Electromagnetically activated lift stem valve

Abstract

An electromagnetic lift stem valve includes a stopper configured to prevent fluid flow within a tube. The stopper is connected to a shaft configured to rotate via an electromagnetic force generated between a magnet attached to an exterior of the shaft and a magnet surrounding an outer surface of a portion of the valve. The lift stem valve can also include a second shaft that is rotated directly by the electromagnetic force to open, closed, and one or more semi-open positions, and is coupled to a shaft connected to the stop via a gear arrangement. Advantageously, the one or more shafts and any gear arrangement are fully housed within the gear housing, where electromagnetic forces are fully generated by interaction with magnets outside the housing, thereby preventing undesired leakage of fluid from the tube into the environment.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 409,266, filed January 10, 2024, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 438,687, filed January 12, 2023. This application also claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 438,687, filed January 12, 2023. Each of the above-referenced applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to control valves designed particularly for gas and oil pipelines, and more particularly to solenoid-operated rising stem valves. Background Art

[0004] In the prior art, it is known to generally provide valves for allowing or preventing flow through a pipe, including solenoid valves, which utilize magnetic force to rotate a valve stem.

[0005] The prior art patent documents include the following:

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 6,460,567, filed on November 24, 1999, and issued on October 8, 2002, by inventors Hansen et al., for a sealed motor-driven valve, discloses a motor-operated valve comprising a valve body having an inlet and an outlet and a valve seat therebetween. The valve core reciprocates between an open position and a closed position by the cooperation of threads on the valve core and threads on a shaft, which rotates with the armature of the motor. The armature has a plurality of spaced-apart permanent magnets, a bearing assembly, and is enclosed by a magnetically transparent housing that is closed at one end and hermetically sealed to the valve body at its other end. A drive stator is located closely outside the housing and includes a drive winding and a plurality of Hall effect devices for commutating the winding.

[0007] U.S. Patent No. 10,731,770, filed on July 7, 2016, and issued on August 4, 2020, by inventors Kawase et al., for an electric flow control valve and actuator, discloses an actuator including a rod, an electric motor that generates a rotational driving force when powered, an output shaft that outputs the rotational driving force of the electric motor to the rod, a feed screw mechanism, and a rotation prevention mechanism. The feed screw mechanism includes a female threaded portion formed on one of the output shaft and the rod, and a male threaded portion formed on the other of the output shaft and the rod to engage with the female threaded portion. The rotation prevention mechanism is configured to regulate the rotation of the rod caused by the rotational driving force of the electric motor.

[0008] U.S. Patent No. 7,325,780 to inventors Arai et al., filed December 9, 2005 and issued February 5, 2008 for Motor-Operated Valve with Reducing Gear discloses a small-sized motor-operated valve having high output and high resolution by housing a reducing gear together with a rotor in a single tank. A valve shaft having a valve member is inserted into a motor-operated valve body. A rotor is disposed inside a tank attached to the valve body, and a reducing gear is housed inside the rotor. The output of the rotor is input to a sun gear and transmitted to a planetary gear. The planetary gear is engaged with both a fixed gear and an output gear, and the output gear is driven at a large reduction ratio. The output of the output gear is transmitted to a screw shaft via a driver, where the output of the output gear is converted to linear movement and transmitted to the valve shaft.

[0009] U.S. Patent No. 10,221,959 to inventor Davis, filed October 3, 2018 and issued May 5, 2019 for Magnetic Valve Actuator for Higher Speed Lower Torque discloses various apparatuses and techniques related to magnetically actuated valves. In some examples, a magnetically actuated valve can include a mechanism that provides a mechanical advantage such that the torque or force applied to a valve member is higher than the torque or force transmitted across a sealed valve housing by a magnetic coupling. In some examples, the valve can employ a mechanism with an opposite mechanical advantage coupled to an external actuator that better matches the traditional or convenient actuation rates of other valves.

[0010] U.S. Patent No. 8,496,228 to inventors Burgess et al., filed January 28, 2012 and issued July 30, 2013 for Planetary Gear Ball Valve discloses a rodless ball valve including a first flange, a second flange, a ball, an inner magnet cylinder, an outer magnet cylinder, and a planetary gear assembly. The inner magnet cylinder is located inside the outer magnet cylinder, and the inner magnet cylinder and the outer magnet cylinder actuate the valve. The planetary gear assembly is located between the inner magnet cylinder and the ball. The planetary gear assembly includes one or more planetary gear phases, each planetary gear phase including a reduction gear. Each planetary gear phase includes one or more planetary gears engaged with inner teeth of an outer ring of the planetary gear assembly and engaged with the reduction gear. The invention also includes a pressure equalization system including an inner equalization tube and an outer equalization tube, a piston located between the inner equalization tube and the outer equalization tube, and a piston spring or spring washer stack biasing the piston in a direction of clean oil.

[0011] U.S. Patent No. 9,377,121 to inventors Burgess et al., filed November 18, 2012, and issued June 28, 2016, for Leakless Rotary Valve with Internal Worm Gear, discloses a rotary valve assembly including a leakless housing containing a worm gear and a pinion, an adapter plate between the rotary valve body and the housing and securing the rotary valve body to the housing, and a magnetic actuator assembly. The worm gear is engaged with the pinion such that when the worm gear rotates, the pinion also rotates. The housing is between the magnetic actuator assembly and the rotary valve body. A shaft extends through the center of the pinion and opens and closes a valve within the rotary valve body based on rotation of the shaft. In an alternative embodiment, the invention is a rotary valve with an integrated adapter plate as described above.

[0012] U.S. Patent No. 7,971,855 to inventors Burgess et al., filed December 9, 2008, and issued July 5, 2011, for Rodless Ball Valve, discloses a rodless ball valve including two flanges and a ball having a passage, two shaft pins, and two travel pins. One end of each shaft pin and travel pin is fixedly attached to the ball, and the other end of each shaft pin is snapped into a notch in the first flange or the second flange such that the shaft pin is allowed to rotate in the notch. A guide sleeve includes two passages, and one end of each travel pin is within one of the two passages in the guide sleeve. An outer magnetic cylinder rotates the inner magnetic cylinder and the guide sleeve, and as the guide sleeve rotates, the travel pins move up and down within the passages in the guide sleeve. Movement of the travel pins within the passages in the guide sleeve causes the ball to rotate, thereby opening and closing the ball valve.

[0013] U.S. Patent No. 6,848,401 to inventors Takenaka et al., filed April 21, 2003, and issued February 1, 2005, for Valve Timing Adjusting Apparatus, discloses a valve timing adjusting apparatus that adjusts valve timing by shifting a rotational phase of a camshaft with respect to a crankshaft. The apparatus has an electric motor for rotating a rotor member that drives and moves a phase defining member to a desired position. The phase defining member defines the rotational phase of the camshaft depending on its own position. The phase defining member can be a planetary gear rotatably supported on an eccentric shaft as the rotor member. The planetary gear functions as both a reduction mechanism and a phase shifting mechanism. The phase defining member can be a control pin slidably supported on a rotatable member as the rotor member. The planetary gear can additionally function as a reduction mechanism for rotating the rotatable member. The phase can be controlled with high accuracy and durability.

[0014] U.S. Patent No. 9,702,469 to inventors Burgess et al., filed November 11, 2015 and issued July 11, 2017, for Leakless Riser Valve with Ball Screw Actuator, discloses a riser valve with a magnetic actuator having an outer magnet assembly and an inner magnet assembly magnetically coupled to one another such that the inner magnet assembly and the outer magnet assembly rotate together, and a ball screw connected to the riser valve and converting rotational motion to reciprocating motion. The inner magnet cylinder assembly and the valve body include a sealed lower portion that is completely sealed from the outside environment. SUMMARY

[0015] The present invention relates to control valves designed particularly for gas and oil pipelines, and more particularly to solenoid operated riser valves.

[0016] It is an object of the present invention to provide a riser valve using a solenoid switching mechanism with improved gear ratio.

