Importance

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Abstract

A method and system for producing constant-flow valves having a plurality of different flow rates includes a plurality of orifices each having a seat defining contoured flow control surfaces, the orifices having at least K different configurations of flow control surfaces, where K.gtoreq.2, and a plurality of diaphragms of identical shape each formed of an elastomeric material having a defined Shore A durometer hardness, the diaphragms having at least M different Shore A durometer hardnesses, where M.gtoreq.2, each diaphragm being configured to engage the flow control surfaces of the seat of each orifice so as to create flow control passages between the diaphragm and the flow control surfaces, the diaphragm being deflected by pressure differential across the diaphragm so as to constrict the flow control passages as the pressure differential increases. Thus, at least N valves having N=K.multidot.M different flow rates can be assembled by assembling at least one each of the K different orifices with one of each of the M different diaphragms, the configurations of the orifices and the hardnesses of the diaphragms being such that each different combination of orifice configuration and diaphragm hardness produces a unique flow rate over a predetermined range of pressure differentials, whereby N different flow rates are provided with only K different component configurations.

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First Claim