Multiobjective Optimization Design of a Two-Stage High-Speed on/off Valve Based on the Electric Eel Foraging Optimization Algorithm

High-speed on/off valves (HSVs) are characterized by their simple structure, high reliability, and insensitivity to contamination. However, the driving power and flow constraints limit their application in the fully mechanized mining face control system. To apply HSVs in the mining face, a novel two-stage structure for the HSV, incorporating an internal feedback channel, is proposed in this study. This design allows control with meager driving power, rapid response, and a larger flow capacity. A state-space modeling approach is employed in this study to analyze the dynamic response of the internal poppet spool. Additionally, an equivalent magnetic circuit model is developed for the driving electromagnetic solenoid, and the solenoid’s mathematical modeling is verified through finite element simulations and experiments. Utilizing mathematical models and considering response time and flow rate as objective functions, the electromagnetic solenoid and valve structures are optimized using the electric eel foraging optimization algorithm. The final design specifications are obtained by further analyzing the optimized design parameters. A prototype is manufactured and subjected to experimental validation. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed structure achieves an opening time of 5 ms, a closing time of 5 ms, and a flow rate of 20 L/min.