[0017] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a magnetically activated riser valve comprising: a first shaft comprising a stopper at a first end, wherein the stopper is configured to obstruct a pipe when the valve is in a closed position; a second shaft comprising a distal end rotationally coupled to a second end of the first shaft such that rotation of the second shaft causes rotation of the first shaft; an inner magnet element attached to a proximal end of the second shaft; a valve housing surrounding the first shaft, the second shaft, and the inner magnet element, wherein the valve housing is sealed and defines a pressure vessel of the valve; an outer magnet cylinder surrounding a portion of the valve housing around the inner magnet element; and an actuator configured to activate one or more electromagnets in the outer magnet cylinder, wherein actuation of the one or more electromagnets does not physically rotate the outer magnet cylinder relative to the inner magnet element, and wherein the first shaft and the second shaft are rotationally coupled by at least one gear element.

[0018] In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a magnetically activated riser valve comprising: a first shaft comprising a stopper at a first end, wherein the stopper is configured to obstruct a pipe when the valve is in a closed position; a second shaft comprising a distal end rotationally coupled to a second end of the first shaft such that rotation of the second shaft causes rotation of the first shaft; an inner magnet element attached to a proximal end of the second shaft; a valve housing surrounding the first shaft, the second shaft, and the inner magnet element, wherein the valve housing is sealed and defines a pressure vessel of the valve; and an outer magnet cylinder surrounding a portion of the valve housing around the inner magnet element, wherein the first shaft and the second shaft are rotationally coupled by at least one gear element comprising a worm gear attached to the distal end of the second shaft, and wherein a central axis of the first shaft is substantially orthogonal to a central axis of the second shaft.

[0019] In yet another embodiment, the present application is directed to a magnetically activated poppet valve comprising: a first shaft comprising a stopper at a first end, wherein the stopper is configured to obstruct a pipe when the valve is in a closed position; a second shaft comprising a distal end rotationally coupled to a second end of the first shaft such that rotation of the second shaft causes rotation of the first shaft; an inner magnetic element attached to a proximal end of the second shaft; a valve housing surrounding the first shaft, the second shaft, and the inner magnetic element, wherein the valve housing is sealed and defines a pressure vessel of the valve; and an outer magnetic cylinder surrounding a portion of the valve housing around the inner magnetic element, wherein the first shaft and the second shaft are rotationally coupled by at least one gear element, wherein the first shaft is part of a pre-existing valve system and the second shaft, the valve housing, and the outer magnetic cylinder are retrofitted around the first shaft, and wherein the pipe transports oil or natural gas.

[0020] These and other aspects of the present application will become apparent to those skilled in the art after a reading of the following descriptions of the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 A top cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic control valve according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated.

[0022] Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic poppet valve utilizing two bevel gears according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated.

[0023] Figure 3 A side cross-sectional view of a magnetic poppet valve utilizing two bevel gears and including a manual actuator according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated.

[0024] Figure 4 A side cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic poppet valve utilizing a parallel axis gear mechanism according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated.

[0025] Figure 5 A side cross-sectional view of a magnetic poppet valve utilizing a parallel axis gear mechanism and including a manual actuator according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated.

[0026] Figure 6 A side cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic poppet valve utilizing a cylindrical rotary mechanism according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated.

[0027] Figure 7 A perspective view of a retrofitted electromagnetic poppet valve according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated.

[0028] Figure 8 A front view of a retrofitted electromagnetic poppet valve of Figure 7

[0029] Figure 9 ​A modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve is illustrated. Figure 7 A side view of a modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve is illustrated.

[0030] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of a modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of a modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 12 An exploded view of a modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 13A A perspective view of a modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve with a manual hand crank is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 13B A perspective view of a modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve with an electronic drive mechanism is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 14 A front view of a modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 15 A side view of a modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 16 A perspective cross-sectional view of a modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 17 An exploded view of a modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 18 A perspective cross-sectional view of a modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 19 A perspective cross-sectional view of a modification of the electromagnetic poppet valve is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of a system of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The present invention relates generally to control valves, particularly designed for gas and oil pipelines, and more particularly to electromagnetically operated control valves.

[0043] In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a magnetically activated rising stem valve comprising: a first shaft including a stop at a first end, wherein the stop is configured to block a tube when the valve is in a closed position; a second shaft including a distal end rotationally coupled to the second end of the first shaft such that rotation of the second shaft causes rotation of the first shaft; an inner magnetic element attached to a proximal end of the second shaft; a valve housing enclosing the first shaft, the second shaft, and the inner magnetic element, wherein the valve housing is sealed and defines a pressure vessel for the valve; an outer magnetic cylinder enclosing a portion of the valve housing surrounding the inner magnetic element; and an actuator configured to activate one or more electromagnets in the outer magnetic cylinder, wherein actuation of the one or more electromagnets does not physically rotate the outer magnetic cylinder relative to the inner magnetic element, and wherein the first shaft and the second shaft are rotationally coupled via at least one gear element.

[0044] In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a magnetically activated rising stem valve comprising: a first shaft including a stop at a first end, wherein the stop is configured to block a tube when the valve is in a closed position; a second shaft including a distal end rotationally coupled to the second end of the first shaft such that rotation of the second shaft causes rotation of the first shaft; an inner magnetic element attached to a proximal end of the second shaft; a valve housing surrounding the first shaft, the second shaft, and the inner magnetic element, wherein the valve housing is sealed and defines a pressure vessel for the valve; and an outer magnetic cylinder surrounding a portion of the valve housing surrounding the inner magnetic element, wherein the first shaft and the second shaft are rotationally coupled via at least one gear element including a worm gear attached to the distal end of the second shaft, and wherein a central axis of the first shaft is substantially orthogonal to a central axis of the second shaft.

[0045] In yet another embodiment, the present invention relates to a magnetically activated rising stem valve comprising: a first shaft including a stop at a first end, wherein the stop is configured to block a tube when the valve is in a closed position; a second shaft including a distal end rotationally coupled to the second end of the first shaft such that rotation of the second shaft causes rotation of the first shaft; an inner magnetic element attached to a proximal end of the second shaft; a valve housing surrounding the first shaft, the second shaft, and the inner magnetic element, wherein the valve housing is sealed and defines a pressure vessel for the valve; and an outer magnetic cylinder surrounding a portion of the valve housing surrounding the inner magnetic element, wherein the first shaft and the second shaft are rotationally coupled via at least one gear element, wherein the first shaft is part of a pre-existing valve system and the second shaft, valve housing, and outer magnetic cylinder are retrofitted around the first shaft, and wherein the tube transports oil or natural gas.

[0046] To prevent leakage of potentially harmful fluids, it is important that many pipes (e.g., oil and gas pipes, pipes containing toxic chemicals, cryogenic hydrogen or helium pipes) remain completely sealed. Preventing leaks requires a reliable valve mechanism that allows an operator to stop the flow of fluid through the pipe and prevents fluid from leaking through the valve mechanism. In recent years, the problem of leaks has become particularly worrisome because fugitive emissions have been found to occur on a much larger scale than previously imagined, increasing the need for completely sealed systems.

[0047] At the point where the current valve is attached to the pipe, a valve stem is typically attached to a valve mechanism (e.g., a gate valve, a globe valve, a plug valve, a ball valve, a butterfly valve, a needle valve, etc.) inside the pipe. A handle is then attached to the valve stem, enabling an operator to turn the handle in order to open or close the valve. In order to prevent leakage of the fluid flowing within the pipe, it is necessary to tightly seal the area where the valve stem rises through the side wall of the pipe. Typically, a seal, sometimes referred to as packing, takes the form of a gasket or O-ring that surrounds the valve stem. However, especially in high pressure situations, such as oil and gas pipes, these O-rings tend to fail over time and begin to allow some leakage. Sometimes, these leaks are catastrophic and result in fluid loss, and often result in environmental damage and health care risks. Thus, there is a need for a more reliable method of preventing fluid from leaking from the valve.

[0048] Electromagnetic valves are known in the art. Electromagnetic valves use an electromagnet (e.g., a solenoid) that surrounds a movable permanent magnet (e.g., a ferromagnetic core), where activation of the solenoid by application of an electric current causes the permanent ferromagnetic core to move, opening or closing the valve. However, a drawback of current electromagnetic valves is that most lack the ability to apply sufficient torque for use in larger, higher pressure pipes, such as oil and gas pipes. Some mechanisms have been proposed previously, including planetary gear mechanisms, in patents such as U.S. Patents Nos. 8,496,228 and 8,690,119, but these mechanisms tend to be complex and can be very expensive.

