Valve monitoring device and method of use

Abstract

The present invention provides a valve monitoring device, including a drive unit, which includes an adjusting mechanism and a driving mechanism, wherein the adjusting mechanism includes a cylinder body for containing fluid, a piston arranged in the cylinder body, and a spring cylinder accommodating a compression spring arranged opposite to the cylinder body; the driving mechanism includes a worm gear arranged between the piston and the compression spring, a valve stem vertically distributed with the worm gear, and a worm gear meshed with the worm gear and sleeved on the outside of the valve stem, a valve monitoring mechanism arranged above the valve stem, which includes a controller, a connecting rod arranged between the controller and the valve stem, and a valve arranged at the free end of the valve stem, wherein a valve opening test module is provided in the controller, and the valve opening test module is configured to obtain the opening data of the valve according to the rotation stroke of the connecting rod.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of pipeline emergency shut-off valves, and in particular to a valve monitoring device and a method for using the valve monitoring device. Background Art

[0002] Emergency shut-off valves are key equipment on pipelines in the petrochemical industry.

[0003] In the event of an emergency, an emergency shut-off valve can shut off the pipeline, a crucial tool for mitigating the spread of an incident. However, these valves are typically inactive, and their status cannot be monitored in real time. Consequently, they present a risk of failure during an incident. For example, solenoid valve failures, instrument air leaks, and cylinder status in pneumatic actuators require on-site inspection. Electro-hydraulic actuators are highly susceptible to oil leaks and valve failure if inactive for extended periods.

[0004] CN115824519B discloses a comprehensive valve leakage fault diagnosis method based on multi-sensor information fusion. It includes the following steps: S1. Data preprocessing; S2. Offline training; S3. Online monitoring. It utilizes TSST, a high-energy concentrated time-frequency analysis method capable of analyzing complex, high-frequency, non-stationary signals, to characterize time-frequency and modal information. It also incorporates spatial information into a multi-sensor fusion convolutional neural network. During offline training, TSST is used to obtain time-frequency images of sensors at different locations in the source domain under various operating conditions, including no leakage, internal valve leakage, and external valve leakage. The model parameters stored in the source domain are then imported into the target domain valve leakage comprehensive diagnosis model to achieve online monitoring. This device has the capability for comprehensive fault diagnosis, but its implementation is relatively complex, significantly increasing the production and labor costs of construction operations.

[0005] CN218377937U discloses a angular-turn pneumatic actuator for valves. The actuator comprises two sets of pressure diaphragm chambers, positioned adjacent to each other. These pressure diaphragm chambers comprise an upper diaphragm cover, a lower diaphragm cover, and an elastic diaphragm. The elastic diaphragm is detachably connected to a push rod, which is fitted with a buffer. A transfer box is provided between the two sets of pressure diaphragm chambers, and an output shaft is meshed between the adjacent push rods via a transmission assembly. This device, by providing two sets of corresponding pressure diaphragm chambers and steering the output shaft via gears, enables it to meet the actuation requirements of high-torque valves. The buffer, in conjunction with a buffer spring, acts to cushion and reduce shock on the elastic diaphragm, preventing violent impacts during the reset process and minimizing damage to the push rod. This device lacks valve detection capabilities and cannot monitor the valve's effectiveness when not in operation.

[0006] Therefore, it is desired in the art to provide a valve monitoring device and a method of use to solve the above technical problems. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of the present invention is to propose a valve monitoring device, which is equipped with a valve opening test module, so that the rotation of the valve stem can be indirectly recorded according to the rotation stroke of the connecting rod, so as to obtain the valve opening information in real time, and then accurately adjust the opening and closing of the valve to improve the safety of the valve.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a valve monitoring device is provided, comprising a drive unit, which comprises a regulating mechanism and a driving mechanism, wherein

[0009] The regulating mechanism includes a cylinder for containing fluid, a piston disposed in the cylinder, and a spring cylinder arranged opposite to the cylinder and containing a compression spring;

[0010] The driving mechanism includes a worm arranged between the piston and the compression spring, a valve stem vertically distributed with the worm, and a worm wheel meshed with the worm and sleeved on the outside of the valve stem.

[0011] A valve monitoring mechanism is provided above the valve stem, comprising a controller and a connecting rod provided between the controller and the valve stem, and

[0012] for a valve disposed at the free end of said valve stem,

[0013] Wherein, a valve opening test module is provided in the controller, and the valve opening test module is configured to obtain the opening data of the valve according to the rotation stroke of the connecting rod.

[0014] In one embodiment, the valve monitoring device further comprises a control box arranged on the valve stem and below the driving mechanism, the control box being configured to control the driving unit and the valve monitoring mechanism, and comprising a main body portion configured in a cylindrical form, and a protruding portion extending radially outward from the main body portion.

[0015] In one embodiment, the valve monitoring device further comprises three oil film detectors, one of which is arranged on the raised portion, and the other two oil film detectors are respectively arranged on the main body on both sides of the raised portion.

[0016] The oil film detector is configured to send an alarm to the controller when a hydraulic oil leak is detected.

[0017] In one embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the piston is sealedly connected to the inner peripheral surface of the cylinder to divide the cylinder into an upper space and a lower space.

[0018] The regulating mechanism further includes a first pipeline for delivering fluid to the upper space, and a second pipeline for receiving fluid from the lower space.

