Abstract
In this study, a variable elasticity spring was applied to improve the pressure control precision of conventional relief valves. The equilibrium equation of the forces acting on the valve poppet was derived; it is demonstrated that matching the elastic rate of the pressure-adjusting coil spring to the equivalent elastic rate of the flow force improved the pressure override. The procedures that were used to design the variable elasticity spring are presented, and some applications of the variable elasticity spring are also introduced. Computer simulations were used to analyze three cases: a poppet-closed flow force structure, a poppet-open flow force structure with a constant elasticity spring, and a structure containing a variable elasticity spring. It is confirmed that the pressure control precision of the relief valve can be significantly improved upon by applying a variable elasticity spring to the poppet-open flow force structure.