[0049] In contrast to electromagnetic valves, in one embodiment of the present invention, a non-moving electromagnetic cylinder fires pulses north and south, driving the inner magnetic cylinder and allowing multiple rotations of the inner magnetic cylinder. This is different from electromagnetic valves that power an electromagnet to only one specific position at low torque. This allows the valve to obtain increased torque through multiple turns of the gears, and it allows a wide range of positioning of the valve closure, like a control valve, rather than being limited to only open and closed positions.

[0050] The present invention addresses the unmet need in the art by providing a fully sealed mechanism for raising and lowering a poppet valve using a magnetic mechanism. The present invention uses a gear arrangement to reduce the amount of input rotational force that needs to be applied by the magnetic mechanism. The present invention also improves the art by using a gear mechanism other than a planetary gear mechanism, reducing the cost and complexity of installation and maintenance. Furthermore, the gear arrangement used in the present invention is designed to remain captured and stationary within the mechanism as the poppet component translates relative to the gear. Because the gear is in a fixed vertical position, the overall footprint of the mechanism described in the present invention is reduced, allowing the mechanism to be used in more locations and with less inconvenience.

[0051] Additionally, existing systems (such as the system described in U.S. Patent No. 9,377,121) require the magnetic cylinder to physically rotate around the valve stem. However, no system exists that can magnetically actuate a valve without physically rotating. As such, the only movement that occurs within the system occurs within the pressure vessel and not outside of it, reducing the likelihood of sparking.

[0052] Finally, existing systems only contemplate replacing the entire valve. While these systems are typically mechanically worked, they are often economically inefficient because removing the bonnet or changing the valve stem of an existing valve typically voids the warranty of the system. Therefore, there is a need in the art to provide the benefits of solenoid actuation without substantially changing the valve stem or bonnet of an existing valve mechanism.

[0053] Reference will now be made in general to the drawings, which are provided herein to describe one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the invention to such embodiments.

[0054] Figure 1 A top cross-sectional view of an electromagnetically controlled valve according to one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. To apply the force needed to open or close the valve, an electromagnetic actuator is utilized. The electromagnetic actuator is configured to receive and radially surround a first end of a main shaft 10. A plurality of permanent (e.g., ferromagnetic) magnets 12 radially surround the first end of the main shaft 10 within the electromagnetic actuator. In one embodiment, the plurality of permanent magnets 12 are directly attached (e.g., via screws, bolts, adhesive, or any other means) to the first end of the main shaft 10. In another embodiment, the plurality of permanent magnets 12 are directly attached (e.g., via screws, bolts, adhesive, or any other means) to an inner surface of an inner housing 14, and the plurality of permanent magnets 12 are in close frictional engagement when the main shaft 10 is inserted into the inner housing 14. In one embodiment, the inner housing 14 is a generally cylindrical hollow component with an opening on at least one side configured to receive the main shaft 10.

[0055] At least one electromagnet (e.g., solenoid coil) 15 is housed within the outer housing 16 and surrounds the inner housing 14. When the at least one electromagnet 15 is activated (i.e., energized by an electric current), the magnetic force between the at least one electromagnet 15 and the plurality of permanent magnets 12 causes the spindle 10 to rotate. The at least one electromagnet 15 is connected to a controller 20 by one or more electrical wires 22 that deliver commands from the controller 20 in the form of an electric current. In one embodiment, the controller 20 is connected to at least one motor that is configured to automatically rotate the outer housing 16 relative to the inner housing 14, and thus also the plurality of permanent magnets 12 relative to the inner housing 14, thereby causing the spindle 10 to rotate. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, although the spindle 10 is shown as being connected to the inner housing 14, the spindle 10 can be connected to the outer housing 16, or to some other structure, in other embodiments. Figure 1 The permanent magnets and electromagnets shown are described as separate and distinct magnetic entities, but the present application is also operable to include one or more ring magnets in place of the separate and distinct magnets used for either or both of the permanent magnet elements and / or the electromagnet elements. In one embodiment, the electromagnetic motor is a stator motor, a stepper motor, or the like.

[0056] Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic poppet valve utilizing two bevel gears is illustrated in accordance with one embodiment of the present application. In one embodiment, the electromagnetic poppet valve 100 is connected to a pipe 120 that transports a fluid (e.g., oil, natural gas, water, etc.). The electromagnetic poppet valve 100 includes a stopper 122 that extends into a central opening of the pipe 120 in a closed position, thereby preventing fluid flow through the pipe 120. In an open position, the stopper 122 is retracted, thereby allowing fluid flow through the pipe 120. In one embodiment, the electromagnetic poppet valve 100 does not use any rotating valve elements, such as a ball valve or a butterfly valve.

[0057] In one embodiment, the stop 122 is attached to the first shaft 112. In one embodiment, the first shaft 112 extends outwardly from the stop 122 in a direction generally orthogonal to the longitudinal center axis of the tube 120. In one embodiment, the outer surface of the first shaft 112 includes a helical and / or annular thread. The first shaft 112 extends through the center hole of the first gear 114. In one embodiment, the inner surface of the center hole of the first gear 114 includes a helical and / or annular thread configured to mate with the helical and / or annular thread of the first shaft 112. When the first gear 114 rotates, the first shaft 112 also rotates, causing the first shaft 112 to move upwardly or downwardly relative to the first gear 114, as the thread on the first shaft 112 articulates with the thread on the first gear 114. In one embodiment, one or more wedges 117 are attached to the inner side wall of the gear housing 136 and extend inwardly. In one embodiment, the one or more wedges 117 include a single annular wedge that encompasses the entire circumference of the inner side wall of the gear housing 136. In one embodiment, the first gear 114 includes one or more tines 115 that are attached to the inner side wall of the gear housing 136 so as to hold the first gear 114 in place as the first shaft 112 translates relative to the first gear 114. In one embodiment, the one or more tines 115 include one or more legs that extend approximately parallel to the rotational axis of the first gear 114. A first end of the one or more legs is attached to the underside of the first gear 114, while at least one foot extends outwardly orthogonally from a second end of the one or more legs. The first gear 114 is able to be held in place by inserting the at least one foot on the one or more legs into a small crevice in the inner side wall of the gear housing 136. In another embodiment, the one or more tines 115 include a hollow cylindrical extension that extends approximately parallel to the rotational axis of the first gear 114. A first end of the hollow cylindrical extension is attached to the underside of the first gear 114, while a ridge extends radially outwardly from a second end of the hollow cylindrical extension. The ridge is configured to fit within a small annular depression in the inner side wall of the gear housing 136, thereby holding the first gear 114 in place. The use of a captive gear arrangement is useful because it reduces the number of parts that translate within the valve 100, thereby reducing the potential footprint of the valve 100.

[0058] The first gear 114 is configured to intermesh with the second gear 116 such that rotation of the second gear 116 causes rotation of the first gear 114. In Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, both the first gear 114 and the second gear 116 are bevel gears, allowing the gears to Figure 2The first gear 114 and the second gear 116 are shown positioned orthogonal to each other, rather than in a parallel orientation. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the present application is not limited to gears that meet at a strict 90 degree angle, and that other angles are possible by varying the pitch surface and / or pitch angle of the first gear 114 and / or the second gear 116. In one embodiment, the pitch surface of the first gear 114 is opposite the surface of the first gear 114 that faces the stop 122.

[0059] The gear housing 136 includes an adapter plate 137 that is configured to attach to the attachment area 121 that extends outward from the tube 120. In one embodiment, the adapter plate 137 includes a central hole through which the first shaft 112 extends and a rim that surrounds the central hole. In one embodiment, the rim of the adapter plate 137 includes a plurality of openings that are configured to receive screws and / or bolts for attaching the adapter plate 137 to the attachment area 121. In one embodiment, the adapter plate 137 is integrally formed with the gear housing 136. In another embodiment, the adapter plate 137 is attached to the gear housing 136 by any attachment means known in the art, including but not limited to screws, bolts, ties, adhesives, welding, and other known means.

