Integrated Diaphragm Plug for Controlled Container Depressurization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for depressurizing pressurized containers are complex and inefficient, particularly when they require separate diaphragm puncture devices, which are not easy to use for controlled gas release.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a plug, diaphragm, and screw where the diaphragm is welded to the plug, with a non-circular transverse cross-section lance that ruptures the diaphragm upon rotation, allowing controlled gas release through a passage with outlets arranged to minimize lateral force, enabling easy depressurization without releasing gas through the main outlet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate diaphragm puncture device is used, then the gas release function is achieved, but the device complexity increases and ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the plug and diaphragm into a single integrated unit where the diaphragm is welded to the plug body. This eliminates the need for separate puncture devices and simplifies the overall system, allowing the plug to perform both sealing and controlled gas release functions through a single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a sealing element to prevent gas escape and a controlled release mechanism through its integrated diaphragm. The non-circular cross-section feature enables the plug to rotate and puncture the diaphragm when needed, providing both containment and release capabilities in one device.
2Ease of manufacture
If the diaphragm is separate from the plug, then replacement is possible, but the ease of operation and installation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The diaphragm is welded to the plug body, creating a single manufactured unit. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing the number of assembly steps and ensures proper positioning of the diaphragm relative to the plug, while the entire unit can still be replaced as one component if needed.
3Reliability
If gas is released through the main outlet, then depressurization is achieved, but loss of useful gas occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the gas release function from the main outlet by providing a separate auxiliary outlet. This allows the main outlet to remain sealed and preserve the useful gas, while the auxiliary outlet serves exclusively for pressure relief through diaphragm rupture, preventing loss of valuable inert gas.
4Ease of manufacture
If a circular cross-section lance is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but controlled rotation and diaphragm rupture is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The lance is given a non-circular cross-section (such as square, rectangular, or triangular) instead of a circular one. This asymmetric shape prevents the lance from rotating freely and ensures it maintains a specific orientation when inserted into the diaphragm, enabling reliable puncture action. The non-circular section is provided along the majority of the lance length, with only the tip being pointed for initial rupture.
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 device provides a simple and effective method for plugging and depressurizing pressurized containers, allowing controlled gas release without the need for complex operations, ensuring safe and efficient pressure relief.
Implementation Method 1
The lance may comprise a pointed end portion, e.g. a sharpened tip, for intially rupturing or displacing the diaphragm
Implementation Method 2
The outlets may be arranged such that there is substantially no net lateral force on the plug as gas escapes from the plug in use
Data Source
Figure 1~3C
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A device for controlling the release of gas from a pressurised container, the device comprising a plug comprising a passage therethrough, a diaphragm within said passage, wherein said diaphragm is configured to initially prevent flow of gas through said passage, and is rupturable or displaceable to allow gas to flow through said passage once said diaphragm is ruptured or displaced. The device further comprises a screw located within said plug and comprising a lance configured to move towards said diaphragm upon rotation of said screw, wherein said lance is configured to rupture or displace said diaphragm so as to allow flow of gas through said passage and out of said plug, once said screw is rotated a predetermined amount.