[0019] In one embodiment, a first sensor and a second sensor for measuring the fluid pressure in the upper space and the lower space are respectively provided on the first pipeline and the second pipeline, and the first sensor and the second sensor are both connected to the controller.

[0020] The first sensor and the second sensor are both configured to send an alarm to the controller when the detected pressure value is lower than 85% to 95% of the normal value, so as to prompt the user to perform troubleshooting.

[0021] In one embodiment, the fluid includes any one of hydraulic oil and compressed air.

[0022] In one embodiment, the valve monitoring device further includes a valve body mechanism disposed in the control box, and a monitoring module disposed in the controller.

[0023] wherein the monitoring module is configured to monitor the voltage and current values ​​of the valve body mechanism when power is supplied, and to send an alarm to the controller when the detected voltage and current values ​​exceed the operating range of the valve body mechanism;

[0024] The monitoring module is configured to monitor the resistance value of the valve body mechanism when no power is supplied, and to determine the working condition of the valve body mechanism based on the detected resistance value.

[0025] In one embodiment, the valve mechanism includes a first solenoid valve provided on the first pipeline and used to control the opening and closing of the upper space, and a second solenoid valve provided on the second pipeline and used to control the opening and closing of the lower space.

[0026] In one embodiment, the first solenoid valve is farther from the cylinder than the first sensor; and the second solenoid valve is farther from the cylinder than the second sensor.

[0027] In one embodiment, the valve body mechanism also includes a third solenoid valve for stroke testing, which is arranged on the first pipeline and in parallel with the first solenoid valve, and a fourth solenoid valve for stroke testing, which is arranged on the second pipeline and in parallel with the second solenoid valve. The third solenoid valve and the fourth solenoid valve are both connected to the partial stroke monitoring module in the controller.

[0028] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for using the valve monitoring device as described above, comprising the following steps:

[0029] S1. Opening the first solenoid valve through the control box to allow compressed air to enter the upper space through the first pipeline, thereby pushing the piston to discharge the compressed air in the lower space to open the valve under the action of the driving mechanism, and storing closing energy by causing the compression spring to contract in the spring cylinder;

[0030] S2. The control box is used to cause the first solenoid valve to release the compressed air in the upper space. Under the action of the closing energy, the piston moves in a direction away from the compression spring to close the valve under the action of the driving mechanism.

[0031] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for using the valve monitoring device according to the above-mentioned method, comprising the following steps:

[0032] S1. Opening the first solenoid valve through the control box to allow hydraulic oil to enter the upper space through the first pipeline, thereby pushing the piston to discharge the hydraulic oil in the lower space to open the valve under the action of the drive mechanism, and storing closing energy by causing the compression spring to contract in the spring cylinder;

[0033] S2. The control box is used to cause the first solenoid valve to release the hydraulic oil in the upper space. Under the action of the closing energy, the piston moves in a direction away from the compression spring to close the valve under the action of the driving mechanism.

[0034] In one embodiment, a partial stroke test method is also included:

[0035] The third solenoid valve and the fourth solenoid valve are opened respectively by the partial stroke monitoring module,

[0036] A small flow of fluid is injected into the lower space through the fourth solenoid valve. Under the action of the fluid in the lower space, the piston and the drive mechanism move in a direction away from the compression spring, thereby causing the fluid in the upper space to be discharged outward through the first pipeline, so that the valve moves partially to one side, and the partial stroke test ends.

[0037] A small flow of fluid is injected into the upper space through the third solenoid valve to reset the piston and the driving mechanism and to cause the fluid in the lower space to be discharged outward through the second pipeline to reset the valve.

[0038] In one embodiment, the small flow rate of fluid accounts for 2% to 8% of the total flow rate that drives the valve to move through its full stroke.

[0039] Compared with the prior art, the advantages of the present invention are:

[0040] First, the present invention is provided with a valve opening test module, which can indirectly record the rotation of the valve stem according to the rotation stroke of the connecting rod, so as to obtain the valve opening information in real time, and then accurately adjust the opening and closing of the valve to improve the safety of the valve.

[0041] Secondly, the present invention installs a first sensor on the first pipeline and a second sensor on the second pipeline, respectively, to record and monitor the pressure (compressed air or hydraulic oil) in the upper and lower chambers of the cylinder. Furthermore, when the pressure in either the upper or lower chamber falls below a set value, an alarm signal is sent to the controller, prompting personnel to perform troubleshooting more quickly, thereby improving the efficiency and quality of the valve monitoring device.

[0042] Third, the present invention includes a valve body mechanism disposed in the control box and a monitoring module disposed in the controller, wherein the valve body mechanism includes a plurality of solenoid valves (e.g., a first solenoid valve, a second solenoid valve, a third solenoid valve, and a fourth solenoid valve) disposed on the first pipeline and the second pipeline, respectively.

[0043] Specifically, when powered on, the monitoring module monitors the voltage and current of the valve mechanism. If the monitored voltage or current exceeds the solenoid valve's operating range, it sends an alarm signal to the controller, prompting staff to troubleshoot the problem more quickly. When powered off, the module monitors the resistance of the valve mechanism and sends recorded data to the monitoring module to determine if there is a fault.

