Push-Push Valve Cap Interface for Multi-Orientation Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing push-push actuation mechanism in valves requires increased concentration for correct assembly, leading to potential incorrect orientation and increased manufacturing complexity, especially when achieving multiple orientations for the covering cap without significant processing effort.
Innovation Solution
The valve design incorporates a cap interface with n-fold discrete rotational symmetry and a fitting interface with m-fold rotational symmetry, allowing for easy alignment and non-rotatable attachment, along with a snap/latching connection and thread-based attachment options, to simplify the assembly and ensure correct orientation with reduced manufacturing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a push-push actuation mechanism is used without rotational symmetry, then the valve can be actuated with at least two switching states, but the assembly process requires increased concentration and may lead to incorrect orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry in reverse by introducing symmetry where previously there was none. The cap interface is designed with n-fold discrete rotational symmetry, allowing the covering cap to be correctly assembled in multiple orientations (n orientations), thereby eliminating the need for high concentration during assembly while ensuring correct orientation through geometric compatibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the covering cap is designed to accommodate multiple orientations, then assembly flexibility is improved, but the manufacturing complexity of the fitting increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rotational symmetry requirement into two separate components: the cap interface on the actuating element and the counter-cap interface on the covering cap. Each interface is designed with complementary n-fold discrete rotational symmetry, allowing the complexity to be distributed and managed independently rather than requiring the entire fitting to accommodate all orientations.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap interface with n-fold discrete rotational symmetry serves multiple functions: it allows the covering cap to be assembled in n different orientations, provides geometric guidance for correct alignment, and enables easy error correction by allowing reassembly in any of the n orientations. This universal design approach simplifies manufacturing while maintaining versatility.
3Manufacturing precision
If a non-rotatable attachment of the covering cap is provided, then correct orientation is ensured, but the processing effort for the fitting increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through geometric self-alignment. The cap interface and counter-cap interface are designed with complementary n-fold discrete rotational symmetry, creating geometric compatibility that automatically guides the covering cap into the correct orientation during assembly. This self-aligning mechanism ensures accurate orientation without requiring additional processing steps or external alignment tools.
Data Source
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AI summary
In a sanitary valve (1) having a push-push actuation mechanism (2), a cap interface (5) is provided between a cover cap (6) and an actuating element (3) having a higher rotational symmetry than a fitting interface (8) between the valve (1) and a fitting (9).