Magnetic Anti-Rotation Pump Cover Retainer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing service access port cover mechanisms for oilfield pumps are vulnerable to vibrations, which can lead to unintended loosening and loss of hydraulic integrity, necessitating a solution that effectively resists various vibration conditions.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a cover assembly with an indexing device, a retainer, a key, and a magnet, which together form an anti-rotation mechanism to securely block access ports, using a profiled keyway to restrict rotation and ensure the cover remains in place despite mechanical and hydraulic vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional threaded retainer is used to secure the cover, then the cover can be easily installed and removed, but the retainer loosens under vibration conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical threaded retainer system with a hybrid system that incorporates magnetic fields. The magnet assembly (including permanent magnets and electromagnets) substitutes for part of the mechanical fastening function, providing vibration resistance while maintaining ease of operation through magnetic holding force that prevents loosening during pump operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the retainer system by introducing magnetic fields. The magnet assembly generates magnetic flux that creates holding force, transforming the retainer from a passive mechanical component to an active system that dynamically resists vibration through magnetic attraction between the retainer and magnet assembly.
2Reliability
If the cover is securely locked to prevent rotation, then hydraulic integrity is maintained, but servicing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the locking system dynamic rather than static. The magnet assembly can be activated and deactivated to control the locking state. During normal operation, magnets are activated to securely lock the cover and maintain hydraulic integrity. During servicing, magnets are deactivated to release the cover, enabling easy removal without permanent locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-locking through magnetic attraction during operation, eliminating the need for additional locking tools or procedures. The magnet assembly automatically maintains the cover in the locked position, and the system self-releases when magnets are deactivated, simplifying both operation and maintenance.
3Reliability
If a magnet assembly is added to prevent retainer loosening, then vibration resistance improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the magnet assembly: it provides magnetic holding force to prevent loosening, generates magnetic flux for actuation control, and works integrally with the retainer and cover components. The retainer itself becomes part of the magnetic circuit, eliminating the need for separate magnetic components and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnet assembly serves multiple purposes: it prevents retainer loosening during vibration, enables controlled locking and unlocking of the cover, and integrates with the existing retainer structure. The permanent magnets and electromagnets work together to provide both passive holding and active control functions within a single integrated assembly.
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 configuration provides a reliable, vibration-resistant interlock that prevents unintended loosening of the cover, allowing for easy servicing while maintaining hydraulic integrity, and includes a 'fail-safe' mechanism that self-engages if not fully seated, ensuring continuous operation.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet to retain the key against the proximal end of the cover
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus to block an access port of a pump includes a cover having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the distal end is configured to be received into the access port, an indexing device to prevent rotation of the cover with respect to the access port, a first component of an anti-rotation mechanism located upon the proximal end of the cover, a retainer configured to rotatably engage and abut the proximal end of the cover to resist removal of the cover from the access port, a key to engage the proximal end of the cover through a profiled keyway of the retainer, wherein the key comprises a second component of the anti-rotation mechanism, and at least one magnet to retain the key against the proximal end of the cover, wherein the profiled keyway is configured to restrict rotation of the key with respect to the retainer.