Valve-Actuator Coupling with Deformable Locking Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical connections between actuators and valves for radiator control systems are either prone to breakage or have complex, costly manufacturing processes, lacking a simple and stable solution.
Innovation Solution
A coupling element with a deformable portion that irreversibly bends to form a projection, allowing for a non-detachable but rotatable connection between the actuator and valve, utilizing a compression mechanism and annular grooves for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If plastic snapping hook elements are used to provide rotatable connection between the nut and actuator, then the assembling procedure becomes easy, but the connection stability deteriorates as the hook elements can break easily if the nut is tightened too hard
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the coupling element by compressing it axially, which transforms the deformable portion from a flexible state to a locked state. This parameter change (from uncompressed to compressed) enables the projection to form and engage with the annular groove, providing both easy assembly through compression and reliable connection through the formed projection that resists breaking under tightening loads
2Reliability
If a wire is used to connect the nut and actuator as in the stable solution, then the connection stability improves, but the manufacturing process becomes complicated with low first pass yield
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the coupling element and the connection feature into a single integrated component. The deformable portion with projection is formed as part of the coupling element itself, eliminating the need for separate wires or additional connection components. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process to a single compression step while maintaining the stable connection through the projection-groove engagement
3Reliability
If a non-detachable connection is used between the coupling element and actuator, then the connection stability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coupling element into distinct functional portions: a body portion for mechanical connection to the valve and a deformable portion for engagement with the actuator. This segmentation allows the deformable portion to be specifically designed for easy compression and projection formation, while the rest of the coupling element maintains its structural integrity, thereby reducing overall device complexity while achieving non-detachable stable connection
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 simplifies the manufacturing process, enhances connection stability, and reduces production costs while ensuring reliable operation and easy assembly of actuator systems for radiator control.
Implementation Method 1
a deformable portion, which is shaped in such a manner, that, as a result of a compression along an axial direction of the coupling element, the deformable portion irreversibly bends such that a projection is formed
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
AI summary
It is described a coupling element (100) for connecting an actuator (150) to a valve (170). The coupling element (100) comprises a first interface (110), which is adapted to mechanically connect the coupling element (100) to the actuator (150), a second interface (120), which is adapted to mechanically connect the coupling element (100) to the valve (170), and a deformable portion (130), which is shaped in such a manner, that, as a result of a compression along an axial direction (101) of the coupling element (100), the deformable portion (130) irreversibly bends such that a projection (130a) is formed. Thereby, the projection (130a) is adapted to permanently engage with an annular groove (154) being formed at the actuator (150) such that the coupling element (100) and the actuator (150) are connected with each other in a non-detachable but rotatable manner. It is further described an actuator system and a valve system both comprising the described coupling element (100). Further, a method for connecting a coupling element (100) to an actuator (150) is described.