completely analogous way, when the second membrane 125 is in the locking configuration, the second opening 121 is completely occluded, preventing the passage of fluid between the second channel 120 and the inner chamber 105, whereas, when the second membrane 125 is in the unlocking configuration, the second opening 121 allows the passage of fluid between the second channel 120 and the inner chamber 105. [00050] Advantageously, by varying the deformation and therefore the position of the membranes 115 and 125, in the respective unlocking configurations, it is possible to control the flowrate of the fluid passing through the openings 111 and 121.
[00051] With reference to Figs. 3A, 3B and 3C, the device 100 is configured in such a way that, when at least one of the membranes 115 and 125 is in the locking configuration, the channels 110 and 120 are not fluidically connected to each other, preventing the passage of fluid through the device 100. When instead both the membranes 115 and 125 are in the unlocking configuration, as shown in Fig. 3D, the channels 110 and 120 are fluidically connected to each other and the fluid can pass through the device 100. [00052] Thanks to the aspects described above, the device
100 according to the present invention is more reliable and durable than the prior art devices.
[00053] In fact, thanks to the need for both membranes 115 and 125 to be in the unlocking configuration to allow the passage of fluid, the probability of an unwanted fluid passage is greatly reduced. In the event that one of the membranes wears out, not perfectly occluding the respective opening, the second membrane would still guarantee sealing until the first membrane or the entire device is replaced, avoiding malfunctions on the line. [00054] Furthermore, thanks to the geometry of the device 100, the forces and deformations to which the membranes 115 and 125 are subject are reduced compared to the prior art devices, ensuring less wear and increasing the durability and reliability of the device 100.
[00055] The present invention provides that the elastic membranes 115 and 125 can pass between the respective locking and unlocking configurations by means of actuation systems selected from the various solutions present in the prior art. For example, the actuators can be of the electromechanical, chemical, magnetic, electromagnetic, piezoelectric or other type.
[00056] However, in a preferred embodiment, the device 100 provides for the pneumatic or hydraulic actuation of the membranes 115 and 125, in order to avoid the presence of rigid or semi-rigid components inside the device itself. [00057] In the embodiment of Figs. 1 and 2, the device 100 also comprises a first control chamber 131, fluidically connected to a first control channel 131' configured for maintaining a first control pressure PC1 in the first control chamber 131, and a second control chamber 132, fluidically connected to a second control channel 132' configured for maintaining a second control pressure PC2 in the second control chamber 132. [00058] In particular, the first elastic membrane 115 is arranged to fluidically separate the first control chamber
131 from the inner chamber 105 and from the first channel 110 orienting a first inner face 115a towards the first control chamber 131, in such a way that the first elastic membrane 115 is able to deform elastically, passing between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration, in response to a suitable variation of the first control pressure PC1. [00059] Similarly, the second elastic membrane 125 is adapted to fluidically separate the second control chamber
132 from the inner chamber 105 and from the second channel 120 orienting a second inner face 125a towards the second control chamber 132, in such a way that the second elastic membrane 125 is able to deform elastically, passing between the locking configuration and the unlocking configuration, in response to a suitable variation of the second control pressure PC2.
[00060] With particular reference to Fig. 2, when the membranes 115 and 125 are in the respective locking configurations, the following conditions occur:
— the first control pressure PC1 acts on a surface SC1 of the first inner face 115a;
— the pressure PT1 acts on a surface ST1 of the first outer face 115b; the pressure PI acts on a surface SI1 of the first outer face 115b; the second control pressure PC2 acts on a surface
Sc2 of the second inner face 125a; the pressure PT2 acts on a surface ST2 of the second outer face 125b; the pressure PI acts on a surface SI2 of the second outer face 125b.
[00061] Consequently, the device 100 is configured in such a way that the first elastic membrane 115 passes from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration when the following condition occurs:
Figure imgf000023_0002
[00062] where F11 and F12 are the internal forces in the first elastic membrane 115 dependent on the displacements d11 and d12 effected, respectively, by the first inner face 115a and by the first outer face 115b.
