Fluidic Diodes

grabcad

Fluidic diodes are valves with varying resistance based on the port used for fluid introduction, such as Tesla's "valvular conduit." A type is the vortex diode, including a Zobel design with axial and tangential ports; flow has low resistance via axial but creates resistance in tangential due to formed vortices. My model works like this but with an axial geometry, featuring a vortex chamber and teardrop-shaped crossbar. Flow from short end experiences low resistance via Coanda effect while following the bar's shape; flow from long end splits into vortex chamber, creating resistance. Factors affecting resistance include viscosity, pressure, valve geometry, and Reynold's number, with diodicity measured as pressure ratio for volumetric flows via each port. This model prints without supports when aligned correctly.