Pressure Regulator Indicator Assembly for Visual Valve Position
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pressure regulators require disassembly of multiple parts for maintenance, which is complex and time-consuming, and lack an efficient indicator system to visually display the control element's position.
Innovation Solution
A fluid control device with a valve body and indicator assembly where the indicator assembly is positioned non-parallel to the longitudinal axis, using a rod and roller mechanism to indicate the control element's position relative to the valve seat, allowing for external visualization of the regulator's state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the valve body is divided into several parts with multiple mounting flanges and flange bolts, then the regulator can be securely assembled, but maintenance requires disassembly of multiple parts which is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The valve body is divided into a first body portion and a second body portion that can be separated. The first body portion contains the inlet and control elements, while the second body portion contains the outlet. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to access internal components by separating the two portions without needing to disassemble multiple flanges and bolts, thus reducing maintenance complexity while maintaining secure assembly through the controlled interface between the two portions.
2Device complexity
If the indicator assembly is positioned parallel to the longitudinal axis, then the structure is simple, but the indicator does not provide clear visual indication of the control element's position
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator assembly is positioned at an angle (non-parallel) to the longitudinal axis of the valve body, transitioning from a one-dimensional alignment to a two-dimensional angular arrangement. This angular positioning allows the indicator to clearly display the control element's position (open, closed, or partial) in a visual dimension that is perpendicular to the flow direction, providing unambiguous information without significantly increasing structural complexity.
3Strength
If multiple flange bolts are used to secure the valve body parts, then the connection is strong and reliable, but the number of parts to be disassembled for maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple flange bolts to secure several valve body parts, the design segments the valve body into two main portions that can be connected with fewer fastening elements. This reduction in the number of connection points directly reduces the time required for disassembly and reassembly during maintenance operations, while maintaining sufficient connection strength through the optimized interface between the two portions.
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
Simplifies maintenance by allowing internal components to be accessed through a single inlet or outlet, and provides a clear visual indication of the regulator's position, enhancing operational efficiency and user understanding.
Implementation Method 1
The indicator assembly may include a roller that is in contact with a conical cap connected to the stem. Movement of the roller along the cap may cause movement of the rod along the indicator axis to indicate a position of the control element.
Data Source
AI summary
A regulator includes a valve body and a control element movable between a closed position, in which the control element engages a valve seat, and an open position, in which the control element is spaced away from the valve seat. A stem is operatively coupled to the control element and is axially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the valve body. An indicator assembly is at least partially disposed in the valve body and is operatively coupled to the stem. The indicator assembly includes a rod operatively coupled to the stem and an indicator operatively coupled to the rod. The indicator is arranged to display a position of the control element. The rod of the indicator assembly is movable by the stem between a first position when the control element is in the closed position, and a second position when the control element is in the open position.