Monolithic Meter Valve Key Securing Without Locking Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing meter valve locking assemblies are costly and time-consuming to assemble, and they fail to provide a simple and effective method for securing the valve key in place.
Innovation Solution
A deformed valve key with a monolithic structure, featuring a key stem and securing portion that can be configured to prevent removal from the valve body, utilizing a deformation method such as orbital forming to create a securing engagement surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex locking assembly comprising nut, pin, and washer is used to secure the valve key, then the valve key is prevented from removal, but the assembly cost and assembly time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the valve key and securing features into a single monolithic structure. The valve key body integrates the stem, head, and securing portion (with engagement surfaces) as one piece, eliminating the need for separate nuts, pins, and washers. This consolidation maintains security functionality while dramatically reducing assembly complexity and part count.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve key's own structure provides the securing mechanism through its integrated securing portion with engagement surfaces. The key's monolithic design allows it to self-secure into the valve body without requiring external locking components. The key structure itself performs the securing function that previously required a separate locking assembly.
2Reliability
If a locking assembly with multiple components is used, then the valve key is secured in place, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By combining all securing features into the monolithic valve key structure, the assembly process is simplified to inserting and securing a single integrated component. This eliminates the multi-step process of assembling separate nuts, pins, and washers, thereby increasing assembly speed and productivity while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing portion with engagement surfaces is pre-integrated into the valve key's monolithic structure during manufacturing. This preliminary integration of securing features eliminates the need for assembly-time fastening operations, allowing the valve key to be quickly installed and secured in a single operation.
3Reliability
If a locking assembly with multiple components is used, then the valve key is prevented from removal, but the overall cost of the valve increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple discrete components (valve key, nut, pin, washer) into a single monolithic valve key structure. This reduction in part count decreases manufacturing complexity, reduces the number of fastening operations required, and eliminates the need for multiple fasteners and washers, thereby reducing overall manufacturing cost while maintaining security functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The monolithic valve key structure provides self-securing capability through its integrated securing portion, eliminating the need for separate locking components. This self-service design reduces the bill of materials and manufacturing steps, leading to lower production costs while achieving the same security objective.
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 cost-effective and efficient method for securing the valve key, eliminating the need for complex locking assemblies and reducing assembly time while ensuring the valve key remains securely in place.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a deformation method such as orbital forming to create a securing engagement surface
Data Source
AI summary
Example aspects of a valve key, a meter valve, and a method for securing a valve key of a meter valve are disclosed. The valve key for a meter valve can comprise a key body defining an upper key body end and a lower key body end, a key head extending from the upper key body end, and a key stem extending from the lower key body end, wherein the key stem, key head, and key body define a monolithic structure, the key stem defining an extension portion and a securing portion, the securing portion defining a securing portion engagement surface.