Custom Linear actuator driven pinch valve

Rationale

Our design philosophy is to look at non-traditional supply chains for ventilators. Towards this, we would like to use a custom valving solution based on an actuator-driven pinch-valve. To use these valves in ventilators, we are performing extensive testing of both the electro-mechanical and control software subsystems of the valve to understand reliability, repeatability, and possible failure modes.

Construction

• Off-the-shelf linear actuator (NMB, distributed by Helix Linear) + CNC machined housing and pinch shoe + 1/4" ID, 3/8" OD Pump Grade Silicone Tubing (AdvantaPure)
• CAD files available for download on Github (repo under prep, coming soon)

Valve Characteristics

Accelerated valve lifetime testing

• no performance degradation after 2.6 M cycles

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