Flow Controlled Actuator for Self-Closing Stop Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Internal self-closing stop valves used in cargo tanks and vapor return lines face challenges in rapid pressure equalization and uncontrolled movement during operation, leading to longer times for valve opening and potential hazards during hazardous material discharge.
Innovation Solution
A flow controlled actuator apparatus is introduced, comprising a pneumatic actuator and a limited relief valve with a restricted aperture, allowing controlled fluid flow to manage pressure differentials and facilitate intermediate positions for rapid bleed and full opening, while ensuring safe closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a pneumatic actuator is used to remotely operate the internal valve, then fast operation between fully closed and fully open positions is achieved, but pressure equalization time increases due to uncontrolled movement
Solution Approach 1:
A flow control valve is introduced as an intermediary device between the pneumatic actuator and the internal valve. This intermediary controls the flow of pneumatic fluid to the actuator, enabling precise control of the actuator's movement speed. The flow control valve allows the system to achieve both fast operation and controlled pressure equalization by regulating the pneumatic fluid flow rate during valve transition.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static or binary control to dynamic control by incorporating a flow control valve that can adjust the pneumatic fluid flow rate in real-time. This allows the valve operation speed and pressure equalization rate to be dynamically adjusted during the opening/closing process, optimizing both response time and pressure management.
2Productivity
If uncontrolled movement is allowed during valve operation, then fast operation is achieved, but intermediate positions are not maintained long enough for proper pressure equalization
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control valve provides feedback control by monitoring and adjusting the pneumatic fluid flow rate based on the actuator's position and the pressure differential. This feedback mechanism ensures that the valve maintains intermediate positions long enough for proper pressure equalization while still achieving fast overall operation, thereby improving both productivity and reliability.
3Speed
If the valve opens rapidly without flow control, then operational speed is improved, but hazardous material discharge risk increases during unloading operations
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control valve serves as a safety intermediary that regulates the pneumatic fluid flow to the actuator during valve opening. By controlling the rate at which the actuator moves the internal valve, it prevents rapid uncontrolled discharge of hazardous materials while maintaining efficient operation. The flow control valve ensures that pressure equalization occurs at a safe rate during unloading operations.
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 apparatus enables faster and safer operation of self-closing stop valves by controlling flow rates, reducing pressure equalization time and preventing uncontrolled movements, thus enhancing protection against hazardous material discharge.
Implementation Method 1
a pneumatic actuator, such as a spring return brake actuator, may be used to remotely operate the internal valve
Implementation Method 2
a limited relief valve with a restricted aperture, allowing controlled fluid flow to manage pressure differentials
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus (10) for operating a device such as a self-closing internal valve (20) is disclosed. The apparatus includes a housing assembly (40) having an internal chamber (42), a fluid inlet (64) in fluid communication with the internal chamber, and an actuator stem extending from the housing assembly. The actuator stem (52) is moveable in response to the addition or removal of a fluid into or out of the internal chamber. To control the flow rate of a fluid into and out of the internal chamber, the apparatus includes a fluid control valve (32) in fluid communication with the fluid inlet (64) of the housing assembly, wherein the fluid control valve is adapted to restrict the rate of fluid flow into the internal chamber of the housing assembly.