[0044] Fourthly, the present invention provides a third solenoid valve and a fourth solenoid valve on the first pipeline, both of which are connected to a partial stroke monitoring module in the controller. Specifically, the present invention can activate the third and fourth solenoid valves through the partial stroke monitoring module, and inject a small flow of hydraulic oil into the lower space of the cylinder through the fourth solenoid valve to cause the valve to move partially to one side. This allows the operating status of the piston and drive mechanism to be determined, ensuring that the valve can still be closed in an emergency even if it remains inactive for a long time. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0046] Figure 1The structure of the valve monitoring device according to the present invention is schematically shown;

[0047] Figure 2 A partial schematic diagram of a driving mechanism in a valve monitoring device according to the present invention;

[0048] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the structure of the control box in the valve monitoring device according to the present invention.

[0049] In the drawings, like parts are given like reference numerals, but the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0050] The meanings of the reference numerals in the accompanying drawings are as follows:

[0051] Cylinder 11, upper space 111, lower space 112, piston 12, spring cylinder 13, compression spring 131, first pipeline 14, first solenoid valve 141, third solenoid valve 142, second pipeline 15, second solenoid valve 151, fourth solenoid valve 152, first sensor 16, second sensor 17,

[0052] Drive mechanism 20, worm 21, valve stem 22, worm wheel 23,

[0053] Controller 31, valve opening test module 311, connecting rod 32, monitoring module 33, partial stroke monitoring module 34,

[0054] Valve 40,

[0055] Control box 50 , main body 51 , raised portion 52 , and oil film detector 53 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] To make the technical solutions and advantages of the present invention more clearly understood, exemplary embodiments of the present invention are further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the described embodiments are only a portion of the embodiments of the present invention, and are not exhaustive. Furthermore, the embodiments and features of the embodiments of the present invention may be combined with each other unless there is a conflict.

[0057] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, features specified as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of such features.

[0058] In the present invention, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, terms such as "installed", "connected", "connected", and "fixed" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be a connection between the internal parts of two components.

[0059] For those skilled in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0060] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0061] Figure 1 The structure of the valve monitoring device 100 according to the present invention is schematically shown;

[0062] Figure 2 A partial schematic diagram of the driving mechanism 20 in the valve monitoring device 100 according to the present invention;

[0063] Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a schematic structural diagram of the control box 50 in the valve monitoring device 100 according to the present invention.

[0064] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a valve monitoring device 100 is provided, which includes a drive unit. Figure 1 As shown, the driving unit includes an adjusting mechanism and a driving mechanism 20, which will be described in detail below.

[0065] According to the present invention, Figure 2 As shown, the adjustment mechanism includes a cylinder 11 for containing fluid, a piston 12 and a spring cylinder 13.

[0066] In one embodiment, the piston 12 is disposed inside the cylinder 11, and the outer circumferential surface of the piston 12 is sealedly connected to the inner circumferential surface of the cylinder 11, thereby dividing the cylinder 11 into an upper space 111 and a lower space 112. It is easy to understand that the fluids in the upper space 111 and the lower space 112 cannot flow into each other.

[0067] In one embodiment, the spring cylinder 13 is arranged opposite to the cylinder body 11 , and a compression spring 131 is accommodated in the spring cylinder 13 .

[0068] According to the present invention, Figure 2 As shown, the driving mechanism 20 includes a worm 21 , a valve stem 22 and a worm wheel 23 .

[0069] In one embodiment, the worm 21 is disposed between the piston 12 and the compression spring 131. Preferably, the first end of the worm 21 is fixedly connected to the piston 12, and the second end of the worm 21 is fixedly connected to the compression spring 131 in the spring cylinder 13.

[0070] After fluid is injected into the upper space 111 of the cylinder body 11, the piston 12 will move toward the spring cylinder 13 under the action of the fluid. At the same time, the worm 21 moves in the same direction as the piston 12, thereby causing the compression spring 131 to shrink into the spring cylinder 13 to store closing energy.

[0071] After the fluid in the upper space 111 of the cylinder body 11 is released, the piston 12 and the worm 21 will move in a direction away from the spring cylinder 13 under the action of the closing energy (elastic force of the compression spring 131 ).

[0072] In one embodiment, the valve stem 22 and the worm 21 are vertically distributed and can form a stable connection relationship indirectly through the worm gear 23 .

[0073] Specifically, the worm wheel 23 is sleeved on the valve stem 22, and the worm wheel 23 and the worm 21 can form a stable meshing relationship. As a result, the worm 21 follows the axial movement of the piston 12, thereby driving the worm wheel 23 to rotate, and then prompting the valve stem 22 to rotate.

[0074] As a result, when the piston 12 reciprocates within the cylinder 11, the worm 21 can follow the piston 12 in axial reciprocating motion. Since the worm wheel 23 is in meshing engagement with the worm 21, the worm wheel 23 can rotate under the drive of the worm 21. Since the worm wheel 23 is sleeved on the valve stem 22, the valve stem 22 can rotate under the drive of the worm wheel 23.

[0075] According to the present invention, Figure 1 As shown, the valve monitoring device 100 further includes a valve monitoring mechanism. The valve monitoring mechanism is disposed above the valve stem 22 and includes a controller 31 and a connecting rod 32 .

[0076] In one embodiment, the connecting rod 32 is disposed between the controller 31 and the valve stem 22 . In other words, the connecting rod 32 can connect the controller 31 and the valve stem 22 together to record the movement stroke of the valve stem 22 in real time.

[0077] According to the present invention, Figure 1 As shown, the valve monitoring device 100 further includes a valve 40. Preferably, the valve 40 is disposed at the free end of the valve stem 22 so as to be able to rotate along with the valve stem 22 to achieve the purpose of opening and closing.

