V-Section Spring Ball Valve Seat for Linear Sealing Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ball valves exhibit non-linear load curves, where the opposing force increases exponentially as the seat moves axially, leading to inefficient sealing and fluid control.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an annular cantilevered v-shaped spring with a generally constant cross-sectional profile, providing a linear energizing force that is directly proportional to the axial translation of the ball valve seat ring, ensuring a consistent and proportional biasing force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional energizing devices are used, then the seat is held against the ball, but the load curve is non-linear causing exponential increase in opposing force as the seat moves axially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the force-displacement relationship from non-linear (exponential) to linear by redesigning the energizing device geometry. The V-shaped spring with specific geometric parameters produces a linear load curve where force is directly proportional to axial displacement, improving controllability while maintaining sealing reliability.
2Reliability
If the seat moves axially toward the body or adapter, then sealing contact is improved, but the opposing force increases exponentially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the force parameter relationship by designing a V-shaped spring where the geometric parameters (leg length, angle, thickness) are optimized to produce a linear force-displacement curve. This ensures that as the seat moves axially to improve sealing contact, the opposing force increases linearly rather than exponentially, making the system more predictable and controllable.
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 achieves a reliable and consistent seal by maintaining a linear force curve, enhancing the sealing capability and fluid control efficiency of the ball valve, while being easily retrofittable to existing systems without requiring specialized assembly or geometry modifications.
Implementation Method 1
the resulting energizing force that biases the seat ring back toward the ball is substantially directly proportional to the amount of axial translation
Implementation Method 2
an annular cantilevered v-shaped spring having a generally constant cross-sectional profile
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed embodiments include systems and methods for energizing a ball valve seat assembly. In particular, the disclosed embodiments are directed toward energizing devices that generate linear or substantially linear energizing forces. In other words, as a seat of the ball valve translates axially with respect to a ball of the ball valve, the resulting energizing force that biases the seat ring back toward the ball is substantially directly proportional to the amount of axial translation. In certain embodiments, the linear energizing device includes an annular cantilevered v-shaped spring having a generally constant cross-sectional profile, including a pair of legs extending from a curved end.