OS&Y Gate Valve Handwheel Tool for High-Torque Manual Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
OS&Y gate valves used in fire suppression systems can be difficult to open and close due to factors like non-use, age, internal pressure, corrosion, high temperatures, or large size, leading to operational failures and potential injuries.
Innovation Solution
A handheld tool with an elongated body, a central curved portion for engaging the handwheel hub, and protrusions for engaging spokes, allowing operators to apply leverage to open or close the valve with reduced effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a user manually operates a large OS&Y gate valve, then the valve can be opened or closed, but significant force is required and injury risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a handheld tool as an intermediary device between the operator and the valve handwheel. This tool includes a handle for operator grip and a engagement mechanism that interfaces with the handwheel hub, allowing the operator to apply force more effectively while reducing direct manual effort and injury risk
Solution Approach 2:
The tool extends the operational leverage by adding dimensional leverage through its elongated structure. The handle provides a longer moment arm perpendicular to the valve stem axis, converting rotational force more efficiently and reducing the effort needed to overcome valve resistance
2Reliability
If a user attempts to force an old, large OS&Y gate valve, then the valve may open, but handwheel breakage or user injury may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The tool design incorporates force distribution features that cushion and distribute the applied load across multiple contact points on the handwheel hub and spokes. This prevents concentrated stress that could cause breakage while protecting the operator from reactive forces
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement mechanism acts as a protective intermediary that absorbs and manages the forces between the operator and the valve system, preventing direct transmission of harmful forces that could cause injury or damage
3Ease of operation
If a handheld tool is used to operate the valve, then effort is reduced, but the tool structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is segmented into distinct functional components: a handle for operator grip, a shaft for force transmission, and an engagement mechanism with protrusions for handwheel interface. This modular segmentation simplifies the design of each component while achieving the overall function of reducing operational effort
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 tool significantly reduces the effort required to operate OS&Y gate valves, preventing operational failures and minimizing the risk of injury or damage.
Implementation Method 1
an elongated shape with a first end and a second end, wherein the first end and the second end form a first handle and a second handle, respectively
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of protrusions configured to engage one or more spokes on the handwheel
Data Source
AI summary
A handheld tool for opening and closing OS&Y gate valves commonly used to control water flow to fire sprinkler systems. The tool includes an elongated shape with curved central portion with two handles on either end. The tool contains a series of protrusions for engaging and rotating the spokes on the OS&Y gate valve handwheel.