Segmented Cam Valve Collar for Rapid Propane Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cam operated valves require repetitive twisting motions for connection and disconnection, leading to potential repetitive motion injuries, especially in high-volume applications like filling propane cylinders, where operators perform numerous twisting motions daily.
Innovation Solution
A segmented threaded collar biased by springs, with a safety feature using connection rods and a safety collar to prevent accidental disconnection, allows for quick and safe connection with minimal venting, utilizing a small rotation of the retaining collar to engage threads and prevent repetitive motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a threaded connection is used for valve connection, then the connection can be secured tightly, but repetitive twisting motions are required leading to operator injury
Solution Approach 1:
The collar is divided into multiple segmented sections that can expand and contract radially. This segmentation allows the connection to be made with minimal rotation of the retaining collar, as the segments can open to receive the threaded member and then close to secure it, eliminating the need for repetitive twisting motions while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic expanding/contracting mechanism. The segmented collar can dynamically expand to accommodate the threaded member during connection and then contract to secure it, allowing the connection to be made with a small rotation of the retaining collar rather than multiple twisting motions.
2Productivity
If the collar is expanded to open position, then connection can be made quickly, but accidental disconnection while valve is open may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The safety tab and safety collar are positioned in advance to prevent accidental disconnection. When the collar is in the open position, the safety tab engages with the safety collar to lock the connection, preventing accidental disconnection while allowing quick connection when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The safety mechanism provides feedback through the engagement of the safety tab with the safety collar. This feedback system ensures that the collar cannot be accidentally moved from the closed position, while still allowing intentional opening when the valve is properly closed.
3Loss of time
If minimal thread engagement is used, then connection can be made quickly, but connection security is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented collar design allows the connection to be secured with minimal rotation of the retaining collar (about 1/8 turn), as the segments can radially contract to engage the threads quickly. This segmentation enables secure connection with reduced thread engagement distance, significantly reducing connection time while maintaining connection security.
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 solution significantly reduces repetitive motion injuries by allowing for rapid and secure connection and disconnection with minimal venting, ensuring safe operation and reducing operator strain.
Implementation Method 1
a segmented threaded collar biased to an open position by radially enclosed springs
Implementation Method 2
a ramped surface on the internal sleeve contacts an internal surface of the segmented threaded collar to force the collar segments to open as the retaining collar is moved to the open position
Data Source
AI summary
A product transfer valve (1) includes a valve body (3), an inlet port (2), an outlet port (18). A safety interlock mechanism includes a segmented collar (22) with internal threads (23) for mounting the valve to a connection. A safety collar (6) is axially movable between a valve open position and a valve closed position, and causes movement of the segmented collar. An interference member (12) is supported on the cam operated mechanism (8) and engages the safety collar (6) to prevent inadvertent radial outward movement of the internal threads on the segmented collar until the safety collar is moved to the valve closed position.