Remote Pressure Test Assembly for Safer High-Pressure Valve Checks

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Solution Overview

Problem

High-pressure testing is time-consuming, risky, and costly, with a high risk of accidents such as leaks and explosions during the testing of components like tanks and pipes.

Innovation Solution

A remote pressure testing system that allows operators to control the testing process from a safe distance using a control unit connected to sensors and external devices, enabling real-time monitoring and analysis of pressure and sound/vibration data, and includes a hand truck for easy transportation of equipment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If operators perform high-pressure testing manually close to the component, then they can directly monitor and control the testing process, but they face high risk of injury from leaks or explosions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety of operatorsVSAvoiddirect monitoring and control capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces remote control equipment and monitoring devices as intermediaries between the operator and the high-pressure testing environment. Operators control the testing process remotely through electronic interfaces, while sensors and cameras transmit data about the component being tested, eliminating the need for operators to be physically close to the test subject while maintaining full monitoring and control capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated electronic control systems. Instead of operators manually connecting hoses, adjusting valves, and monitoring gauges in person, these functions are performed through remote electronic interfaces and automated control mechanisms, substituting direct mechanical interaction with indirect electronic control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If traditional pressure testing equipment is used, then the testing can be performed with standard equipment, but the process is time-consuming and laborious

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting speedVSAvoidtime for setup and operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements pre-positioned remote control systems and pre-configured monitoring equipment that are ready before testing begins. The remote control unit and sensor arrays are set up in advance, allowing operators to quickly initiate testing without extensive manual setup, thereby reducing both the time required for operation and the overall testing process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates automated monitoring and data collection systems that self-record testing parameters and results without requiring continuous operator intervention. The system automatically tracks pressure levels, detects anomalies, and logs outcomes, eliminating manual recording time and allowing parallel operations to proceed more efficiently

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11828735B2Assembly and method for pressure testing
Publication Date: 2023.11.28 BRADY DANA PATRICK
  • US11828735B2 patent drawing
  • US11828735B2 patent drawing
  • US11828735B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An assembly for pressure testing of components, such as a valve of an HVAC system. The assembly includes a hand truck, a tank and a housing mounted on the base of the hand truck. A control unit is encased within the housing and coupled to a solenoid, wherein the solenoid is coupled to a valve. The valve connects a pressure regulator of the tank to the component. The control unit can receive instruction from an external device at a safe distance from the assembly, and upon receiving the instruction, the control unit can actuate the solenoid to open the valve.