[00063] Similarly, the device 100 is configured in such a way that the second elastic membrane 125 passes from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration when the following condition occurs:
Figure imgf000023_0001
[00064] where F21 and F22 are the internal forces in the second elastic membrane 125 dependent on the displacements d21 and d22 effected, respectively, by the second inner face 125a and by the second outer face 125b.
[00065] In the figures 4, 5A and 5B, some cross-sections of a preferred embodiment of the invention are shown, in which the actuation of membranes 115 and 125 is achieved by managing the pressures described above and the device is made entirely of deformable materials.
[00066] In particular, such deformable material are selected from the group consisting of:
— elastic materials;
— elastoplastic materials;
— thermoelastic materials;
— hyperelastic materials;
— elastomers;
— a combining the previous.
[00067] For example, such materials can be polymers such as silicones or rubbers, foams, gels, composite materials. [00068] In particular, in the embodiment of Figs. 4, 5A and 5B, the membranes 115 and 125 comprise conical protuberances suitable, in the locking configurations, to occlude the respective openings 111 and 121. Furthermore, the inner chamber 105 is formed by four channels suitable for connecting the openings 111 and 121 together, so that, when both membranes 115 and 125 are in the unlocking configuration, the device 100 allows the passage of fluid between the channels 110 and 120.
[00069] Furthermore, as shown in particular in Fig. 5B, the control channels 131' and 132' of each device 100 are arranged orthogonally to each other, to integrate a plurality of devices 100 within the matrix system 10 shown in Figs. 6A to 8.
[00070] With reference to Figs. 6A, 6B and 7, the present invention provides a system 10 for managing fluid flows comprising a number n*m of devices 100 arranged according to a reticular geometry forming n lines (with i= l,...,n) and m columns (with j= 1
Figure imgf000025_0001
. Purely by way of example, in the solution of Figs. 6A and 6B there is n = 3 and m = 5, but the structure is modular and the values of the rows and columns can be varied in relation to specific needs.
[00071] With reference to Fig. 7, in this system 10 the reticular geometry is configured in such a way that the devices 100 arranged along a same line are fluidically connected to each other by means of respective first control channels 131' and have a same control pressure PC1 in the respective first control chambers 131, and the devices 100 arranged along a same column are fluidically connected to each other by means of respective second control channels 132' and have a same control pressure PC2 in the respective second control chambers 132. [ 00072 ] Furthermore, with reference to Figs. 6B and 7, through the openings 135 arranged on a first side it is possible to adjust the pressure in the respective channels 131' and therefore in the control chambers 131, whereas through the openings 136, arranged on a second side orthogonal to the first, it is possible to adjust the pressure in the respective channels 132' and therefore in the control chambers 132. Through the opening 130, instead, it is possible to adjust the pressure PT1 of the fluid flow entering the first channels 110 of all the devices 100.
[ 00073] In particular, with reference even at Figs. 4, 5A and 5B, the system 10 is configured for maintaining in the channels 131' and 132' a pressure such that all the first membranes 115 and the second membranes 125 are in the respective locking configurations, i.e. they occlude the respective openings 111 and 121 preventing the fluid present in the first channels 110 from passing through the devices 100.
[ 00074 ] With reference to Fig. 6A, in order to activate the passage of fluid through a certain device, it is therefore necessary to reduce the pressure on the row and on the column on which the desired device 100 is arranged.
[ 00075] For example, for activating the passage of fluid through the device 100', it is necessary appropriately reduce the pressure on the line i = 2 and on the column j = 4 by means of the respective openings 135 and 136, bringing all the first membranes 115 of the devices 100 present on the line i = 2 and all the second membranes 125 of the devices 100 present on the column j = 4 in the unlocking configuration. Since only the device 100' will have both the membranes 115 and 125 in the unlocking configuration, this device will be the only one to allow the passage of fluid from the first channel 110 to the second channel 120 and vice versa. [ 00076] This system offers the advantage of requiring fewer control channels than would be required to activate each individual device. In fact, the channels necessary to activate any device of the system 10 are a number n + m while to activate each device individually a number of channels n * m would be required.