[0060] The second gear 116 is connected to a first end of a second shaft 118 that extends parallel to the rotational axis of the second gear 116. A second end of the second shaft 118 is positioned proximate to one or more permanent magnets 130 (e.g., ferromagnets). In one embodiment, the one or more permanent magnets 130 are directly attached to an outer surface of the second end of the second shaft 118 (e.g., via an adhesive, a nut and bolt, a screw, or any other attachment means). In another embodiment, the one or more permanent magnets 130 are directly attached to an inner surface of the gear housing 136 that surrounds the second end of the second shaft 118 (e.g., via an adhesive, a nut and bolt, a screw, or any other attachment means). Importantly, the gear housing 136 is a leak-tight enclosure that completely surrounds the gear mechanism, including the first shaft 112, the first gear 114, the second gear 116, and the second shaft 118, without external openings. This means that if fluid from the tube 120 enters the valve when the stop 122 is in the open position (or leaks when the stop 122 is in the closed position), the fluid only leaks to the interior of the gear housing 136 and not at all to the exterior of the system, thereby reducing the risk of environmental or personal injury.

[0061] The magnet housing 134 surrounds the portion of the gear housing 136 that surrounds the second end of the second shaft 118. In one embodiment, the magnet housing 134 is a generally cylindrical, hollow member that is generally concentric with the portion of the gear housing 136. In one embodiment, the inner surface of the magnet housing 134 is attached to one or more electromagnets 132. In one embodiment, the magnet housing 134 and the one or more electromagnets 132 serve as the stator of the system, while the second shaft 118 and the one or more permanent magnets 118 serve as the rotor. The one or more electromagnets 132 are connected to a controller 20 via one or more electrical wires 22. The controller is configured to deliver current to the one or more electromagnets 132, thereby energizing them to apply a magnetic force to the permanent magnets 130 surrounding the second shaft 118, thereby causing the second shaft 118 to rotate. When current is delivered to the one or more electromagnets 132, the one or more electromagnets 132 are configured to generate a rotating magnetic field that causes the second shaft 118 to rotate. In one embodiment, the controller 20 is connected to one or more electric motors within the magnet housing 134. When a signal is sent from the controller 20 to the electric motor, the magnetic field generated by the magnet housing 134 rotates, thereby applying a magnetic force to the second shaft 118, thereby rotating the second shaft 118. Crucially, in a preferred embodiment, the magnet housing 134 itself does not rotate in the system, but rather remains completely stationary, with the rotating magnetic field generated by the one or more electromagnets being sufficient to rotate the second shaft 118.

[0062] In one embodiment, the gear housing 136 is generally formed of a non-magnetic material (e.g., a diamagnetic material) so as not to weaken the electromagnetic force by generating unintended eddy currents in the gear housing 136. In one embodiment, additional components of the valve 100 are also formed of a non-magnetic material, such as the first shaft 112, the first gear 114, the second gear 116, the second shaft 118, and / or the stop 122.

[0063] Figure 3 A side cross-sectional view of a magnetic rising stem valve utilizing two bevel gears and including a manual actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Figure 3 As shown, in one embodiment, one or more electromagnets within the magnet housing 134 can be supplemented or replaced with a second set of permanent magnets 135. A handle 140 extends radially outward from the outer sidewall of the magnet housing 134, thereby rotating the second set of permanent magnets 135 relative to the permanent magnets 130 attached to the second end of the second shaft 118. This allows electromagnetic torque to be induced in the second shaft 118 without the use of electrical current. However, in one embodiment, the magnet housing 134 still includes at least one motor connected to the controller 20 that can automatically rotate the magnet housing 134 without activating any electromagnetic elements.

[0064] Figure 4A side cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic poppet valve utilizing a parallel axis gear mechanism according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated. In one embodiment, the electromagnetic poppet valve 200 is connected to a pipe 220 that carries a fluid (e.g., oil, natural gas, water, etc.). The electromagnetic poppet valve 200 includes a stopper 222 that extends into a central opening of the pipe 220 in a closed position, thereby preventing fluid flow through the pipe 220. In an open position, the stopper 222 is retracted, thereby allowing fluid flow through the pipe 220.

[0065] In one embodiment, the stopper 222 is attached to a first shaft 212. In one embodiment, the first shaft 212 extends outwardly from the stopper 222 in a direction that is generally orthogonal to a longitudinal central axis of the pipe 220. In one embodiment, an outer surface of the first shaft 212 includes helical and / or annular threads. The first shaft 212 extends through a central bore of a first gear 214. In one embodiment, an inner surface of the central bore of the first gear 214 includes helical and / or annular threads that are configured to mate with the helical and / or annular threads of the first shaft 212. When the first gear 214 rotates, the first shaft 212 also rotates, thereby causing the first shaft 212 to move upwardly or downwardly relative to the first gear 214 because the threads on the first shaft 212 articulate with the threads on the first gear 214. In one embodiment, the first gear 214 includes one or more tines 215 that are attached to an inner side wall of a gear housing 236 in order to hold the first gear 214 in place as the first shaft 212 translates relative to the first gear 214. In one embodiment, the one or more tines 215 include one or more legs that extend approximately parallel to an axis of rotation of the first gear 214. A first end of the one or more legs is attached to an underside of the first gear 214, while at least one foot extends orthogonally outwardly from a second end of the one or more legs. The first gear 214 is able to be held in place by inserting the at least one foot on the one or more legs into a small crevice in the inner side wall of the gear housing 236. In another embodiment, the one or more tines 215 include a hollow cylindrical extension that extends approximately parallel to an axis of rotation of the first gear 214. A first end of the hollow cylindrical extension is attached to an underside of the first gear 214, while a ridge extends radially outwardly from a second end of the hollow cylindrical extension. The ridge is configured to fit within a small annular recess in the inner side wall of the gear housing 236, thereby holding the first gear 214 in place. The use of a captive gear setup is useful because it reduces the number of parts that translate within the valve 200, thereby reducing the potential footprint of the valve 200 while still providing sufficient gear reduction to provide high torque when actuating the valve.

[0066] The first gear 214 is configured to intermesh with a second gear 216 such that rotation of the second gear 216 causes rotation of the first gear 214. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the second gear 216 is attached to a second shaft 218 that extends through a central bore of the second gear 216. In one embodiment, an inner surface of the central bore of the second gear 216 includes helical and / or annular threads that are configured to mate with helical and / or annular threads on the second shaft 218. When the second gear 216 rotates, the second shaft 218 also rotates, thereby causing the second shaft 218 to move upwardly or downwardly relative to the second gear 216 because the threads on the second shaft 218 articulate with the threads on the second gear 216. In one embodiment, the second shaft 218 is attached to a solenoid 230 that is configured to rotate the second gear 216, and thereby the first gear 214, in order to move the stopper 222 between the open and closed positions. Figure 4As shown, the first gear 214 and the second gear 216 are approximately parallel and roughly coplanar, so that each gear rotates in approximately the same direction. In one embodiment, the first gear 214 is larger than the second gear 216, but those skilled in the art will understand that the invention described herein is not intended to be limited to such an embodiment.

[0067] The second gear 216 is connected to a first end of a second shaft 218, which extends parallel to the rotation axis of the second gear 216. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the second shaft 218 is substantially parallel to the first shaft 212. The second end of the second shaft 218 is positioned proximate to one or more permanent magnets 230 (e.g., ferromagnetic). In one embodiment, the one or more permanent magnets 230 are directly attached to the outer surface of the second end of the second shaft 218 (e.g., via adhesive, nuts and bolts, screws, or any other attachment means). In another embodiment, the one or more permanent magnets 230 are directly attached to the inner surface of a gear housing 236 that surrounds the second end of the second shaft 218 (e.g., via adhesive, nuts and bolts, screws, or any other attachment means). Importantly, the gear housing 236 completely encloses the gear mechanism, including the first shaft 212, the first gear 214, the second gear 216, and the second shaft 218, without any external openings. This means that if fluid from the tube 220 enters the valve when the stopper 222 is in the open position (or leaks when the stopper 222 is in the closed position), the fluid leaks only into the interior of the gear housing 236 and does not leak outside the system at all, thereby reducing the risk of environmental or personal injury.

[0068] The gear housing 236 includes an adapter plate 237 configured to attach to an attachment area 221 extending outward from the tube 220. In one embodiment, the adapter plate 237 includes a central hole through which the first shaft 212 extends and a rim surrounding the central hole. In one embodiment, the rim of the adapter plate 237 includes a plurality of openings configured to receive screws and / or bolts for attaching the adapter plate 237 to the attachment area 221. In one embodiment, the adapter plate 237 is integrally formed with the gear housing 236. In another embodiment, the adapter plate 237 is attached to the gear housing 236 by any attachment means known in the art, including but not limited to screws, bolts, ties, adhesives, welding, and other known means.

