Fluid Regulator Connector Assembly for Response Speed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid regulators with balanced port regulator valves and trim assemblies respond slowly to increased downstream pressure demands due to the lack of connection between the actuator stem and the balanced trim assembly, which prevents the trim assembly from moving away from the valve port.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly, including a retainer and a snap ring, is used to connect the actuator stem to the balanced trim assembly, ensuring that the actuator stem assists in moving the valve disc and balanced trim assembly together, thereby improving the speed of response to downstream pressure changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the actuator stem is not connected to the balanced trim assembly, then the structure is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the speed of response to downstream pressure changes is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently manufactured and assembled. The connector includes a retainer portion with external threads that engage with the actuator stem, and a valve disc portion with internal threads that engage with the balanced trim assembly. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing of individual components while achieving the desired connected functionality for improved response speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly features a nested structure where the retainer portion is positioned within the actuator stem assembly, and the valve disc portion is positioned within the balanced trim assembly. The connector effectively nests between these two assemblies, creating a compact connection that integrates smoothly into the existing regulator structure without adding significant external complexity.
2Loss of time
If the actuator stem is connected to the balanced trim assembly, then the response time to downstream pressure demands is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly incorporates threaded engagement mechanisms that allow for dynamic assembly and disassembly. The external threads on the retainer portion engage with internal threads in the actuator stem, while the internal threads on the valve disc portion engage with external threads in the balanced trim assembly. This dynamic connection system enables quick installation and removal of the connector, facilitating maintenance and adjustment while maintaining the improved response time during operation.
3Ease of repair
If a removable connector assembly is used to connect the actuator stem to the valve disc, then the ease of repair is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is pre-configured with standardized threaded connections that match the actuator stem and balanced trim assembly interfaces. The retainer portion includes pre-formed external threads, and the valve disc portion includes pre-formed internal threads, allowing for quick engagement without requiring complex alignment or adjustment during repair operations. This preliminary preparation of connection interfaces significantly reduces repair time and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily replaced if worn or damaged. The threaded metal construction provides durability while keeping manufacturing costs low. If the connector becomes worn or damaged, it can be quickly replaced without needing to replace entire assemblies, making it an economical solution that improves ease of repair while adding minimal complexity to the overall device.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid regulator includes a balance port regulator valve and an actuator coupled to the regulator valve. The regulator valve has an inlet, an outlet, a valve port disposed between the inlet and the outlet, and a valve disc movable along a longitudinal axis between a closed position in which the valve disc sealingly engages the valve port and an open position in which the valve disc is spaced apart from the valve port. The actuator is responsive to fluid pressure to move an actuator stem along the longitudinal axis. A connector assembly operably and removably connects the valve disc to the actuator stem.