[ 00077 ] With reference to Fig. 8, this system 10 for managing fluid flows can comprise a plurality of pneumatic or hydraulic actuators 200, each of which is fluidically connected to a respective device 100 which allows its activation by means of the matrix logic described above. Furthermore, each actuator 200 can comprise a respective pressure sensor adapted to measure the pressure acting on the external surface of the actuator 200 itself.
[ 00078 ] In particular, the fluid flows managed by the devices 100 according to the present invention are air flows and all the fluidic connections between the channels and chambers described above, both within each device 100 and in the system 10, are pneumatic connections.
[ 00079] The system 10 can have numerous technological applications. A preferred application concerns the sector of so-called intelligent mattresses, i.e. capable of varying the pressure acting on the surface in relation to the position or weight of a user. In particular, the system 10 can be configured to vary the force expressed by the actuators 200 in relation to the pressures measured by the aforementioned pressure sensors.
[ 00080 ] The foregoing description exemplary embodiments of the invention will so fully reveal the invention according to the conceptual point of view, so that others, by applying current knowledge, will be able to modify and/or adapt for various applications such embodiment without further research and without parting from the invention, and, accordingly, it is therefore to be understood that such adaptations and modifications will have to be considered as equivalent to the specific embodiments. The means and the materials to realise the different functions described herein could have a different nature without, for this reason, departing from the field of the invention. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology that is employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

Claims

1. A device (100) for controlling a fluid flow comprising:
— an inner chamber (105) where a pressure PI is present;
— a first channel (110) fluidically connected to a first opening (111) arranged to allow the passage of said fluid flow between said first channel (110) and said inner chamber (105), in said first channel (110) a pressure PT1 being present;
— a second channel (120) fluidically connected to a second opening (121) arranged to allow the passage of said fluid flow between said second channel (120) and said inner chamber (105), in said second channel (120) a pressure PT2 being present;
— a first elastic membrane (115) comprising a first inner face (115a) and a first outer face (115b), said first outer face (115b) being oriented towards said first opening (111), said first elastic membrane (115) arranged to pass between a locking configuration, wherein said first elastic membrane (115) obstructs said first opening (111), and an unlocking configuration, wherein said first elastic membrane (115) does not obstruct said first opening (111); a second elastic membrane (125) comprising a second inner face (125a) and a second outer face (125b), said second outer face (125b) being oriented towards said second opening (121), said second elastic membrane (125) arranged to pass between a locking configuration, wherein said second elastic membrane (125) obstructs said second opening (121), and an unlocking configuration, wherein said second elastic membrane (125) does not obstruct said second opening (121); said device (100) being configured in such a way that:
— when said first elastic membrane (115) and said second elastic membrane (125) are in said respective unlocking configurations, said first channel (110) is hydraulically connected with said second channel (120) by said inner chamber (105);
— when at least one among said first elastic membrane (115) and said second elastic membrane (125) is in said locking configuration, said first channel (110) is not hydraulically connected with said second channel (120) by said inner chamber (105); said device (100) characterized in that said first elastic membrane (115) and said second elastic membrane (125) are arranged one above the other.
2. The device (100) for controlling a fluid flow, according to claim 1, wherein: — a first control chamber (131) is also provided fluidically connected to at least one first control channel (131'), said first control channel (131') being configured for maintaining a first control pressure PC1 in said first control chamber (131);
— said first elastic membrane (115) is arranged to fluidically separate said first control chamber (131) from said inner chamber (105) and from said first channel (110) orienting said first inner face (115a) towards said first control chamber (131), said first elastic membrane (115) arranged to deform elastically, passing between said locking configuration and said unlocking configuration, in response to a suitable variation of said first control pressure PC1.