[0069] The magnetic housing 234 encloses a portion of the gear housing 236 that encloses the second end of the second shaft 218. In one embodiment, the magnetic housing 234 is a generally cylindrical hollow component that is generally concentric with the portion of the gear housing 236. In one embodiment, the inner surface of the magnetic housing 234 is attached to one or more electromagnets 232. In one embodiment, the magnetic housing 234 and the one or more electromagnets 232 act as a stator of the system, while the second shaft 218 and the one or more permanent magnets 118 act as a rotor. The one or more electromagnets 232 are connected to the controller 20 via one or more electrical wires 22, which is configured to deliver an electric current to the one or more electromagnets 232, thereby exciting them to apply a magnetic force to the permanent magnets 230 that enclose the second shaft 218, thus causing the second shaft 218 to rotate. In one embodiment, when the electric current is delivered to the one or more electromagnets 232, the one or more electromagnets 232 are configured such that a rotating magnetic field is generated, which causes the second shaft 218 to rotate. In one embodiment, the controller 20 is connected to one or more electric motors within the magnetic housing 234. When a signal is sent from the controller 20 to the electric motor, the magnetic field generated by the magnetic housing 234 rotates, thereby causing the magnetic force to be applied to the second shaft 218, thus causing the second shaft 218 to rotate. Crucially, in one embodiment, the magnetic housing 234 itself does not rotate, thereby allowing for fewer moving parts in the system and a simplified method of operation.

[0070] Figure 5 A side cross-sectional view of a magnetic poppet valve utilizing a parallel axis gear mechanism and including a manual actuator is illustrated in accordance with one embodiment of the present application. As shown, in one embodiment, the one or more electromagnets within the magnetic housing 234 can be supplemented or replaced with a second set of permanent magnets 235. A handle 240 extends radially outward from the outer sidewall of the magnetic housing 234, thereby rotating the second set of permanent magnets 235 relative to the permanent magnets 230 attached to the second end of the second shaft 218. This allows for the induction of an electromagnetic torque in the second shaft 218 without the use of electric current. However, in one embodiment, the magnetic housing 234 still includes at least one motor connected to the controller 20 that can automatically turn the magnetic housing 234 but does not activate any electromagnetic elements. Figure 5

[0071] In one embodiment, the gear housing 236 is formed substantially of a non-magnetic material, such as a diamagnetic material, so as not to weaken the electromagnetic force by generating unintended eddy currents in the gear housing 236. In one embodiment, additional elements of the valve 200 are also formed of a non-magnetic material, such as the first shaft 212, the first gear 214, the second gear 216, the second shaft 218, and / or the stop 222.

[0072] Figure 6 A side cross-sectional view of an electromagnetic poppet valve utilizing a cylindrical rotary mechanism is illustrated in accordance with one embodiment of the present application.​Figure 6 A version of the electromagnetic poppet valve 300 that does not use any gears is shown in FIG. 3. In one embodiment, the electromagnetic poppet valve 300 is connected to a pipe 320 that carries a fluid (e.g., oil, natural gas, water, etc.). The electromagnetic poppet valve 300 includes a stopper 322 that extends into a central opening of the pipe 320 in a closed position, thereby preventing fluid from flowing through the pipe 320. In an open position, the stopper 322 is retracted, thereby allowing fluid to flow through the pipe 320.

[0073] In one embodiment, the stopper 322 is attached to a shaft 312. In one embodiment, the shaft 312 extends outwardly from the stopper 322 in a direction that is generally orthogonal to a longitudinal central axis of the pipe 320. In one embodiment, an outer surface of the shaft 312 includes helical and / or annular threads. The shaft 312 extends through a central hole of an inner cylindrical component 314. In one embodiment, an inner surface of the central hole of the inner cylindrical component 314 includes helical and / or annular threads that are configured to mate with the helical and / or annular threads of the shaft 312. When the inner cylindrical component 314 is rotated, the shaft 312 is also rotated, thereby causing the shaft 312 to move upwardly or downwardly relative to the inner cylindrical component 314 because the threads on the shaft 312 articulate with the threads on the inner cylindrical component 314. The inner cylindrical component 314 is surrounded by an outer cylindrical component 316.

[0074] The magnetic housing 334 encloses a portion of the gear housing 336 that encloses the second end of the outer cylindrical component 316. In one embodiment, the magnetic housing 334 is a generally cylindrical hollow component that is generally concentric with the portion of the gear housing 336. In one embodiment, the inner surface of the magnetic housing 334 is attached to the one or more electromagnets 332. In one embodiment, the magnetic housing 334 and the one or more electromagnets 332 act as the stator of the system, while the outer cylindrical component 316 and the plurality of permanent magnets 330 act as the rotor. In another embodiment, both the magnetic housing 334 and the outer cylindrical component 316 act as the rotating component. The one or more electromagnets 332 are connected to the controller 20 via the one or more electrical wires 22, which is configured to deliver electrical current to the one or more electromagnets 332, thereby exciting them to apply a magnetic force to the permanent magnets 330 of the outer cylindrical component 316, thus causing the outer cylindrical component 316 to rotate. In one embodiment, when electrical current is delivered to the one or more electromagnets 332, the one or more electromagnets 332 are configured such that a rotating magnetic field is generated, which causes the outer cylindrical component 316 to rotate. In one embodiment, the controller 20 is connected to one or more electric motors within the magnetic housing 334. When a signal is sent from the controller 20 to the electric motor, the magnetic field generated by the magnetic housing 334 rotates, thereby causing a magnetic force to be applied to the outer cylindrical component 316, thus causing the outer cylindrical component 316 to rotate. Crucially, the magnetic housing 334 itself does not rotate, with the rotating magnetic field generated by the controller causing electrical current to run through the one or more electromagnets 332 being sufficient to rotate the outer cylindrical component 316.

[0075] The gear housing 336 includes an adapter plate 337 that is configured to be attached to the attachment region 321 that extends outward from the tube 320. In one embodiment, the adapter plate 337 includes a central hole through which the first shaft 312 extends and a rim that encloses the central hole. In one embodiment, the rim of the adapter plate 337 includes a plurality of openings that are configured to receive screws and / or bolts that are used to attach the adapter plate 337 to the attachment region 321. In one embodiment, the adapter plate 337 is integrally formed with the gear housing 336. In another embodiment, the adapter plate 337 is attached to the gear housing 336 by any means of attachment known in the art, including but not limited to screws, bolts, lacing, adhesives, welding, and other known means.

[0076] One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that in one embodiment, the one or more electromagnets 332 can be replaced by a second set of one or more permanent magnets that are external to the adapter plate 337, with the addition of a manual actuator similar to the mechanism shown in Figure 3 and Figure 5 .

[0077] Figures 7 to 9An external view of a retrofit electromagnetic poppet valve according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated. Importantly, in one embodiment, the present application is capable of being retrofitted around existing valve mechanisms without disassembly of the valve mechanism. The retrofit is useful because it allows for lower cost improvements to existing valves. Furthermore, the retrofit is often a convenient option for high-risk pipeline operators who are concerned that a mass replacement of valves can result in more leaks.

[0078] The tube 406 includes an internal cavity 404 that can be obstructed by an existing stem valve mechanism 408. The existing stem valve mechanism 408, and more particularly the bonnet of the existing stem valve mechanism 408, typically includes a top plate 416 through which the valve stem extends. While the existing stem valve mechanism 408 typically includes a hand crank attached to the top of the valve stem, the hand crank tends to be easily removable without destroying the seal of the existing stem valve mechanism 408. Removal of the hand crank helps to allow the new valve portion 410 to be assembled around the existing valve stem. As shown, the new valve portion 410 is attached to the existing stem valve mechanism 408 and layered on top of it. The new valve portion 410 includes a bottom plate 417 that is configured to be attached to the top plate 416 of the existing stem valve mechanism 408. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the method of attachment of the bottom plate 417 and the top plate 416 can vary and include, but are not limited to, screws, nuts and bolts, welding, adhesives, latches, and / or other mechanisms. The new valve portion 410 and the existing stem valve mechanism 408 combine to form a single new valve 400. Figures 7 to 9

[0079] The outer cylinder 401 rises upward from the bottom plate 417. At least a portion of the valve stem 401 is surrounded by an electromagnetic actuator 402 that includes at least one electromagnetic coil that is configured to apply a magnetic force to components within the new valve portion 410, thereby engaging or disengaging with the valve mechanism by causing the valve stem to rise or fall. Because the electromagnetic actuator 402 is activated outside of the outer cylinder, in preferred embodiments, the outer cylinder 401 and other external components of the new valve portion 410 are primarily formed of non-ferromagnetic materials (e.g., polymers, non-ferromagnetic metals, etc.).

