Integrated Pressure Regulator Valve Layout for Ergonomic Cylinder Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional valves with integrated pressure regulators (VIPRs) are not ergonomically suitable for a wide range of cylinder sizes, often requiring separate designs for large and small cylinders, and are prone to damage from external shocks due to the placement of high-pressure components.
Innovation Solution
A VIPR design with a shut-off valve actuated by a lever, a pressure or flow regulating valve downstream, and a handwheel offset from the cylinder axis, featuring a compact ergonomic layout with a T-shaped lever and integrated residual pressure valve, protecting high-pressure components by positioning them closer to the cylinder base.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional VIPR designs are used with standard component placement, then the valve structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the ergonomics are poor for a wide range of cylinder sizes and high-pressure components are vulnerable to external shocks
Solution Approach 1:
The handwheel axis is offset from the cylinder longitudinal axis by an acute angle (e.g., 30 degrees), creating an asymmetric configuration that improves ergonomics for various cylinder sizes. This asymmetric placement allows operators to access the handwheel from multiple angles and positions, enhancing ease of operation while maintaining a compact overall structure that does not significantly increase device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a conventional linear arrangement of components along the cylinder axis to a multi-dimensional configuration where the handwheel and high-pressure components are positioned in offset angular and vertical positions. This spatial reconfiguration in multiple dimensions allows improved ergonomics and protection without requiring a completely new valve structure
2Ease of operation
If high-pressure components are positioned远离 the cylinder base, then access and operation are easier, but the components become more susceptible to damage from external shocks
Solution Approach 1:
High-pressure components are proactively positioned closer to the cylinder base and in protected locations before external shocks occur. This preliminary protective positioning prevents damage by placing components in regions less susceptible to impact forces, while the offset handwheel configuration ensures that operator access is not compromised by this protective arrangement
Solution Approach 2:
The handwheel is positioned in a different spatial dimension (offset by an acute angle from the cylinder axis) rather than simply moving it farther along the cylinder axis. This multi-dimensional positioning allows operators to access the handwheel from multiple angles while keeping high-pressure components closer to the protected base region, simultaneously improving access and reducing shock vulnerability
3Ease of operation
If separate VIPR designs are created for different cylinder sizes, then ergonomics are optimized for each size, but the number of variants increases manufacturing complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The offset handwheel configuration and compact vertical arrangement of components create a universal VIPR design that can be effectively used with various cylinder sizes (from approximately 12 inches to over 60 inches high). This single multi-functional design eliminates the need for size-specific variants while maintaining ergonomic effectiveness across different applications
Solution Approach 2:
The asymmetric offset configuration of the handwheel (at an acute angle from the cylinder axis) provides ergonomic advantages for a wide range of cylinder sizes without requiring size-specific designs. This asymmetric geometry naturally adapts to different cylinder dimensions, allowing operators to comfortably access the handwheel regardless of the specific cylinder size being used
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 design accommodates various cylinder sizes, enhances ergonomics by allowing access from multiple angles, and protects high-pressure components from shocks, reducing material usage and manufacturing costs while maintaining operational reliability.
Implementation Method 1
A lever has a cam surface that interacts with the ball tappet as the lever is rotated to translate the ball tappet linearly and actuate the shut off valve
Data Source
AI summary
A regulating valve device for a fluid cylinder includes a shut off valve having a ball tappet that actuates the shut off valve. A lever has a cam surface that interacts with the ball tappet as the lever is rotated to translate the ball tappet linearly and actuate the shut off valve. The lever is rotatable from a first valve closed position through a valve open position to a second valve closed position such that the valve open position is intermediate of the first and second valve closed positions. A pressure or flow regulating valve is downstream of the shut off valve. A handwheel is operatively connected to the pressure or flow regulating valve to adjust an outlet pressure of the pressure or flow regulating valve. The handwheel has an axis of operation that is offset from a longitudinal axis of the fluid cylinder by an acute angle.