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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