[0080] Figure 10 ​A cross-sectional view of a modified electromagnetic poppet valve according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated. A valve stem 412 rises through a top plate 416 of an existing poppet valve mechanism 408. Because the valve stem 412 of the existing poppet valve mechanism 408 is typically designed without an outer housing intended to surround the valve stem, a tight seal between the valve stem 412 and the surrounding portion of the top plate 416 is intended. The new valve portion 410 includes a ring 418 that fits tightly around a portion of the valve stem 412 and is rotationally coupled to the valve stem 412 such that rotation of the ring 418 causes vertical movement of the valve stem 412. A stop is keyed and the ring 418 is held from vertical movement such that only the ring 418 rotates and the valve stem 412 and stop move only up and down without rotating. In one embodiment, one or more wings 414 extend outwardly from the ring 418. In one embodiment, the one or more wings 414 are formed of a ferromagnetic material such that magnetic forces resulting from activation of an electromagnetic actuator 402 act on the one or more wings 414, thereby causing the ring 418 to turn, and thus the valve stem 412 to turn. In another embodiment, the one or more wings 414 are not ferromagnetic, but are tightly coupled with a ferromagnetic component that surrounds the valve stem 412 that moves upward or downward due to magnetic actuation rotation of the ring 418. Thus, the electromagnetic actuator 402 is able to directly or indirectly rotate the ring 418, and thus move the valve stem 412. Movement of the valve stem 412 causes the valve mechanism to block or open the internal cavity 404 of the pipe 406 depending on the direction of rotation of the ring 418.

[0081] Figures 11 to 12 A modified electromagnetic poppet valve including a planetary gear mechanism according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated. A pipe 506 includes an internal cavity 504 through which fluid flows. The pipe 506 has previously been fitted with an existing poppet valve mechanism 508 including a valve stem 512 that rises through a top plate 516, wherein the interface between the valve stem 512 and the top plate 516 is tightly sealed to prevent fluid leakage. While the existing poppet valve mechanism 508 previously included a hand crank mechanism to turn the valve stem 512 (and thus block or open the valve), the hand crank has been removed to facilitate a new actuation system 510. The new actuation system 510 includes a housing that is configured to fit entirely around the existing valve stem 512. The housing includes a base plate 503 that is configured to attach to the top plate of the existing poppet valve mechanism 508 (e.g., via nuts and bolts, screws, adhesive, welding, etc.). An elongated valve stem housing 501 extends upwardly from the base plate 503 and is configured to entirely enclose the valve stem 512. In one embodiment, the elongated valve stem housing 501 is a generally cylindrical extension, although one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the elongated valve stem housing 501 can take any shape. An electromagnetic actuator 502 including one or more electromagnets and electrically coupled with at least one activation circuit fits around and is in frictional engagement with an outer surface of the elongated valve stem housing 501.

[0082] Within the elongated valve stem housing 501, the seal ring 524 is a hollow cylinder in frictional engagement with the inner surface of the elongated valve stem housing 501, while the inner cylindrical element 522 includes a top in frictional engagement with the inner surface of the seal ring 524 and a bottom in frictional engagement with the inner surface of the elongated valve stem housing 501. In one embodiment, the inner cylindrical element 522 is a ferromagnetic component configured to rotate when a magnetic force is induced by the electromagnetic actuator 502. In one embodiment, the inner cylindrical element is connected to one or more planetary gears 514 by one or more tines 526. Each planetary gear 514 includes a plurality of teeth that intermesh with teeth on the inner surface of the ring gear 520, which are positioned radially outward from the one or more planetary gears 514, and intermesh with teeth on the outer surface of the sun gear 518. The sun gear 518 encloses and is in close frictional engagement with a portion of the valve stem 512, which is rotatably coupled with the valve stem 512 such that rotation of the sun gear 518 induces rotation of the valve stem 512. Thus, in this mechanism, activation of the electromagnetic actuator 502 induces rotation of the inner cylindrical element 522, which induces rotation of the planetary gears 514 within the ring gear 520 around the sun gear 518. This causes the sun gear 518, and thus the valve stem 512, to turn, thereby obstructing or opening the internal cavity 504 of the tube 506.

[0083] Figures 13A to 15 A perspective view of a bladder retrofit magnetic poppet valve according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated. In one embodiment, a tube 606 including a central internal cavity 604 includes a top plate 616 connected to a valve cover 617. A valve stem 612 extends through an opening in the valve cover 617 and an opening in the top plate 616 into the internal cavity 604 of the tube 606 such that the valve stem 612 can be used as a poppet valve 600. At least a portion of the valve stem 612 outside of the valve cover 617 is enclosed by a bladder actuation unit. The bladder actuation unit includes a bottom component 623 connected to a top component 622 (e.g., via adhesive, bolts, screws, welding, etc.). A portion of the top component 622 of the bladder actuation unit is enclosed by a magnetic housing 602. In one embodiment, at least one handle 608 extends radially outward from the magnetic housing 602 and / or the top component 622 of the bladder actuation unit such that rotation of the handle 608 induces rotation of the magnetic housing 602 and / or the top component 622. In one embodiment, the handle 608 can be supplemented or replaced by an electronic drive mechanism 609, as shown, which can actuate the valve without physical rotation of the top component 622. Figure 13B

[0084] Figure 16 A perspective cutaway view of a bladder retrofit electromagnetic poppet valve according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated. Importantly, Figures 13A to 17 ​The illustrated embodiment can be used with existing lever valve systems without the need to cut into the valve stem or remove the bonnet of the valve system, and only requires removal of the hand crank of the existing valve system. As Figure 16 As illustrated, in one embodiment, the bottom piece 623 of the airbag actuation unit includes a cup of wider radius that is configured to connect to the top piece 622 of the airbag actuation unit. A tube 620 of smaller radius than the cup extends outward from the cup of the bottom piece. The inner radius of the tube 620 is configured to be substantially the same as the radius of the valve stem 612, such that the tube 620 fits tightly around the valve stem 612. In one embodiment, the tube 620 is filled in between the valve stem 612 and the bonnet 617 by first removing the existing valve seal packing included between the valve stem 612 and the bonnet 617, such that the tube 620 can be inserted into the space. The tube 620 serves as a new seal between the bonnet 617 and the valve stem 612 in order to prevent leaks. In one embodiment, the outer surface of the tube 620 is surrounded by one or more gaskets in order to better ensure that the interface is completely sealed.

[0085] The use of the tube 620 of the bottom piece 623 to seal the bonnet-stem interface is important because it allows the airbag actuation unit to be easily retrofitted onto existing valve components without removing critical elements of the valve, only removing the original packing and hand crank.

[0086] Figure 17 An exploded view of an airbag retrofitted electromagnetic lever valve according to one embodiment of the present application is illustrated. Figure 17 Visualization of the various components of the airbag retrofitted electromagnetic lever valve is allowed. A plurality of outer permanent magnets 630 are housed between the outer ring 602 of the magnetic housing and the inner ring 624 of the magnetic housing (which has a slightly smaller radius than the outer ring 602), each outer permanent magnet being located outside of the top piece 622 of the airbag actuation unit. In one embodiment, the outer ring 602 and the inner ring 624 of the magnetic housing are both non-rotatably coupled to the top piece 622, such that the magnetic housing is able to rotate without rotating the airbag actuation unit. The outer ring 602 and the inner ring 624 of the magnetic housing are connected (e.g., via adhesive, welding, bolts, screws, frictional engagement, etc.). Because the plurality of outer permanent magnets 630 are housed within the magnetic housing, rotation of the magnetic housing also causes rotation of the plurality of outer permanent magnets 630. In one embodiment, the handle 608 extends radially outward from the outer surface of the outer ring 602 of the magnetic housing and is rotatably coupled to the magnetic housing.

