Thermostatic Valve Head With Tool-Free Temperature Limit Stops
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current thermostatic heads for valves are complex and costly, with limiting function settings that require tools and are difficult for non-specialized users to operate, risking part loss and incorrect adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A thermostatic head design featuring a synchronizer ring and limiter ring system that allows intuitive, tool-free adjustment of stroke ends, preventing part loss and simplifying operation, with a handle and nipple assembly that ensures secure coupling to the valve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If movable inserts are used to stop handle rotation for limiting function, then the limiting function can be achieved, but the operation becomes difficult and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The limiter ring is designed to be self-positioning through its own weight, automatically engaging with the synchronizer ring's engagement crown without requiring external tools or manual manipulation of small components. The user simply releases the limiter ring and it self-positions to the correct angular position.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement crown with radial depressions acts as an intermediary mechanism between the limiter ring and synchronizer ring, facilitating easy angular positioning and secure coupling without requiring tools. The radial depressions guide the limiter ring into precise angular positions.
2Ease of manufacture
If the thermostatic head is made cost-effective with simple mechanical couplings, then the cost is reduced, but the operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronizer ring serves multiple functions: it synchronizes the angular position of the handle with the limiter ring, provides engagement surfaces for the limiter ring, and defines the rotation arc through its interaction with the handle. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The limiter ring is designed to be coupled to the synchronizer ring in a nested configuration, where the limiter ring engages with the engagement crown of the synchronizer ring. This nested arrangement compactly integrates the limiting function into the existing mechanical structure without adding significant complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the synchronizer ring is axially movable relative to the tail, then the operation can be adjusted, but the coupling stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronizer ring is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing axial movement relative to the tail to enable operation adjustment. The guide profiles ensure controlled movement while maintaining stable coupling through the engagement mechanisms between the synchronizer ring, limiter ring, and handle.
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 design provides a user-friendly, cost-effective solution for setting temperature limits without tools, ensuring accurate adjustments and preventing part loss, offering a simpler alternative to existing thermostatic heads.
Implementation Method 1
the temperature variation of the environment causes a consequent volume change of the liquid contained in the sensor, which change causes, in turn, the displacement of an internal mechanism
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~4b
Figure 5a~6c
AI summary
The present invention relates to a thermostatic head (1) for valves, comprising a thermostatic actuator assembly (2), a nipple (3) for housing the actuator assembly (2) provided with at least a threaded end (31), a handle (8) integral with the nipple (3) both in rotation and axially, a tail (4) threaded at a first end and screw engaged with the threaded end of the nipple (3) at said first end, comprising coupling means for fastening to a valve, a synchronizer ring (5) coupled in rotation to the tail (4) and axially to the handle (8), the synchronizer ring (5) being axially movable relative to the tail (4) due to the rotation of the handle (8), wherein the handle (8) further comprises an opening mouth (82) and an external wall (83) and an internal wall (84) ending at said opening mouth (82), which define a housing channel (89), in which there are provided: - first abutment surfaces (85a,85a') radially extending in said housing channel (89) from said external wall (83) - second abutment surfaces (86a,87a) radially extending in said housing channel (89) from said internal wall (84), said synchronizer ring (5) being provided with at least one synchronizer tooth (52,53) intended to abut at least with said second abutment surfaces (86a,87a) to define stroke end angular positions of the handle (8) and wherein the head (1) further comprises a limiter ring (6) couplable in rotation to said synchronizer ring (5) through selective connection of the former on the latter, said limiter ring (6) being provided with at least two limiter teeth (62,63) that, when the limiter ring (6) is connected on said synchronizer ring (5), are housed in said housing channel (89) and are intended to abut with said first abutment surfaces (85a,85a') to alternatively determine either intermediate stroke end positions of the handle (8) or a lockout condition in rotation of the handle (8).