Pressure Regulator Closure Mechanism for Full-Flow Refueling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pressure regulators with automatic spring actuation constrict flow prior to reaching the pressure set point, limiting flow capacity and resulting in premature closure, which increases refueling times and reduces gallons-per-minute during fueling cycles.
Innovation Solution
A pressure regulator design incorporating a closure resisting mechanism, including a secondary holding spring and collapse ring, which applies additional open bias force to prevent closure until a predetermined pressure set point is reached, ensuring maximum flow capacity is maintained until the set point is achieved.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a helical compression spring is used to actuate the closure element, then the regulator can automatically control pressure, but the spring force increases as it compresses causing flow constriction before the set point is reached
Solution Approach 1:
The spring system is segmented into two independent components: a main spring that provides the primary closing force and a secondary holding spring that maintains the open position. This segmentation allows each spring to perform its specific function without the force characteristics of the other interfering, enabling the closure element to remain fully open until the set point is reached.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure element is designed with two distinct sealing surfaces that interact with the seat at different positions. The first sealing surface engages with the seat when the closure element is in the fully open position, while the second sealing surface engages when the closure element moves to the closed position. This intermediary sealing mechanism allows the regulator to maintain maximum flow capacity until pressure buildup overcomes the combined spring forces.
2Reliability
If the closure element begins translating to close the valve, then pressure regulation begins, but flow capacity is limited due to premature closure
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary holding spring is pre-loaded to maintain the closure element in the fully open position with the first sealing surface engaged with the seat. This preliminary action ensures maximum flow capacity is maintained during the refueling operation. Only when pressure buildup exceeds the combined spring forces does the closure element begin to translate, at which point the preliminary action is released and normal pressure regulation takes over.
3Force
If the first load of the spring is surpassed by pressure force, then the closure element begins to close, but this occurs at a pressure lower than the set point
Solution Approach 1:
The force balance parameters are changed by introducing the secondary holding spring with a specific spring rate and preload force. This additional spring force parameter shifts the closure initiation pressure to match the desired set point. The combined spring forces (main spring + secondary holding spring) create a more favorable force balance that prevents premature closure and ensures the closure element begins translating only when the pressure reaches the intended set point.
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 regulator maximizes flow capacity by preventing premature closure, allowing for shorter refueling cycles and increased gallons-per-minute, as it maintains open position until the predetermined pressure set point is reached, thereby optimizing fueling efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A spring actuates the closure element in an open position. The spring applies an additional open bias force, or a closure resisting force, to the closure element to prevent the closure element from moving into the closed position against the seat until a predetermined fluid pressure set point is reached.
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure regulator including a closure resisting mechanism that increases the total closure resisting force of a closure element to prevent the closure element from moving into a closed position until a predetermined pressure set point is reached. The closure resisting mechanism operates automatically and is spring actuated in response to pressure within a fluid pathway of the regulator. The closure resisting mechanism is disposed external to the fluid pathway so as not to impede fluid flow.