Slam-Shut Valve Automatic Reset via Pressure Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid flow systems, such as natural gas distribution networks, face challenges in rapidly shutting off fluid flow in response to overpressure or underpressure conditions, and require complex manual reset processes after a catastrophic event, leading to potential safety risks and increased maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A shutoff valve system with a plug assembly that automatically transitions from an open to a closed position in response to detected pressure conditions, utilizing a sensor assembly and trip mechanism to isolate the fluid flow, and featuring a simplified actuator assembly for easy servicing and reduced wear, allowing for independent adjustment of overpressure and underpressure set points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a slam-shut valve is used to rapidly shut off fluid flow in response to pressure conditions, then safety response speed is improved, but the complexity of the manual reset process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system automatically resets itself through a reset mechanism that is actuated when downstream pressure returns to normal range. The system uses the restored pressure differential to automatically reopen the valve without requiring complex manual intervention, thereby simplifying the reset process while maintaining rapid shutoff capability
Solution Approach 2:
The valve incorporates a pressure sensing mechanism that continuously monitors downstream pressure and provides feedback to the actuator. When pressure returns to the predetermined safe range, the feedback signal automatically triggers the reset mechanism to reopen the valve, eliminating complex manual reset procedures
2Reliability
If a slam-shut valve remains open during its useful life and only shuts off during catastrophic events, then operational reliability is improved, but maintenance frequency and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve incorporates a test mechanism that allows periodic testing of the shutoff function during normal operation. By performing preliminary tests while the valve is still in service, potential failures can be detected and addressed before they lead to catastrophic events, thereby maintaining reliability while enabling simpler, more frequent maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical wear-prone components with simpler designs that reduce maintenance needs. The actuator and sealing mechanisms are designed to minimize wear and allow for easier replacement or repair, reducing overall maintenance frequency and costs
3Reliability
If the valve shuts off immediately in response to downstream pressure changes, then safety protection is improved, but wear on valve components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve incorporates cushioning mechanisms that reduce the impact forces during shutoff and reset operations. By cushioning the mechanical shocks and vibrations that occur during rapid closing and opening, the component wear is significantly reduced while maintaining the rapid response capability needed for safety protection
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 system effectively protects the fluid system from dangerous pressure conditions by promptly shutting off fluid flow and reducing maintenance needs, extending operational life and lowering costs through simplified maintenance and reduced wear on components.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor assembly is configured to sense a pressure condition within the fluid flow system
Implementation Method 2
the trip mechanism releases the plug assembly to travel from the first position to the second position to thereby seal the flow path
Implementation Method 3
a spring assembly that biases the plug assembly to the open position
Data Source
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AI summary
Some embodiments of a shutoff valve system (100) for a fluid flow system can include a plug assembly (140) that is biased to adjust from a first position in which the fluid flow path is open to a second position in which the fluid flow path is closed. The plug assembly may automatically adjust from the first position to the second position in response to a downstream pressure condition that is detected by a sensor assembly (160).