Pressure Regulator Internal Adjustment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow control devices, such as pressure reducing regulators, lack an effective mechanism for adjusting the outlet pressure required to close the device, limiting their adaptability and efficiency in varying fluid pressure conditions.
Innovation Solution
A pressure reducing regulator with an internal adjustment mechanism, featuring a piston and a spring biasing system, where a wheel or gear with an internally threaded bore is used to compress or decompress the spring, allowing for adjustable outlet pressure settings by rotating the wheel or gear, thereby controlling the piston's movement between open and closed positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a pressure reducing regulator uses a fixed spring biasing system, then the device structure is simple, but the outlet pressure cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the spring biasing force adjustable rather than fixed. The adjustment mechanism includes a wheel with an internally threaded bore that engages with an externally threaded rod on the spring assembly. By rotating the wheel, the spring can be compressed or extended to different degrees, dynamically changing the biasing force applied to the piston. This allows the outlet pressure to be adjusted according to different operational requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a pressure reducing regulator lacks an adjustment mechanism, then the device is simpler to manufacture, but it cannot adapt to varying fluid pressure conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the segmentation principle by dividing the pressure reducing regulator into distinct functional modules: the main body, the piston assembly, the spring assembly, and the adjustment mechanism (wheel with threaded bore). Each module can be manufactured separately and then assembled together. The adjustment mechanism is designed as an independent component that threads onto the spring assembly, allowing it to be manufactured and tested independently before final assembly. This modular approach enables the device to adapt to varying pressure conditions while keeping manufacturing complexity manageable through standardized components and assembly procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the spring is always compressed to provide biasing force, then the regulator can maintain pressure control, but the outlet pressure setting cannot be changed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing a wheel with an internally threaded bore as a mediator between the operator and the spring assembly. The wheel engages with the externally threaded rod on the spring assembly, allowing the operator to rotate the wheel to compress or extend the spring to the desired degree. This intermediary mechanism translates rotational motion into linear displacement of the spring, providing precise control over the biasing force. The threaded connection serves as a mechanical intermediary that maintains continuous contact and force transmission while enabling adjustable positioning, making pressure adjustment operations straightforward and controllable.
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 precise adjustment of the outlet pressure, enhancing the device's adaptability and efficiency in managing fluid flow by allowing the regulator to close at predetermined pressure levels, ensuring reliable operation across different fluid pressure conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a spring biasing the piston from the closed to the open position
Implementation Method 2
increasing pressure at the outlet port causes an increase in the force applied by the pressurized fluid on the surface of the piston
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a flow control device, such as a regulator, for controlling fluid flow between an inlet port and an outlet port, and having an internal adjustment mechanism for varying the outlet pressure of the device, including the pressure required to close the device. The device may include first and second components, such as a body and a bonnet, demountably attached to form a housing of the device and defining an internal device cavity. A piston is disposed and movable within the device cavity, and in fluid sealing relationship with the inner surface of the device cavity. The components and the piston are configured to define a channel within the device cavity placing the inlet port in fluid communication with the outlet port, and with the piston being movable between a closed position preventing fluid flow and an open position allowing fluid flow to the outlet port. The internal adjustment mechanism may be in the form of a wheel that may be rotated in either direction to increase or decrease the outlet pressure at which the piston will move to the closed position. A vent port offset from the longitudinal axis of the housing may provide access to the interior of the device for manipulation of the adjustment mechanism.