Dual-Actuator Valve Assembly with Integrated Pressure Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional valve actuators require additional space and are cumbersome to coordinate, especially when multiple actuators are needed to provide sufficient force for operating valves in hydrocarbon recovery wells, leading to inefficiencies in operation and space utilization.
Innovation Solution
A dual-actuator assembly with a first and second actuator housing, each with a plate and pressure chamber, connected via an intermediate stem and seal nut, allowing for coordinated operation through a pressure media path, enabling efficient resizing and enhanced force application for valve actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If multiple actuators are used to provide sufficient force for valve operation, then the opening and closing force is improved, but the device occupies more space and becomes more complex to coordinate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate actuators into a single integrated dual-actuator assembly where both actuators share a common housing structure and coordinated control system. This merging approach allows the system to achieve the combined force of two actuators while occupying less space than two separate actuators would require, directly resolving the technical contradiction between force output and space occupation.
2Force
If multiple actuators are used to provide sufficient force for valve operation, then the opening and closing force is improved, but the coordination and operation becomes more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates two actuators into a unified assembly with shared control mechanisms and coordinated pressure media distribution. This merging eliminates the need for separate coordination of multiple independent actuators, making the system easier to operate while maintaining the force advantages of having dual actuators working together.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact dual-actuator design is implemented, then space utilization is improved, but the complexity of internal coordination mechanisms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where one actuator is positioned within or alongside the other actuator housing, with shared components such as the common housing structure and integrated pressure media pathways. This nesting approach achieves compact space utilization while managing internal complexity through hierarchical organization of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the dual-actuator assembly with universal components that serve multiple functions, such as a common housing that provides structural support for both actuators and an integrated pressure media system that supplies control fluid to both actuators simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing overall complexity while maintaining compact dimensions.
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 dual-actuator assembly provides increased opening and closing force, greater control, and space-saving design, allowing for efficient operation of valves in hydrocarbon recovery wells by coordinating the action of dual actuators within a compact structure.
Implementation Method 1
The first plate is moveable between a first plate-up position and a first plate-down position in response to pressure media injected into the injection port, and the second plate is movable between a second plate-up position and a second plate-down position in response to pressure media injected into the injection port
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for actuating a valve includes a first actuator having a first actuator housing and second actuator with a second actuator housing. A first plate is positioned within the first actuator housing and a second plate is positioned within the second actuator housing. An intermediate stem extends from a first pressure chamber of the first actuator housing to the second plate. A pressure media path extends through the intermediate stem and a second seal nut that extends into the second plate, the pressure media path providing fluid communication between the first pressure chamber, and a second pressure chamber of the second actuator housing. An injection port is open into one of the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber. The first plate and the second plate are movable in response to pressure media injected into the injection port, for actuating the valve.