Valve Actuation Mechanism With Retained Locking Element
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
High pressure valves with locking pins used in evacuation systems often lose the locking pin when opened, preventing the valve from being locked in its closed position, which is a common issue in existing mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A valve actuation mechanism featuring a housing with a rotatable actuation pin, a torque spring for biasing the pin, a retaining element to prevent initial rotation, and a locking element to secure the retaining element in place, ensuring the pin can be reliably rotated between operative and inoperative positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking pin is used to secure the actuation pin in the inoperative position, then the actuation pin can be reliably retained, but the locking pin may be lost when removed to open the valve, preventing the valve from being locked again
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is divided into two separate elements: a retaining element that holds the actuation pin in the inoperative position, and a locking element that prevents disengagement of the retaining element. This segmentation ensures that the locking mechanism remains integrated with the housing and cannot be lost, while still providing reliable retention of the actuation pin.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is integrated with the housing structure, merging the locking function into the permanent housing rather than using a separate removable locking pin. This ensures the locking capability remains with the system and cannot be lost, while the retaining element can be reliably re-engaged to reset the mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If the actuation pin is freely rotatable to allow easy operation, then the valve can be easily opened and closed, but the actuation pin cannot be securely locked in the inoperative position
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism transitions between two dynamic states: when the retaining element is engaged, the actuation pin is constrained and cannot rotate (locked state); when the retaining element is disengaged, the actuation pin is free to rotate under the action of the torque spring (operational state). The locking element provides a stable locked state while allowing easy transition to the operational state.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining element acts as an intermediary between the actuation pin and the locking element. It provides a mechanical interface that can be easily engaged and disengaged to control the rotational freedom of the actuation pin, while the locking element secures the retaining element in place when engaged.
3Reliability
If a retaining element is used to hold the actuation pin in position, then the pin can be secured, but the retaining element itself needs to be secured to the housing to prevent its own disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is nested within the housing structure, with the retaining element nested within the locking mechanism. The locking element contains the retaining element, and both are integrated into the housing, creating a compact nested arrangement that provides reliable retention without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element and retaining element are designed to work together in a self-servicing manner. The locking element automatically secures the retaining element when the actuation pin is in the inoperative position, and the retaining element automatically engages with the actuation pin to hold it in position, reducing the need for additional complex securing mechanisms.
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 mechanism allows for secure locking and unlocking of the valve, preventing the loss of the locking pin and ensuring the valve can be reliably closed and opened, enhancing operational reliability in high-pressure systems.
Implementation Method 1
at least one torque spring coupling the actuation pin to the housing for biasing the actuation pin from a first, inoperative rotational position towards a second, operative rotational position
Data Source
AI summary
A valve actuation mechanism comprises a housing, an actuation pin rotatably mounted within the housing and at least one torque spring coupling the actuation pin to the housing for biasing the actuation pin from a first, inoperative rotational position towards a second, operative rotational position. The mechanism further comprises an actuation pin retaining element for selectively retaining the actuation pin in its first position, the retaining element being engageable with the actuation pin and the housing when the retaining element is in a retaining position so as to prevent rotation of the actuation pin towards its second position, and selectively disengageable from the housing to permit rotation of the actuation pin towards its second position. A locking element is provided for selectively preventing disengagement of the retaining element from the housing.