Movable Valve Operating Arm for Uneven Ground and Obstacles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve turning machines face challenges in reaching underground valves positioned between obstacles and on uneven ground, leading to unpredictable movement and potential operator injury due to uneven torque application, which causes the machine to shake and toss, disrupting the valve operation.
Innovation Solution
A movable arm system mounted on a vehicle with rotatable axes and a telescoping mechanism, allowing the valve turning machine to be positioned vertically and horizontally to accommodate uneven ground and obstacles, and an electronic controller to manage torque application, enabling hands-free operation and stability during valve exercise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a valve turning machine is mounted on a horizontally slideable structure, then rigid support is provided during valve exercise, but mobility is limited and cannot accommodate uneven ground or obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure transitions from a static horizontal slide to a dynamic multi-axis system with vertical movement capability and hinged肘部 joint, allowing the arm to adapt its position dynamically to reach valves over obstacles and on uneven ground while maintaining stability during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds vertical dimension movement to the original horizontal slide mechanism, creating a two-dimensional positioning capability that enables the valve turning machine to reach valves positioned at different elevations and locations relative to the vehicle
2Adaptability or versatility
If a valve turning machine is mounted on a multi-hinged arm with spring loaded compensating structures, then the machine can reach difficult to access valves, but the machine shakes and tosses violently during operation
Solution Approach 1:
Spring loaded compensating structures are incorporated into the hinged arm to apply an upward force that counteracts the weight of the valve turning machine, reducing the tendency of the machine to shake and toss during operation while maintaining reach capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system adjusts mechanical parameters including spring tension and arm stiffness to optimize the balance between reach capability and operational stability, allowing the arm to be compliant enough to reach difficult locations while rigid enough to maintain stability during valve exercise
3Productivity
If torque is applied to the valve stem through a key, then the valve can be opened and closed, but uneven torque application causes the key to be pulled free and interrupts operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system controls torque application parameters to apply force smoothly and consistently, preventing the key from being pulled free of the valve stem and ensuring continuous operation during valve exercise
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors torque application and machine movement, providing feedback to adjust torque delivery in real-time to maintain consistent force application and prevent key disengagement during valve operation
Data Source
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AI summary
A valve operating device includes first and second pivots, a first arm portion extending therebetween, a second arm portion extending from the second pivot, a valve operating machine on the second arm portion, and an actuator connected between the first pivot and the first arm portion. The first arm portion can rotate around a first vertical axis defined by the first pivot and can pivot around a horizontal axis defined by the first pivot. The second arm portion can rotate around a second vertical axis defined by the second pivot. The actuator causes the first and second arm portions, the second pivot, and the valve operating machine to pivot upward and downward relative to the first pivot around the horizontal axis.