Optimization of a zoom mechanism with flexible hinge for dispenser valve

In order to improve the life span of the jet valve, a novel structure of zoom mechanism is proposed. A hinge of the new zoom mechanism is set vertically in the new structure, compared with the horizontally hinge arranged way of the traditional zoom mechanism. Mechanical simulation models of traditional and new zoom mechanisms are established to calculate the stress of the flexible hinge. It is found that the stress of the hinge is 0.5 times smaller than the traditional hinge, and the life span is more than 10 times longer than the traditional one. Experimental results confirmed that the life span of the new jet valve exceeds 10 million times, and will provide a new structure for high frequency and heavy load zoom mechanism.