Failsafe Valve Module With Latched Spring Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve actuation systems face challenges in efficiently and reliably moving valves to a safe position during emergencies, particularly due to stress cycling of springs and the need for oversized actuators and valves to handle varying forces, leading to inefficiencies and reduced lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A failsafe module with a coupling mechanism that includes an intermediate member and an energy storage device, where the energy storage device is isolated from the coupling between the input and output members when the latch mechanism is engaged, allowing the actuator to be sized only for the maximum torque requirement and preventing stress cycling of the energy storage device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring is permanently coupled to both the output of the actuator and the input of the valve, then the valve can be actuated to a safe position in emergency, but the spring is stress-cycled with each valve operation and heavy stress is put through the actuator
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: the intermediate member that transmits actuator motion, the energy storage device that stores potential energy, and the latch mechanism that controls engagement. This segmentation allows the spring to be isolated from stress during normal operation while remaining available for emergency actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate member acts as a mediator between the actuator and the spring, allowing the actuator to operate the valve without directly stress-cycling the spring. The intermediate member transfers motion during normal operation while the latch mechanism prevents energy storage device engagement during routine cycles.
2Force
If the spring is sized to provide sufficient force at fully compressed condition, then the valve can be actuated against maximum spring load, but the actuator and valve components must be oversized to handle the extra load
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage device is pre-charged to stored potential energy during normal operation through the intermediate member, so that when emergency actuation is required, the pre-stored energy is released to drive the valve to the safe position without requiring the actuator to generate maximum force at that moment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static spring-force model to a dynamic energy storage and release model. The latch mechanism dynamically engages and disengages the energy storage device based on operational mode, allowing the actuator to be sized for normal operation while the energy storage device provides the additional force needed for emergency actuation.
3Reliability
If separate motors and actuators are used to rewind or manage the springs, then the spring can be managed, but the system becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate member serves multiple functions: it transmits actuator motion during normal operation, charges the energy storage device by winding the spring, and controls the engagement/disengagement of the latch mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate motors or actuators to manage the spring.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator itself performs the spring management function by driving the intermediate member to wind the spring during normal operation. The system is self-sufficient, requiring no external or separate mechanisms to rewind or manage the energy storage device.
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
This solution enhances the reliability and efficiency of valve actuation by isolating the energy storage device from the coupling, reducing stress on the actuator and valve, and increasing the lifespan of the energy storage device, while ensuring the valve can be safely positioned during emergencies.
Implementation Method 1
an energy storage device acting between the output member and the intermediate member, such that movement of the intermediate member relative to the output member from the first position to the second position energises the energy storage device
Data Source
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AI summary
A failsafe module comprising an input member (310), an output member (312), and a coupling mechanism for coupling the input member to the output member. The coupling mechanism comprises an intermediate member (316a) movable relative to the output member to energise an energy storage device and a latch mechanism (318, 320) to hold the energy storage device in an energised state. When the latch mechanism is engaged, the input and output members are coupled together and the energy storage device is held in an energised state and isolated from the coupling between the input and output members. When the latch mechanism is released, the energy storage device can release its energy to drive the output member to a predetermined position.