[0087] Inside, between the top piece 622 and the valve stem 612 is an outer ring 626 of the inner magnetic housing and an inner ring 628 of the inner magnetic housing. The inner ring 628 of the inner magnetic housing is threaded around a portion of the valve stem 612 and / or frictionally engages a portion of the valve stem 612 such that rotation of the inner ring 628 causes upward or downward movement of the valve stem 612 but not rotation. In one embodiment, a plurality of inner permanent magnets 632 are positioned between the outer ring 626 and the inner ring 628, and the outer ring 626 and the inner ring 628 are connected (e.g., via adhesive, welding, bolts, screws, frictional engagement, etc.). Thus, the magnetic force caused by rotation of the plurality of outer permanent magnets 630 on the plurality of inner permanent magnets 632 results in rotation of the inner magnetic housing, and thus movement of the valve stem 612. In one embodiment, the outer ring 626 and the inner ring 628 of the inner magnetic housing are not coupled with the top piece 622 such that the inner magnetic housing is able to rotate without causing rotation of the top piece 622.

[0088] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, although the example figures shown in this application primarily show gate valves, any type of lift-and- seat valve is compatible with the present application. For example, in one embodiment, the valve is a gate valve, a globe valve, a plug valve, a ball valve, a butterfly valve, a needle valve, and / or any other type of lift-and-seat valve. Figures 13A to 17 While embodiments are shown that manually rotate the magnetic housing, in another embodiment, the manual actuation system can be replaced by a motor that externally rotates the magnetic housing. Further, in yet another embodiment, the plurality of outer permanent magnets can be replaced by one or more electromagnets that can be activated in order to generate a rotating magnetic field without physically rotating the magnetic housing.

[0089] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, although the example figures shown in this application primarily show gate valves, any type of lift-and- seat valve is compatible with the present application. For example, in one embodiment, the valve is a gate valve, a globe valve, a plug valve, a ball valve, a butterfly valve, a needle valve, and / or any other type of lift-and-seat valve.

[0090] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the present application can be deployed in industries other than oil and gas applications, but also extends to nuclear energy applications, cryogenic applications, petrochemical applications, aerospace applications, military and naval applications, and / or any other industry or application that uses fluid-carrying valves. For example, in one embodiment, the valve is attached to and used with a petroleum pipeline, a natural gas pipeline, a water pipeline, a helium pipeline, a methane pipeline, and / or other chemical pipelines.

[0091] Figures 18 to 19A perspective cutaway view of a magnetic poppet valve is illustrated according to one embodiment of the present application. In one embodiment, an outer magnet cylinder 702 is rotated, creating a force that rotates an inner magnet element 704 that is fully sealed within a pressure vessel of the valve 700. The inner magnet element 704 is rotationally coupled to a first shaft 706 at a proximal end of the first shaft 706. In one embodiment, rotation of the first shaft 706 causes actuation of a gear train 710, allowing the first shaft 706 to be turned with a smaller required force or rotation from the outer magnet cylinder 702. The first shaft 706 is rotationally coupled with a worm gear 712 at a distal end of the first shaft 706. The worm gear 712 is configured to rotate a geared or threaded portion 718 of a second shaft. In one embodiment, the second shaft is oriented orthogonally to the first shaft 706, such that the first shaft 706 can be oriented horizontally, while the second shaft is vertical. In one embodiment, the pressure vessel of the valve includes a generally hollow extension 714 that is generally parallel to and concentric with the second shaft, allowing the second shaft to rise into the extension 714 when the valve 700 is open, but to move out of the extension 714 when the valve is closed.

[0092] In one embodiment, the outer magnet cylinder 702 is rotated by a hand crank 708, and includes one or more fixed permanent magnets or electromagnets. In another embodiment, the outer magnet cylinder 702 includes one or more electromagnets that can be actuated by at least one actuator, allowing the poles to rotate around the inner magnet element 704 without physical rotation of the outer magnet cylinder 702. The lack of moving parts reduces the chance of damage to the valve requiring replacement due to wear of the parts, reduces the impact of any potential debris between the outer magnet cylinder 702 and the pressure vessel, and reduces the chance of sparking or heat due to frictional forces between the outer magnet cylinder 702 and the pressure vessel. In one embodiment, the valve 700 includes a hand crank 708 that is operable to allow manual use, but is also operable to actuate the electromagnets without physical rotation, allowing either system to be used as desired.

[0093] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the present application, illustrating a computer system, generally described as 800, having a network 810, a plurality of computing devices 820, 830, 840, a server 850, and a database 870.

[0094] The server 850 is structured, configured, and coupled to enable communication with the plurality of computing devices 820, 830, 840 over the network 810. The server 850 includes a processing unit 851 having an operating system 852. The operating system 852 enables the server 850 to communicate with remote, distributed user devices over the network 810. The database 870 is operable to house an operating system 872, a memory 874, and programs 876.

[0095] In one embodiment of the present invention, the system 800 includes a network 810 for distributed communication via wireless communication antennas 812 and processing by at least one mobile communication computing device 830. Alternatively, the wireless and wired communications and connections between the devices and components described herein include wireless network communications, such as WI-FI, Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WIMAX), radio frequency (RF) communications including RF identification (RFID), near field communications (NFC), Bluetooth including Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), ZIGBEE, infrared (IR) communications, cellular communications, satellite communications, universal serial bus (USB), Ethernet communications, communications via fiber optic cables, coaxial cables, twisted pairs, and / or any other type of wireless or wired communications. In another embodiment of the present invention, the system 800 is a virtualized computing system capable of executing any or all aspects of the software and / or application components presented herein on computing devices 820, 830, 840. In some aspects, the computer system 800 is operable to be implemented using hardware or a combination of software and hardware, which is in a dedicated computing device, integrated into another entity, or distributed across multiple entities or computing devices.

[0096] By way of example and not limitation, computing devices 820, 830, and 840 are intended to represent various forms of electronic devices that include at least a processor and memory, such as servers, blade servers, mainframes, mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), smartphones, desktop computers, netbook computers, tablet computers, workstations, laptop computers, and other similar computing devices. The components shown here, their connections and relationships, and their functions are merely exemplary and are not intended to limit implementations of the inventions described and / or claimed in this application.

[0097] In one embodiment, the computing device 820 includes components such as a processor 860, a system memory 862 having random access memory (RAM) 864 and read-only memory (ROM) 866, and a system bus 868 coupling the memory 862 to the processor 860. In another embodiment, the computing device 830 may be operable to further include components such as a storage device 890 for storing an operating system 892 and one or more application programs 894, a network interface unit 896, and / or an input / output controller 898. The various components may be operable to be coupled to each other via at least one bus 868. The input / output controller 898 may be operable to receive input from and process the input or provide output to a plurality of other devices 899, including but not limited to an alphanumeric input device, a mouse, an electronic stylus, a display unit, a touch screen, a game controller, a joystick, a touchpad, a signal generating device (e.g., a speaker), an augmented reality / virtual reality (AR / VR) device (e.g., an AR / VR headset), or a printer.

[0098] By way of example and not limitation, processor 860 may operate as a general purpose microprocessor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic device (PLD), a controller, a state machine, gating or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any other suitable entity capable of performing computations, processing instructions for execution, and / or other information manipulation, or a combination thereof.

[0099] In another implementation, Figure 20 As shown in 840, multiple processors 860 and / or multiple buses 868 are operable to be used with multiple types of memories 862 as appropriate (e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core).

[0100] Furthermore, multiple computing devices may be operatively connected, with each device providing portions of the necessary operations (eg, a server bank, a group of blade servers, or a multi-processor system). Alternatively, some steps or methods may be operatively performed by circuitry specific to a given function.

[0101] According to various embodiments, the computer system 800 is operable to operate in a networked environment using logical connections to local and / or remote computing devices 820, 830, 840 via a network 810. The computing device 830 is operable to connect to the network 810 via a network interface unit 896 connected to the bus 868. The computing device is operable to transmit a communication medium via a wired network, a direct wired connection, or wirelessly (e.g., acoustically, RF, or infrared, via an antenna 897 in communication with a network antenna 812 and a network interface unit 896), which may be operable to include digital signal processing circuitry as necessary. The network interface unit 896 is operable to provide communication in various modes or protocols.

