Non-pyrotechnic Isolation Valve Using Frangible Initiator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remotely actuated isolation valves often rely on pyrotechnics, which limits their use in various environments due to safety concerns and operational constraints.
Innovation Solution
A remotely actuated isolation valve design utilizing a frangible initiator, where a wire connects multiple shell sections, allowing them to separate and release a release rod, enabling the valve to open and allow fluid flow between inlet and outlet without pyrotechnics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pyrotechnics are used to actuate the isolation valve, then the valve can be remotely actuated, but the valve cannot be used in many applications due to safety concerns and operational constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pyrotechnic actuation system with a mechanically actuated system. A rod extends through the valve body and can be manually or remotely manipulated to move the valve element between open and closed positions. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for pyrotechnics while maintaining remote actuation capability, thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability to different environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the pyrotechnic components from the valve system. By eliminating the pyrotechnic charge and ignition mechanism, the valve becomes suitable for applications where pyrotechnics are prohibited or unsafe, while retaining the essential function of remote actuation through alternative mechanical means.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a frangible initiator is used instead of pyrotechnics, then the valve can be used in diverse environments, but the actuation mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a frangible initiator, a release rod, and a valve element. The frangible initiator is designed to break or fail in a controlled manner to release the rod, which then moves the valve element. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall complexity while maintaining environmental compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The release rod serves as an intermediary element between the frangible initiator and the valve element. When the frangible initiator fails, it releases the rod, which then transfers the actuation force to the valve element. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the overall system by providing a clear, direct transmission path while avoiding the complexity of more sophisticated actuation systems.
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
Enables the use of isolation valves in diverse environments by providing a safe and reliable mechanism for remote actuation, ensuring fluid flow without the need for pyrotechnic components.
Implementation Method 1
A frangible initiator which, upon failure, releases the wire from the shell
Data Source
AI summary
A housing has a passageway containing a valve seat. A valve element seals against the valve seat to maintain the valve in the closed position. A release rod extends from the valve body and a shell surrounds the release rod, preventing its movement. The shell is formed in several sections, maintained together by a wire. The wire is connected to a frangible initiator which, upon failure, releases the wire from the shell, allowing these sections to move away from one another. When this occurs, the release rod and valve body are able to move, opening the valve, allowing fluid flow between the inlet and outlet of the valve.