Valve Actuator Torque via Multi-Plane Thrust Devices

The patent transitions from a single-plane thrust device to a multi-plane thrust device configuration. The thrust device acts on multiple offset planes perpendicular to the shaft axis, converting linear motion into rotary motion through oscillating yokes on different planes. This dimensional change allows torque generation without proportionally increasing axial dimensions, as the thrust is distributed across multiple planes rather than requiring a single large-cylinder arrangement.

The actuator is segmented into multiple independent thrust devices, each acting on a separate offset plane. Instead of using one large hydraulic cylinder, the patent employs multiple smaller thrust devices (hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders) distributed on different planes, each contributing to the overall torque. This segmentation allows for more compact axial dimensions while maintaining the required torque output.

The patent changes the geometric parameters of the spring by increasing the number of active coils rather than increasing the wire diameter. This parameter change allows the spring to achieve the required elastic constant and closing force while maintaining a smaller wire diameter, thereby avoiding surface fragility issues at low temperatures. The spring design uses more coils with smaller diameter wire to achieve the same or better mechanical properties.

Instead of solving the force requirement by increasing wire diameter (one-dimensional solution), the patent uses multiple springs arranged on different planes offset from the shaft axis. This multi-plane arrangement allows the closing force to be distributed across multiple spring elements, each with smaller wire diameter, thus maintaining reliability at low temperatures while achieving the required total closing force.

The patent segments the thrust generation function into multiple independent thrust devices acting on different offset planes. Each thrust device operates independently on its own plane, and their combined effect produces the required torque. This segmentation allows for more efficient space utilization compared to the conventional double yoke design, reducing the overall lateral footprint while maintaining torque capability.

The patent utilizes multiple offset planes perpendicular to the shaft axis for thrust device arrangement, rather than expanding the lateral dimensions as in conventional double yoke actuators. By distributing thrust devices on multiple planes offset from the shaft, the design achieves high torque in a more compact lateral configuration, effectively using the third dimension (axial offset between planes) to reduce lateral footprint.