Pressure Relief Valve With Precision Gas Release Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressure regulators in natural gas distribution networks lack the ability to control the flow rate of gas released during overpressure, as the flow rate is dependent on the unpredictable clearance between the deformable membrane and the shaft, leading to inconsistent gas release.
Innovation Solution
A pressure relief valve with a precisely-sized hole in the outflow channel, allowing for controlled gas release, where the hole is designed to define the flow rate with high precision, and optionally using a plug with a precisely-sized hole to adjust the flow rate without modifying other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If gas release is achieved through clearance between deformable membrane and shaft, then gas can be released during overpressure, but the flow rate cannot be controlled precisely
Solution Approach 1:
A plug is introduced as an intermediary component between the deformable membrane and the shaft. This plug contains a precisely-sized hole that mediates the gas flow, allowing controlled release while eliminating dependence on the unpredictable clearance between the membrane and shaft. The plug serves as a flow control element that can be precisely manufactured with specific aperture dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of flow control from relying on variable clearance (which cannot be predetermined with precision) to using a precisely-sized hole in the plug. By controlling the aperture parameter of the plug hole during manufacturing, the flow rate becomes a predetermined and controllable parameter rather than an unpredictable variable.
2Device complexity
If clearance between deformable membrane and shaft is used for gas release, then simple structure is maintained, but flow rate precision is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The plug acts as a mediating component that adds minimal structural complexity while solving the flow rate precision problem. Instead of redesigning the entire valve structure, the plug is inserted into the existing clearance space, providing precise flow control without significantly increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas flow path is segmented into two distinct stages: first through the deformable membrane (providing pressure sensing and initial flow), then through the precisely-sized hole in the plug (providing controlled flow rate). This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally.
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 control of the gas flow rate during overpressure conditions, ensuring consistent and predictable gas release, minimizing leakage and maintaining operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a spring maintains the second shutter in contact with the deformable membrane
Implementation Method 2
a variation in the gas delivery pressure with respect to the setting value causes the deformable membrane, and therefore the shutter, to move
Implementation Method 3
the gas is released towards the outside of the pressure regulator through the clearance present between the hole in the membrane and the shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure relief valve for a gas pressure regulator includes: a deformable and gas-tight, laminar element; an outflow channel that allows the passage of the gas between one side and the other of the laminar element including a precisely-sized hole; a shutter removably associated with the laminar element through a coupler that defines, for the shutter, a closed position of the outflow channel and an open position of the outflow channel; an elastic element interposed between the shutter and the laminar element in order to push the shutter towards the closed position. The couple includes a through hole belonging to the laminar element and a shaft slidingly inserted in the through hole, and the shutter is operatively connected to the shaft. The outflow channel is distinct from the through hole, as sealing is provided to prevent the passage of the gas between the through hole and the shaft.