[0078] According to one embodiment of the present invention, after fluid is injected into the upper space 111 of the cylinder body 11, the piston 12 moves toward the spring cylinder 13 under the action of the fluid. The worm 21 moves along with the piston 12, causing the compression spring 131 to contract within the spring cylinder 13 to store closing energy. Simultaneously, the worm gear 23 rotates in a first direction under the action of the worm 21, causing the valve stem 22 to rotate, thereby opening the valve 40.

[0079] According to one embodiment of the present invention, after the fluid in the upper space 111 of the cylinder body 11 is released, the piston 12 and the worm 21 will move away from the spring cylinder 13 under the action of the closing energy (the elastic force of the compression spring 131). At the same time, the worm gear 23 will rotate in the second direction under the action of the worm 21, causing the valve stem 22 to rotate, thereby closing the valve 40 and performing the emergency shut-off valve operation.

[0080] In the present invention, the first direction is the clockwise direction, and the second direction is the counterclockwise direction.

[0081] In another embodiment, the worm gear 23 can also rotate in the second direction to cause the valve stem 22 to rotate, thereby achieving the purpose of opening the valve 40; the worm gear 23 can also rotate in the first direction to cause the valve stem 22 to rotate, thereby closing the valve 40 to perform an emergency shut-off valve action.

[0082] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, a valve opening test module 311 is provided in the controller 31. Preferably, the valve opening test module 311 is configured to obtain the opening data of the valve 40 according to the rotation stroke of the connecting rod 32.

[0083] In other words, when valve 40 is actuated, valve stem 22 drives connecting rod 32 to move. Thus, valve opening test module 311 can determine the degree of opening of valve 40 by recording the rotation angle of connecting rod 32, thereby achieving real-time monitoring of the opening of valve 40 and improving the ability to precisely adjust the opening of valve 40.

[0084] According to the present invention, Figure 2 As shown, the regulating mechanism further includes a first pipeline 14 and a second pipeline 15 .

[0085] Preferably, the first pipeline 14 is in communication with the upper space 111 of the cylinder 11 , so that fluid can be injected into the upper space 111 through the first pipeline 14 .

[0086] Preferably, the second pipeline 15 is in communication with the lower space 112 of the cylinder 11 , so that fluid can be injected into the lower space 112 through the second pipeline 15 .

[0087] According to one embodiment of the present invention, after fluid is injected into the upper space 111 of the cylinder 11 via the first pipeline 14, the piston 12, under the action of the fluid, moves toward the spring cylinder 13, thereby causing the fluid in the lower space 112 of the cylinder 11 to be discharged outward through the second pipeline 15. Furthermore, the worm 21 moves along with the piston 12, causing the compression spring 131 to contract within the spring cylinder 13, thereby storing closing energy. Simultaneously, the worm gear 23, under the action of the worm 21, rotates in the first direction, causing the valve stem 22 to rotate, thereby opening the valve 40.

[0088] According to one embodiment of the present invention, after the fluid in the upper space 111 of the cylinder 11 is released through the first pipeline 14, the piston 12 and the worm 21 will move away from the spring cylinder 13 under the action of the closing energy (the elastic force of the compression spring 131). At the same time, the worm gear 23 will rotate in the second direction under the action of the worm 21, causing the valve stem 22 to rotate, thereby closing the valve 40 and performing the emergency shut-off valve operation.

[0089] According to the present invention, Figure 2 As shown, the adjustment mechanism further includes a first sensor 16 and a second sensor 17 .

[0090] Preferably, the first sensor 16 is provided on the first pipeline 14 , and the fluid pressure value in the upper space 111 of the cylinder 11 can be measured by the first sensor 16 .

[0091] Preferably, the second sensor 17 is provided on the second pipeline 15 , and the fluid pressure value in the lower space 112 of the cylinder 11 can be measured by the second sensor 17 .

[0092] In a specific embodiment, both the first sensor 16 and the second sensor 17 are connected to the controller 31 , so that the recorded data can be transmitted to the controller 31 more quickly.

[0093] It is easy to understand that when the pressure value of the upper space 111 measured by the first sensor 16 or the pressure value in the lower space 112 measured by the second sensor 17 is lower than 85% to 95% of the normal value, an alarm signal will be sent to the controller 31, thereby prompting the staff to troubleshoot at a faster speed, thereby improving overall work efficiency and work quality.

[0094] According to the present invention, Figure 3 As shown, the valve monitoring device 100 further includes a control box 50. The control box 50 is sleeved on the outside of the valve stem 22 and is located below the drive mechanism 20. Preferably, the control box 50 is configured to control the drive unit and the valve monitoring mechanism.

[0095] According to the present invention, Figure 1As shown, the monitoring mechanism further includes a valve mechanism disposed in the control box 50 and a monitoring module 33 disposed in the controller 31. The valve mechanism includes a plurality of solenoid valves (e.g., a first solenoid valve 141, a second solenoid valve 151, a third solenoid valve 142, and a fourth solenoid valve 152, which will be described below) disposed on the first pipeline 14 and the second pipeline 15, respectively.

[0096] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, the monitoring module 33 is configured to monitor the voltage and current values ​​of the valve body mechanism when power is applied. Furthermore, when the monitored voltage or current value exceeds the solenoid valve's operating range, an alarm signal is sent to the controller 31, prompting personnel to perform troubleshooting more quickly, thereby improving overall work efficiency and quality.

