Hydropneumatic Valve Control with Rotating Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressurized fluid control devices for valves have drawbacks such as non-integrated locking means, requiring manual tightening which can lead to deterioration and unsatisfactory locking, and limited locking power, especially when dealing with larger piston surfaces that can cause unintended valve opening.
Innovation Solution
A valve control device with a movable element that can be rotated to control pressurized fluid intake directly, combined with mechanical blocking means activated by rotation, featuring a disc-shaped portion, cylindrical elements, and radial compression elements like steel beads for enhanced locking and force amplification, along with sealing means to ensure secure fluid management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual tightening control is used for locking means, then the device can be simply designed, but the locking means deteriorate and may provide unsatisfactory locking
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means automatically engage and lock the piston in the closed position without requiring manual tightening operations. The spring-loaded locking elements self-activate when the piston moves to the closed position, eliminating the need for user intervention and preventing deterioration from manual tightening while ensuring reliable locking.
2Force
If a larger piston surface is used for force demultiplication, then the control force is amplified, but the blocker may be blocked and the valve may open unintentionally
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means are positioned and configured to engage the piston or control rod before the pneumatic force from the larger piston surface can cause unintended valve opening. The spring-loaded locking elements preemptively secure the valve in the closed position, counteracting the potential harmful effect of excessive pneumatic force before it can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded locking mechanism provides a pre-established mechanical constraint that cushions against the potential failure mode of unintended valve opening. The springs are pre-compressed to provide immediate locking force that compensates for the high pneumatic forces generated by the larger piston surface area.
3Device complexity
If locking means are placed outside the device, then the device structure is simplified, but the locking power is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means are integrated within the device body, merging the locking function with the existing structural components. The locking elements are positioned inside the device housing and act directly on the piston or control rod, combining the benefits of integrated design with high locking power through direct mechanical engagement within the force transmission path.
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 solution provides a simple and secure method to activate or deactivate locking means through rotation, enhancing the locking power and preventing unintended valve opening, while maintaining a compact and less complex design compared to existing devices.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of radial compression means, arranged in a radial manner with respect to the longitudinal axis and comprising steel beads
Implementation Method 2
the control chamber being adapted to be connected to a pressurized fluid intake
Data Source
AI summary
Valve control device includes a body with a longitudinal axis, a control member housed at least partially in the body in a bottom portion along the longitudinal axis, a piston movable along the longitudinal axis and housed in a portion of the body forming with the piston a control chamber of the piston, an element movable in rotation with respect to the longitudinal axis on a top portion of the body, and sealing means between the movable element and the control chamber in the area of the connection port and/or of the passage.