3 . The device (100) for controlling a fluid flow, according to claim 2, wherein in said locking configuration of said first elastic membrane (115):
— said first control pressure PC1 acts on a surface SC1 of said first inner face (115a);
— said pressure PT1 acts on a surface ST1 of said first outer face (115b);
— said pressure PI acts on a surface SI1 of said first outer face (115b); said first elastic membrane (115) passing from said locking configuration to said unlocking configuration when the following condition occurs:
Figure imgf000033_0001
where F1:l and F12 are the internal forces in said first elastic membrane (115) dependent on the displacements d11 and d12 effected, respectively, by said first inner face (115a) and by said first outer face (115b).
4 . The device (100) for controlling a fluid flow, according to any of the previous claims, wherein: — a second control chamber (132) is also provided fluidically connected to at least one second control channel (132'), said second control channel (132') being configured for maintaining a second control pressure PC2 in said second control chamber (132);
— said second elastic membrane (125) is arranged to fluidically separate said second control chamber (132) from said inner chamber (105) and from said second channel (120) orienting said second inner face (125a) towards said second control chamber
(132), said second elastic membrane (125) arranged to deform elastically, passing between said locking configuration and said unlocking configuration, in response to a suitable variation of said second control pressure PC2 ·
5 . The device (100) for controlling a fluid flow, according to claim 4, wherein in said locking configuration of said second elastic membrane (125):
— said second control pressure PC2 acts on a surface SC2 of said second inner face (125a);
— said pressure PT2 acts on a surface ST2 of said second outer face (125b);
— said pressure PI acts on a surface SI2 of said second outer face (125b); said second elastic membrane (125) passing from said locking configuration to said unlocking configuration when the following condition occurs:
Figure imgf000034_0001
where F21 and F22 are the internal forces in said second elastic membrane (125) dependent on the displacements d21 and d22 effected, respectively, by said second inner face (125a) and by said second outer face (125b).
6. The device (100) for controlling a fluid flow, according to claims 2 and 4, wherein said first control chamber (131) and said second control chamber (132) are interposed between said first elastic membrane (115) and said second elastic membrane (125).
7 . The device (100) for controlling a fluid flow, according to claim 6, wherein said first control chamber (131) and said second control chamber (132) are arranged one above the other and separated by a septum (135).
8. The device (100) for controlling a fluid flow, according to claim 1, wherein said inner chamber (105) comprises two lateral channels arranged laterally with respect to said first elastic membrane (115) and said second elastic membrane (125).
9 . The device (100) for controlling a fluid flow, according to any of the previous claims, wherein said device (100) is completely made of deformable materials, selected from the group consisting of:
— elastic materials;
— elastoplastic materials;
— thermoelastic materials;
— hyperelastic materials;
— elastomers;
— a combining the previous.
10 . The device (100) for controlling a fluid flow, according to claim 1, wherein at least one electromechanical actuator is provided arranged to cause at least one among said first elastic membrane (115) and said second elastic membrane (125) to pass between said locking configuration and said unlocking configuration.
