Dual Source Gas Regulator With Automatic Changeover Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas pressure regulators fail to maintain a set outlet pressure as the high pressure source diminishes, leading to over-pressurization issues in sensitive applications.
Innovation Solution
A gas pressure regulator design featuring a valve and piston assembly with a selectively settable moveable member that switches between two high pressure sources, maintaining a constant outlet pressure by transitioning from one source to another when the pressure drops below a crossover threshold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional gas pressure regulator is used with a depleting high pressure source, then the regulator can initially maintain set pressure, but the set pressure rises above the initial value as the high pressure source drops
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the regulator's internal components movable in response to pressure changes. The piston assembly moves dynamically within the regulator body, adjusting the valve opening based on the differential between inlet pressure and regulated pressure. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows the regulator to compensate for inlet pressure drops and maintain a stable set pressure throughout the depletion of the high pressure source.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the spring-loaded piston mechanism that continuously monitors the regulated pressure and adjusts the valve position accordingly. The spring provides a restoring force that creates a feedback loop: when regulated pressure rises above the set point, the spring pushes the piston to close the valve; when pressure drops below the set point, the spring allows the valve to open. This feedback mechanism ensures the set pressure remains stable even as the inlet pressure from the depleting source changes.
2Reliability
If a single high pressure source is used, then the system is simple, but the system cannot maintain set pressure when the source depletes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the gas supply system into two separate high pressure sources, each with its own dedicated valve and piston assembly. This segmentation allows independent control of each source, enabling the system to switch between them or use them simultaneously. Each segmented subsystem maintains the same pressure regulation functionality, providing redundancy and ensuring continuous pressure maintenance even when one source depletes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing the dual-source regulator so that both high pressure sources can perform the same function of supplying gas to the regulated outlet. The symmetric design with identical valve and piston assemblies for each source allows either source to independently maintain the set pressure. This multi-functionality provides flexibility: the system can use one source exclusively, switch between sources, or combine both sources to maintain continuous operation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the regulated valve shuts off early to prevent over-pressurization, then safety is improved, but the outlet pressure drops below the set value before shutdown
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing advance warning through a visual indicator that shows when the high pressure source is depleting. This allows the user to take preliminary action by switching to the second source or refilling the first source before the pressure regulation becomes compromised. The indicator mechanism detects low inlet pressure conditions and signals the user in advance, preventing the situation where the outlet pressure must drop below the set value before shutdown occurs.
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
Ensures a stable and consistent downstream pressure, preventing over-pressurization and allowing seamless switching between high pressure sources, thus maintaining the set pressure even as the primary source depletes.
Implementation Method 1
a piston having a piston head and a valved opening in the piston head, the piston head for engaging the inner walls of the body in fluid sealing relation
Implementation Method 2
a first spring means; a second spring means
Data Source
AI summary
A regulated automatic changeover valve is provided. A device engages the first and second high pressure gas source for providing a lower pressure gas source downstream of the changeover valve. An eccentric is provided between two valve assemblies, with each valve assembly having a piston with a valve arm projecting therefrom. The eccentric moves a block selectively closer to one of the two valve assemblies. Each valve assembly is engaged to a high pressure source, such as a tank of compressed gas. When a first tank begins to run low, the valve will automatically begin drawing from the second valve assembly. A tank that has run low of compressed gas may be changed out while the second, non-exhausted gas continues to feed the downstream device at a regulated gas pressure.