Adjustable Spring Seat Valve Assembly for Fluid Pressure Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve assemblies with spring bias systems lack an efficient mechanism for adjusting the spring force to accommodate varying fluid pressures, leading to inconsistent valve operation and fluid flow control.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly with an adjustable second spring seat mounted on threads, rotatably engaged with an end cap through a keyed joint, allowing for incremental adjustments to the spring force by rotating the end cap, which changes the position of the second spring seat, thereby modifying the preload spring's compression range and fluid pressure actuation point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the spring force is fixed in traditional valve assemblies, then the structure is simple, but the valve cannot adapt to varying fluid pressures
Solution Approach 1:
The spring seat is made adjustable through a threaded connection mechanism, allowing the position of the spring seat to be changed relative to the spring. This enables dynamic adaptation of the spring force to match varying fluid pressures, transforming a static structure into a dynamically adjustable one that can accommodate different operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameter of spring force by allowing adjustment of the spring seat position along the threaded connection. By modifying the initial compression of the spring through positional adjustment, the system can adapt to different fluid pressure conditions while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the spring force is adjusted in traditional valve assemblies, then the adaptability improves, but the adjustment mechanism becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces complex adjustment mechanisms with a simple threaded connection system. The threaded interface between the spring seat and the valve body provides a straightforward mechanical means for adjusting spring force, eliminating the need for complicated adjustment devices while maintaining ease of modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded connection serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the spring seat, enables adjustment of the spring force, and allows for easy assembly and disassembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms, simplifying the overall device structure.
3Ease of operation
If the valve assembly requires complete disassembly for spring force adjustment, then the structure is simple, but the operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is segmented such that the spring seat can be independently adjusted without disassembling the entire valve. The threaded connection allows the spring seat to be accessed and adjusted separately, enabling quick modification of spring force while maintaining the integrity of the overall valve structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded connection is pre-configured to allow easy access to the spring seat for adjustment. The design anticipates future adjustment needs by providing a built-in adjustment mechanism that can be accessed without complete disassembly, saving time when adjustments are required.
4Reliability
If the spring force is not adjustable, then the device is simpler, but the valve operation consistency deteriorates under varying pressures
Solution Approach 1:
The spring seat is designed with a threaded connection that allows it to be positioned at different locations along the spring's axis. This dynamic positioning capability enables the spring force to be adjusted to match varying fluid pressure conditions, ensuring consistent valve operation across different operating scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
By allowing adjustment of the spring seat position, the invention changes the initial compression parameter of the spring. This parameter adjustment enables the spring force to be optimized for different fluid pressure conditions, maintaining valve operation consistency while keeping the structural complexity relatively low.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise adjustment of spring force, ensuring consistent valve operation and fluid flow control by allowing the user to set a repeatable and reliable pre-load position without requiring complete disassembly, thus enhancing the reliability and adaptability of the valve assembly.
Implementation Method 1
The keyed joint engages the second spring seat such that rotation of the end cap rotates the second spring seat on the threads to change a set position of the second spring seat
Implementation Method 2
The keyed joint includes at least one arm and at least one opening, and the at least one arm extends through the at least one opening such that the end cap and the second spring seat are rotationally locked together
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
A valve assembly includes a valve body, a first spring seat disposed within the valve body, a preload spring disposed within the valve body and mated with the first spring seat, and a second spring seat disposed within the valve body and mated with the preload spring. The second spring seat is adjustably mated to the valve body.