11 . A system (10) for managing fluid flows comprising a number n*m of devices (100) for controlling a fluid flow, each device (100) comprising:
- an inner chamber (105) where a pressure PI is present;
- a first channel (110) fluidically connected to a first opening (111) arranged to allow the passage of said fluid flow between said first channel (110) and said inner chamber (105), in said first channel (110) a pressure PT1 being present;
- a second channel (120) fluidically connected to a second opening (121) arranged to allow the passage of said fluid flow between said second channel (120) and said inner chamber (105), in said second channel (120) a pressure PT2 being present;
- a first elastic membrane (115) comprising a first inner face (115a) and a first outer face (115b), said first outer face (115b) being oriented towards said first opening (111), said first elastic membrane (115) arranged to pass between a locking configuration, wherein said first elastic membrane (115) obstructs said first opening (111), and an unlocking configuration, wherein said first elastic membrane (115) does not obstruct said first opening
(111); a second elastic membrane (125) comprising a second inner face (125a) and a second outer face (125b), said second outer face (125b) being oriented towards said second opening (121), said second elastic membrane (125) arranged to pass between a locking configuration, wherein said second elastic membrane (125) obstructs said second opening (121), and an unlocking configuration, wherein said second elastic membrane (125) does not obstruct said second opening (121);
- a first control chamber (131) fluidically connected to at least one first control channel (131'), said first control channel (131') being configured for maintaining a first control pressure PC1 in said first control chamber (131);
- a second control chamber (132) fluidically connected to at least one second control channel (132'), said second control channel (132') being configured for maintaining a second control pressure PC2 in said second control chamber (132); each device (100) being configured in such a way that:
- when said first elastic membrane (115) and said second elastic membrane (125) are in said respective unlocking configurations, said first channel (110) is hydraulically connected with said second channel (120) by said inner chamber (105); - when at least one among said first elastic membrane (115) and said second elastic membrane (125) is in said locking configuration, said first channel (110) is not hydraulically connected with said second channel (120) by said inner chamber (105); wherein said devices (100) are arranged according to a reticular geometry forming n lines and m columns and are connected to each other in such a way that:
— devices (100) arranged along a same line are fluidically connected to each other by means of respective first control channels (131') and have a same control pressure PC1 in the respective first control chambers (131);
— devices (100) arranged along a same column are fluidically connected to each other by means of respective second control channels (132') and have a same control pressure PC2 in the respective second control chambers (132).
12 . The system (10) for managing fluid flows, according to claim 11, wherein:
- said first elastic membrane (115) is arranged to fluidically separate said first control chamber (131) from said inner chamber (105) and from said first channel (110) orienting said first inner face
(115a) towards said first control chamber (131), said first elastic membrane (115) arranged to deform elastically, passing between said locking configuration and said unlocking configuration, in response to a suitable variation of said first control pressure PC1; said second elastic membrane (125) is arranged to fluidically separate said second control chamber (132) from said inner chamber (105) and from said second channel (120) orienting said second inner face (125a) towards said second control chamber (132), said second elastic membrane (125) arranged to deform elastically, passing between said locking configuration and said unlocking configuration, in response to a suitable variation of said second control pressure PC2 .
13. The system (10) for managing fluid flows, according to claim 11, wherein each second channel (120) of a respective device (100) is fluidically connected to a respective pneumatic actuator (200) arranged to vary its own volume in response to the fluid flow passing by said device (100).
14 . The system (10) for managing fluid flows, according to claim 13, wherein each pneumatic actuator (200) comprises
Figure imgf000039_0001
pressure sensor configured to measure a pressure acting on an outer surface of said pneumatic actuator (200) .
PCT/IB2022/052836 2021-03-26 2022-03-28 Device and system for the control of a fluid flow WO2022201131A1 (en)

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Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19633318C1 (en) * 1996-08-19 1998-01-08 Gerhard Wilhelm Dipl Ing Klemm Support device for human body or limbs, e.g. mattress, seat etc.
EP1715229A2 (en) * 2005-04-22 2006-10-25 Karl Dungs GmbH & Co.KG Valve assembly
GB2516675A (en) * 2013-07-29 2015-02-04 Atlas Genetics Ltd A valve which depressurises, and a valve system

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19633318C1 (en) * 1996-08-19 1998-01-08 Gerhard Wilhelm Dipl Ing Klemm Support device for human body or limbs, e.g. mattress, seat etc.
EP1715229A2 (en) * 2005-04-22 2006-10-25 Karl Dungs GmbH & Co.KG Valve assembly
GB2516675A (en) * 2013-07-29 2015-02-04 Atlas Genetics Ltd A valve which depressurises, and a valve system

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