[0097] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, the monitoring module 33 is configured to monitor the resistance value of the valve body mechanism when the power is off, and send recorded data to the monitoring module 33, so as to determine whether the valve body mechanism has a fault.

[0098] Preferably, the valve body mechanism in the present invention includes a first solenoid valve 141 , a second solenoid valve 151 , a third solenoid valve 142 and a fourth solenoid valve 152 .

[0099] According to the present invention, Figure 2 As shown, the valve body mechanism includes a first solenoid valve 141 and a second solenoid valve 151 .

[0100] Preferably, the first solenoid valve 141 is provided on the first pipeline 14 , and the opening and closing of the upper space 111 of the cylinder 11 can be controlled by the first solenoid valve 141 .

[0101] Preferably, the second solenoid valve 151 is provided on the second pipeline 15 , and the opening and closing of the lower space 112 of the cylinder 11 can be controlled by the second solenoid valve 151 .

[0102] In a specific embodiment, both the first solenoid valve 141 and the second solenoid valve 151 are connected to the controller 31 , so as to achieve accurate control over the opening and closing of the upper space 111 or the lower space 112 of the cylinder 11 .

[0103] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, the monitoring module 33 is configured to monitor the voltage value and current value of the first solenoid valve 141 and the second solenoid valve 151 when power is supplied, and when the monitored voltage value or current value exceeds the operating range of the first solenoid valve 141 and the second solenoid valve 151, an alarm signal can be sent to the controller 31, thereby prompting the staff to perform troubleshooting; the monitoring module 33 is configured to monitor the resistance value of the first solenoid valve 141 and the second solenoid valve 151 when power is not supplied, and send recorded data to the monitoring module 33 to determine whether there is a fault in the valve body mechanism.

[0104] In one embodiment, the first solenoid valve 141 is farther from the cylinder 11 than the first sensor 16 .

[0105] In this way, it is ensured that the first solenoid valve 141 can accurately and quickly open and close the upper space 111 of the cylinder body 11, and that the first sensor 16 can accurately measure the fluid pressure value in the upper space 111 of the cylinder body 11, so that the various indicators of the valve 40 can be accurately monitored, thereby improving the working efficiency and work quality of the valve monitoring device 100.

[0106] In one embodiment, the second solenoid valve 151 is farther from the cylinder 11 than the second sensor 17 .

[0107] In this way, it is ensured that the second solenoid valve 151 can accurately and quickly open and close the lower space 112 of the cylinder body 11, and that the second sensor 17 can accurately measure the fluid pressure value in the lower space 112 of the cylinder body 11, so that the various indicators of the valve 40 can be accurately monitored, thereby improving the working efficiency and work quality of the valve monitoring device 100.

[0108] According to the present invention, Figure 2 As shown, the valve body mechanism further includes a third solenoid valve 142 and a fourth solenoid valve 152 .

[0109] Preferably, the third solenoid valve 142 is provided on the first pipeline 14 , and the third solenoid valve 142 is arranged in parallel with the first solenoid valve 141 , so as to be capable of being used for a partial stroke test.

[0110] Preferably, the fourth solenoid valve 152 is provided on the second pipeline 15 , and the fourth solenoid valve 152 is arranged in parallel with the second solenoid valve 151 , so as to be capable of being used for a partial stroke test.

[0111] In a specific embodiment, the third solenoid valve 142 and the fourth solenoid valve 152 are both connected to the partial stroke monitoring module 34 in the controller 31 to implement a partial stroke test on the valve 40 , thereby ensuring the effectiveness of the valve 40 .

[0112] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, the monitoring module 33 is configured to monitor the voltage and current values ​​of the third solenoid valve 142 and the fourth solenoid valve 152 when power is supplied, and when the monitored voltage or current value exceeds the operating range of the third solenoid valve 142 and the fourth solenoid valve 152, an alarm signal can be sent to the controller 31, thereby prompting the staff to perform troubleshooting; the monitoring module 33 is configured to monitor the resistance value of the third solenoid valve 142 and the fourth solenoid valve 152 when power is not supplied, and send recorded data to the monitoring module 33 to determine whether there is a fault in the valve body mechanism.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fluid includes any one of compressed air and hydraulic oil.

[0114] The working principle of the first embodiment (compressed air) of the present invention is described below.

[0115] Step 1: Open the first solenoid valve 141 through the control box 50 to allow compressed air to enter the upper space 111 of the cylinder 11 through the first pipeline 14 .

[0116] Step 2: The piston 12 moves toward the compression spring 131 under the action of the compressed air, thereby discharging the compressed air in the lower space 112 of the cylinder 11. At the same time, the valve 40 is opened under the driving action of the worm 21, the worm gear 23 and the valve stem 22 in sequence.

[0117] In step 2, when the piston 12 moves toward the compression spring 131 under the action of compressed air, the worm 21 moves synchronously with the piston 12, so that the compression spring 131 can contract in the spring cylinder 13 under the action of the worm 21 to store closing energy, thereby facilitating the subsequent emergency shut-off valve action.

[0118] Step 3: Use the control box 50 to activate the first solenoid valve 141 to release the compressed air in the upper space 111 of the cylinder 11 .

