Concentric Spring-Loaded Valve Closure for Universal Coupler Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve closures for dispensing liquids, particularly carbonated beverages, are specific to certain types and require different dispensing couplers, limiting compatibility and operational flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A valve closure design featuring an inner sleeve with a socket and annular valve seat, a spring-loaded valve member with radial projections, and a dispensing coupler with a tubular probe and circumferential locking recess, allowing for universal compatibility with various valve types and couplers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different valve formats are used to control liquid flow, then specific dispensing functions are achieved, but compatibility with dispensing couplers is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The valve closure is designed with a standardized socket interface that can accommodate multiple types of dispensing couplers (A-type, G-type, S-type, D-type, and M-type valves), making a single valve design universal across different dispensing systems. The socket receives various coupler probes through a common interface, eliminating the need for multiple specialized valve formats.
2Reliability
If a fixed central core pin is used to control ports, then simple valve operation is achieved, but operational reliability under pressure is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The valve closure divides the single-port control into two separate concentric valve members, each controlling a different port (liquid flow path and gas path). The inner valve member controls the liquid flow path while the outer valve member controls the gas path, allowing independent operation and more reliable sealing under pressure compared to a single fixed core pin design.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve closure employs nested concentric valve members where the inner valve member is positioned within the outer valve member. Both members are spring-loaded and can be independently actuated, creating a compact multi-functional valve structure that improves reliability through redundant sealing surfaces and independent port control.
3Ease of operation
If spring-loaded valve members are used to control ports, then automatic closure is achieved, but the need for multiple concentric members increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The valve closure segments the valve control into two independent spring-loaded members, each responsible for a specific port. The inner spring-loaded valve member controls liquid flow while the outer spring-loaded valve member controls gas flow, allowing automatic closure of each port independently through its own spring mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The concentric nested structure allows two spring-loaded valve members to occupy the same axial space efficiently. The inner valve member with its spring is positioned within the outer valve member assembly, creating a compact design where multiple spring-loaded members coexist without excessive complexity.
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 reliable connection, dispensing, and closure of the valve across different valve formats and couplers, ensuring improved liquid flow and gas introduction without the need for modifications, enhancing operational flexibility and compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
spring means (24) urging the valve member (21) against the inner valve seat (18)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A valve closure for dispensing liquid by means of a pressurised gas has an inner sleeve (12) which includes a socket (16) and an annular inner valve seat (18). The inner sleeve carries a ring seal (14) which is urged against an outer valve seat (9) by an outer spring (15). A valve member (21) has an annular sealing face (23) co-operable with the inner valve seat (18) and a spring (24) urges the valve member (21) against the inner valve seat (18). The valve member (21) incorporates a plurality of projections (26) spaced radially inwards from the annular sealing face (23). The valve closure can be used with a dispensing coupler having a tubular probe with a circumferential ring seal and a locking recess to engage the locking fingers of a detachable closing element.