Unisex Ball Valve Coupling Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing unisex couplings lack a mechanism to prevent the ball valve from being inadvertently opened when the coupling halves are disconnected, leading to potential spillage and pressure loss.
Innovation Solution
A cross shaft with stepped diameters and a spring-loaded mechanism is employed to secure the ball valve in the closed position when the coupling is disconnected, preventing rotation and ensuring the coupling is connected and sealed before the valve can be opened.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is used to prevent inadvertent disconnection of coupling halves, then connection security is improved, but the ball valve can still be inadvertently opened when disconnected
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking function is segmented from the coupling locking mechanism and integrated into the valve shaft assembly. The blocking member operates independently to prevent valve opening, while the coupling locking mechanism independently prevents disconnection. This segmentation allows each function to be optimized separately and resolves the contradiction by adding a dedicated blocking function without compromising connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking member acts as an intermediary element between the valve shaft and the handle. It mediates the rotational motion by physically blocking the valve shaft from rotating when in the disconnected state, while allowing full rotation when connected. This intermediary blocking mechanism prevents inadvertent opening without affecting the coupling locking function.
2Ease of operation
If the valve handle can be freely turned to open the valve, then ease of operation is improved, but inadvertent opening can occur when disconnected
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member dynamically changes its position based on the coupling state. When connected, the blocking member is retracted to allow free handle rotation and valve operation. When disconnected, the blocking member extends to prevent rotation. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by providing ease of operation when needed while ensuring spillage prevention when disconnected.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking mechanism is self-actuating through the spring-loaded blocking member that automatically engages or disengages based on the coupling state. The spring provides the blocking force when disconnected, and the coupling connection itself serves to retract the blocking member, eliminating the need for additional control mechanisms.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a spring-loaded blocking member is used to prevent valve opening, then spillage security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member is merged with the valve shaft assembly as an integrated component rather than a separate mechanism. The blocking member is positioned within the valve shaft structure and operates in conjunction with the cam section and handle. This merging reduces overall device complexity by combining multiple functions into a single integrated assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve shaft assembly serves multiple functions: it transmits rotational motion from the handle to open/close the valve, provides the cam section for the locking mechanism, and incorporates the blocking member for spillage prevention. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining all required safety functions.
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
This solution effectively prevents inadvertent opening of the ball valve when the coupling is disconnected, enhancing spillage security and maintaining pressure, thus providing a more secure sealing mechanism compared to prior art.
Implementation Method 1
The blocking member is spring-loaded so that when the coupling is in the disconnected position, one end of the blocking member protrudes beyond the interface end of the coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A unisex ball valve coupling includes an interface end that engages an interface end of a mating coupling half assembly. A valve of the coupling has a valve body, which has an open position in which fluid flow is permitted through the internal passage and a closed position in which the valve body closes off fluid flow through the internal passage. A valve shaft rotates with the valve body between the open position and the closed position. The valve shaft has a first surface. A blocking member is movable from a blocking position to a non-blocking position within the body portion. In the blocking position, the blocking member engages the first surface of the valve shaft to secure the valve body in the closed position and, in the non-blocking position, the blocking member does not engage the first surface of the valve shaft to permit opening of the valve.