Process Valve Clamping Element With Integrated Spring Preload
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing process valves face issues with settling of shut-off elements over time, requiring multiple parts and complex assembly, which increases costs and assembly errors, and complicates manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A process valve design incorporating a clamping element with an integrated spring section that provides a preload force, ensuring a tight seal and reducing the number of parts needed, allowing for easier, quicker assembly and improved reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring element is used to counteract settling of the shut-off element, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the number of parts and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is integrated into the clamping element as a single component. The clamping element comprises a clamping section for fluid-tight clamping of the mounting section, a support section for support on the valve body, and a spring section for generating preload force - all formed as one piece, eliminating the need for separate spring components and reducing assembly steps
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate parts are used for the clamping element and spring, then manufacturing flexibility is improved, but assembly time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping element is manufactured as a single integrated component using injection molding or similar forming processes. The spring section is formed as an integral part of the clamping element, allowing the entire assembly to be produced in one manufacturing step and assembled as a single unit, significantly reducing assembly time and cost
3Loss of substance
If the wall of the spring section projects into the interior of the clamping element, then material usage is reduced, but the internal space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring section utilizes an arc-shaped wall configuration that projects into the interior of the clamping element. This curved geometry provides the necessary spring function while using minimal material and occupying minimal internal space, as the arc shape efficiently distributes stress and requires less material than straight configurations
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 integrated spring section ensures a secure seal and compact design, reducing assembly errors and costs while enhancing the quality and reliability of the process valve.
Implementation Method 1
a spring section (42) for generating a preload force that counteracts a force acting on the support section (86) of the clamping element (32) through the fastening section (34) of the shut-off body (20)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a process valve (10) comprising: a valve body (12) with a through-line (14), a shut-off body (20) with a mounting section (34) and with a shut-off section (21), wherein the through-line (14) can be closed by means of the shut-off section (21) movable along an actuating axis (22); a clamping element (32); and an actuating rod (30) connected to the shut-off section (21) and extending through an interior (44) of the clamping element (32); wherein the clamping element (32) comprises: a clamping section (40), wherein the mounting section (34) is clamped fluid-tight between the clamping section (40) and the valve body (12), a support section (86), wherein the clamping element (32) is supported at least indirectly on the valve body (12) by means of the support section (86), and a spring section (42) for clamping the mounting section (34);wherein the spring section (42) comprises an arc-shaped wall (43), wherein the wall (43) projects at least partially into the interior (44) of the clamping element (43), and wherein the wall (43) is arranged between the support section (86) and the clamping section (40).