[0119] Step 4: Under the action of the closing energy, the piston 12 moves away from the compression spring 131. At the same time, the valve 40 is closed in sequence by the driving action of the worm 21, the worm gear 23 and the valve stem 22, thereby realizing the emergency shut-off valve action.

[0120] The working principle of the first embodiment (hydraulic oil) of the present invention is described below.

[0121] Step 1: Open the first solenoid valve 141 through the control box 50 to allow the hydraulic oil to enter the upper space 111 of the cylinder 11 through the first pipeline 14 .

[0122] Step 2: Under the action of the hydraulic oil, the piston 12 moves toward the compression spring 131, thereby discharging the hydraulic oil in the lower space 112 of the cylinder 11. At the same time, the valve 40 is opened by the driving action of the worm 21, the worm gear 23 and the valve stem 22 in sequence.

[0123] In step 2, when the piston 12 moves toward the compression spring 131 under the action of the hydraulic oil, the worm 21 moves synchronously with the piston 12, so that the compression spring 131 can contract in the spring cylinder 13 under the action of the worm 21 to store closing energy, thereby facilitating the subsequent emergency shut-off valve action.

[0124] Step 3: Use the control box 50 to activate the first solenoid valve 141 to release the hydraulic oil in the upper space 111 of the cylinder 11 .

[0125] Step 4: Under the action of the closing energy, the piston 12 moves away from the compression spring 131. At the same time, the valve 40 is closed in sequence by the driving action of the worm 21, the worm gear 23 and the valve stem 22, thereby realizing the emergency shut-off valve action.

[0126] In the second embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 As shown, the control box 50 further includes a main body portion 51 and a raised portion 52. Preferably, the main body portion 51 is configured in a cylindrical form, and the raised portion 52 is axially extended upward from the main body portion 51.

[0127] According to the present invention, Figure 3 As shown, the valve monitoring device further includes three oil film detectors 53. One of the oil film detectors 53 is disposed on the raised portion 52, and the remaining two oil film detectors 53 are respectively disposed on the main body 51 on both sides of the raised portion 52.

[0128] Preferably, the bottom of the control box 50 is low-lying, allowing hydraulic oil to accumulate there. Since the oil film detector 53 uses a laser sensor, it is easier to detect the oil at the bottom of the control box 50 and obtain accurate information, which helps to determine whether there is a hydraulic oil leak. Furthermore, if an oil leak is detected, an alarm signal is promptly sent to the controller 31, prompting personnel to quickly troubleshoot the problem, thereby improving overall work efficiency and quality.

[0129] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for using the valve monitoring device 100 as described above is provided, comprising the following steps:

[0130] First, the first solenoid valve 141 is opened by the control box 50 to allow compressed air to enter the upper space 111 through the first pipeline 14 .

[0131] Then, the piston 12 discharges the compressed air in the lower space 112 under the action of the compressed air in the upper space 111 , thereby prompting the worm 21 , the worm wheel 23 and the valve stem 22 in the driving mechanism 20 to move in sequence, thereby achieving the purpose of opening the valve 40 .

[0132] At the same time, the worm 21 causes the compression spring 131 to contract in the spring cylinder 13 to store closing energy.

[0133] Afterwards, the control box 50 receives the emergency shut-off signal, thereby prompting the first solenoid valve 141 to release the compressed air in the upper space 111. At the same time, the piston 12 moves in the direction away from the compression spring 131 under the action of the closing energy, thereby prompting the worm 21, worm wheel 23 and valve stem 22 in the drive mechanism 20 to move in sequence, so as to achieve the purpose of emergency shut-off valve 40.

[0134] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a method for using the valve monitoring device 100 as described above is provided, comprising the following steps:

[0135] First, the first solenoid valve 141 is opened by the control box 50 to allow the hydraulic oil to flow into the upper space 111 through the first pipeline 14 .

[0136] Then, the piston 12 discharges the hydraulic oil in the lower space 112 under the action of the hydraulic oil in the upper space 111 , thereby prompting the worm 21 , the worm wheel 23 and the valve stem 22 in the driving mechanism 20 to move in sequence, thereby achieving the purpose of opening the valve 40 .

[0137] At the same time, the worm 21 causes the compression spring 131 to contract in the spring cylinder 13 to store closing energy.

[0138] Afterwards, the control box 50 receives the emergency shut-off signal, thereby prompting the first solenoid valve 141 to release the hydraulic oil in the upper space 111. At the same time, the piston 12 moves in the direction away from the compression spring 131 under the action of the closing energy, thereby prompting the worm 21, worm wheel 23 and valve stem 22 in the drive mechanism 20 to move in sequence, so as to achieve the purpose of emergency shut-off valve 40.

[0139] In one embodiment, a partial stroke test method is also included:

[0140] The first embodiment (compressed air) is described in detail below.

[0141] First, the third solenoid valve 142 and the fourth solenoid valve 152 are opened respectively by the partial stroke monitoring module 34.

[0142] Then, a small flow of compressed air is injected into the lower space 112 of the cylinder 11 through the fourth solenoid valve 152. Under the action of the compressed air in the lower space 112 of the cylinder 11, the piston 12 and the drive mechanism 20 move in a direction away from the compression spring 131, thereby forcing the compressed air in the upper space 111 of the cylinder 11 to be discharged outward through the first pipeline 14, so that the valve 40 moves partially to one side, partially forming the test structure.

