One-Way Torque Coupling for Fast Valve Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing engine systems face performance issues due to resistance from actuators slowing down valve opening speeds, leading to inefficiencies in fluid flow and system performance, particularly in systems with complex planetary gear assemblies and torque-limiting mechanisms that increase complexity and expense while decreasing reliability.
Innovation Solution
A unidirectional torque-transfer coupling system utilizing a first and second ring configuration, where the rings share a common axis, allowing for quick valve opening by engaging and disengaging members to facilitate unrestricted valve movement, reducing wear and improving resilience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a planetary gear assembly with torque-limiting mechanisms is used to control valve operation, then torque transfer and protection are improved, but device complexity and expense increase while reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex planetary gear assembly, torque-limiting mechanisms, and worm and pinion connections from the valve actuator system. Instead, it uses a direct-drive configuration where the motor couples directly to the valve stem through simplified components, removing the disturbing complex mechanisms while preserving the essential torque transfer and protection functions through a one-way coupling means.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional approach by using a one-way coupling means to enable the motor to drive the valve stem directly in one direction (opening), while allowing free rotation or slippage in the opposite direction (closing or overload protection). This eliminates the need for complex two-directional control mechanisms like planetary gears and torque-limiting assemblies, simplifying the overall system while maintaining reliability.
2Speed
If actuator resistance is present in the valve drive system, then torque control is provided, but valve opening speed decreases to an unacceptable rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes complex torque control mechanisms such as planetary gear assemblies and torque-limiting connections from the system. Instead, it employs a direct-drive configuration with a one-way coupling means that provides inherent torque control without mechanical complexity, enabling the valve to open at high speeds consistent with the butterfly valve element's capability while maintaining acceptable torque management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical torque control systems (planetary gears, torque-limiting assemblies) with a simpler one-way coupling means that uses mechanical ratcheting or freewheeling principles. This substitution allows rapid valve opening by eliminating resistance from complex mechanisms while still providing torque control through the one-way coupling's inherent design, resolving the contradiction between speed and complexity.
3Device complexity
If a simplified valve actuator without planetary gear assembly is used, then device complexity and expense decrease, but torque transfer capability and overload protection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a one-way coupling means as an intermediary component between the motor and the valve stem. This intermediary element provides the essential torque transfer capability and overload protection functions that would otherwise require complex planetary gear assemblies. The one-way coupling allows torque to be transmitted in the opening direction while preventing reverse torque transmission during closing or overload conditions, maintaining reliability with simplified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The one-way coupling means serves multiple functions simultaneously: it transfers torque from the motor to the valve stem during opening, allows free rotation or slippage during closing operations, and provides overload protection by preventing reverse torque transmission. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate planetary gear assembly, torque-limiting mechanisms, and reverse-rotation prevention devices, achieving reliable torque transfer with reduced complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A unidirectional torque-transfer coupling is disclosed. The coupling may include a first ring and a second ring that share a common axis, wherein the first ring is configured to rotate about the common axis from a first position to a second position; a first member extending from the first ring; and a second member extending from the second ring, wherein, when the first ring is in the second position and a valve coupled to the second ring is in an open position, the second member engages the first ring, and wherein, when the first ring moves from the second position to the first position, the first member causes the second ring to rotate in a same direction as the first ring Furthermore, when the first ring is in the second position, a valve is substantially unrestricted by the first ring with regard to moving to an open position.