[0102] In one or more example aspects, the instructions are operable to be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. The computer readable medium is operable to provide volatile or non-volatile storage for one or more sets of instructions, such as operating systems, data structures, program modules, applications, or other data that embody any one or more of the methods or functions described herein. The computer readable medium is operable to include memory 862, processor 860, and / or storage media 890, and is operable to be a single medium or multiple media (e.g., centralized or distributed computer systems) that store the one or more sets of instructions 900. The non-transitory computer readable medium includes all computer readable medium, with the sole exception being a transitory propagating signal. The instructions 900 are also operable to be sent or received over network 810 via network interface unit 896, which is operable to be a communications medium that includes modulated data signals, such as carrier waves or other transport mechanisms, and includes any delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” means a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal.

[0103] Storage devices 890 and memory 862 include, but are not limited to, volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media, implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Storage devices 890 and memory 862 include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by the computer system 800.

[0104] In one embodiment, computer system 800 is within a cloud-based network. In one embodiment, server 850 is a designated physical server for distributed computing devices 820, 830, and 840. In one embodiment, server 850 is a cloud-based server platform. In one embodiment, the cloud-based server platform hosts serverless functionality for distributed computing devices 820, 830, and 840.

[0105] In another embodiment, computer system 800 is within an edge computing network. Server 850 is an edge server and database 870 is an edge database. Edge server 850 and edge database 870 are part of an edge computing platform. In one embodiment, edge server 850 and edge database 870 are designated to distributed computing devices 820, 830, and 840. In one embodiment, edge server 850 and edge database 870 are not designated to distributed computing devices 820, 830, and 840. Distributed computing devices 820, 830, and 840 connect to edge servers in the edge computing network based on proximity, availability, latency, bandwidth, and / or other factors.

[0106] It is also contemplated that computer system 800 can operate as a standalone device or can be part of a network of devices. As described above, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that aspects of the application, including all the components and the functionality offered by the individual components, can be implemented in many different embodiments of software, firmware, and / or hardware. In one embodiment, computer system 800 includes a processor 802, a memory 804, a storage device 806, and input / output devices 808, which are configured as shown in the figure. Figure 20 Various components in the described embodiments can have the same technical and / or functional characterizations. For example, the components of computer system 800 can be configured to operate as described above. It is also contemplated that computer system 800 can operate as a standalone device or can be part of a network of devices. As described above, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that aspects of the application, including all the components and the functionality offered by the individual components, can be implemented in many different embodiments of software, firmware, and / or hardware. In one embodiment, computer system 800 includes a processor 802, a memory 804, a storage device 806, and input / output devices 808, which are configured as shown in the figure. Figure 20 It is also contemplated that computer system 800 can operate as a standalone device or can be part of a network of devices. As described above, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that aspects of the application, including all the components and the functionality offered by the individual components, can be implemented in many different embodiments of software, firmware, and / or hardware. In one embodiment, computer system 800 includes a processor 802, a memory 804, a storage device 806, and input / output devices 808, which are configured as shown in the figure. Figure 20 The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, elements, circuits, and algorithms described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Skilled artisans can implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the present application.

[0107] Those skilled in the art will envision certain modifications and improvements after the foregoing description. The examples described above are provided for the purpose of illustrating aspects of the present application and, as will become apparent to those skilled in the art, are not intended to limit the scope of the present application. All modifications and improvements have been deleted herein for purposes of conciseness and readability but are fully within the scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A magnetically activated rising stem valve comprising: a first shaft comprising a stopper at a first end, wherein the stopper is configured to block the tube when the valve is in a closed position; a second shaft including a distal end rotationally coupled to the second end of the first shaft such that rotation of the second shaft causes rotation of the first shaft; an internal magnetic element attached to the proximal end of the second shaft; a valve housing enclosing the first shaft, the second shaft, and the internal magnetic element, wherein the valve housing is sealed and defines a pressure vessel for the valve; an outer magnetic cylinder surrounding a portion of the valve housing surrounding the inner magnetic element; and an actuator configured to activate one or more electromagnets in the outer magnetic cylinder; wherein actuation of the one or more electromagnets does not physically rotate the outer magnetic cylinder relative to the inner magnetic element; and Wherein, the first shaft and the second shaft are rotationally coupled via at least one gear element.

2. The valve according to claim 1, wherein The central axis of the first shaft is substantially orthogonal to the central axis of the second shaft.

3. The valve of claim 1 further comprising a hand crank attached to the outer magnetic cylinder.

4. The valve according to claim 1, wherein The second shaft includes a first portion and a second portion connected by a gear train, wherein the first portion is coupled to the first shaft and the second portion is connected to the internal magnetic element.

5. The valve according to claim 1, wherein The at least one gear element includes a worm gear attached to the distal end of the second shaft.

6. The valve according to claim 1, wherein The valve housing includes a generally hollow extension, wherein the generally hollow extension is parallel to and concentric with the first axis such that the generally hollow extension is configured to receive the first axis.

7. The valve according to claim 1, wherein The first shaft is part of a pre-existing valve system, and the second shaft, the valve housing, and the outer magnetic cylinder are retrofitted around the first shaft.

8. The valve according to claim 1, wherein The pipes transport oil or natural gas.

9. A magnetically activated rising stem valve comprising: a first shaft comprising a stopper at a first end, wherein the stopper is configured to block the tube when the valve is in a closed position; a second shaft including a distal end rotationally coupled to the second end of the first shaft such that rotation of the second shaft causes rotation of the first shaft; an internal magnetic element attached to the proximal end of the second shaft; a valve housing enclosing the first shaft, the second shaft, and the internal magnetic element, wherein the valve housing is sealed and defines a pressure vessel for the valve; and an outer magnetic cylinder surrounding a portion of the valve housing surrounding the inner magnetic element; wherein the first shaft and the second shaft are rotationally coupled by at least one gear element, the at least one gear element comprising a worm gear attached to the distal end of the second shaft; and The central axis of the first shaft is substantially perpendicular to the central axis of the second shaft.

10. The valve according to claim 9, wherein The outer magnetic cylinder includes one or more electromagnets.

11. The valve according to claim 9, wherein The valve housing includes a generally hollow extension, wherein the generally hollow extension is parallel to and concentric with the first axis such that the generally hollow extension is configured to receive the first axis.

12. The valve according to claim 9, wherein The second shaft includes a first portion and a second portion connected by a gear train, wherein the first portion is coupled to the first shaft and the second portion is connected to the internal magnetic element.

13. The valve according to claim 9, wherein The first shaft is part of a pre-existing valve system, and the second shaft, the valve housing, and the outer magnetic cylinder are retrofitted around the first shaft.

14. The valve according to claim 9, wherein The pipes transport oil or natural gas.

15. The valve of claim 9, further comprising a hand crank attached to the outer magnetic cylinder.

16. The valve according to claim 9, wherein The outer magnetic cylinder includes one or more electromagnets operable to be activated by an actuator, and wherein activation of the one or more electromagnets does not physically rotate the outer magnetic cylinder relative to the inner magnetic element.

17. A magnetically activated rising stem valve comprising: a first shaft comprising a stop at a first end, wherein the stop is configured to block the tube when the valve is in a closed position; a second shaft including a distal end rotationally coupled to the second end of the first shaft such that rotation of the second shaft causes rotation of the first shaft; an internal magnetic element attached to the proximal end of the second shaft; a valve housing enclosing the first shaft, the second shaft, and the internal magnetic element, wherein the valve housing is sealed and defines a pressure vessel for the valve; and an outer magnetic cylinder surrounding a portion of the valve housing surrounding the inner magnetic element; wherein the first shaft and the second shaft are rotationally coupled via at least one gear element; wherein the first shaft is part of a pre-existing valve system, and the second shaft, the valve housing, and the outer magnetic cylinder are retrofitted around the first shaft; and The pipe transports oil or natural gas.

18. The valve according to claim 17, wherein The central axis of the first shaft is substantially orthogonal to the central axis of the second shaft.

19. The valve of claim 17, further comprising a hand crank attached to the outer magnetic cylinder.

20. The valve according to claim 17, wherein The outer magnetic cylinder includes one or more electromagnets operable to be activated by an actuator, and wherein activation of the one or more electromagnets does not physically rotate the outer magnetic cylinder relative to the inner magnetic element.

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