[0143] Afterwards, a small flow of compressed air is injected into the upper space 111 of the cylinder 11 through the third solenoid valve 142 to reset the piston 12 and the drive mechanism 20 and to cause the fluid in the lower space 112 of the cylinder 11 to be discharged outward through the second pipeline 15 .

[0144] The second embodiment (hydraulic oil) is described in detail below.

[0145] First, the third solenoid valve 142 and the fourth solenoid valve 152 are opened respectively by the partial stroke monitoring module 34.

[0146] Then, a small flow of hydraulic oil is injected into the lower space 112 of the cylinder 11 through the fourth solenoid valve 152. Under the action of the hydraulic oil in the lower space 112 of the cylinder 11, the piston 12 and the drive mechanism 20 move in a direction away from the compression spring 131, thereby causing the hydraulic oil in the upper space 111 of the cylinder 11 to be discharged outward through the first pipeline 14.

[0147] Afterwards, a small flow of hydraulic oil is injected into the upper space 111 of the cylinder body 11 through the third solenoid valve 142 to reset the piston 12 and the drive mechanism 20, and to cause the fluid in the lower space 112 of the cylinder body 11 to be discharged outward through the second pipeline 15 to reset the valve 40.

[0148] It's easy to understand that valve 40 (the emergency shutoff valve) only activates during an emergency shutoff. If left inactive for extended periods, valve 40 can easily become stuck, making it difficult to close in an emergency. Therefore, the partial stroke test employed by the present invention facilitates the timely detection of potential valve hazard problems, enabling faster repair and troubleshooting.

[0149] It is worth noting that the small flow rate mentioned in the present invention is within the range of 2% to 8% of the total flow rate that drives the valve 40 to move through its full stroke.

[0150] Because the third solenoid valve 142 and the fourth solenoid valve 152 are both opened at a low flow rate during the partial stroke test, the valve 40 only needs to move slightly. It is easy to understand that the partial stroke test does not affect the normal operation of the pipeline (the first pipeline 14 or the second pipeline 15).

[0151] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages:

[0152] First, the present invention is provided with a valve opening test module 311, which can indirectly record the rotation of the valve stem 22 according to the rotation stroke of the connecting rod 32, so as to obtain the opening information of the valve 40 in real time, and then can realize accurate adjustment of the opening and closing of the valve 40, so as to improve the safety of the use of the valve 40.

[0153] Secondly, the present invention provides a first sensor 16 on the first pipeline 14 and a second sensor 17 on the second pipeline 15, respectively, to record and monitor the pressure (compressed air or hydraulic oil) in the upper space 111 and lower space 112 of the cylinder 11. Furthermore, when the pressure in the upper space 111 or lower space 112 falls below a set value, an alarm signal is sent to the controller 31, prompting personnel to perform troubleshooting more quickly, thereby improving the efficiency and quality of the valve monitoring device 100.

[0154] Third, the present invention includes a valve mechanism disposed within the control box 50 and a monitoring module 33 disposed within the controller 31. The valve mechanism includes a plurality of solenoid valves (e.g., a first solenoid valve 141, a second solenoid valve 151, a third solenoid valve 142, and a fourth solenoid valve 152) disposed on the first pipeline 14 and the second pipeline 15, respectively.

[0155] Specifically, when powered on, the monitoring module 33 monitors the voltage and current of the valve mechanism. If the monitored voltage or current exceeds the solenoid valve's operating range, it sends an alarm signal to the controller 31, prompting personnel to more quickly troubleshoot the problem. When powered off, the valve mechanism's resistance is monitored and recorded data is sent to the monitoring module 33 to determine if the valve mechanism is faulty.

[0156] Fourth, the present invention provides a third solenoid valve 142 and a fourth solenoid valve 152 on the first pipeline 14, both of which are connected to the partial stroke monitoring module 34 in the controller 31. Specifically, the present invention can open the third solenoid valve 142 and the fourth solenoid valve 152 through the partial stroke monitoring module 34, and inject a small flow of hydraulic oil into the lower space 112 of the cylinder body 11 through the fourth solenoid valve 152 to cause the valve 40 to move partially to one side, thereby determining the operating status of the piston 12 and the drive mechanism 20, and ensuring that the valve 40 can still be closed in an emergency even if it is inactive for a long time.

