Rotary Globe Valve Assembly for Modular Actuator Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary globe valves require time-consuming and expensive retooling for different actuators due to the need for specific mounts and tools, limiting their adaptability and efficiency in automated fluid flow regulation.
Innovation Solution
The valve assembly features a modular multiple connector platform with interchangeable mounting openings and adaptors, allowing easy integration with various actuators, along with a segmented stem and ball segment design that includes a biasing element and adjustment bolt for precise sealing and control, enabling quick reconfiguration for different actuator types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional rotary globe valves use fixed mounting structures for actuators, then the valve structure is simple, but the retooling process becomes time-consuming and expensive when switching between different actuator types
Solution Approach 1:
The bonnet incorporates a modular multiple connector platform that can accommodate different types of actuators through interchangeable adaptors. The platform includes multiple sets of mounting openings with different configurations (e.g., first set for first actuator type, second set for second actuator type), allowing a single valve body to serve multiple actuator interfaces without requiring complete retooling.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator mounting system is divided into separate modular components: the fixed bonnet structure, the modular multiple connector platform, and interchangeable adaptors. This segmentation allows the adaptors to be easily removed and replaced depending on which actuator type needs to be mounted, simplifying the reconfiguration process while maintaining structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the valve uses a modular multiple connector platform with multiple mounting openings, then adaptability to different actuators improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular multiple connector platform is integrated as part of the bonnet structure rather than being a separate component. This merging approach allows the platform to be manufactured as a single piece with the bonnet, reducing assembly steps and potential leakage points while still providing multiple mounting configurations through strategically placed openings and attachment features.
3Reliability
If the ball segment uses a segmented stem design with biasing element, then sealing reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ball segment is connected to the segmented stem through a biasing element (spring) that provides dynamic sealing force. The spring allows the ball segment to move slightly to maintain contact with the seat under varying pressure conditions, ensuring reliable sealing while accommodating thermal expansion and pressure fluctuations. This dynamic approach replaces static rigid connections with adaptive elastic coupling.
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
This solution enables rapid and cost-effective adaptation of rotary globe valves to different actuators, improving their reliability and longevity by ensuring a fluid-tight seal and stable control across various flow rates and pressures.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing element is positioned between the first attachment portion and the upper portion of the segmented stem
Implementation Method 2
The adjustment bolt is coupled to the lower portion of the segmented stem, wherein the biasing element and the adjustment bolt adjusts the ball segment toward a seated position
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly includes a housing, a segmented stem, a ball segment, a biasing element, and an adjustment bolt. The housing includes a flow duct connecting a first flow opening to a second flow opening and a neck defining an elongated chamber. The segmented stem includes an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the upper portion is positioned within the elongated chamber and the lower portion is coupled to the housing. The ball segment includes a first attachment portion, a second attachment portion, and a curved portion extending between the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion. The biasing element is positioned between the first attachment portion and the upper portion. The adjustment bolt is coupled to the lower portion, wherein the biasing element and the adjustment bolt adjusts the ball segment toward a seated position when the ball segment is rotated to a closed position.