Compact Gas Reducer With Integrated Shut-Off Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressure reduction systems for compressed gas sources are not compact enough to fit in limited spaces, such as those found in medical technology, and do not effectively reduce the likelihood of contamination in ultrapure gas extraction.
Innovation Solution
A compact pressure reducer design with a base body, pressure control device, adjustable pressure pin, integrated shut-off element, and handwheel for pressure control, which includes a spring mechanism and shut-off function to safely interrupt and resume gas flow, minimizing contamination risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pressure reducer and shut-off valve are provided as separate components, then the shut-off function and pressure control function can be independently achieved, but the device occupies more space and cannot be accommodated in space-constrained environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shut-off valve and pressure reducer into a single integrated device. The shut-off element with sealing surface is incorporated directly into the pressure reducer body, allowing both shut-off and pressure reduction functions to be performed by one compact component rather than requiring separate valve and pressure reducer units.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure reducer is designed to perform multiple functions: pressure reduction through the pressure control element, complete shut-off through the integrated shut-off element with sealing surface, and flow direction control through the deflectable seal. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components.
2Volume of moving object
If a compact pressure reducer design is implemented, then space requirements are reduced, but the likelihood of contamination entering the ultrapure gas increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the high-pressure gas itself to force the seal against the sealing surface during shut-off, converting the potentially harmful high pressure into a beneficial sealing force. The gas pressure ensures complete sealing contact, preventing contamination while maintaining the compact design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs visual indicators (color-coded markings) to show the shut-off status and ensure proper orientation of the device. This prevents operational errors that could lead to contamination while maintaining the compact integrated design.
3Reliability
If the sealing element is deflectable towards the inlet, then complete sealing during shut-off is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is designed to be deflectable by the gas flow itself, using the incoming high-pressure gas to force the seal against the sealing surface. This self-actuating mechanism eliminates the need for additional actuators or complex control systems, achieving reliable sealing through the natural behavior of the gas flow.
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
The solution allows for safe and efficient handling of high-purity gas extraction in a compact form, reducing contamination risks and maintaining set gas pressure after shut-off, suitable for space-constrained environments like medical technology.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring (6) arranged on the spring cup (5)
Implementation Method 2
The pressure control device is a handwheel for pressure control
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The reducer (1) has a base body (13) comprising connecting pieces (21, 24) i.e. radial channels, and a hand wheel (28) for regulating gas pressure. A blocking element is integrated to interrupt gas flow by a pressure pin (27) independent of adjustment of the hand wheel. Another hand wheel (29) is arranged at a distal end of the reducer. The former hand wheel is arranged between the latter hand wheel and the base body. A distal end of a traction rod (8) is connected with a connection screw (14), and a proximal end of the rod is connected with a spring retainer (5). An independent claim is also included for a method for removal of compression-, technical- and pure gases.