[0157] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art may easily make changes or modifications within the scope of the present invention, and such changes or modifications should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be based on the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A valve monitoring device comprising: A drive unit comprising an adjustment mechanism and a drive mechanism (20), wherein The regulating mechanism comprises a cylinder (11) for containing a fluid, a piston (12) disposed in the cylinder (11), and a spring cylinder (13) arranged opposite to the cylinder (11) and containing a compression spring (131); The driving mechanism comprises a worm (21) disposed between the piston (12) and the compression spring (131), a valve stem (22) vertically distributed with the worm (21), and a worm wheel (23) meshing with the worm (21) and sleeved on the outside of the valve stem (22). A valve monitoring mechanism is provided above the valve stem (22), comprising a controller (31), and a connecting rod (32) provided between the controller (31) and the valve stem (22), and for providing a valve (40) at the free end of the valve stem (22), A valve opening test module (311) is provided in the controller (31), and the valve opening test module (311) is configured to obtain opening data of the valve (40) according to the rotation stroke of the connecting rod (32). The outer peripheral surface of the piston (12) is sealedly connected to the inner peripheral surface of the cylinder (11) to divide the cylinder (11) into an upper space (111) and a lower space (112). The regulating mechanism further comprises a first pipeline (14) for delivering fluid to the upper space (111), and a second pipeline (15) for receiving fluid from the lower space (112). The valve monitoring device further comprises a valve body mechanism provided in the control box (50), the valve body mechanism comprising a first solenoid valve (141) provided on the first pipeline (14) and used for controlling the opening and closing of the upper space (111), and a second solenoid valve (151) provided on the second pipeline (15) and used for controlling the opening and closing of the lower space (112), the valve body mechanism further comprising a third solenoid valve (142) provided on the first pipeline (14) and arranged in parallel with the first solenoid valve (141) for stroke testing, and a fourth solenoid valve (152) provided on the second pipeline (15) and arranged in parallel with the second solenoid valve (151) for stroke testing, the third solenoid valve (142) and the fourth solenoid valve (152) both being connected to the partial stroke monitoring module (34) in the controller (31), The third and fourth solenoid valves are opened through the partial stroke monitoring module, and a small flow of hydraulic oil is injected into the lower space of the cylinder through the fourth solenoid valve to make the valve move partially to one side, thereby judging the operating status of the piston and the drive mechanism to ensure that the valve can still have the ability to close in an emergency even if it is in a non-operating working condition for a long time.

2. The valve monitoring device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The valve monitoring device further comprises a control box (50) arranged on the valve stem (22) and below the drive mechanism, wherein the control box (50) is configured to control the drive unit and the valve monitoring mechanism, and comprises a main body (51) configured in a cylindrical form, and a protruding portion (52) extending radially outward from the main body (51).

3. The valve monitoring device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The valve monitoring device further comprises three oil film detectors (53), one of which is arranged on the raised portion (52), and the other two oil film detectors (53) are respectively arranged on the main body (51) on both sides of the raised portion (52). The oil film detector (53) is configured to send an alarm to the controller (31) when hydraulic oil leakage is detected.

4. The valve monitoring device according to claim 3, characterized in that: A first sensor (16) and a second sensor (17) for measuring the fluid pressure in the upper space (111) and the lower space (112) are provided on the first pipeline (14) and the second pipeline (15), respectively. The first sensor (16) and the second sensor (17) are both connected to the controller (31). The first sensor (16) and the second sensor (17) are both configured to send an alarm to the controller (31) when the detected pressure value is lower than 85% to 95% of the normal value, so as to prompt the user to perform troubleshooting.

5. The valve monitoring device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The fluid includes any one of hydraulic oil and compressed air.

6. The valve monitoring device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The valve monitoring device further includes a monitoring module (33) disposed in the controller (31), The monitoring module (33) is configured to monitor the voltage and current values ​​of the valve body mechanism when power is supplied, and to send an alarm to the controller (31) when the detected voltage and current values ​​exceed the operating range of the valve body mechanism; The monitoring module (33) is configured to monitor the resistance value of the valve body mechanism when no power is supplied, and to determine the working condition of the valve body mechanism based on the detected resistance value.

7. The valve monitoring device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The first solenoid valve (141) is farther from the cylinder body (11) than the first sensor (16); and the second solenoid valve (151) is farther from the cylinder body (11) than the second sensor (17).

8. A method for using the valve monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising the following steps: S1. Opening the first solenoid valve (141) through the control box (50) to allow compressed air to enter the upper space (111) through the first pipeline (14), thereby pushing the piston (12) to discharge the compressed air in the lower space (112) to open the valve (40) under the action of the driving mechanism, and storing closing energy by causing the compression spring (131) to contract in the spring cylinder (13); S2. The control box (50) causes the first solenoid valve (141) to release the compressed air in the upper space (111), and the piston (12) moves in a direction away from the compression spring (131) under the action of the closing energy to close the valve (40) under the action of the driving mechanism.

9. A method for using the valve monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising the following steps: S1. Opening the first solenoid valve (141) through the control box (50) to allow hydraulic oil to enter the upper space (111) through the first pipeline (14), thereby pushing the piston (12) to discharge the hydraulic oil in the lower space (112) to open the valve (40) under the action of the driving mechanism, and storing closing energy by causing the compression spring (131) to contract in the spring cylinder (13); S2. The control box (50) causes the first solenoid valve (141) to release the hydraulic oil in the upper space (111), and the piston (12) moves in a direction away from the compression spring (131) under the action of the closing energy, so as to close the valve (40) under the action of the driving mechanism.

10. The method of use according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that: Also included are partial stroke test methods: The third solenoid valve (142) and the fourth solenoid valve (152) are opened respectively by the partial stroke monitoring module (34), A small flow of fluid is injected into the lower space (112) through the fourth solenoid valve (152), and the piston (12) and the driving mechanism both move in a direction away from the compression spring (131) under the action of the fluid in the lower space (112), thereby causing the fluid in the upper space (111) to be discharged outward through the first pipeline (14), so that the valve (40) performs a partial stroke movement to one side, and the partial stroke test ends; A small flow of fluid is injected into the upper space (111) through the third solenoid valve (142) to reset the piston (12) and the driving mechanism and to cause the fluid in the lower space (112) to be discharged outward through the second pipeline (15) to reset the valve (40).

11. The method of use according to claim 10, characterized in that: The small flow rate fluid accounts for 2% to 8% of the total flow rate that drives the valve (40) to move through its full stroke.

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